raja yoga and the art of living final

Raja Yoga & The Art Of living An Islamic Appraisal Muhammad Ibrahim AbdulKarim Jahurkar

Page 1 of 108

Muhammad Ibrahim AbdulKarim Jahurkar


Page 2 of 108

)149(

149. O you who believe! If you obey those who disbelieve, they will send you back on your heels, and you will turn back (from Faith)

as losers. (The Holy Quran, 3:149)

) 9(

9. O Prophet (Muhammad)! Strive hard against the disbelievers and the hypocrites, and be severe against them, their abode will be Hell, and worst indeed is that destination.

(The Holy Quran, 66:9)


Page 3 of 108

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

To Those luminous, guided and fortunate souls, who want to learn, practice and preach the Deen of

Allah Taala.

Ibrahim


Page 4 of 108

FOREWORD

May Allah Taala accept my humble effort as this publication is solely for His pleasure. May He make it a means of guidance and inspiration to all the readers, as well as, for myself, and all those who assisted in its publication. May Muslims all over the world benefit from the Malfuzaat (wise and perceptive utterances) contained within this book.


Page 5 of 108

Contents

PREFACE ..... 6

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS . 8

BLESSINGS OF ISLAM . 10

THE RELIGION WITH ALLAH IS ISLAM .. 14

PROHIBITION OF IMITATING THE DISBELIEVERS 21

THE ART OF LIVING.. 36

RAJA YOGA... 53

YOGA OF A MUSLIM.. 88

BE ON YOUR GUARD!............................................................... 95

BIBLIOGRAPHY.. 105


Page 6 of 108

PREFACE

ear Muslim Reader, I present to you in these pages the reality of The Art of Living and Raja Yoga from the Muslims point of view. These two

organisations have been working around the globe, inviting Muslims to also participate in their programmes and courses. Many Muslims participate in these programmes without knowing their beliefs and underlying motives.

Rejoicing the Muslims participation in their programmes and courses, the Art of Living brochure Our Kenya Love affair with Art of Living states:

A first of its kind in the history of Art of Living was the part 1 course which was held in the Jamia mosque in Nairobi. The Imam of the mosque among others participated in the programme and encouraged members of the community to join including women1.

Before it is too late, I feel that it is our duty to enlighten the Muslim Ummah about these organisations and provide the Muslims with essential knowledge with which they may judge right from wrong. I, therefore, deemed it necessary to make a research on them and find out the truth from their own publications which were easily at my disposal. During the research, an idea of compiling what I had researched crossed my mind and this is what you have now in your hands.

I have tried to extract as many facts from their publications as I could while maintaining brevity; though a lot can be elaborated in detail.

1 Our Kenya Love Affair, with The Art of Living. Page.9. Art of Living Nairobi

Kenya

D


Page 7 of 108

The beauty of Islam as eternal and a perfect message from Allah has been explained in the first few pages to make the Muslim reader realise and appreciate the blessings of Islam before he reads about an Islamic critique on Hindu art forms.

The purpose of this writing is to induce the Muslim reader to find out the truth, before he strays from the right path. If I succeed in doing that, then indeed I have achieved my goal. Please read the work with an open mind and form your conclusions with the reason and logic that Allah Taala has bestowed upon you. We make Duaa to Allah Taala for guidance, as He has taught us in the very first chapter of The Holy Quran:

Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, The Beneficent, the Merciful, Owner of the Day of Judgment, Thee (alone) we worship; Thee alone we ask for help. Show us the straight path, The path of those whom Thou hast favoured; Not (the path) of those who Earn Thine anger nor of those who go astray.

Muhammad IbrahimIbrahimIbrahimIbrahim AbdulKarim Jahurkar

Bulawayo Islamic Society, Zimbabwe.


Page 8 of 108

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

t may appear as a small book, but it took an entire team of dedicated, hard-working friends and not just one writer- to make what is in your hands possible in such a short time. Although my name goes on the cover as the compiler, it would be terribly remiss of me if I do not acknowledge all of

them.

It is impossible for me to render adequate gratitude where thanks are due.

I owe a very heavy debt of gratitude to all my teachers, which I will never be able to repay. I can only make Duaa to Allah Taala that He rewards them from His unlimited treasures.

My sincere thanks are due to Hazrat Maulana Musa Menk and his two gems Maulana Shabir and Mufti Ismail Menk for being a source of inspiration to me. May Allah Taala grant them good health and long life, and continue to use them to uplift His religion.

I wish also to express my thanks to Brother Akim Asani, who worked for long hours with the same passion as mine to see this effort through to the end, for his valuable comments and useful suggestions.

Special thanks go to: Brother Abdullah Gaibie, for kindly supporting me with computer, and other equipment

Bhai Imran Shahzad, for his assistance in printing and publishing, and for providing me with a number of computer accessories, which have been a great help in the completion of this work and others as well Brother Adam Leher for editing, formatting and preparing the title page Sister Balakhiyah, for copying and typing the quotes from different books and magazines, which saved a lot of my time.

I


Page 9 of 108

My thanks are also due to Mrs. Aisha Ebrahim Esat who went through the work and checked the text from the linguistic point of view.

Here I can not forget to thank sincerely my families from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe who are pillars of support for me in all my activities. May Allah Taala reward them, save them against all calamities and grant them all the goodness of this world and the Next. Verily in His hand lies all good.

I also thank all those whose silent efforts have contributed to the success of this book.

Lastly, all praises and thanks belong to Allah Taala alone, who has given me all the above-mentioned people whose hearts always brim with genuine feelings for me. If it were not the will and help of my most Merciful Allah, I would never have been able to hold a pen. Indeed it is He who has taught man by the pen and taught him that which he knew not2.

May Allahs peace and countless blessings be upon all the prophets and the Seal of the prophets Muhammad, his families and all his companions who practiced, preached and presented his message accurately.

Muhammad IbrahimIbrahimIbrahimIbrahim AbdulKarim Jahurkar

Bulawayo Islamic Society,

Zimbabwe. Tuesday, August 26, 2008 26 Shabaan 1429

2 Please read the Holy Quran, Chapter 96 Verse 3-4.


Page 10 of 108

1

BLESSINGS OF ISLAM

n the 6th century of the Christian era, entire humanity was steeped in ignorance and superstition. They worshipped stones, trees, idols, stars, and spirits: in short, everything conceivable except Allah. They did not know anything about the teaching of the Prophets of old. Judaism and

Christianity, which were once based on true and pure revelation from Allah, were changed to the extent that if their respective prophets had, to say, come and see their followers, they would not have recognized them.

By the end of the 4th Century, Christianity became a curious mixture of Neo-Platonism and Pagan ideas; History once again repeated its dark phase, which was once illuminated by Jesus Christ (Peace be upon him).The Jews disbelieved in Jesus as a prophet of Allah and accused his mother Mary of fornication out of enmity for him. The Christian exceeded the limit out of love for Jesus (Peace be upon him) and raised him from human being and prophet to the status of son of God, or God. While pagan religions in India and all over the world believed in ever increasing gods, deities and baseless superstitions.

THE LAST AND FINAL MESSENGER

Thus there was a dire need for a Prophet, with an eternal message from Allah Taala, who could take humanity out of the depth of darkness into the light of Allah Taala. The Most Merciful Allah conferred a great favour upon those who believe willingly by sending His last and final messenger, the greatest benefactor of humanity Hadhrat Muhammad Peace be upon his soul.

I


Page 11 of 108

Allah Taala says in the Holy Quran:

)164(

Allah verily hath shown grace to the believers by sending unto them a messenger of their own who reciteth unto them His revelations, and purifies

them, and teacheth them the Scripture and wisdom; although before (he came to them) they were in flagrant error.


) 151 ( )152(

Even as We have sent unto you a messenger from among you, who reciteth unto you Our revelations and purifies you, and teacheth you the Scripture

and wisdom, and teacheth you that which ye knew not. Therefore remember Me, I will remember you. Give thanks to Me, and

reject not Me. (The Holy Quran, 2:151-152)

The Messenger of Allah Muhammad (SallAllahu Alaihi wasallam) transformed the nation with the radiant message he received from Allah. The summary of his message is as follows:

"The idols which you worship are a mere sham. Cease to worship them from now on. No mortal being, no star, no tree, no stone, no spirit, is worthy of human worship. Therefore, bow not your heads in worship before them. The entire universe with everything that it contains belongs to Allah Taala alone.


Page 12 of 108

He alone is the Creator, the Nourisher, the Sustainer, and, consequently, the real Sovereign before Whom all should bow down and to Whom all should pray and render obedience. Thus worship Him alone and obey only His commands. Loot and plunder, murder and rape, injustice and cruelty-all the vices in which you indulge are crimes in the eyes of Allah Taala. Leave your evil ways. He hates them all. Speak the truth. Be just. Do not kill anyone. Do not rob anyone. Take your lawful share. Give that which is due to others in a just manner. You are human beings and all human beings are equal in the eyes of Allah. No one is born with the slur of shame on his face, nor does anyone have come into the world with the mantle of honour hung around his neck. He alone is high and honoured who is Allah-fearing and pious, true in words and deeds. Distinctions of birth and glory of race are not criteria of greatness and honour. One who fears Allah and does good deeds is the noblest of human beings. One who is shorn of love of Allah and is steeped in bad manners is doomed.

Prophet Muhammad (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam) was a prodigy of extraordinary merits, a paragon of virtue and goodness, a symbol of truth and veracity, a great apostle of Allah, Allahs Messenger to the entire world. His life and thought, truthfulness and straightforwardness, piety and goodness, character and morals, his ideology and achievements stand as unimpeachable proof of his prophethood. Any human being who studies the Prophet Muhammads life and teachings without bias will testify that verily he was a true Prophet of Allah Taala. He gave to mankind the Book of Allah the Quran. No unbiased and serious seeker of truth can escape this conclusion.3

3 Please read the books Islam and the World by Maulana Abul Hasan Nadwi and Towards

Understanding Islam by Maulana Maududi


Page 13 of 108


)28(

It is He (God Almighty) who has sent His messenger (Muhammad) with guidance and the religion of Truth (Islam) that He may make it prevail over

all religions. And enough is God for a witness. (The Holy Quran, 48:28)

)86(

)87(

)88(

86. And you were not expecting that the Book (this Qur'n) would be sent down to you, but it is a mercy from your Lord. So never be a supporter of

the disbelievers.

87. And let them not divert thee from the revelations of Allah after they have been sent down unto thee; but call (mankind) unto thy Lord, and be not of

those who ascribe partners (unto Him). (The Holy Quran, 28:86-88)


Page 14 of 108

2

THE RELIGION WITH ALLAH IS ISLAM

he Messenger of Allah (SallaAllahu Alaihi wasallam) who sailed through many difficulties, hardships, and finally triumphing over all forms of persecutions, delivered the message of Allah to all mankind. The light of true knowledge and guidance of Islam rose from Makkah

Mukarramah and within a short period of 23 years it reached all corners of the world. Those who took the message of Islam to their hearts moved from success to success and attained the highest pinnacle of glory in history. The message he (SallaAllahu Alaihi wasallam) brought was and is of a universal nature. It applies to all times past, present and future, and in all situations.

Man has reached a final stage where he needs a complete and perfect way of life from Allah to safeguard his purposeful existence on earth.


)108

Say: This is my Way (Islam): I invite towards Allah with sure knowledge, I and whosoever followeth me Glory be to Allah! And I am not of the

idolaters. (The Holy Quran, 12:108)

T


Page 15 of 108

: } )153

{

And (He commandeth you, saying): This is My straight path, so follow it and follow not other ways, lest ye be parted from His way: This hath He

ordained for you, that ye may ward off (evil). (The Holy Quran, 6:153)

(115)

And whoso opposeth the messenger after the guidance (of Allah) hath been manifested unto him, and followeth other than the believer's way, We

appoint for him that unto which he himself hath turned, and expose him unto hell a hapless journey's end!


} {) : )20(

And if they argue with thee, (O Muhammad), say: I have surrendered my purpose to Allah and (so have) those who follow me.


After conferring the favour of Islam upon the believers, Allah Taala commanded the Prophet (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam) and his followers to be steadfast upon the right path shown to them and not follow the vain desires of the disbeliever lest they should go astray and walk behind Shaitaan.


Page 16 of 108


)18(

)19(

)20(

And now have We set thee (O Muhammad) on a clear road of (Our) commandment; so follow it, and follow not the whims of those who know

not.

Lo! they can avail thee naught against Allah. And lo! as for the wrong doers, some of them are friends of others; and Allah is the Friend of those

who ward off (evil).

This is clear indication for mankind, and guidance and a mercy for a folk whose faith is sure.

(The Holy Quran, 45:18-20)

Moreover three months before the Prophet (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam) left this world, Allah Taala announced the perfection of the message of Islam in these words:

)3(

This day are those who disbelieve in despair of (ever harming) your religions; so fear them not, fear Me! This day have I perfected your religion

for you and completed My favour unto you, and have chosen for you as religion ISLAM.



Page 17 of 108

It means that up to the day of Judgement only Islam will be the accepted religion. Allah says in other places in the Holy Quran:

Lo! Religion with Allah (is) Islam (The Holy Quran, 3:19)

: } {)85(

And whoso seeketh as religion other than Islam it will not be accepted from him, and he will be a loser in the Hereafter.


We can clearly discern from the above verses that any one who follows any other way besides Islam is a loser no matter how attractive and beautiful that way may appear to one.

A similar message is given in the words of the Nabi of Allah (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam).

: : -

: :

Hazrat Abu Huraira RadhiyAllahu anhu narrates that Allah's Apostle SallAllahu Alahi Wasallam said, "All my followers will enter Paradise

except those who refuse." They said, "O Allah's Apostle! Who will refuse?" He said, "Whoever obeys me will enter Paradise, and whoever disobeys me

is the one who refuses (to enter it)." (Sahih Al-Bukahri)


Page 18 of 108

Following the Messenger of Allah demands us that we abstain from admiring or practicing any other way of the time of ignorance.

: :

) (

Hazrat Abbas (RadhiyAllahu anhu) relates that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alahi Wasallam) said, the most hated people by Allah are three:

The transgressor in Haram, seeker of ways of the time of ignorance in

Islam,

And the one who demands the bloodshed of a Muslim man unjustly. (Sahih Bukahri)

:

.

Hazrat Bahz bin Hakim narrates from his father and his father from his grandfather that he asked the Messenger of Allah (SallahAllahu Alahi wa

Sallam) about Islam. He (SallaAllahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, Islam is: you clean your heart for Allah, submit yourself to Allah, read your obligatory

Salah and pay the compulsory Zakah. (Musnad Ahmad)

: "#

$#) "( ) * - ( / .( 3 4 ] $ :2697 [ $;

] $:1718.[

$; ( ) : ) ? @ "( -(

On the authority of the Mother of the Faithful, Umm `Abdillaah `Aaishah (radi Allaahu 'anhaa), who said: The Messenger of Allaah (SallAllahu


Page 19 of 108

Alaihi wasallam) said: He who innovates something in this matter of ours [i.e. Islam] that is not of it will have it rejected [by Allah].

[Bukahri and Muslim]

In one version by Muslim, it states:

He who does an act, which we have not commanded, will have it rejected [by Allah].

(Bukahri and Muslim)

We thank Allah for granting us the greatest favour i.e. Islam. It sets our minds in one direction, suffices us as a complete way of life and we do not have to wonder any more looking for guidance anywhere else. Allah Taala says in the Holy Quran:

)89(

And We have revealed the Scripture unto thee (Muhammad) as an exposition of all things, and guidance and a mercy and good tidings for

those who have surrendered (to Allah). (The Holy Quran, 16:89)

:

! : :

) ! !

!

( : .

.

Hazrat Jabir (RadhiyAllah anhu) relates that Hazrat Umar bin Khattab (RadhiyAllahu anhu) came to the Prophet (SallaAllahu alahi Wasallam)


Page 20 of 108

with a book, which he got from some of the people of the scripture (the Jews or Christian). He said, O Messenger of Allah I got a nice book from some people of the scripture. The Messenger of Allah got so angry, that anger

was reflected on his face, and then he said, by Him in whose hand my soul is, I have come to you with a message as clear as daylight. Dont ask them (the Jews or Christian), they may tell you the truth and you may deny it and

at other time you may believe while they are telling falsehoods. Verily by Allah even if Musa (Alaihissalaam) were alive, he has no way, except that

of following me. Hazrat Umar (RadhiyAllahu anhu) then said, I am pleased with Allah as Lord, with Islam as religion and with Muhammad

SallAllahu alahi wasallam as the Prophet.

(Musannaf Ibn Abi Shaibah)

: :

Hazrat Jabir (RadhiyAllahu anhu) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (SallaAllahu Alahi wasallam) said, Dont ask the people of the scripture

(the Jews and Christian) about anything. They will not guide you while they themselves have gone astray. By asking, you may end up believing in

something false or denying something that is true. Verily by Allah even if Musa (Alaihissalaam) were alive, he has no way except that of following

me.

(Musnad Ahmad)


Page 21 of 108

3

PROHIBITION OF IMITATING THE DISBELIEVERS

efore the advent of the last and final Messenger of Allah Muhammad (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam), whenever the followers of a prophet assimilated the ways, ideas and customs of the disbelievers and corrupted the true teachings of their prophet, Allah Taala sent

another prophet to set the criterion between right and wrong, and to bring the people back to the straight path. The Prophet Muhammad (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam) was the last and final messenger. No prophet is to come after him.

Lets discuss briefly the causes and reasons why the previous nations like the Jews and the Christians went astray after being guided by Allah Taala. By knowing the reasons we may become more conscientious about protecting ourselves from going astray.

WHY DID THE TEACHINGS OF PREVIOUS PROPHETS BECOME CORRUPT?

There are seven reasons why the teachings of the Prophets before Muhammad (Peace be upon him) were corrupted. They are as follow:

1. DEVELOPING A CARELESS ATTITUDE TOWARDS RELIGION When the respective Prophet departed the world, his followers passed down his teachings from one generation to the next. Over the period of time, the successors turned to be neglectful of their duty to Allah Taala. They

B


Page 22 of 108

neither preached, nor enjoined what was good, nor forbade what was wrong. They did not learn, nor teach others. Within a short period of time the false customs, man-made rituals, pagan beliefs and ideas permeated their society.

2. MISINTERPRETING TEACHINGS OF THE PROPHET They either deliberately misinterpreted their prophets teachings or edited verses of the Scripture to mean and suit their own pre-conceived ideas and beliefs. One of the examples of such misinterpretation is the verses which are used to prove the Trinity in Christianity.

3. MYSTIFYING SIMPLE AND EASY-TO-PRACTICE TEACHINGS OF A PROPHET The followers deviated from the middle and straight path of Allah Taala to which all the Prophets led. They, for instance, established monasticism to please Allah Taala. These acts were neither prescribed by Allah Taala nor advised by Jesus (Peace be upon him). St. Anthony founded Christian monasticism, on the pattern of paganism, in the 4th century A.C.

4. CHANGING THE COMMANDMENT OF ALLAH TAALA BY CONSIDERING IT INVALID. The Jews, for example, were given the commandment to stone the adulterer to death, but they decided to darken the face of such person and to lash him or her.

5. FOLLOWING BLINDLY THE WAYS OF THE FOREFATHERS The general public among the Jews and Christian did not question the authenticity of the message delivered to them by their forefathers. They innocently followed them blindly and went astray.

6. FOLLOWING FALSE RELIGIOUS LEADERS


Page 23 of 108

Prophets, appointed by Allah Taala, were sinless and thus were protected by Allah Taala against all kinds of mistakes and errors. All human beings, with the exception of the Prophets with clear signs from Allah, are sinners

and subject to error. Following blindly someone who is not appointed as prophet by Allah, leads people to corrupt the teachings of a true prophet. In Christianity, for example, the people followed St. Paul who was a self-appointed apostle. He introduced many of the pagan originated beliefs into Christianity.4

7. Innovation. When people entered the true religion in crowds, some of them were not genuine in accepting the truth at all. Some other accepted it just for the sake of accepting. They did not accept it whole heartedly. Their hearts were greatly attached to and filled with the love for their previous religions or ideologies. The germs of paganism which they nourished in their hearts were not eradicated. They looked for an excuse to bring their polytheistic customs, festivals and rituals to their new religion. Through this way, the words of the pagan wise men, Greek philosophy, Babylonian mythology, Persian history, astrology and numerology penetrated Judaism and Christianity to a great extent.

Some of the Muslims who have weak Imaan will try to corrupt the Deen of Allah Taala in the similar way as did the Jews and the Christians. The Prophet of Allah Muhammad (SallAllahu Alahi Wasallam) foretold us:

Hadhrat Abu Saeed Khudri (RadhiyAllahu Anhu) narrates that the Prophet (SallAllahu Alahi Wasallam) said, "You will follow the wrong ways of your

4 For more detail on who is the founder of Christianity, please read the book What is Christianity

by Mufti Taqi Usmani.


Page 24 of 108

predecessors so completely and literally that if they should go into the hole of a lizard, you too will go there." We said, "O Allah's Apostle! Do you mean the Jews

and the Christians?" He replied, "Whom else?" (Meaning, of course, the Jews and the Christians)

(Sahih Bukahri)

Islam, however, will never lose its pristine purity and orthodox originality because Allah Taala has taken responsibility upon Himself to protect Islam against all corruption for eternity.

Allah, the Almighty says in the Holy Quran:

)9( )10( )11(

Verily We: It is We Who have sent down the reminder (i.e. theQuran) and surely, We will guard it (from corruption).Indeed, We sent Messengers

before you (O Muhammad) amongst the sects (communities) of old. And never came a Messenger to them but they did mock him.

(The Holy Quran 15:9-11)

)41(

Lo! Those who disbelieve in the Reminder when it cometh unto them (are guilty), for lo! It is an unassailable Scripture. (The Quran)

(The Holy Quran 41:41)

Falsehood cannot come at it from before it or behind it. (It is) a revelation from the Wise, the Owner of Praise.

(The Holy Quran 41:42)


Page 25 of 108

The one who neglects such a beautiful religion as Islam and its teachings fools none but himself. As Allah Taala says in the Holy Quran:

)130(

)131(

)132(

130. And who forsaketh the religion of Abraham save him who befooleth himself? Verily We chose him in the world, and lo! In the Hereafter he is

among the righteous. 131. When his Lord said unto him: Surrender! he said: I have surrendered

to the Lord of the Worlds. 132. The same did Abraham enjoin upon his sons, and also Jacob, (saying): O my sons! Lo! Allah hath chosen for you the (true) religion; therefore die

not save as Muslims. (The Holy Quran, 2:130-132)

Allah Taala describes His true servants in many places in the Holy Quran. One of the typical characteristics of the true Muslims is that they keep their distance from wrong places, vain talks and evil desires. Allah Taala says:

)1(

)2(

)3(

1. Successful indeed are the believers. 2. Those who offer their Salt (prayers) with all solemnity and full

submissiveness.


Page 26 of 108

3. And those who turn away from Al-Laghw (dirty, false, evil vain talk, falsehood, and all that Allh has forbidden).



Page 27 of 108

)55(

55. And when they hear vanity they withdraw from it and say: Unto us our works and unto you your works. Peace be unto you! We desire not the

ignorant.

(The Holy Quran 28:5.)

: )72(

)73( )74(

)75( )76(

72. And those who will not witness vanity, but when they pass near senseless play, pass by with dignity.

73. And those who, when they are reminded of the revelations of their Lord, fall not deaf and blind thereat..74. And who say: Our Lord! Vouchsafe us comfort of our wives and of our offspring, and make us patterns for (all)

those who ward off (evil). 75. They will be awarded the high place forasmuch as they were steadfast,

and they will meet therein with welcome and the word of peace, 76. Abiding there forever. Happy is it as abode and station!

(The Holy Quran, 25:72-76.)

Mujahid and Rabee bin Anas RahimahumaAllah say that Zoor (translated as vanity) in this verse means festivals of the disbelievers.

Hazrat Ikrama says Zoor in the verse refers to one of the sports that the disbelievers indulged in the time of ignorance. Amr bin Murrah said, the meaning of the verse is that Muslims should not get inclined to the disbeliever in the matters of polytheism nor should they mix with them.


Page 28 of 108

Zoor literally means something ugly, beautified and camouflaged. It appears to the people what it is not in reality. It looks beautiful because of desires or doubts, while in reality it is ugly.

The festivals or the programmes of the disbelievers are the combination of both; doubt and desire. They may look very charming and attractive but in reality they are camouflaged. There is no benefit of Deen in it. The little joy you have might be followed by the wrath of Allah and lot of sorrows. Joy followed by sorrow is not joy.

In the above verse Allah Taala admired His faithful servants for not being present in the vain gatherings just for listening or seeing. In other words, He does not like His faithful slaves to attend such gatherings where there is some sort of vanity. Early Muslim scholars, therefore, created dislike in the hearts of the Muslim masses for non-Islamic culture and ways.

:

Abdulallah bin Utba saw a man putting on some kind of costume of the non-Arab (Polytheists), so he remarked by saying, this man should be cautious

lest he should be a Jew or a Christian not perceiving it. (As-Sunnah by Abu Bakr Al-Khallal)

: ) :

: : }

{ :153


Page 29 of 108

Hazrat AbdulAllah bin Masood (RadhiyaAllahu anhu) says that the Messenger of Allah (SallaAllahu alahi wasallam) drew a line (on the

ground) for us and said; This is the path of Allah, then he drew many lines on its right and left sides and said, these are the ways on each one of them there is Shaitaan calling towards it. Then he recited the verse which means; And (He commandeth you, saying): This is My straight path, so

follow it Follow not other ways, lest ye be parted from His way: This hath He ordained for you, that ye may ward off (evil).

(Nasai & Ahmad)

" :

"

Hazrat Umar (RadhiyAllahu anhu) said, Do not take to speaking foreign languages and do not go to the polytheist in their worshipping places on

their day of festival, for the wrath of Allah descends upon them. (Musannaf AbdurRazzaque)

" : "

Abaan says that he heard Hazrat Umar (RadhiyAllahu anh) saying, stay away from the enemies of Allah on their Eid day.

(Iqtidhaus Sriratil Mustaqeem)

Hazrat Umar (RadhiyAllahu anhu) prohibited witnessing their festivals for fun even though a man is not participating in their programmes. In the same way he

discouraged Muslims from speaking any other language besides Arabic. He disliked that a man should get used to speaking a foreign language and forgets Arabic because Arabic is the language chosen by Allah for His Noble Quran and the Last Messenger, and Islamic culture is ingrained within it.


Page 30 of 108

As the Arabic saying goes:

Language and culture walk hand in hand.

If you speak English, and forget your own language, then you will adopt the culture of the Englishman.

We are ordained to oppose the disbelievers not only in the matters of worship but also in certain ways of our personal lives such as lengthening the beard, trimming the moustache, not wearing clothes which are specifically identities or symbols of the disbelievers religion etc.

The main reason why this injunction is given to us by Islam is that when we allow a minor evil to happen, it will lead to a bigger one coming into existence. Give it an inch, it will take a mile. Slowly it becomes commonplace. One generation does it just for fun; the next generation takes it seriously as part of the Deen. They tend to forget the origin. Through this door, Shirk5 penetrated into the people who were once guided by Allah Taala. Imitating the ways of the disbelievers may cause the death of Islam and revival of polytheism in the Muslim Ummah.

From here it becomes very clear why Islam has stressed so much on the prohibition of imitating non Muslims.

A Muslims participation in programmes of the disbelievers makes the disbelievers happy. It strengthens their belief in wrongs that they do. It may give them a chance as well to create doubts about Islam in the hearts of the weak Muslims. Especially the Muslims, who have secular education and do not balance it with Islamic education, seem to get attracted very easily to the outer charm and beauty of the disbelievers programmes.

5 Please find out more from your scholars about how idol worship took its birth among the people.


Page 31 of 108

All that the disbelievers do in their religious or semi religious programmes are either that they indulge in polytheistic or Haraam or permissible actions. It is difficult for an ordinary Muslim to differentiate between the three and he may incriminate himself. It is better to abstain from involving oneself in such practices.

Imitating the non-Muslim also causes some kind of liking for them and their ways. This liking may make one admire some of their things and then adopt it without realizing the harm it may cause to your Deen. Thats the reason why Allah has

forbidden us to befriend intimately the polytheists and idol worshippers. Allah Taala says in the Holy Quran:

)22(

22. Thou wilt not find folk who believe in Allah and the Last Day loving those who oppose Allah and His messenger:even though they be their

fathers or, their sons or their brethren or their clan. As for such, He hath written faith upon their hearts and hath strengthened them with a Spirit

from Him, and He will bring them into Gardens underneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide. Allah is well pleased with them, and they are well pleased with Him. They are Allahs party. Lo! Is it not Allahs party

who are the successful (The Holy Quran, 58:22)

)144( 144. O ye who believe! Choose not disbelievers for (your) friends in place

of believers. Would ye give Allah a clear warrant against you?


Page 32 of 108


)23(

23. O ye who believe! Choose not your fathers nor your brethren for friends if they take pleasure in disbelief rather than faith. Whoso of you taketh them

for friends, such are wrong doers. (The Holy Quran, 9:23)

)138(

) 139(

) 140 (

138. Bear unto the hypocrites the tidings that for them there is a painful doom;

139. Those who choose disbelievers for their friends instead of believers! Do they look for power at their hands? Lo! all power appertaineth to Allah. 140. He hath already revealed unto you in the Scripture that, when ye hear the revelations of Allah rejected and derided, (ye) sit not with them (who

disbelieve and mock) until they engage in some other conversation. Lo ! in that case (if ye stayed) ye would be like unto them. Lo! Allah will gather

hypocrites and disbelievers, all together, into hell; (The Holy Quran, 4:138-139 )

Condemning the Jews and Christians for befriending the disbelievers and adopting their ways, Allah Taala says:


Page 33 of 108

)77(

)78(

)79(

)80(

77. Say: O People of the Scripture! Stress not in your religion other than the truth, and follow not the vain desires of folk who erred of old and led

many astray, and erred from a plain road. 78. Those of the children of Israel who went astray were cursed by the

tongue of David, and of Jesus, son of Mary. That was because they rebelled and used to transgress.

79. They restrained not one another from the wickedness they did. Verily evil was that they used to do!

80. Thou seest many of them making friends with those who disbelieve. surely ill for them is that which they themselves send on before them : that

Allah will be wroth with them and in the doom they will abide. 81. If they believed in Allah and the Prophet and that which is revealed

unto him, they would not choose them for their friends. But many of them are of evil conduct.


:

" : " :

" : :


Page 34 of 108

Hazrat Anas bin Malik (RadhiyAllahu anhu) says that the Messenger of Allah came to Madinah and the people had two days in which they used to have fun. He (SallaAllahu Alaihi wasallam) said, what are these days?

They said, we used to have fun in these two days in the time of ignorance. The Messenger of Allah (SallAllahu Alaihi wasallam) said,

Allah has replaced those two days with better ones,( i.e. EidulFitr and EidulAdhha). (Abu Dawood)

This Hadith strongly proves that anything, of the time of ignorance, is prohibited to practice upon, until Islam approves of it.

The Prophet (SallaAllahu alahi wasallam) eliminated the elements of polytheism in order to save his Ummah from getting infected with the viruses of disbelief.

The greatest psychologist of mankind Muhammad (SallaAllahu alahi wasallam) forbade his Ummah strongly from attending the festivals or the programmes of the disbelievers, so that it can not lead them into committing Shirk. The stricter you become in opposing the matters of Shirk, the more your Imaan will grow.

The Messenger of Allah (SallaAllahu alahi wasallam), no doubt, has the deepest genuine feelings for his Ummah. In the light of the guidance he received from Allah, he showed us the straight path, warned us against the implacable ogres of desires that may not only destroy our lives but also may take away the greatest favour of Allah, i.e. Imaan; and what can be a greater favour than that of Imaan.

Addressing the disbelievers, the Prophet of Allah Yusuf (Alayhis Salaam) said:

)40(

40. Those whom ye worship beside Him are but names which ye have named, ye and your fathers. Allah hath revealed no sanction for them. The


Page 35 of 108

decision rests with Allah only, Who hath commanded you that ye worship none save Him. This is the right religion, but most men know not.


The Muslims should say the same to the disbelievers instead of encouraging them on their wrong doings by attending their programmes. The Messenger of Allah Muhammad (SallAllahu Alahi Wasallam) discouraged his Ummah to imitate the disbelievers.

Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said, "He does not belong to us who imitates other people. Do not imitate the Jews or the Christians"

(Tirmidhi Shareef)

Hazrat Anas RadhiyAllahu Anhu narrates that the Holy Prophet SallAllahu

Alaihi Wasallam said, Strive hard against those who associate partners with Allah, with your wealth, hands and tongues.

(Nasai)


Page 36 of 108

4

THE ART OF LIVING

fter reading the above verses from the Holy Quran and Ahaadith of our beloved Prophet (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam), we Muslim have to be extra cautious when it comes to attending some of the programmes or gatherings organized by non-Muslims.

These days some of our Muslim brothers and sisters attend Yoga classes, the Art of Living courses or some other non Muslim gatherings.

I feel it is time to discuss these issues, and to simultaneously shed light on other, related issues, as well. Before we go into the depth of the matter, lets decide on a criterion to judge an organization or institution. People form their good or bad impression by just looking at the cover of a book, publicity cards, pamphlets or speeches from patrons of that particular organization.

Muslims are supposed to look at and assess from various aspects and different angles. Before he passes a judgment concerning any organization or institute, he must find out facts as many as possible such as the founder of the organisation , his background, his beliefs and ideas, what his followers take him to be, what was the leading cause for him to found this organization, its aims and objectives, origin and sources, what he wants to inculcate into its members, the religion and background of the influential people in the organization, what is the ultimate effect on its

members. Finally as Muslims we have to ensure that such activities are in conformity with Islamic teachings. Bearing these points in mind let us analyse sincerely and critically the Art of Living first and then Raja Yoga.

A


Page 37 of 108

THE FOUNDER OF THE ART OF LIVING ORGANIZATION

The Art of Living organization was founded solely by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. He was born in 1956 in southern India. At the tender age of four, he could recite the entire Bhagavad-Gita, an ancient Sanskrit Hindu scripture.

He started his studies in ancient Indian literature at the age of eight. His first teacher was Pandit Sudhakar Chaturvedi a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was conferred with the following qualifications:

Doctor of Literature

Honoris Causa, Kuvempu University, Karnataka, India, 2004

Doctor of Philosophy

(Holistic Medicine) Honoris Causa, Open International University for Complementary Medicine, Sri Lanka, 2006

Doctor of Science

Honoris Causa, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, India 2007 Doctor of Letters

Honoris Causa, MahaRaja Sayajirao University, India, 2007

RELIGION AND BELIEFS

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar follows Hinduism and his beliefs are the same as those of Hindu scholars. Here are some excerpts of his speeches, which clearly reflect his religion and belief.

Talking on similarities between Hinduism and Christianity, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says:

Most often people think Hinduism is worshipping many gods and goddesses, but it is not true. It is one God, but with many names and many forms. It does not mean that God exist only in the form of Ganesha. God exists in all forms Ganesha, Shiva, Vishnu, LakhshamiSo if you want


Page 38 of 108

obstacles removed, pray to Ganesha. If you want prosperity, pray to Shiva. If you want wealth, pray to Lakhshami and for knowledge pray to Saraswati.6

Talking about worshipfulness and honour he says:

The appreciation of beauty brings worshipfulness. You worship beauty, you adore it. Adoring and worshipping everything in creation, as a reflection of the creator is the next law of spiritual life.7

Talking about God he says:

People were told in ancient days God is your mother, God is your father and thirdly, God is your teacher. See God as your mother as your father and as your master

If you are able to see divinity in everyone, then all your relationships are relationships with God. You cant be related to anything else, because whatever you relate to, you will see God in it. If you have a brother, you will see God in the brother. If you have a sister, you will see god in the sister. If you have a husband, you will see God in the husband. If you have parents, you see God in your parents .If you have friends, you see God in your friends. In every relation you will see only God God appearing to you in so many forms. Even an enemy is God. God is coming to you in the form of an enemy and making you stronger somewhere, pulling out all your weak points, contributing to your life. This is my understanding. With this understanding, the bliss, the joy retrains eternal, Unshakable.

Who is God? You and me and all that is, the totality. Love is God and everything is love. The whole creation is filled with love.8

6 Hinduism & Christianity by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Page.4

7 Re-awakening human values Art of Living Foundation Page.36

8 Symposium on human values presented by The Art of Living Foundation Page.17


Page 39 of 108

Encouraging people to break the barriers of their religions and attend freely any other religious practices, he says:

People who dont have an experience of spiritual awakening interpret the scriptures in a narrow way and they think God will punish them if Christians go to Hindu temples and vice versa. The consciousness, which has been playing the role of Saviour, has come so many times. Unfortunately many religious fundamentalists use guilt and fear to keep people religious. In fact, the real religious man is broad-minded, compassionate and full of love. He is not afraid of God, for he knows that God loves him.9

HIS ACTIVITIES

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a social activist. His activities involve conflict resolution, disaster and trauma relief, poverty alleviation, empowerment of women, prisoner rehabilitation, education for all and campaigns against female foeticide and child labour. He travels around the world teaching the art of living course in which he has brought out ancient (Hindu) sciences to suit present day life.

HIS IDEAS

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has the idea of making the people of the world one family by bringing them together on a few common grounds ignoring their respective religious teachings. It is clearly reflected in his talks and lectures. Read the following passages from his talks.

One thing that is absolutely essential to avoid such fanaticism or religious terrorism in the world is a multi-cultural, multi religious education for children. It is because a child grows up thinking that other religions or cultures are bad or good , that he/she is ready to give up his /her life for that cause; but when a child grows up

9 Hinduism and Christianity by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Pge.18


Page 40 of 108

knowing a little bit about all other religions, cultures and customs, then there is a sense of belonging with everybody. So, whether a culture or a religion is rightly or wrongly used to divide people, it is not good . We need to unite the world, the hearts and the minds! Where is it that we can all unite? That is the meditative state that we are all born with- the simplicity that we are gifted with. So, I feel that when every child in the world learns a little bit of every other religion, the child will not have inhibitions or hatred towards other religions or cultures. See, we accept food from every part of the world. We accept music from every part of the world. You dont need to be Chinese in order to eat Chinese food! You dont need to be Italian to go to the Pizzeria and eat pizzas, nor a Danish to eat Danish cookies! One doesnt have to be Indian to listen to Bhajans or sitar music! Similarly, we need to learn to accept knowledge and wisdom from every part, and this is what has been lacking in the world.10

Here I would like to make a clear distinction between religion and spirituality. Religion is the banana skin and spirituality is the banana. All religions have three aspects: Values, Symbols and Customs. While values are the same, in all religions, Symbols and Customs differ. And today we have forgotten the values and simply hold on to the symbols and customs. Only spirituality can nourish human values, this can eliminate frustrations and bring contentment and happiness in life. Right education is that which creates a sense of belongingness with the whole world. A person learns to own all the religions of the world and can choose to practice one without decrying the other. Members of a family can practice more than one religion. This should be the strategy for the 21st century.

Neither at home nor at school does one learn to handle ones own mind. Breathing techniques and spiritual practices such as pranayamas, meditations and Yoga can release the tension and negative emotions and help one to live in

10 One World Family.Page.37


Page 41 of 108

the present moment. (Text from Sri Sri Ravi Shankars address to the United Nations) 11 .

-In 1995 Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was a featured speaker at the United Nations 50th Anniversary celebrations at the U N Headquarters in New York.-

IN THE SIGHT OF HIS FOLLOWERS

The followers of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar exaggerate in praising him. Here are some of the passages from their magazines.

His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

It is indeed true Ageless wisdom pouring forth, afresh from the living Master, is more potent than all the scriptures of the world put together.12

Occasionally a time is blessed with one extraordinary brilliance and compassion that comes out to teach among the people. Such a presence abundantly uplifts those of that time and those of generations to come. History records the impact of such Ones as Christ , Buddha, Lao-tzu, Krishna ,Adi shankara, Mahavir and others of divers times and place whose names are less known today. With this book we herald the living presence of such a one (Sri Sri Ravi Shankar). He is addressed by various names: Guruji, Swamiji, Babaji. He has no care for titles. Many simple call him Punditji (Revered wise one ). His full name is Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. A spiritual Master of exquisite grace and rarity, he embodies at once the love of Jesus, the silence of Buddha, the playfulness of Krishna and the wisdom of Adi-Shankara.13

Ageless wisdom coming afresh from the living Master is more potent than all the scriptures of the worlds put together invincible beyond all languages or

11 Symposium on human values presented by Art of living foundation.Pge.7

12 Re-awakening of human values art of living foundation. Page.3

13 Symposium on human values Presented by Art of living foundation Page.3


Page 42 of 108

cultures, the masters teaching becomes a living reality instead of a concept . His words are supreme knowledge. 14

By reading the above excerpts of the speeches of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, which appeared in different publications of the Art of Living foundation, we can easily discern that a man who has such beliefs and ideas has gone far astray from the right path of Islam, which is the only acceptable religion and the perfect way of life in the sight of the Supreme Creator Allah Taala.

The way the followers of the Art of Living praise Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is

ridiculous. As you read above, they say that the wisdom of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is more potent than all the scriptures of the world put together.

What are they trying to tell us? Does his wisdom exceed that of the Quran, the Book of Allah Taala? Are they not trying to mitigate the importance of the Quran and all other scriptures to promote their own ideals and beliefs?

My fellow Muslim, I leave it to you to conclude.

FOUNDATION OF THE ART OF LIVING

According to the website of the organization, it is stated that in 1981, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar established the Art of Living, an educational and humanitarian Non-Governmental Organization that works in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has reached out to an estimated 300 million people worldwide through personal interactions, public events, teachings, Art of Living workshops and humanitarian initiatives.

The Art of Living, as they say, is held together by three pillars. Seva (service), Sadhana (Practices) and Satsang (spiritual gathering) and these have been duly instilled in the programme participants.15

14 Ibid


Page 43 of 108

The Art of Living runs the courses on which they invite and encourage people of all walks of life, religion, culture and tradition to attend. The courses are structured as follows.

The Art of Living Basic course (as they say) is the ideal introduction to the teachings of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Part 1 of the course is taught over a week. In the course they teach simple Yoga postures, simple breathing techniques and a few other things. The breathing technique offered during the course is called Surdarshan Kriya. Sudarshan Kriya, breathing practice, formulated by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is the cornerstone of all Art of Living programmes.

The completion of Part 1, they say, leaves one prepared to further ones journey on the path of spiritual growth. The Art of living part 2 course is divided into Semi-Advanced and Advanced. Semi Advanced courses are those that are not conducted in the presence of His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

The pillars of the part 2 course are Sadhana (Spiritual practices), Satsang (Spiritual communion thorough singing), Seva (service) and silence.

The Art of Living foundation also teaches Sahaj Samadhi Meditation.

They say, The discovery of self is gained with Sahaj Samadhi Meditation-a gift of wisdom from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the ancient tradition of Vedic Masters who have faithfully passed on the purity of this teaching through countless generations.

In Sahaj Samadhi Meditation new comers are introduced to certain powerful sound or mantras (Hindu incantations) and taught how to use the Mantra to get to a meditative state.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says, Love is seeing God in the person next to us, Meditation is seeing God within us16

SOURCE AND ORIGIN

15 Our Kenya love affair with art of living Page.2

16 Anandotsav A tribute to 50 years of love, light and service, Preface.


Page 44 of 108

A study of Hinduism unveils clearly the roots and origin of the practices of the Art of Living courses. Below are mentioned some of the ways the Hindus worship.

In Hinduism the mode of worship (Puja) is a replica of the services rendered to a beloved guest or an honoured king. The sequence goes like this:

a) The presence of deity is invoked (avahana); b) A seat is offered to the deity (Asana); c) The deitys feet are washed (Padya); d) An offering of sandal wood paste and rice as a sign of respect to the

deity is made (arghya); e) A sacred thread put on the idol (upavita); f) Sandal wood paste is smeared (chandana); g) Flowers (puspa) are offered; h) Incense (Dhupa) is burnt; i) Lamps (dipa) are waved; j) Food (naivedya) is offered; k) Betel (Tambula) and camphor (niRajana) is burned l) Gold is given as a gift (Suvarna-puspa); m) The Deity is bidden farewell to (visarjana).

In the temple the priest is expected to attend on the Deity as he would on a king. The king of kings is roused from sleep early in the morning with music. A ceremonial bath is conducted, after that the deity is dressed in royal robes and decked with ornaments and flowers. Artistic lamps are waved before him. Food is offered at regular intervals. The king holds his daily court, gives audience to his devotees, hears their complaints and bestows on them his grace.17

The Hindu worshipper submits himself to considerable preparation namely preliminary ablution, food restriction which may extend to the fast, corporal postures and gestures of the fingers (Mudra), control of breath, possession (nyasa) by god of the body of the worshipper, etc.

17 The four pillars of Islam by Abul Hasan Nadwi Pge.66


Page 45 of 108

Prayer consists of the silent recitation (japa) of sacred formulae (Mantra), which are repeated indefinitely. They claim that this type of prayer is an aid to mental concentration, and thought to bring about the desired effects of protection, fulfilment of promise or expiatory virtue.

Other elements of personal worship are the study of the Hindu scriptures, and above all, meditation. Strengthened by Yoga exercises, meditation, as they say, can lead to a state of union with God.

Two things will appear to be common to all types of worship among the Hindus. The first is an excessive fondness for music. A temple or any other place of worship hardly exists in which singing and clapping is not done. Music is fundamental to the very nature of Hinduism and enjoys a place of foremost importance in the entire range of its activities. The Hindu philosophers and ecclesiastics have relied on it for evoking a sympathetic response in the heart of the devotees and instilling the sentiments of love and devotion in them. The truth is this that this principle applies to all religions, which have based themselves on human experience or come under the shadow of polytheism or gone through a process of change and alteration.

The other attribute shared universally by Hindus is idol worship.

If devotional music and songs and ecstatic hand-clapping are, to any extent, helpful in arousing the feelings of love and tenderness among the worshippers, as their spiritual leaders would say, these practices have, at the same time, done an irreparable harm to the purposes of reverence, peace and solemnity that are indispensable to Divine worship.18

As a system of spiritual practice, Yoga has, from the beginning, been one of the most influential features of Hinduism. Yoga exerted a powerful attraction upon Hindus because of the wonders attributed to it and because it gives countenance to the performance of austerities, to which Hindus are so strongly inclined.19

18 The four pillars of Islam by Abul Hasan Nadwi Page.69

19 "Yoga," Microsoft Encarta 97 Encyclopaedia


Page 46 of 108

One of the six classic systems of Hindu philosophy, Yoga affirms the doctrine that through the practice of certain disciplines one may achieve liberation from the limitations of flesh, the delusions of sense, and the pitfalls of thought and thus attain union with the object of knowledge. Such union, according to the doctrine, is the only true way of knowing.20

I shall discuss Yoga in detail later on under Raja Yoga. In order to understand the origin and source of the Art of Living courses, I need to quote here briefly the stages of original Yoga.

THE EIGHT STAGES

Yoga practice forms a ladder leading to perfect knowledge.

(1) Self-control (yama) involves truthfulness, abstinence, avoidance of theft, refusal of gifts, and not doing injury to living things.

(2) Religious observance (niyama) embraces austerity, poverty, contentment, purification rites, recital of the Vedic hymns, and devoted reliance on the Supreme Being.

(3) Postures (Asana), of which there are a great many, are regarded as basic to all the stages that follow.

(4) Regulation of the breath (pranayama) includes altering its depth and rhythm, breathing through either nostril at will, and the virtual suspension of breath.

(5) Restraint of the senses (pratyahara) means their withdrawal from external objects and the consequent turning of the mind upon itself.

(6) Steadying of the mind (dharana) narrows attention to one part of the body, such as the navel, the tip of the nose or the middle of the brow, and in that way renders the practitioner insensitive to outside disturbance.

(7) Meditation (dhyana) fixes the mind on the object of knowledge, especially Brahma, to the exclusion of all other thoughts.

20 "Yoga," Microsoft Encarta 97 Encyclopaedia.


Page 47 of 108

(8) Profound contemplation (samadhi) is the perfect absorption of thought in the object of knowledge, its union and identification with that object. The achievement of samadhi liberates the self from the illusions of sense and the contradictions of reason. It is thought that has gone beyond thought, reaching its goal by its own negation. It leads to an inner illumination, the ecstasy of the true knowledge of reality.21

If you read carefully the above quote, you will, no doubt, come to realize that all these are deeply rooted in Hinduism. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a well-versed scholar of Hindu Scriptures. He drew his teachings from the original Yoga that was taught in Upanishads time. The pamphlet of the Art of Living Course Zimbabwe states: The Art of Living course is an ancient technique designed to develop your full potential of lifeTurn your stress into success.

Art of living website says, He (His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar) has brought to the masses ancient practices which were traditionally kept exclusive and he has designed many self-development techniques which can easily be integrated into daily life to calm the mind and instil confidence and enthusiasm. These techniques have helped thousands overcome depression and violent and suicidal tendencies. Certain modified Yoga is named after the founder of the Art of living courses. They call it Sri Sri Yoga. And they explain it with praises.

Sri Sri Yoga Sri Sri Yoga is based on Purna Yoga which means complete or whole. It explores the true essence of Yoga, going beyond the physical practice of Asanas(postures), integrating the vast knowledge of Yoga and its philosophy with the practice

itself.22

CLASHING POINTS WITH ISLAM

In addition to what has been mentioned, there are many other reasons why it is not permissible to attend such kind of courses or programmes.

21 "Yoga," Microsoft Encarta 97 Encyclopedia.

22 One World Family (South African Tour 2006) Page.13


Page 48 of 108

FREE MIXING

Both men and women conduct Art of living courses. There is no separate facility for men and women. They mix freely and attend the course in the same hall. Very beautiful unmarried girls conduct the course sometimes. As a man of 25, I know for sure that the Fitna is obviously there. Islam, therefore, prohibits its followers from attending gatherings where there is free mixing of sexes.


)30(

.

30. Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and be modest. That is purer for them. Lo! Allah is Aware of what they do.

31. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be modest and to display of their adornment only that which is apparent

(The Holy Quran 24:30-31)

BAD EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENT A man is affected by what happens around him even though he tries to resist the environmental effect. The surrounding has a strong impact on his spirituality. Allah Taala enjoins upon the believers to stay in the company of the righteous as He says in the Holy Quran:

)119(

119. O ye who believe! Be careful of your duty to Allah, and be with the truthful.

(The Holy Quran ,9:119)


Page 49 of 108

The Messenger of Allah (SallAllahu Alaihi wasallam) said,

Hazrat Abu Musa (RadhiyAllahu anhu) narrates that Allah's Apostle (SallAllahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, "The example of a good companion

(who sits with you) in comparison with a bad one, is like that of the musk seller and the blacksmith's bellows (or furnace); from the first you would

either buy musk or enjoy its good smell while the bellows would either burn your clothes or you get a bad nasty smell thereof."

(Sahih Bukahri)


Page 50 of 108

CONDUCTED AND TAUGHT GENERALLY BY HINDU PRIESTS

As the saying goes like teacher like student, we need to choose a correct teacher. The teacher can influence and convince the student very easily. It is an undeniable fact that the conduct, behaviours and the ways of a teacher have a great effect on the student. The teachers of the Art of Living Courses are generally Hindu priests whom they call Swami, Guru or Panditjee. They put on Hindu religious dress. The Hindus respect them so much that some of the rituals that they offer to their Deities are offered to the Swamis as well.

SINGING WITH MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS OR WITH DRUMS BY MEN AND WOMEN

Islam does not allow its followers to use musical instruments. Allah Taala says in the Holy Quran:

)6(

6. And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks (i.e. music, singing, etc.) to mislead (men) from the Path of Allh without knowledge, and takes it

(the Path of Allh, the Verses of the Qur'n) by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment (in the Hell-fire).


Hazrat Abdullah bin Maswood said, a song (with music) grows hypocrisy in the heart as water grows grass.

HI J :$J# J J J "# ": / QH

JR - -S H W XY H".

Z -[ $RH --) 7 / 236 )


Page 51 of 108

Hazrat Abu Umaamah (RadhiyAllahu Anhu) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (SallAllahu Alahi wasallam) said, I have been sent as mercy and

guidance for the entire world and to destroy the idols, musical instruments, and customs of the Time of Ignorance.

(Mujam Kabeer Tabraani)

ADDING THE NUMBER OF REBELLIOUS TRANSGRESSORS

- : $( " a# ( "H; ?

e( @ : h : "e $# "# H# : -Q

"# [- " @ $ "( "

Amr relates that a man invited Hazrat Abdullah bin Masood (RadhiyAllahu Anhu) to a Waleemah. When he came there, he heard some kind of play

(with music). He did not enter. The man said, what is wrong? He said, I heard the messenger of Allah saying, whoever increases the number of a people by being with them, he is one of them. He who is pleased with the

doing of a people, shares the consequence. (Al-Matalibul Aaliyah)

HINDUS INFLUENCE OVER THE GATHERING

One point worth noticing in these gatherings is the influence of Hindus over the gatherings. They are the ones who actually run the show. Man is affected by what happens around him even if he tries to resist the impact. Even if you may not get affected, what guarantee can you give that your children will not be affected? The safe way for your Imaan and the Imaan of your children is to stay away from them. Allah Taala forbade His beloved Messenger to sit with the wrong doers. The Holy Quran says:


Page 52 of 108

)68(

68. sit not thou, after the remembrance, in the company of those who do wrong.

(The Holy Quran:6:68.)


Page 53 of 108

5

RAJA YOGA FOUNDER23

ada Lekh Raj, the founding father of the institution, was born in 1876 in a middle class family in Hyderabad, Sind, now in Pakistan. His father was a headmaster of a school in a neighbouring village. By dint of his quick wit, Dada Lekh Raj became a big

businessperson. He rose to be a well-known jeweller of his time. He made Calcutta the main seat of his business, though he had businesses in other big cities of India as well. He became a multi millionaire. Though he was rich, he was a strongly religious man who observed his religious principles, and put his beliefs into practice without any lapses. He was an ardent devotee of the deity Shri Narayana and daily read Shrimad Bhagwad Gita (Hindu Scripture) without fail even when he was travelling. He visited many religious places of Hinduism like Varansi, Amarnath and other places. He invited Hindu saints to his place to hold religious

congregations.

He was very staunch in his religious beliefs and practices. Once he went to Udaipur at the invitation of the King of the state. Immediately, after his arrival, he went to the Nathdwara temple to pay his respects to the deity before going to the Durbar-the Royal Assembly. The king had to delay proceedings because of him but he did not mind. The royal family traditionally held the deity in great reverence.

23 The biography of the founder is extracted and abridged from the publications of the Raja Yoga

headquarter.

D


Page 54 of 108

He read many religious books and attended many religious congregations but the Gita (Hindu scripture) was his most favourite. When his daughter got married, he gave the Gita (the Hindu scripture) to her as a present. He kept pictures of the deity, Narayana, in his bedroom, office and one even in his pocket.

Dada had great respect for women. He gave so much honour to women that he even disliked the sight of goddess Lakhshami pressing the feet of her consort, Narayana, even though the latter was his beloved and revered deity. To Dada, this sight was symbolic of the subservience of women. Once he called an artist and asked him to erase the scene of Lakhshami pressing the feet, from the picture in the background

and to liberate Lakhshami.24

Later he became more and more of an introvert. He began to spend more time in contemplation and in Hindu religious practices. He often meditated on moonlit nights on a green spot in front of his bungalow. He would go to his friends place to practice a more intense and prolonged meditation in solitude.

At this stage he claimed to have the vision of Hindu deity Vishnu, the four armed. He said, a voice uttered to me Aham Vishnu Chatrubhuj, Tat Twam, Meaning: I am Vishnu, the four-armed and so thou art.

One day he was listening to a saintly Hindu scholars discourse, at his residence, he got up from his seat and went into his prayer room. They say that his wife Jasoda and his daughter-in-law Radha also went into his prayer room and were amazed to see a brilliant glow in his eyes and his face, and suddenly a radiant divine light filled the whole room. The words of the God of Hinduism, Shiva emanated from his lips:

24 Check for detail A brief biography of Brahma Baba. Pandva Bhvan , Mount Abu, Rajisthan, India.

Page.9-10


Page 55 of 108

Nij Anand roopam Shivoham Shivoham Gyan Swaroopam Shivoham Shivoham Prakash Swaroopam Shivoham Shivoham

Meaning:

I am the Blissful Self, I am Shiva, I am Shiva. I am the Knowledgeful Self, I am Shiva, I am Shiva. I am the Luminous Self, I am Shiva, I am Shiva.

The Raja Yogis believe that incorporeal the god Shiva descended on his person and gave his transcendental introduction through Dada Lekh Raj who had now become his medium and instrument, through which he now began to dispense godly knowledge which was a new revelation to Dada and to others who listened.25

He then started regular Satsang, a Hindu religious congregation in Hyderabad Sind in the year 1936. He announced that sex-lust was the greatest vice and body-consciousness was the root of all vices. At these congregations people gathered and recited the Hindus sacred chant OM.

Men, women and children attend the Satsang (Spiritual Gathering). Among these was one teen-aged girl, Om Radhey, the most promising of all according to Raja Yogis. She later rose to be the spiritual mother and came to be known as Jagadamba Saraswati because of her divine intellect, her excellence in godly knowledge, her high state of Yoga and purity and her work of giving spiritual sustenance to others.26

In July 1936, he went to Kashmir with his family, and from there he wrote a long letters on points of divine knowledge to some inspired women who carried on the Satsang during his absence on the basis of the letters.27

25 Ibid. Page.12.

26 Ibid. Page.13

27 Ibid.


Page 56 of 108

He formed a managing committee composed only of women, in October 1937, and on 17th February, 1938, he wrote his will, bequeathing all his property to this trust. Mostly women or girls of marriageable age surrounded him and took a pledge of celibacy.

He opened a class for women to train in sewing. He arranged workshops of soldering, welding, repairing and doing small jobs of a blacksmith, a shoe workshop, and a bicycle repair shop, etc. Mainly women and girls ran them.

Special importance was given to the practice of meditation in the daily classes. After the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, the institution came under Pakistan control. In 1951, they received an invitation from people in India to establish a centre in India. They thereafter migrated to India and established their headquarters which they named Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University. It is located at mount Abu in Rajasthan, India.

TEACHINGS OF THE INSTITUTION

I interacted with one of their scholars to find out what actually Raja Yogis believe and practice. I read many of their publications. I would like to give you below an account of their beliefs and practices mostly in their own words.

Raja Yogis (those who practise Raja Yoga) start every lesson with Om Shanti. They say these words are the essence of the teachings of Raja Yoga. Om is a sacred syllable of Hinduism. Hindus take OM as a very sacred divine word. The Hindus explain it thus:

OM is the eternal, OM is this entire universe. OM is the syllable of assent. The sages begin the recitation with it, they pronounce the shastras (religious text) with OM, the priest officiating at a sacrifice says the response with OM, Brahma begins creation with OM. OM is Brahman. OM is the Word of Brahman. OM is the sound of Brahman. OM has no beginning. OM has no end. OM was before time was


Page 57 of 108

created. OM is beyond time, space and causation. OM is beyond past, present, and future. Every vibration in the body and in the universe emerges from OM, sustains in OM, and returns to OM. OM is Veda, the wisdom of God. OM is the one Truth which is worshiped in diverse ways. OM brings equilibrium. OM brings wisdom. OM is the root. OM is the support. OM pervades all. OM sustains all. OM brings

raja yoga and the art of living final

Documents

ibrahim raja yoga

art of living brochure

art of living states

history of art

o prophet muhammad

muslims participation

deen of allah taala

muslim ummah