Live Islam Every Day

Live Islam Every Day Easy activities to show you the way

By Sunshine Marsh

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About the author My name is Shamsa Abdullah. I am a revert to Islam. I have studied Islam most of my life. I have taught classes at masjids and have participated in college lectures about Islam. I am a mother of two and have a wonderful husband. I have a degree in the field of nutrition and am working hard to please Allah in everything I do.

Special thanks I would like to thank Allah for blessing me with the creativity for this book and making it a reality. I would also like to thank my children for inspiring new ideas. I would like to also say thanks to Jaqueline, my friend who was patient enough to edit this book for me. I would like to thank my mom for raising me with such good values. A special thanks goes to my husband. Without your support and encouragement I would not have been willing to finish this book. Thank you so very much.

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Introduction I pray Allah blesses this book. Any wrong within it is from me and any blessing in it is from Allah. May Allah forgive me if there is any wrong in this writing. Ameen. I have seen among our Muslim community here in America an ever widening gap between Islam and how we live our lives. Islam is supposed to be a way of life yet we as educators and parents are neglecting to show this to our new generations. It is my sincere hope that this book will be part of every families home. Inshallah everyone will see then many ways to incorporate Islam into their lives and their children’s lives. This book is especially designed for children between the ages of 3 and 15. It has shaded bars on each page to easily flip through to the section you wish to use. Each activity shows the age appropriate level in the upper left hand corner. This book can be used past the age recommendation because each activity inspires awareness about Islam that everyone easily for gets and needs to be reminded about. There is a special section in the back designed for adults to encourage Islam in all of us. May you enjoy this book and may it help bring your whole community closer to Islam.

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index Prophets…………………..pg7-12 Pick a Prophet

Prophet Activity

Prophet Times

Character Specialist

Guess Who

Miracle Match

Quran……………………..pg.13-22 Read Quran Together Picnic Day

Ayat Puddle

Memory 1

Memory 2

Rhythm Recitation Math Fun

5 Ayat Act Out

Remembrance……….pg.23-27 Rights Upon Us

Dhikr Circle

Crossword (Islamic terms ) Hadith Search Game Pick A Du’ua Eid Al-Atha……….pg.28-40 Make Eid Cards

Enactment

Abraham and Ishmael

1st of Hajj

2nd of Hajj

3rd of Hajj

4th of Hajj

5th of Hajj

6th of Hajj

7th of Hajj

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index of activities 8th of Hajj Dhul Hijja Eid AlAtha Active………………..pg.41-67 Care of our Earth Make up an Activity of your Own Response Play Dough Masjid Budgeting Challenge Elder Care Care of Our Earth Kabbah Race Compare Shopping Cleaning Battle For the Neighbors Camping Escapade For the Neighbors 2 For the Neighbors 3 Prepare for HearAfter Personal Jihad Donation Day The Future is In Your Hands Gifts for Parents Going to the Masjid Invite to Islam Day Go Swimming Islamic Bumper Stickers Spirit Allah’s Names Science……………pg.68-85 Pet Worms Constellations Cloud Watching Stars Shooting Stars Mountains Water wonders Paper in a Blender Egg Box Challenge The Universe Rock Bubbles Plant Experiment Snow Flakes on Snowy Days Constellation Box The Senses Wind Power, Kite Flying Wind Power, Boat Racing The Brain Etiquette…………Pg.86-91 Visiting Grandparents Muslims Do Game Thank you Reminders Pen-Pal Family Day Pen Pal Friends Day

Wudu

index of activities Creative……………pg.92-112 Business Lemonade Stand Business Cards

Traveler for a day Islamic News 5

Arabic Hopscotch Invention Thinking Thoughts Name Game Patchwork Fun Hijabs Computer Skills What to Be Sahaba Story Ramadan…………pg.112-131 Ramadan is Here Make Ramadan Banners Iftar for Friends Make Ramadan Eid Cards Ramadan for the Poor Inspiration night Ramadan Taraweah Ramadan Challenge During Ramadan Extra Reward Pick a Partner Eid Party PARENT SECTION Education…………..pg.131-141 Important Knowledge Truth Muslim Scouts Eyes Wide Open

Kind words Create a vision Inverted Puzzle Muslim Countries Crosstitch Goal Setting Cookie twist Arabic Alphabet jump rope

Dhikr Family night Quran Iftar for Family Ramadan Sweets Gifts for the Masjid Ramadan Diary Ramadan Iftar Itikaaf Fasting Do Your Share Moon Sighting

Voice Health Food Bank/donation

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Age: 6-up

Activity 1 Live Islam Every Day Easy activities to show you the way

Pick a Prophet Put the names of the prophets on a piece of paper. Cut them out and put them in a hat. Everyone draw a name and tell the story in their own words of that prophet. If you do not know the story get your Quran and look up the prophets name that you drew from the hat. Read 2 or 3 of the sightings shown in the Quran to the group. It is good to make sure you have an understanding of the prophets who have brought knowledge of our religion.

Narrated mu’awiyah, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “When Allah wishes good for someone, He bestows upon him the understanding of religion.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

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Age: 8-up


Prophet activity Decide on one prophet to write about. It could be Jesus, Lot, Mohamad, Abrahim, Aron, Moses etc. Read their story and then write a short paper telling what that prophet did and what you think about this prophet. Such as, you liked how he never gave up or his determination etc. You can use whatever books you have available such as the Quran.

Narrated Ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, said Allah’s messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” None except two men only should be envied: A man to whom Allah has given property, which he spends it in a good cause, and a man to whom Allah has given wisdom which he teaches to others and by which he judges between people.” {AlBukhari and Muslim}

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Age: 3- up


Prophet Times Pick a prophet and according to that time of the prophet I want you to dress, eat, and try to live out that time for one day. For For example: Prophet Mohamed (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) Wore a turban and ate dates. He spent the day praying, helping the community and taking care of his family. He did not watch T.V. or play video games. He helped his family around the house.

Allah the exalted says: “Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been given knowledge.”{58:11}

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Age: 7-up


Character Specialist Pick a trait about yourself that you would like to specialize in for an hour or two. Some suggestions are: generausity, being courteous, having hiya, being polite. Come up with something you would like to do. Now act out that trait as often as you can. An example: Aminah is the most polite. Her mom calls her to the room. She comes quickly. Her mother gives her lunch she says thank you and complements her mom on the food. She sits quietly and does not chew with her mouth open. She says bismillah before she starts eating and when she is done she says alhadillah alathi atamani hatha ra rasacanihi min ghair halin mini wa la quwah. She cleans up her mess and offers to help her mom clean up lunch. This is just one example. Have fun Specializing in your character trait. Prophet Mohamed (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to specialize in many traits. He tried to be the most perfect at everything. He is known as the greatest statesmen, husband, warrior, friend etc. See how easy it is or how hard it is to specialize in just one for an hour. Inshallah it will be easy and you can try and do more.

Allah the exalted says: ”O you who believe! Be afraid of Allah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds) {9:1119}

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Age: 6-up


Guess Who Describe a Sahaba or prophet with out revealing the name and see who can figure it out first. One person describes while the rest try to guess who it is they are describing. For Example: Describer says: I used to call the people everyday to worship Allah without any partners. I called to them until I was a very old man over, 100 years old. Allah then told me to build an ark and put my family and the believers on it along with a pair of each animal. Then the describer says,” Guess who”? If no one is able to guess the describer must continue to give more insight about the person he is describing. After describing for two times and know one guesses right then the describer can tell them who it is and someone else can have a turn being the describer.

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “When Allah wishes good for someone, He bestows upon him the understanding of religion.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

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Age: 5-up


Miracle Match Write down all the miracles or at least 20, that Allah gave the prophets seperately on a 3x5 card. I have provided some of the miracles below: Prophet Moses pulled his arm out white and shining before pharaoh, a sign given to him by Allah Prophet Mohamed (SAW) split the moon in two peaces by Allah’s mercy. Prophet Jesus was able to heal the sick by Allah’s mercy. Prophet Salomon was able to control the wind by one months journey, a gift to him by Allah. For each player give them a stack of 3x5 cards with the name of each prophet on one. Everyone should have their own set of cards with the prophets’ names on them. Now the reader (mom or dad) starts reading a miracle and as soon as a player recognizes who the miracle was given to, slaps down his card in front of him. If your children can’t read then they can say the answer aloud. The one who got the answer correctly gets to keep the miracle card. The person with the most miracle cards at the end wins.

Allah the exalted says: “Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been given knowledge.” (58:11)

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Age: 6-up


Read Quran Together Take out the Quran and make sure there are no distractions. No T.V, radio, or loud noises. Pick a surat that you would like to read. Everyone can sit together and take turns reading one section at a time this way everyone has a turn and is learning together. Inshallah Allah will broaden your knowledge.

Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said, “ The one who is proficient in the recitation of Quran is associated with the most honorable and obedient scribes (angels) and he who recites the Quran and finds difficulty doing his best to recite it in the best way possible, will have a double reward.” {Al-Bukhari}

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Age: Any age


Picnic Day Make up a basket of fun foods for the kids(the kids can help). Take along Frisbees, kites, and a blanket to eat on and anything else you would like. Now go in the back yard and enjoy! This might be a good time to take along the Quran for a little memorizing while everyone is relaxing.

Allah the exalted says,” Glorify in the name of your guardian lord most high, who has created and further given order and proportions; who has ordained laws and granted guidance, and who brings out the green and luscious pasture, and then makes it but swarthy stubble.”(87:1-5)

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Age: 6-up


Ayat Puddle Write down the words to surat al-Fatiha and Sutat Al-Ikhlas, Surat Al-Falaq, Surat Al-Nas, and Surat Al-Kafirun both in Arabic and in English. Write Arabic on one card and English on another card. Example. One card will say He is Allah the One. Another Card will say the same but in Arabic. Put all the cards in a “puddle” (a hat or in a container). Someone then draws out a card from the container and reads it out loud. The other players have to be able to tell what surat it is from and if they don’t know what it means, such as they cant read the Arabic but they know what surat it is from then they need to be able to tell what it means. Please feel free to help them out. This is a good way for the children to understand what they are memorizing.


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Age: 4-up


Memory 1 Arabic Word Pictures. An easy way to learn Arabic or any language is to form mental pictures of words. I will get you started and you see if you can do it. English Arabic Word picture Fish = Samaka smak a fish Picture smacking a fish. Samak-a fish. Now you try. Find a word and come up with a picture to remember the word.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, said, Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased).” {Muslim}

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Age: 7-up


Memory 2 Memorize and understand Quran by using word association. First pick a surah you want to learn. Have the translation with you as well so that you can understand as best as possible what you are learning. Read the first line in Arabic and then read it in English. See if there are any words that you already know both in English and in Arabic. For each word you don’t know try and make a picture which also correlates with the meaning. I will give you an example and then you try. Try anything to get it to stick in your head. In the book” Memory power for exams” by William G. Browning, he writes,” If you do nothing with in the first 20 seconds to help retain a new piece of information you will usually forget it. Example: Surah Al-Ikhlas Qul huwa lahhu ahad Say he is Allah the one and only Allahu-samad God the eternal absolute Lam yalid walam ulad he begets not nor is he begotten Walam yakun(l) lahuu and there is none like onto him Kufuuwan ahad I know “Qul” means, “say”. I don’t know what “huwa” means. “Huw” sounds like “he”. “Al-laahu” sounds like “Allah” and I know “ahad” means “one” in Arabic. Next line. “Allahu” is “Allah” we can see from the English so “samad” has to be “the eternal, absolute”. “Samad” sounds like “same”. You can say Allah is same, absolutely the same. This might help draw a good picture to remember the meaning. Now you continue with the rest of the surah. You can do this as a group to help come up with the best associations. This in itself will help everyone remember because they are going over it in their head. Inshallah this will help everyone’s memory improve and be fun. Don’t give up Narrated Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children, and all mankind.” {Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 4-up


Rhythm Recitation Pick a surah that everyone knows how to recite. Sit together in a circle. Mom or Dad can start off a rhythm and then everyone can continue until they can all get on the same rhythm. It will take a little bit of practice but it is great fun to try.


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Age: 4-up


5 Ayat Read 5 ayats together. Think about what it means and why Allah may have said it. I want you to try and understand as much about the ayats as you can so ask questions out loud as a group so everyone can participate and come to understand it better. Some questions to think about are: When were these ayats revealed? What was its purpose? How does it affect me? Do I understand what Allah is saying to me? If this ayat was about a person, who was it about?

Allah the exalted says, “Are those who know equal to those who know not?” {39:9}

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Age: 4-up


Math Fun Go through the Quran and see how many times you can find the names of Allah For Example: Al-Hakim-meaning the wisest. Work at your own pace, perhaps starting with one juz at a time. You can do this activity with any of the names of Allah.

Allah the exalted says,” By the fig and the olive, and Mount Sinai, and this city of security, we have indeed created man in the best of molds, then do we abase him to be the lowest of the low,-Except such as believe and do righteous deeds: for they shall have a reward unfailing. Then what can after this, contradict you as to the judgment to come? Is not Allah the wisest of judges?”(95:1-8)

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Age: 4-up


Act Out Everyone choose a piece of Islamic history that fascinates you or you or simply draw from a hat. Take turns acting out your specific era. Be creative. You can use props, voices, and anything to make it interesting and fun. Some examples to choose from are: Moses showing the signs to pharaoh Joseph being brought out of prison The battle of the trench The Muslim move from Mekkah to Medina Choose something that interests you.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Allah makes the way to Paradise easy for him who treads the path in search of knowledge.” {Muslim}

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Age: 4-up


Rights Upon Us Allah’s Messenger (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) told us that every Muslim has certain rights that should be given to him by other Muslims. These rights are: 1. To visit the sick 2. To follow the funeral of a dead believer 3. To invoke the mercy of Allah upon one who sneezes by saying “yarhumkallah” 4. To support the weak 5. To help the oppressed 6. To respond (give currency) to the greeting of peace 7. To help those who swear to do something to keep their oaths See how many out of the seven you can do right now.

Narrated Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children, and all mankind.” {Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 3-up


Dhikr Circle Everyone sit in a circle. Every time you have your dhikr circle take turns picking what everyone is going to recite. Dhikr can be read out loud but it is best to read quietly to your self. You can keep tract by counting on your fingers if you like. Using beads and beans and anything of this nature is an innovation so make sure everyone participating knows this and just reads on their fingers as the prophet (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did. Good words of remembrance are: Subhanallah Alhumdulilah Allahuakbar Subhanallah wa bihamdihi

Narrated Sa’d bin Abu Waqqas (may Allah be pleased with him) We were with Allah’s Messenger (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) when he asked,”Is anyone of you unable to earn a thousand good deeds?” One of those present asked: “How can one earn a thousand good deeds in a day?” He(May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) replied, “ If one glorifies the Lord one hundred times, one thousand good deeds will be recorded for him or one thousand sins will be blotted out from his record.” {Muslim}

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Age: 8-up


Cross word Islamic Terms Knowing about your dean can make this game really fun. You can put what ever words you like in your crossword. You can make the theme of your crossword puzzle Ramadan, Prayers, etc. Then write words that go along with this category in your cross word. If you like you can do a word search puzzle instead where you just write the words down in different directions and fill in all the spaces with rows of letters. Which ever one you like to do its up to you. When you are finished give it to someone for them to do. Here is some help for a Prayers cross word puzzle. Have fun coming up with your own words and theme. Wudu Times of prayer Voluntary prayer jummah

bowing surahs du’ah

Narrated Anas bin Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) The prophet (May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” Make things easy for the people, and do not makes things difficult for them and give them glad tidings and do not repel them.”{Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 5-up


Hadith Search Game Make a stack of cards. At least 12. Each of them will have a different category written on them. Knowledge

Hajj

Patience

Prayer

Truth

Fasting

Jihad

Knowledge

Dhikr

Jummah Doing good Wudu Add additional categories as you see fit. You will also need a timer, and at least one Hadith book per person. Also set the timer for one minute while everyone draws a card. Now start the timer. The first person to find two hadiths from the category on their card wins the game and must read them out loud to everyone.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, said Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” Allah makes the way to Paradise easy for he who treads the path in search of knowledge.” {Muslim}

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Age: no age limit

Activity 21

Live Islam Every Day Easy activities to show you the way

Pick a dua’a Walk through the house and find a place where you don’t know the dua’a such as the front door when leaving an entering. Tape up the dua’a where you can see it. See if you can memorize it by the end of the day or end of the week. This is an example: When you enter the bathroom quietly say “Allahumma inni a’udhu bika minal khubuthi wal khabaith” O Allah I seek refuge with you from the bad and evil forces. When you leave say “goofranak” I ask your forgiveness.

Allah the exalted says: “Therefore remember me I will remember you. {2:152}

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Age: 3-up


Make Eid cards It is always important to remember Allah and do good deeds. Making cards is a good way to spread good words of Allah and kindness to each other. It is time to get out all your arts and crafts supplies. Some items you can use are: Construction paper Markers Glue Tape Glitter Writing paper Stickers’ Tin foil Scissors Colors Paints Pens You can even make cards using your computer. These cards can be to anyone. You can make them for friends, relatives, schools, masjids, or just to put up in the house. Make sure that you don’t put any pictures of people and creatures in the cards for Allah dislikes this. Have fun making your wonderful Eid cards.

Narrated Abu Dharr and Mu’adth bin Jabal, may Allah be pleased with them, Allah’s messenger(may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Fear Allah wherever you are ,perform good deeds after doing bad actions, the former will wipe out the latter, and behave decently towards people.” {At-Tirmithi}

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Age: 3-up


In-actment We are going to put on a play called “the story of the Kabah” in the living room for the adults. Make a Kabah replica using a card board box and cover it with a black cloth if you like. Look up this story in the Quran under surat 2 where it talks about the Kabah being built and dedicated to Allah. You may also make two small mountains for Safa and Marwa to use in the following Eid Al-atha activities. You can draw a mountain on two pieces of cardboard for Safa and Marwa. Read the story out loud from the Quran in Surat 2. Abraham was ordered by Allah to build a house for Him where his son Ishmael was living (Mecca). “So both of them rose and started to raise the foundation of the house. Ibraheem started building the (Kabah) while Ishmael continued handing him the stones. Both were saying, our lord! Accept (this service) from us. For you are the AllHearing, the All-Knowing.”(2:127)

Narrated Muawiyah, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s Messenger (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “When Allah wishes good for someone, He bestows upon him the understanding of religion.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

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Age: 6-up


Ibraheem and Ishmael Read the section in the Quran (2:125-127) together as a family and go over the special prayer made by Ibraheem and Ishmael. The special prayer is in the Quran (2:128-129). The following activities will go over the rights of hajj. Please remember this is only a practice hajj to help you become familiar with the rights of hajj when you have the ability to go. ( In No way does this replace the actual hajj that is a duty upon you to perform for Allah). Inshallah this practice helps to make hajj easy for all those learning. This is not entail the complete details for hajj. Make sure to learn more details from someone of knowledge and by reading the complete rules for Hajj so that Allah will accept your Hajj.

Allah the exalted says, “And proclaim the pilgrimage among men: they will come to you on foot and (mounted) on every camel.” (22:27)

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Age: 5-up


1st of Hajj You are going to practice performing the hajj each day as the hujjaj are doing so that inshallah when the chance is given to you to go you will have know problem in understanding how to perform it. Today, the 8th of Thul-Hijja, you must enter into ihram and make your intention. If you are actually going to hajj you would look on the map and see which station of ihram you will pass through to get to Mekkah and get ready at that point. This is when the men put on the garments that are not stitched. The women where their regular full cover hijab as always. When making your intention it is good to recite Talbiyyah Labbayk, Allahumma. Labbayk. Labbayk. La shareeka laka. Labbayk. lnnal-hamda wan-n'imata laka wal-mulk. La shareeka lak' (Here I am at Your service, 0 Lord, here I am. No partner do You have. Here I am. Truly, the praise and the favor is Yours, and the dominion. No partner do You have.) Now your first stop is to go to Mina. If your mom or dad have a map try and look up this city. At Mina (we will pretend this is in the living room) Pray all your prayers regularly for the day. If you were actually on the hajj you would shorten the four rakat prayers to two rakats.

Allah the exalted says, “Verily As-Salat prevents from Al-Fasha( great sins of every kind) and al-Munkar (disbelieve and every kind of evil, wicked deed).” (29:45)

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Age: 5-up


2nd Day of Hajj After Fajr on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, It is time to go to 'Arafat. We will pretend this is now your living room. Praise Allah and offer supplications on your way to the living room as the hujjaj will do on their way to Arafat. Try and face the Kabbah as you do this. The hujjaj stay in Arafat for the rest of the day. Once they arrive they pray the Dhuhrr and Asr prayer combined and shortened at Dhuhr time.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, I heard Allah’s Messenger (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say,” Tell me, if there were a stream at the door of one of you in which he takes a bath five times a day, would any filth remain upon his body?” They replied, “No dirt would remain.” He (SAW) said,” similar is the case of the five obligatory prayers. Allah obliterates all sins as a result of offering them.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

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Age: 5-up


3rd Day of Hajj It is time to go to Muzdalifah, the hujjaj may have already started this journey because they were aloud to leave when the sun set the day before. This is now your living room. Be sure to look these places up in your map each day of the Hajj practice you are doing. Recite talbiyyah As you go toward Muzdalifah(the living room). The hujjaj will pray the Maghrib and 'lsha prayers combined, shortening 'Isha to two rak'ats.

Narrated Umm Habibah, may Allah be pleased with her,the mother of the believers: I heard Allah Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying, ”A house will be built in Paradise for every muslim who offers twelve rakah of optional prayer other than the obligatory prayer in a day and night to seek Allahs pleasure.” {Muslim}

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Age: 5-up


4th Day of Hajj After Fajr wait until the sun is all the way visible and supplicate to Allah. Now collect 7 pebbles from outside. The hujjaj will do this on their way back to mina. The Hujjaj also pick up their stones in Muzdalifah. When they get to Mina they through the stones at the pillar nearest to Mecca. This pillar is called ‘Aqabah. After each stone you throw say “Allahu Akbar”. After this is done the hujjaj make their sacrifice and cut their hair (of course we can not act out this part). Now go and make tawaf around the Kabba and then it is time to go back to Mina.

Narrated Abdullah bin Mughaffal, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s Messenger (May the blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said,” There is a salat between every adhan and iqamah; there is a salat between every adhan and iqamah.” ( while saying the same for the) third time ( he added, It is for him who desires (to offer it).”{AlBukhari and Muslim}

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Age: 5-up


5th Day of Hajj The hujjaj now stay in Mina for the next two preferably three nights. The 11th 12th and 13th of Thul Hijja. During these days the hujjaj stone each of the three pillars. They throw seven stones at each pillar saying Allahu Akbar after each throw. On the last day, the 13th, the hujjaj perform the farewell tawaf around the Kabbah and then they are finished with their hajj and aloud to go home. In the next few activities we will go through the stone throwing actions for these days in Mina.

6th Day of Hajj On this day as mentioned in the previous activity you are still in Mina (Your living room) In the afternoon go outside and collect seven pebbles for each pillar and throw them at the three pillars that you have made to practice your hajj.

7th Day of Hajj On this day as mentioned in the previous activity you are still in Mina (Your living room) In the afternoon go outside and collect seven pebbles for each pillar and through them at the three pillars that you have made to practice your hajj.

Narrated Jabir, may Allah be pleased with him, I heard Allah’s Messenger ( May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying, “ Every night there is a special space of time during which whatever a Muslim asks Allah of any good relating to this life or the hereafter, it will be granted to him; and this moment comes every night.” {Muslim}

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Age: 5-up


8th Day of Hajj The hujjaj are now free to leave and go home after performing the Farewell tawaf. This means to circle around the Kabbah again before leaving. Take out your Kabbah replica and circle around it once. That’s it! Please remember this is only a practice hajj to help you become familiar with the rights of hajj when you have the ability to go. In No way does this replace the actual hajj that is a duty upon all Muslims to perform for Allah. Inshallah this practice helps to make hajj easy for all those learning. Make sure you learn more details from someone of knowledge and by reading the complete rules for Hajj so that Allah will accept your Hajj when you are actually going.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, I heard Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying, “A surah in the quran which contains thirty verses will intercede for a man till his sins are forgiven. This surah is,” blessed is he in whose hand is the dominion.” (Surat AlMulk).” {Al-Tirmithi and Abu Dawud)

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Age: 5-up


Dhul Hijja This is the first day of our holy month Dhul Hijjah. This is the month of hajj as well as the month of the ten best nights Allah swears an oath by them, and swearing an oath by something is indicative of its importance and great benefit. Allah says "By the dawn; by the 10 nights" [al-Fajr 89:1-2]. Ibn Abbaas, Ibn al-Zubayr, Mujaahid and others of the earlier and later generations said that this refers to the first ten days of DhulHijjah. Ibn Katheer said: "This is the correct opinion." (Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 8/413) During this day and the next 9 days try and worship Allah with as many extra prayers and Praises as you can.

Narrated Abu Masud Al-Badri, may Allah be pleased with him, I heard Allah’s Messenger (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying,” Whosoever recites the two verses at the end of surat Al-Baqarah at night, they will suffice him.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

36

Age: 3-up


Eid Al-Atha Eid mubarak!! Time to celebrate and thank Allah that we have made it threw our hajj. Alhamdallah. Let’s have a party! First let’s make invitations. The cards should say Eid Mubarak on the front and you can decorate them with different colors. Inside write: EID CELEBRATION DRESS FOR HAVING FUN AT MY HOUSE AT 3PM-6PM CALL FOR DIRECTIONS 666-7676 Please fill in the correct time, place, and phone number. Now it is time to get the decorations together. You can buy balloons and streamers if you like. You can make your own happy eid banners to go around the house with construction paper. The banners can say: EID MUBARAK; HAPPY EID; ALLAHU AKBAR ETC. Games to play are very important to keep everyone busy. Lets start with the game ”Grab bag”. Make sure you have enough for everyone. To make use paper lunch sacks. Inside each one you can put candy, yo-yos, small toys and treats. Outside or in the living room use a piece of the crepe paper to form the net to play balloon volleyball. Outside lay a long piece of butcher paper and different color finger paints for every to paint one huge Eid banner. When this is finished you can have an egg toss and play water balloons. For meal time I have put a menu suggestion here: Turkey Sandwiches, Chocolate Eid Celebration Cake, carrot and cucumber slices with Veggie Dip, chips, and juice.

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37

Age: 4-up

Activity 35 Live Islam Every Day Easy Activities to Show you the Way

Care of our Eearth Look up and read the verse on caretakers in the Quran (2:30), Decide on an activity you can do together to take care of the earth. One easy way is to give everyone a trash bag and go clean up an area of a road near by.

Allah the exalted says: “…and whatever you do of good deeds, truly, Allah knows it well.” (2:215)

38

Age: no age limit

Activity 36

Live Islam Every Day Easy Activities to SHow you the Way

Make up an activity of your own This is the time to think upon Allah and his creation. See what kind of activities you can come up with that brings your heart and mind to Allah.

Allah the exalted says: “Therefore remember Me (by praying and glorifying). I will remember you.” {2:152}

39

Age: 7-up


Response

Get out an Islamic newspaper or magazine. Al-Jummah is a good Islamic magazine to use. You can also use the local paper if you don’t have access to an Islamic source. Find an article that interests you and write to the editor about the article. Your voice can be heard even though you are small. You can make a difference. The prophet (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) sent letters to far off rulers inviting them to Islam. Some of those leaders embraced Islam causing there nations to come to Islam as well. It may be only a single letter, but it can affect thousands of people if Allah wills.

Allah the exalted says: “Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge.” (58:11)

40

Age: 4-up


Play dough masjid Gather pictures of famous masjids and try to create them using play dough (i.e. Taj Mahal, The Blue Masjid). Afterwards you can read a little bit about each. You can find books at the library or sometimes at local masjid libraries. Play-dough recipe: 1c. Flour, ½ c. salt, 2 tsp. cream of tarter, 1 tsp. oil, 1 c. water, and food coloring. Mix in a pot. Cook over low heat until it forms a ball and mixture is not sticky. You can store in Zip-Lock bag for later.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Allah makes the way to paradise easy for him who treads the path in search of knowledge.” {Muslim}

41

Age: 6-up


Budgeting Challenge For one month give each of the children $3 a week. Have them decide what it is they feel they would need to survive for one month. Have them figure out how much money in total they should have at the end of the month. By the end of the month see what everyone bought with their money and who has the most left. Explain to them their purchases if they should or should not have bought them and the purpose for saving money. The one who has completed the task the best gets to keep the money they saved. If you like you can also just make a list of the things you would have bought that way you can pretend that you bought these things and were given this much money instead of actually doing it. Your choice.

Allah the exalted says: “Man can have nothing, but what he strives for, and the fruit of his striving will soon come in sight.” (53:39-40)

42

Age: 5-up


Elder Care Read in the Quran (17:22-38). If you know any elders other then your grandparents, do the same as in activity #87. Good deeds with good intentions are always rewarded.

Allah the exalted says,” Say, “Come I will rehearse what Allah has really prohibited you from”: join not anything with Him: Be good to your parents; Kill not your children on a plea of want; We provide sustenance for you and for them;-come not near to indecent deeds, weather open or secret; Take not life which Allah has made sacred, except by way of justice and law: thus dose he command you that ye may learn wisdom.”{6:151}

43

Age: 4-up


Care of our earth Look up and read the verse on caretakers in Quran (2:30), then decide on an activity you can do together to take care of the earth. One easy way is to give everyone a trash bag and go clean up an area of the road near by or a park.

Allah the exalted says: “…and whatever you do of good deeds, truly, Allah knows it well.” (2:215)

44

Age: 4-up


Kabbah Race Make 10-20 Flash cards with Questions and Answers about the Kabba. Here are some to get you started Questions: Who built the Kabba? Answer: Ibraheem and Ishmael Question: Where is the Kabba? Answer: Mekka in Saudi Arabia Question: What shape is the Kabba? Answer: Square Question: How many time do you make tawaf around the Kabba? Answer: 7 times Question: How many times are we supposed to make hajj to the Kabba in our lifetimes? Answer: Once Continue with as many questions as you think are appropriate for your age group of players. Take two chairs and tie a piece of crape paper ribbon to the side of one chair and then tie the other end to the side of another chair forming a finish line. Have the children line up at the starting point of your choice. Whoever answers the question can move ahead 1 pace. Whoever reaches the finish line wins. This is a nice game where there can be several winners at one time. Narrated Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children, and all mankind.” {Al-Bukhari}

45

Age: 6-up


COMPARE How are a computer and a type writer alike? How are an apple and a banana alike? How are a worm and a snail alike? How is surah Ikhlas like Surah Falaq? With each question see how many things you can come up with. Using your brain helps you to open up new doors for yourself. Allah encourages us to learn as much as we can.


46

Age:4-up


Going Shopping Spend today learning the Dua’a listed below in the box. Go out with your parents the next time they are shopping. When you get to the store do Activity number 47.

Going Shopping continued When you reach a store and are entering read the du’ua that you have just learned from the previous activity. Remember to repeat this du’a for each store. You will be rewarded for each place you shop at. It does not matter if you are buying something or not.

Dua’a: None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, alone, without partner, to him belongs all sovereignty and praise. He gives life and cause death, and he is living and does not die. In his hand is all good and he is over all things, omnipotent.

47

Age: 5-up


Cleaning battles This is a timed event. Each child will receive 5 minutes on the timer. They must pick one chore weather it be vacuuming, sweeping, etc. If you have more then two children playing the game, then the other children will be inspectors. You will need for this game a bag of star glitter or some kind of object you can through on the floor and vacuum up as well. Place 10 stars on the floor in each room for each player. This is the job of the parent or instructor to make sure that they are spread out well. Start the clock. The children have 5 minutes to finish as many rooms in the house as they can. If there are only one or two children then the can each be timed one at a time and the other who isn’t being timed can be the inspector. The inspectors must watch closely to make sure no one cheats by picking up the stars with their hands and count how many stars are left at the end of the 5 minutes. The one with the most rooms cleaned wins. It is very important to show your appreciation to Allah for the things that he has given you and one way of doing that is keeping those things clean and well cared for. This is our duty to our family and to Allah.

Narrated Aisha, May Allah be pleased with her: Once the Prophet (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) came while a woman was sitting with me. He said “Who is she?” I replied,” She is so-and-so.” And told him about her excessive prayers. He said disapprovingly,” Do good deeds which are with in your capacity as Allah the exalted does not get tired of giving rewards but surly you will get tired and Al-Din (good, righteous deed-act of worship) loved most by Allah is that which is done regularly.”{Al-Bukhari} 48

Age: 4-up


For the Neighbors Look up in the Quran and read (4:36). Prophet Mohamed (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said “Gabriel kept advising me concerning the neighbor to the point that I thought he would inherit from his neighbor. Also he said “whoever believes in Allah and the last day should be generous to his neighbor.” If you have elderly neighbors, offer to go over and clean up their yard for them with the kids.

Narrated Abu Dharr, may Allah be pleased with him: Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Do not disdain any good deed, even your meeting with your brother (Muslim) with a cheerful face.” {Muslim}

49

Age: 3-up

Activity 50

Live Islam Every Day Easy Activities to Show you the Way

Camping Escapade Today is your camping day. Pack up your supplies and head for the back yard. You will need a sleeping bag, flash light, tent, and food. You can also take a telescope, sticks for warding off predators, and a compass. If mom or dad is joining you they may be willing to set up the bar-b-que for you to roast marshmallows or cook dinner on. Camping is how many of the people used to live and still do today.

Narrated Mujahid: Abdullah bin Amar, may allah be pleased with him said, “ Allahs messenger( May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “ Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler.” {AlBukhari}

50

Age: 4-up


For the neighbors 2 If you know your neighbors would accept food from you then try making them a gift basket. You can fill the basket with cookies,breads, or anything else you make or buy together. What ever you would like to make I am sure would be appreciated.

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Whoever believes in Allah and the last day should be generous to his neighbor.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

51

Age: 4-up

Activity 52


For the neighbors 3 Have fun today making cards to present to your neighbors. They can say simply “thank you for being my neighbor from Your Name Here across the street.” This is a nice way to get the neighbor hood to care for each other more.

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Gabriel kept advising me concerning the neighbor to the point that I thought he would inherit (from his neighbor).” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

52

Age: 5-up


Prepare for the Hearafter Read the Hadith in the Yellow box below. Now start by choosing a goal that you could achieve for yourself to prepare for the hereafter and write it down on paper. For your goal do the following: Decide what your goal is When you want to achieve it by What you need to achieve it Where you want it to be, if a location is necessary, such as planting a fruit tree. Who might help you achieve it Put this paper in a safe place where you are able to pull it out and add helpful information to it as time goes by to achieve your goal, such as: plans for fund raising Account of how much money you have saved for your project Names of helpful people Any changes you need to make etc. It doesn’t have to be as long or difficult as you may think. Simply planting a fruit tree in the back yard can be your sadaqah because as long as that tree stands and people are benefiting from it then you will receive reward for it. Enjoy doing this because this will benefit you greatly. You can make as many goals as you want. Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, said, Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased).” {Muslim}

53

Age: 5-up


Personal Jihad Each person needs to come up with one thing they would like to do to improve their Islam. Some suggestions are; I will not lie, I will not raise my voice, I will pray with more intention etc. When everyone has chosen their personal jihad then you can share it with someone close to you or the entire group. This is your Jihad for the day. Everyone should remind each other and themselves of their jihad throughout the day.

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Verily! Setting out in the early morning or in the evening in order to fight in Allah’s way is better than the world and all it contains.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

54

Age: 4-up


Donation Day Have you and your parents go through the house and/or garage and find things that are not needed anymore. The items that you gather should still be in good shape (not trashy, it is not good to donate things that you would throw away) and donate them to your local masjid or charity group.

Narrated Abu Hurairah , may Allah be pleased with him: Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “None of you Muslim women must consider even a sheep’s trotter too insignificant a gift to give to her neighbor.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

55

Age: 6-up


The future in Your Hands Imagine the world and Islam as it is today. Now imagine what it will be like after 10 years. Is it any different? Imagine how Islam may grow after 50 years. What differences do you see? What would you like to change? Has it gotten stronger or weaker as time has gone by? I want you to write down your thoughts on what you would like Islam to look like after 50 years. If there is more then one person doing this exercise then it might be fun to read them out loud when everyone is finished. See how each one is different and how they are the same. The future is in your hands, do something about it. Don’t be afraid to take action and bring your ideas to life. Ask Allah for help and he will help you do what is right.


56

Age: 3-up


Gifts for Parents Have the children come up with a surprise for mom such as making a jewelry box or a surprise for dad such as cleaning his tool box. It can also be simple some as making a flower arrangement from the flowers in the back yard or making a card, etc. Taking care of our parents is a duty and a sign of respect that we all must Show to our parents.

Allah the exalted says: “And we have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness upon hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years –give thanks to me and to your parents. Unto me is the final destination.” (31:14)

57

Age: 3-up


Going to the Masjid Attend an event at the masjid. Whoever says salaam alaikum to the people before they say salaam to them gets great reward from Allah (SPT) for following the prophets(May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) sunnah . See how many people you can say Salaam to first.

A man asked Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him),”which act in Islam is best? He said, “to give food and to salute everyone, whether you know them or not.” {Al-Bukhari}

58

Age: 8-up


Invite to Islam Day Pick a Governor or a state official. You can work together as a group to write one letter or you can each write separate letters inviting that person to Islam. It is important to give dawah and not be afraid of it no matter what age. There is great reward in guiding someone to Islam.

Allah the exalted says: “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the hereafter he will be one of the losers.” (3:85)

59

Age: 4-up


Go Swimming It is important to learn how to swim. This is a survival skill for everyone. The earth is made up of more water then land. If you are ever in a situation where you are forced to swim or help someone swim you should be prepared. As Muslims it is our duty to make sure we increase ourmore knowledge by learning different skills to help those around us as well as ourselves.

Allah the exalted says,” It is He who has multiplied you through the earth, and to him shall ye be gathered together.”{67:24}

60

Age: 4-up


Islamic Bumper Stickers I want you to be creative and think about Islam for a few minutes. What does Islam mean to you? If you could let everyone know something about Islam what would it be? Now narrow down your answers to a few simple words. You have just created your phrase for your bumper sticker. An Example might be “Islam is The Way”. You can take your phrase to a sign shop, Office supply store, and sometimes even craft stores and have it put on a magnet strip for the car. This not only serves as dawah but also as a sadaqah to all who see it. Inshallah you will come up with some great ways to spread Islamic knowledge.

Narrated Jubair bin Mut’im, may Allah be pleased with him, that he heard the prophet (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying,” Al-Qati( the person who severs the bond of kinship) will not enter paradise.” {Al-Bukhari}

61

Age: 4-up


Spirit Have mom go to the library or video store and pick up the movie called “Spirit”. It is a cartoon about a horse. As you watch this movie, imagine that you are the horse. This is you fighting for your freedom to practice Islam as the prophet ( may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) has taught us. Now watch this movie and remember the following Those that wish to change your beliefs do not understand why you believe the way you do. Stay strong in your spirit. Never give in and never give up. Allah says he will not change a people until they change themselves. Make your spirit strong and Allah will then change the minds of the people to understand Islam and inshallah they will become Muslim. Islam is in your heart and can not be taken away by anything or anyone as long as you stay with Allah. Allah knows the past and the future as he made our religion complete to fit for all time. There is nothing that needs to be changed only the understanding in mans heart. There is nothing to fear but Allah Allah the exalted says:” Allah! There is no god but he, the living, the self-subsisting, supporter of all, no slumber can seize him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is thee can intercede in his presence except as he permits? He knows what appears to his creatures as before or after or behind them nor shall they compass aught of his knowledge except as he wills his throne does extend over the heavens and the earth, and he feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the most high supreme in glory.”(2:255)

62

Age: 4-up


Allah’s Names This game is great in the car as well. Say a name of Allah aloud in Arabic and have the children try and match it by saying aloud its meaning in English before anyone else.

Allah the exalted says: “And remember Allah much, that you may be successful.” {62:10}

63

Age: 4-up


Pet Worms Worms help restore the soil and make it nutritious for the plants. You can make your own worm box to help your gardens. Take a plastic or wood box and poke two to three 1” holes in each side. Shred up a couple handful’s of news paper and put it in the bottom. Add two handfuls of vegetable scraps from the kitchen. ½ cup manure (Let mom or dad do this part). Now cover the pile with some grass clippings. Don’t completely fill up the box. Make sure there is enough room for you to move the pile around. Now gather about 10 worms from the soil in your back yard or you can buy some at the store. Add them to the box and spray the pile with some water. Enough to make it a little moist but not soaking wet. Now put on the lid. Let it sit in a quite place somewhere out side for about a week. Go back and stir the pile. The pile is food for the worms so make sure you add more if they ate it all. When you add food make sure you put it in another corner. The next day check the box. The worms should have moved to the fresh pile by now. Now you can gather all the worm castings from the old pile and put it in your garden soil. This is the best food for the plants and worms are a very interesting pet that’s fun for you and helpful for your mom. This is a good way to recycle and take care of our environment.

Allah the exalted says: “We shall show them our signs in the horizons, and in their own selves, until it will be manifest unto them that it is the truth.” (41:53)

64

Age: 4-up


Constellations Allah has made the heavens and in them the shooting stars to chase away the jinn. Make your own constellations for your room. Use a plastic container such as an old butter container. Make sure it is big enough to put a flash light or a small light. inside. With an exact-o knife cut the stars and planets in the lid, such as the big dipper. Then put the light in the container and put the lid on. Set it up in your room at night and see the constellations on your ceiling. Remember this is a canopy from Allah.

Allah the exalted says: We have indeed decked the lower heaven with beauty in the stars, for beauty and for guard against all obstinate rebellious satans. (37:6-7) Except such as snatch away something by stealth, and they are pursued by a flaming fire, of piercing brightness. (37:10)

65

Age: 4-up


Cloud Watching In the Quran (24:43) Allah says,” Have you not seen how Allah makes the clouds move gently, then joins them together, then makes them into a stack, and then you see the rain come out of it.” Go outside and pick a nice spot to gaze at the sky. See if you can spot the clouds coming together to form a stack. How does it look? Do you think the rain is coming?

Allah the exalted says: “…And he sends down hail from mountains (clouds) in the sky….(24:43)

66

Age: 4-up


Stars This is a great activity if you have a telescope if not you can just look up at the stars too. Pick a night when the sky is clear. Try and find the main stars used by the sailors and Arabs when they had to navigate in the dessert at night, such as the North Star. Look for Erries and the big and Small Dipper etc. With the stars you can see in which direction you are heading. The starts are a blessing from Allah that we might be able to tell direction.

Allah the exalted says: We have indeed decked the lower heaven with beauty in the stars, for beauty and for guard against all obstinate rebellious satans. (37:6-7) Except such as snatch away something by stealth, and they are pursued by a flaming fire, of piercing brightness. (37:10)

67

Age: 4-up


Shooting Stars In the Quran Allah says,” And we have, from of old, adorned the lowest heaven with lamps, and we have made such lamps as missiles to drive away satans, and have prepared for them the chastisement of the blazing fire.”{67:5}. Tonight, lay out a blanket in the grass and get comfortable. Look and see how many shooting stars you can see in the sky. Remember the words of Allah as you observe. Allahu Akbar!


68

Age: 6-up


Mountains Look up the verses in the Quran on mountains (78:6-7) (16:15). Make together a paper mache’e mountain with its root. As the plates of the earth join together they push each other. One is forced up to what we call a mountain and the other is pushed down deep into the earth forming what is called the mountains root. The book “A Brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam” by I.A. Ibraheem is a great companion to the science section of this book.


69

Age: 5-up


Water Wonders In the Quran (25:53) it says, ‘He is the one who sets free the two kinds of water, one sweet and palatable, and the other salty and bitter. And he has made between them a barrier and a forbidding partition.” You will need two cups of water, red and blue food coloring, and salt. Make one cup red and the other blue. In the blue one add 1/3 cup salt and warm it in the microwave for 30 seconds. Now slowly poor the red water into the blue water. Can you see the barrier from pure water to “sea water”? Don’t be surprised if you cant make the barrier. How does Allah do it? Supanallah.

Allah the exalted says,” He has set free the two seas meeting together. There is a barrier between them they do not transgress.” (55: 19-20)

70

Age: 4-up


Paper in a Blender Take some old newspaper or paper scraps. Cut them up into small pieces or strips. Place in blender until ½ of the blender is full. Blend. Pour the mixture out onto a piece of tight screen. This could simple be a screen in a frame, such as from a window. Arrange the paste into the shape you want your paper to be. Put another screen on top. Press out the water. Put something heavy on top to help the water come out more quickly if you like. Now take your screen with the paper on it and lay it out to dry. Check your paper every half hour to see if it is dry. It might take a bit longer depending on how much water you were able to squeeze out. You have now made your own recycled paper. If you want to try it you can also color your paper by adding a few drops of food coloring to the blender before you blend. This is a great way to help take care of the earth which Allah has asked us to take care of. Inshallah he will reward you for your efforts. Allah the exalted says: “I will create a vicegerent on earth.”{2:30}

71

Age: 8-up


Egg Box Challenge This is an exiting challenge to see what designs everyone comes up with and which one will work. Now you can either choose the nature option or the man made option. Everyone has to build a container to put their egg in. The container will be dropped off the roof by an adult and then you must check to see if your egg is still in tact. If it is then you came up with a very brilliant design and if not you can try again and take the challenge. Nature option. You must build your container completely out of nature such as rocks, sticks, grass, leaves, dirt, flower pedals, etc. Whatever you can find in nature. Man made option. This container must be built entirely from man made products, not from nature as described above. This means objects such as plastic, paper, rubber, metal, etc. The first command Allah gave to the prophet Mohamed was that we must seek to learn knowledge. This project is a great way for you to learn how gravity and physics work and to come to understand the basic laws of nature Allah has set upon this earth. Allah the exalted says.” Verily, this is my way leading straight: follow it: follow not other paths: they will scatter you about from his path: thus doth he command you that you may be righteous.:{6:153}

72

Age: 6-up


The Universe Look up and read the verses in Quran on the origins of the universe (41:11) (21:30). Using black construction paper, paint, and cotton recreat a formation of just one star out of the “smoke”. For older kids you can recreate each part of the formation of the star.

73

Photography is from” A Bried Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam”, by I.A. Braham.


74

Age: 4-up


Rock Bubbles

You will need a piece of limestone (you can get it at your local hobby shop or sometimes craft store) and lemon juice or vinegar. Pour a few drops of the lemon juice or vinegar onto the limestone slowly. The stone should begin to bubble. Do you know why this happens? Limestone makes carbon dioxide bubbles when acid is poured on it. You can try this test with any rock to see if it contains limestone. Supanallah Allah has created so many different kinds of rock with many uses. Can you think of some uses for limestone and other rocks? Prophet David was given the gift of making coats of mail (armor) out of iron by Allah. Allhamdallah Allah is so kind


75

Age: 4-up

Activity 75 Live Islam Every Day Easy activities to Show you the way

Plant Experiment Supplies you will need: A glass jar or clear plastic container 3 seeds (bean seeds are the best) Fresh soil Fill 1/3 of the container with soil and place one seed on top. Fill another 1/3 and place 1 seed on top. Fill the last 1/3 and place the seed a ½” into the soil. Now place your container in a nice sunny place and water it when it gets dry. You can watch the seed grow through the container. See which seed grows best at which level. Watch how Allah puts life into the seed.


76

Age: 4-up


Snowflakes on Snowy Days

Go outside when it is snowing with a dark wool cloth. Collect a few snowflakes and then look at them with a magnifying glass. Notice how they all have six sides and are all different from each other. What other things do you notice about the snowflakes? Allah has created everything in infinite detail and perfection.


77

Age: 6-up


Constellation Box Use a shoe box or a box that has a lid. With the lid use a pencil to poke holes through it in the shape of one of the constellations such as the big dipper, I will list a few below and you can find them in a book on the stars or look them up on the internet. You can use several pieces of cardboard the same size as the lid to make different constellations. Now in the bottom of the box cut a small hole so the front of a flashlight can fit in. Tape it securely in this position and you can hold your constellation box with the handle of the flashlight. You can see the constellation reflect off your sealing or wall. Have fun making the different star patterns. Remember that these star patterns were one of the first tools use to help people navigate in ships and on land, a mercy and kindness from Allah who is the greatest of planners and knows all things.

The statement of Allah the Supreme,” And say : My Lord! Increase me in knowledge.” {20:114} {AlBukhari}

78

Age: 4-up


The Senses Allah made the senses for us to benefit and use. Have mom or dad read this one first. Set up five vessels. In the fist one put cooked rice. In the second one put beans. In the third one put flour. In the fourth one put pudding. In the fifth one put cooked turnips. Have the children try and figure out what is in each one by trying each of the senses. Your 5 senses are: Hear Smell Touch Taste See Do this activity using the senses in the order given above.


79

Age: 4-up


Wind Power, Kite Flying In the Quran (51:1-7) Allah says,”By the winds that scatter broadcast; and those that lift and bear away heavy weights; and those that flow with ease and gentleness, and those that distribute the affair;-verily that which ye are promised is true; and verily judgment will surely come to pass. By the sky with its numerous paths.” Go fly a kite in the back yard and see how it is held in the wind. Sometimes it may not even fly at all. See how the wind changes and understand that without the wind from Allah the kite would not fly or move off the ground.

Allah the exalted says,” Proclaim! And your lord is most bountiful.” (96:3)

80

Age: 5-up


Wind Power Boat Racing Qur’an (30:46)”Among his signs is this, That he sends the winds, as heralds of glad tidings, giving you a taste of his mercy,- that the ships may sail by his command and that you may seek of his bounty; in order that ye may be grateful.” Take 2 plastic pop bottles and cut the top part off so that you only have the bottom with about 3 inches of the bottle. Staple a small peace of paper on a pop sickle stick in the middle of your boat. Glue it to the pop sickle stick only at the top and bottom of the stick so that it will catch the air easier. This is your sail. Make sure it is big enough that you can blow on it and it will catch some wind. Now in a body of water nearby such as a puddle, little swimming pool, bath tub, sink, bird bath etc. Place your boat in the water and try to get it across the water by blowing on the sail. Have fun racing your boats around the water. Allah the exalted says: “Among his signs is this, That he sends the winds, as heralds of glad tidings, giving you a taste of his mercy,- that the ships may sail by his command and that you may seek of his bounty; in order that ye may be grateful.” (30:46)

81

Age: 7-up


The Brain Look up in the Quran and read the verses on the brain (96:1516). With clay or play dough mold the shape of a brain and label the parts. In the book, “A brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam” It says,” in a book entitled Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology that” In relation to its involvement in motivation, the prefrontal area is also thought to be the functional center for aggression.” “So, this area of the cerebrum is responsible for planning, motivating, and initiating good and sinful behavior and is responsible for the telling of lies and the speaking of truth.” According to Professor Kieth L. Moore this has just been proved with in the last 60 years. You can see some pictures of how the brain works in “A brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam” or you can look it up online.

Narrated Abu Hurairah , may Allah be pleased with him: Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Allah makes the way to paradise easy for him who treads the path in search of knowledge.” {Muslim}

82

Age: 4-up


Visiting Grandparents It is time to visit grandma and grandpa. Today you must think of something to give as a gift. This will be a sadaqa for you and bring happiness to their hearts. Good Gift ideas: Something baked such as cookies or muffins etc. A card Flowers After you get their please try and do whatever you can to help your grandparents such as sweep the floor for them, do the yard work, see whatever they need help with. make the beds, etc. Look around and don’t be shy to ask. As Muslims we must take care of our elders as they took care of us when we were babies. If you cant find anything to do then you should do your best to listen to whatever they tell you to do and not argue with them. Respecting your elders is very important and a great part in Islam.

The prophet (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” All of you will enter Paradise except for those who refuse. They said,” O Allahs messenger! Who refuses? He said,” Who ever obeys me enters Paradise and who ever disobeys me has refused.” {AlBukhari}

83

Age: 4-up


Muslims’ Do This is a game that is a little bit like “Simon says”. One person is the leader. The leader describes things Muslims’ do and he describes things Muslims do not do. The rest of the players have to say do or don’t do. And see if they can get them all right without doing anything wrong. Example: Leader says: Muslims’ pray 5 times a day Players say: Do Leader says: Muslims’ eat pork Players say: Don’t Leader continues to try and get them to miss one. If he cannot get the players to miss one after 10 turns then the players win. if the players miss one, then the leader wins.

Narrated Mu’awiyah, May Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “When Allah wishes good for someone, he bestows upon him the understanding of religion.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

84

Age: 4-up


Wudu Game Start at the beginning of the day. Everyone make wudu. Throughout the day the supervising adult should remind the children to make wudu after they go to the bathroom and if they are unclean. Make sure they know all the things which nullify wudu. Some of these things are passing wind, going to the bathroom, and sleeping. Have an adult tell you things which nullify wudu that you should know before starting the game. See who is able to remember for the whole day. Whoever is able to do it has followed the Sunnah of the prophet Mohamed, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Prophet Mohamed, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” that if you wish to be prosperous be in a state of ablution.”

Allah the exalted says: “And we have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness upon hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years –give thanks to me and to your parents. Unto me is the final destination.” (31:14)

85

Age: 4-up


Thank you Reminders This can be played when you are busy or in the car. Everyone takes a turn and says “I am thankful to Allah for……. Everyone continues taking a turn until they run out of things to be thankful for and the last person to say what they are thankful for wins. This is a good way to bring awareness of Allah’s blessings.

Allah the exalted says: “And remember Allah much that you may be successful.” (62:10)

86

Age: 6-up


Pen Pal Family Day Pick a relative to mail a letter to. It could be your grandmother, grandfather, uncle, aunt or cousin. Have the older kids write down what the younger ones want to say in their letters. Allah says,” Fear Allah on whom you demand your mutual rights and do not cut the relations of the womb (kinship) 4:1.” It is important to stay in touch with your family. This also spreads love and closeness between your family.

Allah the exalted says: “Worship Allah and join none with him in worship: and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-musakin (the poor), the neighbor who is near of kin, the neighbor who is a stranger, and the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hand possess.” (4:36)

87

Age: 6-up


Pen-pal Friends Day Pick a friend to write to. The older children can help the younger ones with their letters. Be kind in your letters and make sure you do not back bite anyone. This means that you don’t talk about others without their permission. Kindness increases kindness.

Allah the exalted says: “Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness, and piety).” (5:2)

88

Age: 5-up


Business Lemonade Stand Learn creativity and the value of money. With some cardboard boxes make a sign for the front of your table. Give a name to your business and put the price and the product on the sign. You can decorate it and make it look as you like it. Make a big pitcher of lemonade and get some plastic cups. Now set it up where you would like to run your business, such as the sidewalk in front of your house or at a relatives house etc. The customers will come to you! If your want, you can tell everyone you know and see if they can come by and buy a cup from you. This is called advertising by word of mouth. Do whatever you can think of to help your business. See how prosperous you can make your business.


89

Age: 5-up


Traveler for a Day Allah’s prophet, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Be in this world as if you are a stranger or a wayfarer.” (Bukhari) This dunya is our trip away from home. Our home is with Allah in al-akhirah (the after life). When we die we will only take our deeds with us. Try and live a day as though you are going home tomorrow. Give every child a backpack. Have them put in it what ever they would like or think that would be important for this trip. You can help them by asking them, what they are going to eat or how are they going to wash their hands, etc. When they finish packing then close up the bags and the game starts. See if they can live out of there bag for the day. This is a fun way for you and the children to awaken your awareness of Allah.

Allah the exalted says: O you who believe remember Allah with much remembrance . And glorify His praises morning and afternoon.” (33:41, 42)

90

Age: 5-up


Business Cards Brainstorm what kind of business you might like to have. When you decide create a business card with your name, the company, the phone number, etc. Some examples: Leaf Raker Company or Mop and Broom Services. You can make the cards and pass them out to whoever you want and maybe even start a little business.

Allah the exalted says: “ It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.” (35:28)

91

Age: 7-up


Islamic News Come up with a topic from the past such as,” This just in, Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), has just received his latest revelation that alcohol is now banned from use.” Or a current story such as,” Yusuf Islam a great speaker for the Muslim people was deported from America this morning with no cause.” Write a little commentary and make a news room in the living room. You can dress up if you like as reporters. Give the “News Report” to your parents after dinner. Mom can make dinner while you get ready.

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Intercede on each other’s behalf and you shall be rewarded. Allah decrees upon the tongue of His prophet what he wills.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

92

Age: 4-up


Arabic Hopscotch Play hopscotch, but write Arabic letters or numbers in place of the English ones. This is an easy way for you to learnthe arabic letters and numbers. Learning Arabic is important for every Muslim who does not know it so that each of us may correctly understand the words of Quran.

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Verily Allah does not consider your appearances or your wealth in (appraising you) but He considers your hearts and your deeds.” {Bukhari}

93

Age: 6-up


Kind Words Write a little note to each person playing, expressing a nice thought to the other such as,” You are a wonderful sister.” Pass them out and have a good time. A kind word is a great Sadaqah. Allah does not let even the smallest of good deeds go unrewarded.

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “The best of you are the best of you in their manners.” {Muslim}

94

Age: 4-up


Invention It is important to think beyond the box and pray to Allah for guidance in everything you do. Now I want you to try and think of a new idea. You can start with some of the examples I have given here. You have invented a new ice cream. What does it look like? What flavor is it? You have invented a new transportation. What does it look like? How does it move? Does it use gas? Is it like a car or a boat? Etc. Explain in detail your invention and if possible you might even try and draw it or make it. You can invent anything you like these are just two examples. Have fun!


95

Age: 7-up


Create a Vision It only takes one person to change the world. All you need is the right action and some people. Come up with one thing you would like to do for the world. Your masjid can be very helpful with this project if you have a group for the kids there. Some examples would be: start a shoe drive for Africa, Collect coats for the homeless and give them out during the winter, etc. The internet is a good place to look up city information and masjids around the world. First, start by coming up with an idea. Now put it into action. You can go door to door with flyers for people to join or help your cause. You can also send emails and letters to anyone you can think of including the president if you like. Your parents can help you get the project moving or you can take this activity to school and see if your teacher might like to do it as a class project. Remember you can do anything, you just need to plan your idea and get a team together.

Abu Sa’id al-Khudri, may Allah be pleased with him said: Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Whosoever of you sees an evil action, let him change it with his hand; and if he is not able to do so then with his tongue; and if he is not able to do so then with his heart and that is the weakest of faith. {Muslim}

96

Age: 4-up


Thinking Thoughts It is time for you to decide. Would animals like to wear shoes? Where do you think a mosque should be built? Is it good or bad to have to clean your house? With each answer make sure you come up with some reasons to support your answer. There are no wrong answers. Young minds can change the world so don’t be afraid to find the answers to any question. Allah will guide you if you truly ask him.

The statement of Allah the Supreme,”And say : My Lord! Increase me in knowledge.” {20:114} {AlBukhari}

97

Age:4-up


Inverted Puzzle Pick a puzzle that the children have already done several times. Now turn all the pieces over onto the side with no picture. Now put it together. This is a great way to get more of your the brain working. It is important as Muslims to improve our minds as much as we can.

The statement of Allah the Supreme,”And say : My Lord! Increase me in knowledge.” {20:114} {AlBukhari}

98

Age: 7-up


Name Game Write your name using the Arabic alphabet. Now go through the Quran and find a word for each letter in your name. See what your name sounds like. You can come up with many different ones. See which one you like the best. Example: SARAH S: Sakiin A; Arafa R: Raheem A: Amma H: Hasan

Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “The best of you are the best of you in their manners.” {Muslim}

99

Age: 6-up


Muslim Countries See how many countries you can name that are Muslim countries. For more of a challenge see if you can name the capitals for each country as well. Listed here are all countries. 1. Pakistan 20. Togo 39. Bangladesh 2. Malaysia 21. Bahrain 40. LibyanArabJamahiriya 3. Kuwait 22. Suriname 41. United Arab Emirates 4. Yemen 23. Lebanon 42. Qatar 5. Nigeria 24. Saudi Arabia 43. Djibouti 6. Oman 25. Sudan 44. Kazakhstan 7. Mauritania 26. Maldives 45. Uganda 8. Azerbaijan 27. Cote d’Ivoire 46. Turkey 9. Senegal 28. Benin 47. Turkmenistan 10. Albania 29. Gambia 48. Jordan 11. Guinea 30. Tunisia 49. Mali 12. Iran 31. Chad 50. Guinea Bissau 13. Guyana 32. Syria 51. Algeria 14. Sierra Leone 33. Indonesia 52. Afghanistan 15. Tajikistan 34. Iraq 53. Egypt 16. Palestine 35. Gabon 54. Somalia 17. Morocco 36. Comoros 55. Cameroon 18. Kyrgyzstan 37. Mozambique 56. Burkina 19. Faso 38. Niger 57. Uzbekistan 58. Brunei Darussalam

The statement of Allah the Supreme,” And say : My Lord! Increase me in knowledge.” {20:114} {AlBukhari}

100

Age: 6-up


Patchwork Fun Learn to make a blanket together. Everyone pick a different fabric you like. Have mom provide a pattern piece so everyone will know how big to cut their fabric. Mom can make a small square or a large square out of cardboard. Now everyone needs to cut their fabric into squares that same size. After you have finished cutting the squares have fun mixing them with each others different colors and make a pattern. Such as red, blue, yellow or yellow, blue yellow, red. Each of you can sow a section of blocks together and mom can sow all the block sections together when each of you have finished your section. This will help you learn basic skills and how to work as a team as well as become creative thinkers. With the finished quilt you can either donate it to a needy place or keep it in the house. Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Be eager and passionate in your pursuit of everything that benefits you; seek the help of Allah and do not become weak, incompetent, or a failure.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

101

Age: 8-up


Cross Stitch You will need cross stitch canvases and the thread colors of your choice and a needle for everyone. Now look up your favorite ayat or hadith and draw it out on a paper in Arabic. Once you have designed how you would like the writing to look trace it onto the canvas with a cloth pencil or a regular pencil just dark enough for you to see. Now you can stitch right over the pencil marking on the canvas. Basic cross stitching is easy. For those who don’t know just make an “x” on the canvas. The canvas has built in tiny holes in the form of a box. Each hole is at the corner of the “x”. This is a wonderful way to make your own Islamic Art work.

Allah the exalted says,”Say: ”It is He who has created you, and made for you the faculties of hearing, seeing, and understanding: little thanks it is ye give.”{67:23}

102

Age: 8-up


Hijabs This is a great project for the girls. Pick out a fabric from moms collection or see if mom can take you to a fabric store. (About 1 yard per child). Fold the cloth in half forming a triangle. The part of the cloth that is outside the triangle, cut off. Then you can hem the edges on the sewing machine. Now you have the perfect square hijab. You can put edging on it or beading, lace etc. Have fun making your own design.

Allah the exalted says,” Indeed he succeeds who purifies his own self. And indeed he fails who corrupts his own self.” {91:9-10}

103

Age: 4-up

Activity 103


Goal Setting Each person needs to pick something they want to accomplish by the end of the day and by the end of the week. Write it down on the calendar so that you will remember your goals. Examples might be; by the end of the day I will clean my room, by the end of the week I will finish Surat Al-Fil. At the end of the week sit together and see how you did accomplishing your goals. How hard or easy was it? Challenge yourself to do it again.

Allah the exalted says: “Man can have nothing, but what he strives for, and the fruit of his striving will soon come in sight.” (53:39-40)

104

Age: 7-up


Computer Skills There is going to be an Islamic youth camp next month. It is for boys at one camp and at another there is a camp for the girls. It is for 2 weeks. Have the children make flyers about the camp on the computer. They can tell about special events and activities that are going to be at the camp as well as where it is and how to contact someone for more information and sign up. This is good experience for them to learn how to set up events and think about all the elements that are involved. Have fun and be creative. It can be as colorful and detailed as the children wish. If the children would like to work on it as a group they might have more fun with each other.

Allah the exalted says,” Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been given knowledge. And Allah is well acquainted with what you do.”(58:11)

105

Age: 3-up


Cookie Twist Make Oatmeal cookies. Form the dough into letters and bake. You can have fun making your own word creations. Recipe from Quaker Oats Company: 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed ½ cup granulated sugar 2 eggs or 4 egg whites 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon salt (optional) 3 cups Quaker Oats (quick or Old fashioned, uncooked) 1 cup raisins Heat oven to 350 degrees. In large bowl beat together first three ingredients until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat well. Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt, mix well. Stir in Oats and raisins.

Shape dough into the letters you choose. Makes sure they are not thicker then ½ inch around. Bake 8-10 minutes. Remove and cool. Makes 4 dozen. Allah the exalted says: “Read in the name of your lord who created.” (96:1)

106

Age: 6-up


What to Be When I grow up I want to be… Have the children take out a paper and pencil. Have them write down everything that they might like to be when they grow up. Have them think about it for 5 minutes. They may have a little trouble starting off, so before you get started, read them this story. When I grow up I want to be a teacher just like my mom and Dentist just like my father and a children’s book editor like my aunt Sarah. On second thought I’ve always like to eat so maybe I will own a restaurant or open a store like my uncle has that sellse all sorts of ice cream. As I sit here and look up at the sky I have decided that I will be a pilot in the helicopters that rescue people in emergencies. Yes that is what I want to be. Not a fire man or astronaut, nor a mathematician or scientist, but a rescue pilot. It is important to think about your future and maybe set a goal or idea in your mind of what you might want. It doesn’t matter what your age is for great thinkers are those who think. Allah the exalted says:” And know that Allah knows what is in your minds, so fear him………”{2:235}

107

Age: 5-up


Activity 107

Arabic Alphabet Jump Rope Want to have some fun memorizing the Arabic alphabet? Try this game. Everyone can say it together as the rope turns to help each other. You can sing it in a fun way so you don’t forget. The more you play the faster you will remember. This is an important step in helping you to be able to read the Quran by knowing the letters. Try and associate each letter with something to help you remember the order. First write down each Arabic letter and then as a group, come up with a word you want that letter to represent. Then as you play jump rope sing the “alphabet song” that you have made up. An example of some letters to get you started are: Alif is for Allah Ba is for bismillah

Allah the exalted says,” And this is a Book which We have revealed as a blessing: so follow it and be righteous, that ye may receive mercy{6:155}.”

108

Age: 6-up


Sahaba Story Learning about the Sahaba is filled with amazing history. Find a good book about some of the sahaba. You might try looking at the local masjid library or see if a friend has one you could barrow. Everyone sit together and take turns reading one section at a time this way everyone has a turn and is learning together. Some great books to try are: Stories of the Sahaba series adapted by Noura Durkee: Torchbearers of Islam, The Loyal Ansar, The First Ones, and The Promised Paradise. These stories are very inspiring for everyone and inshallah will make us all better Muslims and more aware of ourselves.

The Prophet (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” The best of you are the best of you in their manners.{Muslim}

109

Age: 5-up


Ramadan is Here!! It is time to make Ramadan chains. You will need the following supplies: Scissors Glue Lots of colored construction paper Now take a piece of paper and cut it into long strips 2 inches wide. Take a strip and glue the end together forming a circle. Now take another piece of paper and linkthem through the circle you just made half way. Now glue these two ends together. This is the beginning of the chain. Continue making the chain as long as you like with as many colors as you like. When you are finished you can hang them up around the house to start the decorations for Ramadan. This is a lot of fun and a simple project.

Allah the exalted says:”The Month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights the new moon of the month, let him fast it.” {2:185}

110

Age: 3-up


Dhikr Family Night During the last hour before Iftar have the family sit together in a big circle. Make dhikr outloud. Everyone can take turns thanking Allah or you can all read something together such as Supanallah, Allhamallah, Allahu akbar. If you would like to keep track of how much you recite then count on your fingers. This is the way the Prophet (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said was best. This is a great way to stay busy while the cooking is finishing up and the smells are entering the room.

The Prophet (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Whoever does not give up lying speech and acting on those lies, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink.” {Bukhari}

111

Age: 4-up


Make Ramadan Banners You can hang these throughout the house. Have fun designing and decorating them as you wish with sayings such as “Eid Mubarak” and “Happy Ramadan”. Have fun coming up with your own. Supplies you might need are as follows: Big roll of paper Paints Colors Pins Glitter Glue Stencils Markers Designs

The prophet {May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” Actions are judged according to the intention behind them.” {Al-Bukhari}

112

Age: 4-up


Quran Pick a special Ayat or surat that everyone should learn by the end of Ramadan such as Ayat al-Kursi. Set a special time that everyone can go over it together as a family. If someone already knows it they should still take part in helping the people who don’t by reciting and encouraging each other as a family.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, The prophet( May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Whoever believes in Allah and His Messenger, performs iqamat-as-salat and observes saum of the month of Ramadan, then it will be a promise binding upon Allah to admit him to Paradise, no matter whether he fights in Allah’s cause or remains in the land where he is born.” The people said, “O Allah’s Messenger! Shall we acquaint the people with this good news?” He said,” Paradise has 100 gates which Allah has reserved for the Mujahidun who fight in his cause, and the distance between each of two grades is like the distance between the heaven and the earth. So, when you ask Allah, ask for Al-Firdaus which is the middle and highest part of Paradise.”{Al-Bukhari}

113

Age: 4-up


Iftar for Friends Prepare an Iftar and invite your friends over. Have the children help plan the menu and cook. Make sure everyone knows what their tasks are. Cleaning up is everyone’s job. Make sure you don’t leave this part to only one person. This is a lot of fun to do together. Inshallah Allah will bless your efforts to work together and to serve others during this very special time.

Allah the exalted says:” Every action of the son of Adam is for him except fasting, for that is solely for me. I give the reward for it. ‘The fast is a shield. If one is fasting, he should not use foul language, raise his voice, or behave foolishly. If someone reviles him or fights with him he should say “I am fasting”, twice. By the one in whose hand is the sole of Mohamed, the bad breath of the one who is fasting is better in the sight of Allah on the day of Resurrection then the smell of musk. {Muslim}

114

Age: 4-up


Iftar for Family Prepare an iftar and invite the family over. Have the children help plan the menu and cook. Make sure everyone knows what their tasks are. Cleaning up is everyone’s job so make sure you don’t leave this part to only one person. This is a lot of fun to do together. Inshallah Allah will bless your efforts to work together and to serve others during this very special time.

Ibn Abbas said,” The prophet was the most generous of people during Ramadan when he would meet with Gabriel to study the Quran.”{Al-Bukhari}

115

Age: 3-up


Make Ramadan Eid Cards It is time to get out all your supplies. Some items you can use are: Construction paper Markers Glue Computer Glitter Writing paper Stickers Tin foil Scissors Colors Paints Pens These cards can be to anyone. You can make them for friends, relatives, schools, masjids, or just to put up in the house. Make sure that you don’t put any pictures of people and creatures in the cards for Allah dislikes this. Have fun making your wonderful Eid cards. Narrated Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) Allah’s messenger (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Those who draw pictures will be punished on the Day of Resurrection: and it will be said to them: ‘Breath soul into what you have created.’” {AL-Bukhari and Muslim}

116

Age: 4-up


Activity 116 and 117

Ramadan Sweets Have all the children get together and decide on several sweets they would like to make for Ramadan Iftars. You can pick 2 for today and make 2 tomorrow. Some favorites in my family are: Fudge, Cookies, and Cheese Cake Here is a great recipe to get you started. Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies In a bowl mix: 1 ½ c. sugar ½ tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. nutmeg 1 egg 1 c. butter melted and cooled Now mix together and add: 1 ½ c. mashed bananas 1 ¾ c. oats Add: 1 ½ c. flour 1 bag chocolate chips Mix well. Put cookies on cookie sheet by the spoonful. Bake at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Cool and enjoy.

Narrated Abu Saeed Al-KudriThe prophet (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” the pre-dawn meal is blessed so do not neglect it even if you only take a sip of water. {Ahmed}

117

Age: 5-up


Ramadan for The Poor This day we are going to help those who might need help by giving them dinner. If you know of a family who may be struggling, have the children help make extra food this iftar to take to this family. If you can’t think of anyone who might need it then you should take the food to the masjid for those in need. Allah rewards those with good intention to help others and during Ramadan the reward for good deeds is multiplied several times. Keep your intentions good as you help cook the meal and don’t lose patience. Remember it is for the sake of Allah.

Aisha narrated the Prophet (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would wake up his wives during the night and then remain apart from them (busy in acts of worship).”{Al-Bukhari}

118

Age: 4-up


Gifts for Masjid I encourage all children to come up with gift ideas you can give to the masjid for those in need. Many of your fellow Muslims need a lot of help even if you are not aware of it. It is important to take the time to think about others and how you might help them. There are many things you can do to help. Here are some examples that can get you started. Examples: 1. Food drive discussed in previous activity 2. Make hijabs or blankets 3. Donate good coats or other useful items 4. If you speak Arabic help some of the other kids at the masjid who don’t know Arabic by teaching them a few words each time you go 5. If you can read Quran then read to someone while you visit the masjid 6. If you like to cook, make some cookies and bring them because you never know who has gone hungry and who has eaten

The prophet {May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” Actions are judged according to the intention behind them.” {Al-Bukhari}

119

Age: 4-up


Inspiration night Before breaking fast (about 1 hour before) take out an inspiring book of the Sahabah or the Prophets and read some of them together. I recommend for older children: The Stories of the Sahabah Series adapted by Noura Durkee. “Tortchbearers of Islam” is a very good read in this series. Reading stories like these help the time to go by quickly and helps you to think less of your hunger. Inshallah it will help you.

Allah the exalted says, “The pleasure of paradise is exclusively for the people of patience: “I rewarded them today for their patient endurance-that they are the attainders of success.”{23:111}

120

Age: 6-up


Ramadan Diary In the beginning of the month of Ramadan you need to write down what you want to work on for improving your character, You can choose whatever you want such as not becoming angry or listening better. Each day reflect on how you’re doing with your goals and this will encourage you to keep trying. Write down whatever you want about your progress with your Mom/Dad. Inshallah your parents can do it too right along with you.

Allah the exalted says,” Whoever does righteousness’, whether male or female, while he is a believer- we will surely cause him to live a good life, and we will surely give them their reward in the hereafter according to the best of what they used to do.”{16:97}

121

Age: 4-up


Ramadan Taraweah Take all the kids to the mosque and see how they like the experience of the night prayer. The night prayer is sometimes long depending on what part of the Quran is being recited. Most masjids try and recite one juz each night because there are thirty in all, this way they can finish the whole Quran by the last night of Ramadan. This is a special time to spend with the community in prayer. You are rewarded more for praying together and even though the prayer may be long for some of you it is very important to hear it and try your best.

The prophet {May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion and sympathy are like the body. If one is afflicted, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fervor.” {Agreed Upon}

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Age: 4-up


Ramadan Iftar Iftar at the masjid. Have the children come up with something they would like to bring for iftar and have the whole family go to the masjid to open the fast. Make sure you check with the masjid to see when they are holding the iftar and sometimes they will tell you what they need people to bring.

Narrated Sahl bin Sa’d: The Prophet (May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” The people will remain on the right path as long as they hasten the iftar.”{Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 6-up


Ramadan Challenge After iftar when everyone is relaxed, challenge them to a game of Ramadan Challenge. This is a simple quiz game. Everyone can play and learn fun facts about Ramadan during the time of the prophet (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). You can play a true/false version. Here are some questions to get you started. 1. During Ramadan the prophet(May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him ) would make itikaaf. True or False. Answer: True 2. Your are supposed to fast at the night during Ramadan. True or false. Answer: False 3. Ramadan is a special month that we are supposed to do good deeds. True or false Answer: True 4. During Ramadan you should sleep all day. True or False. Answer: False 5. Ramadan is a time to eat more than anyone else. True or False. Answer: False 6. This is the month the Quran was revealed. True or False. Answer: True

Narrated Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) “Allah’s messenger (May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) used to perform salat at night in Ramadan.”{Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 6-up


Itikaaf Have the children set up a place for each of them to do itikaaf and have them try it for ½ an hour. Itikaaf is a time were you spend completely alone with only Allah in worship. There are no toys or distractions. This is a time where you thank Allah for what you have, ask for his forgiveness, and praise Allah. This is a very special time. Remember that Allah is with you watching you pray and worship and he can hear you. Even though you can’t see him he is right in front of you so take the time to make these moments special like you are talking to your greatest friend.

Narrated Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her) Allahs Messenger{May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) used to practice itikaf in the last ten nights of Ramadan and used to say,”Look for the night of Qadr in the last ten nights of the Ramadan.”{Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 6-up


During Ramadan Organize a food drive. Make flyers to pass around. Go to the neighbors and ask for donations. You can also set up a box at the masjid and the parents can have the imam announce the drive at the end of the khutbah. It is very important to help those in need and Allah triples your good deeds during Ramadan.

Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, said Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Allah has written down the good deeds and the bad ones. Then he explained it(by saying that) he who has intended a good deed and has not done it, Allah writes it down with himself as a full good deed, but if he has intended it and has done it, Allah writes it down with Himself as from ten good deeds to seven hundred times, or many over. But if he has intended a bad deed and has not done it, Allah writes it down with Himself as a full good deed, but if he has intended it and has done it Allah writes it down as one bad deed.” {Al-Bukhari and Muslim}

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Age: 5-up


Fasting If you have not observed fast this Ramadan now is the time for a practice fast. Decide how long you would like to try and fast. You could try the whole day or maybe half of the day. Read Quran (2:183). Fasting also includes more then just not eating. You must also control your temper. No foul language, loud voices, or foolish talk. All of these things can break your fast. Inshallah you can do it.

Narrated Abu Huairah (May Allah be pleased with him) The prophet(May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” Whoever observed saum in the month of Ramadan with sincere faith and hoping for the reward from Allah, then all his past sins will be forgiven, and whoever stood for salat in the night of qadr with sincere faith and hoping for the reward from Allah, then all his past sins will be forgiven.” {Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 5-up


Extra Reward There are five fard prayers and many naaful prayers as well as taraweah prayers. Have the children pick one naaful prayer to pray today along with the five fard prayers.

Narrated Abu Huairah (may Allah be pleased with him): The messenger of Allah {May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” When (the month of) Ramadan begins the gates of paradise are opened and the gates of hell are closed and the devils are chained.” {Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 7-up


Do Your Share It is very important to take care of those in need. During Ramadan you are rewarded the most for your good deeds. Take the family to the local shelter to help serve the food for the day and learn to be grateful for the gifts Allah has provided you.

Narrated Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her),” With the start of the last ten days of Ramadan the Prophet {May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) used to tighten his waist belt (work hard) and used to keep awake all the night and perform salat and also used to keep his family awake for the salat.”{Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 5-up


Pick a Partner Have each player pick a partner from among the members of the household. For the rest of the day it is your duty to respect, help, and give support to your partner. See if you can do it for a day without fighting or complaining. Be grateful that Allah blessed you with one another and this opportunity to do good deeds all day for this person.

Narrated Sahl ( May Allah be pleased with him) the prophet{May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” There is a gate in Paradise called AlRaiyan, and those who observe saum will enter through it on the day of resurrection and none except them will enter through it after their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it.” {Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 5-up

Activity 131-132 Live Islam Every Day Easy Activities to Show you the Way

Moon Sighting It is getting down to the last days of Ramadan now. Go outside at night and take a pen and note book. It is time to start sighting the moon. On a blank piece of paper write the date and draw the moon as it looks tonight if you can see it. For the nights you can’t see it just write it down that you can’t see it. Do this each night until the end of Ramadan and see if you can tell when the new moon has come.

Narrated Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) The prophet {May peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said,” Start observing saum on seeing the crescent moon (of Ramadan) and give up observing saum on seeing the crescent moon ( of Shawwal), and if the sky is overcast(and you cannot see it), complete 30 days of Sha’ban.”{ Al-Bukhari}

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Age: 4-up


Eid Party Eid mubarak!! Time to celebrate and thank Allah that we have made it through our fasting and we have purified ourselves. Alhamdallah. Let’s have a party! First let’s make invitations. The cards should say Eid Mubarak on the front and you can decorate them with different colors. Inside write: EID CELEBRATION DRESS FOR HAVING FUN AT MY HOUSE AT 3PM-6PM CALL FOR DIRECTIONS 666-7676 (Please fill in the correct time, place, and phone number.) Now it is time to get the decorations together. You can buy balloons and streamers if you like. You can make your own happy eid banners to go around the house with construction paper. The banners can say: EID MUBARAK; HAPPY EID; ALLAHU AKBAR ETC. Games to play are very important to keep everyone busy. Number 1: Lets start with the game ”Grab bag”. Make sure you have enough for everyone. To make, use paper lunch sacks. Inside each one you can put candy, yo-yos, small toys and treats. Number 2: Outside or in the living room use a piece of the crepe paper to form the net to play balloon volleyball. Number 3: Outside lay a long piece of butcher paper and different color finger paints for every to paint one huge Eid banner. When this is finished you can have an egg toss and play water balloons. Let mom and dad decide when the best time to eat is. I have put a menu suggestion here: Turkey Sandwiches, Chocolate Eid Celebration Cake, carrot and cucumber slices with Veggie Dip, chips, and juice Ibn Abbas said,” The prophet was the most generous of people during Ramadan when he would meet with Gabriel to study the Quran.”{Al-Bukhari} 132

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We as parents and educators must continue to learn along side our children. It is our responsibility to teach them and to know the truth. In this section I have compiled some interesting information that is very important for every one to know and share with others. Please do the activities and continue to explore on your own. You might be surprised at what you discover.

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Age: adult


Important Knowledge Read the book,” The fundamentals of Tawheed” by Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips. After reading it share it with at least one other person and explain what you learned etc. Also look up two references the author gives to Show his proof. To further the activity you can do more research into it.

Allah the exalted says,” Say, “Come I will rehearse what Allah has really prohibited you from”: join not anything with Him: Be good to your parents; Kill not your children on a plea of want; We provide sustenance for you and for them;-come not near to indecent deeds, weather open or secret; Take not life which Allah has made sacred, except by way of justice and law: thus dose he command you that ye may learn wisdom.”{6:151}

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Age: adult


Voice Get involved in local politics. It is our duty as a Muslim to make a difference in our community and not just sit back and let things happen. Write a letter in the editorial for the news paper is an easy way to get started.


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Age: adult


Truth Find out the truth about something you did not know about your food or your health. You can look and the website www.thedoctorwithin.com to give you a place to start looking. There are a lot of good articles to read here. Have fun. Share with someone what you found.

Allah the exalted says: “Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness, and piety).” (5:2)

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Age: adult


Health Read the book “Healing with the Medicine of the Prophet”, byImam Ibn Qayyim Al-Jauziyah. Share the information with at least one other Muslim. It is important to know the truth and help make our ummah strong by not hiding in the darkness of uncertainty.


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Age: adult


Muslim Scouts Organize a “Muslim Scouts” in your area. This is not to hard to do. I have written an activity for the children to help you with this as well. Look it up in the activities list in the beginning of this book. Let the kids do the first part; collecting people who are interested. You could do the same with the parents to see who is interested in helping and or participating. The next step is give the Imam an announcement to read saying that you have volunteered to be a scout leader for the girls if you are a mom or for the boys if you are the dad. Inshallah others will volunteer to help. Below are some detailed ideas to get you started. Setting up a youth community in your masjid to raise funds to support the “scouts” is very helpful. Some masjids may already have a youth fund and be willing to donate a portion to this new project. You can ask members of the masjid such as the imam how this works and what can be done. I am sure they will gladly volunteer to help you. The scouts should meet once a week or every two weeks depending on your volunteer situation. The girls meet at a different date and place then the boys. Such as girl “scouts” meet on Thursday at noon at Reem’s mothers’ house. The boys meet Tuesday at 6pm at Mohammed’s’ dads house. Inshallah the community can raise the money for uniforms, badges, outings, and supplies. Supplies being the most important. Things the volunteers can teach are: Quran Memorization CPR/First Aid Dua’a Memorization Emergency Knowledge Fishing Swimming Fire Safety and making Water Purification Direction calculation and compass use with and without sun Map reading Slaughtering Basics

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Specifically for boy scouts you can do the following: Basic machine care such as lawn mower, vacuums, etc. Tool workshop, how to use different tools Building projects bird houses, gardening tools, sheds etc. How to follow directions, rock and mineral identification Volunteering projects for neighborhood, masjid, Ramadan, food bank, etc. Basic cooking such as boiling water, cooking a meat and eggs. Household maintenance such as changing light bulbs, fixing leaky faucets, electric current basics and differences in wattage. Specifically for the girl “scouts” you can do the following: Cooking basics: beginner, intermediate, and advanced Volunteering in the community, masjid, Ramadan, and shelters Sewing basics Machine care such as sewing machine, cooking appliances, vacuum, etc. Electricity basics; learn about currents, voltage, wattage Gardening skills and natural pest deterrents Soil and rock identification Mending Knowledge Medicine Knowledge such as healing foods, medicines, and massage Islamic Etiquette Men and women roles in Islam These are just a few examples please add to them as you like.

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s messenger, (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said,” Allah makes the way to paradise easy for him who treads the path in search of knowledge.” {Muslim}

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Age: adult


Food bank/donation store Ask your local masjid council to see if there is any extra room at the masjid to use for this purpose. If there is not you can ask them to bring it up at one of the meetings to see if anyone owns a space that they are willing to donate for this purpose. Sometimes people who own shops are willing to donate the back part for this purpose inshallah. After the space is set up have the imam announce or you can make flyers to hand out to everyone announcing the location and the project. You can set up a place at the masjid, for people to bring donations or Put out announcement flyers Showing the location and times. You can be in charge of this program in the beginning until you start getting volunteers. With the donations you can easily collect them at the end of Jummah and open the store on Fridays for a few hours after Jummah. You don’t need to be their everyday. Once the word starts spreading around you can better judge the needs of your community and how many people are willing to volunteer to help in this project. Please be mindful of added expenses such as heating and cooling your building keeping track of items and deciding on accepting items that need refrigerating. The cost of having a fridge is an expense to consider otherwise you can only accept dry non perishable goods. May Allah bless you for your efforts. Inshallah you will give this a try or pass it on to someone you know would be good for this project.

Narrated Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, Allah’s Messenger (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children, and all mankind.” {Al-Bukhari} 141

Age: adult


Eyes Wide Open Educate yourself with true knowledge of the world. News from the t.v or radio is bought out and controlled by “powers that be” So the true story is seldom heard or seen. The best resource we have today is the internet. Don’t neglect it. It may soon be taken away. A great website to go to is www.EYESWIDEOPEN.com Look for the truth . Google is a great search engine to use. On it they have video clips as well from YOUTUBE. This is where anyone can put their thoughts without being censored. This is very important and one of the last places left for free speech. The amount of knowledge here is tremendous. Do some searches of “Airisal trails” and learn what they put in the sky to weaken our systems. Do a search on Vaccines and find out why you should stay far away from them. Do a search on fluoride and see the dangers of it and how it kills the brain and dumb’s you down. Do a search on cell Phones to see how quickly tumors spread in your brain. Do a search on meat and see why it is so important to eat halal( un injected, free range meat, that has been properly drained of blood, and been killed in the name of Allah SWT) Do a search on fat, aspartame, and chemicals as well as genetically modified foods to find out why it is so important for us to be careful what we eat and try to grow our own and most importantly speak up to demand change. Do a search on Dangers of Public school and find out why you should never send your kids their. Find out why Wheat and other products from India have been band from America. Learn about Mensonto, a chemical company that controls food around the world and is slowly destroying all natural seeds. Do a search on “Who controls the money” to find out about the bankers that rule this control and the world, specifically the “Rothchilds family”. Find out what sovereignty is and do your best to regain it. Google has some nice 142

Youtube clips on it especially Canadian freedom. You are not a free person, you need to become one. Start looking. Some interesting tidbits. They have found in India Human skeletons as large as 173 feet tall. You can see pictures of them at Youtube on the Internet. India should also be supported for trying to stop mensonto from taking the seeds and changing them so that they kill off all natural seed; Also for stopping the patenting of seeds which is spreading. This is a weapon used by “the bankers” that control the world. Once they patent the seeds then no one will be aloud to grow food and there will be no such thing as organic or natural anymore. You will no longer be in control of what you eat and they will then have the power to kill anyone they wish even more then they do now. Be aware of this and start looking if you don’t believe me the knowledge is write at your computer. Look through it carefully and you can find the truth. Not everything you read is true so look carefully. I congratulate you all for making it through this section and inshallah bringing your awareness to our duty of caring for this world. Lets make a difference together and spread the word. May Allah help us all Ameen.

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Reference “A brief illustrated guide to understanding Islam” by I.A. Ibraheem “Memory Power for Exams” by William G. Browning “Sahih Al-Bukhari” Translated by Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan.

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Book Blurb A must have book for parents, homeschoolers, and educators. Simple activities for ages 4 to adult. Learn how to practice hajj and enjoy making projects to help with al-Akhirah. Discover the wonders of Showing Islam through your actions in day to day life. This book is loaded with authentic Hadiths and citations from Quran in an easy to learn fashion. Learn how to improve your character and what it means to be a Muslim all in one book.

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Live Islam Every Day

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