Globalization Unchecked by Ramzy Baroud

I found Globalization Unchecked by Ramzy Baroud at Islamicity.com but it was originally published on counterpunch.com. It does presents the dilemma of some segment of the muslim world. Caught in the delicious and tantalizing desire of the globalized 'western' culture while negotiating and finding the relevence of Islam in their lives. To develop a strong sense of self-identity is very important for anyone who want to preserve his or her own uniqueness and/or group identity.

The concept of moderation in Islam

I finally found a video of Dr. Asma Afsaruddin online, a professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies from Indiana University, Bloomington.

For conventional Muslim, Dr. Asma Afsaruddin image does not support the image of a typical pious muslim women given her field of studies and the academic quality and soundness of her work Islamically. Although she chooses not to wear the hijab, it does not mean that her love of Islam is less than someone who chooses to wear the hijab. I truly value her work and contibution to the Muslim world.

Book by Dr. Asma Afsaruddin, The First Muslims - History and Memory is an interesting read although a little dense to digest through. I have not read it though just scanning through. She also edited a book called the Hermeneutics and Honor - Negotiating Female "Public" Space in Islamic/ate Societies. Some of the chapters that I have read is really eye opening. Obviously some Muslims culture is as foreign to me as to everyone else.

The 500 most influential Muslims

A new book published this year by John Esposito and Ibrahim Kalin. The whole book can be accessed from below. The list is very diverse, consisting of Muslims from all backgrounds. Not all are revered by their subjects by the way although some are respected and love dearly.

The 500 most influential Muslims in the world

Where Are We Heading?

I am numbed by the recent event at Fort Hood. Below is a more balance, positive and productive article.

http://www.unobserver.com/index.php?pagina=layout5.php&id=6868&blz=1

Ummah Films by Baba Ali

Baba Ali is an internet phenomena, a one man show that has attracted quiet a following. He made a lot of sense and presented Islam in a way easy for people to understand. I hope there are more people like him who choose to understand and to make sense out of the chaotic world.

Outlandish

Outlandish is a relatively new band out of Denmark. The interesting thing about this band is that all the members are originally from different parts of the world and of different religions. Check out the other video clip of the same song on You Tube which feature The Little Red Riding Hood on a school play setting.



Check out their other songs and their songs with Sami Yusuf too.