Death always shocks us. It leaves a void and an empty feeling in the hearts of family and friends alike. It makes us slip into a depressive mood. It also makes us philosophical, making us aware of the transitory nature of the earthly happenings. Though the feeling of detachment does not stay with us for long, it still manages to evoke sensitivity that makes us face to face with reality of our vain pursuits. Suliman Jassat, who served on our school’s Board of Management, passed away recently. He has left behind a strong legacy of hard work and determination. “Solly”, as he was affectionately known, was soft-spoken and unassuming. He served on the Board of Management for many years and was the chairman of the Maintenance Committee. He also served on and played a leading role in the New School Committee. Solly had the ability to cut through to the heart of the matter to see what needed to be dealt with. His experience, professionalism, unwavering commitment and his ability to stay on course were admirable hallmarks. Solly’s contribution to our School were many, and without any fanfare or seeking recognition. He worked in the background and always adopted a low profile stance. Solly did not seek recognition or accolades. For him, it was important that things had to be done properly, and he did not care who got the credit. He always seemed to be able to say in very few words what you actually should have been thinking before you thought it. Solly was well respected and loved by all. He will be remembered for his indomitable spirit and sense of humour. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Solly have lost a dear friend and an inspiring person. We will honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to continuing the work he loved so much. Solly’s passing away has left a gaping hole in the hearts of family and friends. But Allah SWT will use the instrument of time to heal this hole, Insha-Allah. We make dua that Allah SWT shower His infinite mercy on Marhoom Suliman Jassat and that He elevates the Marhoom’s status Jannatul Firdose . Ameen.

Our school was shocked on 16 February 2011 by the news of the tragic passing away of one of our learners, 14 year old Maryam Moosa. In the immediate aftermath of her passing away, our school struggled to come to grips with the tragedy. Our staff and learners were consoled by the soothing words and advice of Moulana Abdul Rahman Gardee and Moulana Ebrahim Bham who said that, according to the teachings of Islam, Marhooma Maryam was a shaheedah and that we should make dua that Allah SWT elevates her status in Jannat. It is said that time heals all wounds. But for us, this wound did not heal despite the passage of time. Instead, the presence of Marhooma Maryam loomed large in the minds of all at our school. Her true character, and her value to others at our school, was played over and over again. Marhooma Maryam is fondly remembered by everyone she came into contact with. She never flinched in the face of adversity and faced all tasks with a strong will and courage. During her time at our school, we found Marhooma Maryam to be generous and kind to a fault. She was always full of fun. In her interaction with her peers, Marhooma Maryam taught us grace and elegance and love for Allah SWT. Her actions, and way of life, was a living example of everything which our beloved Nabi Muhammad (SAW) taught us. She was of tender age – only 14 years old – when she passed away. Yet, during that time, Marhooma Maryam touched many lives. She was warm and welcoming. Her courage, wisdom, compassion and humour will always be remembered and cherished. Her charm and enthusiasm is and will remain a continuing inspiration to all at our school. Marhooma Maryam’s infectious smile, her loving and caring personality and her happy disposition will be sorely missed. “Maryam was a very pleasant girl and she always had a blossomy smile”; “The size of her heart could not be compared to even the biggest diamond … putting others before her … smiling no matter what had transpired because she knew that it made others smile too”; “She was the kind of person that would find a rainbow after every storm”; “She looked for a right in every wrong”; “She lived to please others without fail”; and “No matter what the situation might have been she always put the needs of other before hers” were just some of the testimonials of her educators and fellow learners. These adequately describe her qualities – qualities which we were taught to us by our beloved Nabi Muhammad (SAW). Having had her in our midst at school, we can testify that Marhooma Maryam’s Akhlaaq – even at her tender age – was beyond reproach. Her virtue, morality and manners will serve as an inspiration. Marhooma Maryam was an epitome of life itself and will always be remembered for these qualities. These are the qualities that endeared Marhooma Maryam to both educators and her peers. She has left a legacy which will be difficult to emulate. With this in mind, and with the approval of her parents, we have instituted an award – aptly named the Maryam Moosa Award – in an endeavour to perpetuate this legacy and to instil in our learners the endearing qualities of Marhooma Maryam Moosa. Marhooma Maryam was an inspiration to all who were lucky enough to know her. We are richer for having being afforded the opportunity of being part of her education and for having shared her values and wisdom. We make dua that Allah SWT showers His infinite mercy on the Marhooma and that He elevates the Marhooma’s status Jannatul Firdose. Ameen.

Aboobaker Jeena passed away tragically on Wednesday 27 October 1993. “Baajie” Jeena, as he was affectionately known, was a founder member of our School. He served on the Board of Management and on various committees of the Board. He was a dedicated man and this was illustrated by the fact that he always put the interests and well-being of others before his own. Baajie will be remembered fondly by everyone he came into contact with. He never flinched in the face of adversity and faced whatever problems and difficulties that arose with strong will. Baajie was generous and kind to a fault. He rendered unflinching service to our school and to his fellowmen. Baajie was a pillar of strength. His courage, wisdom, compassion and humour will always be remembered and cherished. Baajie was an inspiration to all who were lucky enough to know him. The courage, charm and enthusiasm which Baajie displayed at all times will remain a continuing inspiration. His infectious laughter and happy disposition will be missed. Baajie will be remembered for his endearing qualities. Baajie Jeena was a remarkable man and will be missed by all those who knew him. May Allah SWT shower His infinite mercy upon Marhoom Aboobaker “Baajie” Jeena and grant him Jannatul Firdous. Ameen.

“It is Allâh who created you in a state of weakness, and then, after weakness, ordains strength (for you) and then after strength, ordains old age (weakness) and grey hair …” (30:54) We come into this world in the state of absolute helplessness and weakness. As we journey through life we go through four distinct stages: childhood, youth, manhood, and old age. The first period of childhood is followed by about seven years of teenage hood. The third period of adult life lasts for about twenty to thirty years, followed by the onset of old age which on the average lasts for another fifteen or twenty years. Everything that begins will surely end. In between birth and death we go through many periods where our bodies change slowly but imperceptibly. The most crucial period in the cycle of life is the period of youth. If the life of this world is an ‘illusion’, the period of greatest illusion occurs during youth. It is a period of high energy and great enthusiasm, coupled with an air of invincibility and perpetuity. It is also the period of life during which our ability to comprehend, perceive, understand and absorb ideas and knowledge is at its best. The time of youth is considered to be the time during which a person’s physical, mental, intellectual and moral faculties and potential attain their optimum level of development and application. It is the time when the mind shows its inventive and imaginative capabilities. The habits picked up during our youth are habits that will live with us through old age. In adulthood we continue to draw from our achievements, knowledge and experience of our youth; we only develop and improve on our youth-acquired skills during old age “It is Allâh who created you in a state of weakness, and then, after weakness, ordains strength (for you) and then after strength, ordains old age (weakness) and grey hair …” (30:54) This is probably the most concise reference to the phases of life; childhood, during which one is weak, dependent and helpless; youth, during which one is fully developed, free to act with abounding strength and energy; and ultimately old age, when a person reverts to being helpless and dependent on others- a second childhood! The helpless babe becomes a lusty man in the pride of his manhood and then sinks to feeble old age! We live in a world full of life and motion, and feel in ourselves all the vigour and spirit to keep pace with it, and do not foresee how we shall be left behind in the race, decline into old age, and drop into the grave. We are so dazzled by the attractiveness and splendour of the bright waking dream about us, that we are unable to detect the dim shadow lingering for us in the distance. Nabî Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam has said: “There are two blessings by which many people are deceived: (They are) health and free time.” (Bukhârî) Truly, the life of this world is nothing but a [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent="yes" overflow="visible"][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type="1_1" background_position="left top" background_color="" border_size="" border_color="" border_style="solid" spacing="yes" background_image="" background_repeat="no-repeat" padding="" margin_top="0px" margin_bottom="0px" class="" id="" animation_type="" animation_speed="0.3" animation_direction="left" hide_on_mobile="no" center_content="no" min_height="none"][quick passing] enjoyment, and verily, the Hereafter that is the home that will remain forever.” (40:39) Nabî Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam would often say: “O Allâh, there is no life but the life of the Hereafter.” (Bukhârî and Muslim) ‘Umar Ibn ‘Abdil ‘Azîz Rahmatullâhi ‘alaihi said: “The life of this world is not your permanent dwelling because Allâh has decreed that it should perish and that all its dwellers should leave it. How many a populated area that will soon come to ruins, and how many a happy resident who will soon leave his residence. You should therefore leave this world in the best way you can, and the best of provisions is piety. Since the life of this world is neither a home nor an abode for the believer, he should be in it, either a stranger whose objective is to take the required provisions and return home, or a traveller who is residing nowhere and who is proceeding day and night to reach a country of residence.” “First I was dying to finish my high school and start college And then I was dying to finish college and start working Then I was dying to marry and have children And then I was dying for my children to grow old enough Then I was dying to retire And now I am dying… And suddenly I realised that I forgot to live” May Allah Ta’âlâ grant us the ability to value our time and health. Âmîn Source: Jamiatul Ulama SA[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Deconstructing Sibling Rivalry Tricks for Muslim Parents Although sibling rivalry is normal, it can be rather taxing if it persists without any guidance for reform in a positive light. Every mother knows that raising a child is full of challenges. However, once that first precious child becomes an older brother or sister, a new challenge emerges for parents – sibling rivalry. The “HE’S NOT BEING FAIR,” to “SHE RIPPED MY DRAWING,” to “I NEVER WANT TO PLAY WITH THE BABY AGAIN,” to “I HATE HIM!” are all loud telling signs of sibling rivalry. The quieter signs are the grumpy sulks in the corner of the house and the cold treatment from one sibling to another. Although sibling rivalry is normal, it can be rather taxing if it persists without any guidance for reform in a positive light. The trick mostly is to honor your children as unique individuals with distinct personalities and strengths. There are a lot of advantages in diversity, and children should learn how to capitalize on that. Remind them that Allah created a diverse population, and within families too; there are differences for each member to benefit from. Also, it is important to tell the kids gently and remind them that though we can choose who we befriend, Allah has already decreed our siblings. In fact, siblings have been chosen for all of us, as our closest companions, and this is very true while growing up. Although it may be frustrating when the baby tears down the “tallest tower in the world,” or when the eldest is being a bit too bossy, siblings are the closest relations your children have genetically; ties between them should not be severed. As parents, we can help cultivate the closeness of siblings camaraderie, helping everyone get along, work together, and love each other unconditionally. Honor Their Personalities Everyone is different, respect that. Some children are louder than others. One may need more quiet time than his brothers. One little sanguine girl could have a little brother with a melancholic disposition. An extrovert boy is no different from his introvert sister, as these are both special personality traits that have advantages and disadvantages. The important thing here is not to compare – no child is better than the next, whether it relates to their personality traits, strengths or interests. The more we focus on the postive aspects of the above, the more children will find that they are appreciated as individuals. Get to know their unique personalities and honor them. When each child finds that mom and dad respect them as individuals, the higher the likelihood that they will also respect each other as individuals. Figure Out Their Love Languages Learn to love your children and their love language. Gary Chapman, the author of “The Five Love Languages,” lists down our five main love languages as: undivided time, touch, gifts, positive affirmations and acts of service. Every person speaks at least one main love language followed by a secondary love language. Similarly, each of your children expresses and understands love in a different way. For example, some children love to be hugged more than others, while other children thrive when they are able to spend undivided quality time with their parents. Figure out your child’s love language and you may find that it differs from his or her sibling. This way, you will be able to “show” love to each of your children differently, to honor their differences and to remind them that no matter how much different they are, you love them all the same. Learn About Their Interests and Their Strengths Children thrive the most when they are engaged in activities that interest them. Interests are different from one child to another (but could very well be the same) and they change from time to time. So keep up with your children’s interest and indulge in them as well. If two or more siblings are interested in rocks, for example, that’s even better, have them work together on building rock gardens or painting rocks. Finding common interests is a good way to build relationships. Capitalize on their strengths. Every child has unique strengths, so recognize them and help them develop their hobbies even more. Recognizing that each child has unique strengths will help them be appreciative and secure of themselves, and in turn will help them appreciate their siblings as well. Carve out a Niche Each and Imbue Respect for Each Other Now that you recognize their personalities, love languages, interests and strengths, allow them to flourish in their fields and encourage their siblings to cheer them along. This has to happen for everyone. When siblings see each other as different but special beings that they have as companions, they will learn to respect and love each other even more. Always remind them that there are reasons why everyone is good at something, and it’s important to lend support whenever possible. Come Together – Work as a Family Make a list of rules and guidelines to build good kinship. Once our children realize that they are all different, unique, special and treated with equity, teach them how to value each other. No Muslim is a believer until he wishes the same for his brother or sister, what he wishes for himself. We need to teach that to our children. If one sibling is feeling down, do something to help him out. If a sister is in need of a glass of water, help her quench her thirst. Being nice and working together is a good guideline to work by. It sounds simple, but it is also very easy for children to fall into malicious footsteps and instigate trouble amongst each other. Remind the older ones that sometimes they are being influnced by Satan to cause trouble amongst those who care about them the most. Teach the younger ones to respect the older ones and always capitalize on “family time” for them to come together and express their feelings. Simple guidelines to help siblings work together is to read to each other, discuss their interests, to share their toys, and to help tidy up the home, with a duty roster if needed. If someone is hungry, help make two portions, so it can help feed another potentially hungry stomach. If there are groceries that need to be stored, everyone must take part in helping out in the kitchen. If the yard needs cleaning, everyone has to get involved. Working together and being nice encompasses all the mini-rules that exist in unique households. The rules are there, not to punish, but to enforce appreciation for each other and the family unit. When Quibbles get the Wiggles No matter how much you try iron out the problems related to sibling rivalry, there may always be bickering. View this as a learning curve and things will get better. Separate them for a bit, calm them down, give a gentle reminder to the perpetrator(s) and move on. Every time your children exhibit good behaviour, by working together or sharing toys, remember to praise Allah and praise them too. Tell them that you are happy with them and hope that they will always be this nice. Make Du’a for Your Children Make du’a, plenty and plenty of du’a, for your children. A mother’s du’a goes a long way. Ask for guidance and protection. Ask Allah to bless your children. And ask for the little things too – for them to get along, to love each other and to protect each other as brothers and sisters in Islam. Ask for Allah to keep ill feelings at bay, like jealousy and envy. Jealousy and envy amongst loved ones have nearly always led to catastrophes like inheritance squabbles at best and the severing of family ties at worse. We see it all the time and we hear of it through our friends, our neighbours, our distant relatives. Make du’a for your children to always care for one another, for their future children, and their nieces and nephews. Family ties are precious in Islam, and it is important that we impart this value onto the next generation, because they will be the parents of the future. There are many blessings in having more than one child. Having siblings, teach children how to share and to be considerate of other people’s feelings. Our children will have to deal with all kinds of people in a patient and kind manner. We have to hone into these advantages as parents, as siblings are important members of any family, even if a little bit of rivalry surfaces from time to time and that is normal and natural for any set of siblings. By M Zain

web2go – Johannesburg Muslim School

It is finally here! The moment that we have anticipated…

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:41+00:00November 27th, 2015|School News|

“Education can only be enhanced with community; education is not a building, but a lifestyle and an environment.” It is finally here! The moment that we have anticipated… We anticipate “The Brick Laying Day”; as it will give Learners , Educators, Parents and the Community a unique opportunity to physically lay bricks for the New [...]

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MOHAMED YUSUF LAVANGEE

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:41+00:00November 5th, 2015|Tributes|

The passing away of Mohamed Yousuf Lavangee has plunged the community in deep grief and sorrow. It has left a void and an empty feeling in the hearts of family and friends alike. This demonstrates how Mohamed had touched the hearts of people in so many different ways. Mohamed Yousuf Lavangee was born in Durban [...]

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SULIMAN JASSAT

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:42+00:00November 5th, 2015|Tributes|

Death always shocks us. It leaves a void and an empty feeling in the hearts of family and friends alike. It makes us slip into a depressive mood. It also makes us philosophical, making us aware of the transitory nature of the earthly happenings. Though the feeling of detachment does not stay with us for [...]

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MARYAM MOOSA

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:42+00:00November 5th, 2015|Tributes|

Our school was shocked on 16 February 2011 by the news of the tragic passing away of one of our learners, 14 year old Maryam Moosa. In the immediate aftermath of her passing away, our school struggled to come to grips with the tragedy. Our staff and learners were consoled by the soothing words and [...]

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ABOOBAKER JEENA

By web2go|2015-11-05T21:42:55+00:00November 5th, 2015|Tributes|

Aboobaker Jeena passed away tragically on Wednesday 27 October 1993. “Baajie” Jeena, as he was affectionately known, was a founder member of our School. He served on the Board of Management and on various committees of the Board. He was a dedicated man and this was illustrated by the fact that he always put the [...]

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Time

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:42+00:00November 5th, 2015|Articles - Food For Thought|

“It is Allâh who created you in a state of weakness, and then, after weakness, ordains strength (for you) and then after strength, ordains old age (weakness) and grey hair …” (30:54) We come into this world in the state of absolute helplessness and weakness. As we journey through life we go through four distinct [...]

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The Husband Who Was Too Shy To Look At His Wife

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:42+00:00November 5th, 2015|Articles - Food For Thought|

….So I said to him: “And the likes of her truly deserve that from you.”…. This story was recounted by Prof. Khalid Al-Jubeir, consulting cardiovascular surgeon, in one of his lectures: Once I operated on a two and a half year old child. It was Tuesday, and on Wednesday the child was in good health. [...]

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The Misuse Of Cellphones

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:42+00:00November 5th, 2015|Articles - Food For Thought|

Question: If a person enters the Masjid and commences his Salâh without switching off his cellphone or putting it on “silent” and his cellphone happens to ring whilst he is engaged in Salâh, what should he do? Answer: In the name of Allâh. It is necessary to develop the habit of either switching off one’s [...]

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Has your home also become a ‘ Hotel ‘?

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:42+00:00November 5th, 2015|Articles - Food For Thought|

The home of today has become very much like a hotel. Strangers stumble in and out at odd hours, each one doing his own little thing. “The family” has now almost become just a fond memory. “The family” having meals together is a rare occasion. Just sitting together and chatting is even more rare. Part [...]

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Sibling Rivalry

By web2go|2019-01-17T09:13:42+00:00November 5th, 2015|Articles - Food For Thought|

Deconstructing Sibling Rivalry Tricks for Muslim Parents Although sibling rivalry is normal, it can be rather taxing if it persists without any guidance for reform in a positive light. Every mother knows that raising a child is full of challenges. However, once that first precious child becomes an older brother or sister, a new challenge [...]

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