Search This Blog

Friday, June 28, 2024

The Encounter of a Companion of the Prophet, Muhammad with the Antichrist on an Island

Book 041, Number 7028:
Amir b. Sharahil Sha'bi Sha'b Hamdan reported that he asked Fatima, daughter of Qais and sister of ad-Dahhak b. Qais and she was the first amongst the emigrant women: Narrate to me a hadith which you had heard directly from Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) and there is no extra link in between them. She said: Very well, if you like, I am prepared to do that, and he said to her: Well, do It and narrate that to me. She said: I married the son of Mughira and he was a chosen young man of Quraish at that time, but he fell as a martyr in the first Jihad (fighting) on the side of Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him). When I became a widow, 'Abd al-Rahman b. Auf, one amongst the group of the Companions of Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him), sent me the proposal of marriage. Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) also sent me such a message for his freed slave Usama b. Zaid. And it had been conveyed to me that Allah's Messenger (way peace be upon him) had said (about Usama): He who loves me should also love Usima. When Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) talked to me (about this matter), I said: My affairs are in your hand. You may marry me to anyone whom you like. He said: You better shift now to the house of Umm Sharik, and Umm Sharik was a rich lady from amongst the Anqir. She spent generously for the cause of Allah and entertained guests very hospitably. I said: Well, I will do as you like. He said: Do not do that for Umm Sharik is a woman who is very frequently vizited by guests and I do not like that your head may be uncovered or the cloth may be removed from your shank and the strangers may catch sight of them which you abhor. You better shift to the house of your cousin 'Abdullah b. 'Amr b. Umm Maktum and he is a person of the Bani Fihr branch of the Quraish, and he belonged to that tribe (to which Fatima) belonged. So I shifted to that house, and when my period of waiting was over, I heard the voice of an announcer making an announcement that the prayer would be observed in the mosque (where) congregational prayer (is observed).
So I set out towards that mosque and observed prayer along with Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) and I was in the row of the women which was near the row of men. When Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) had finished his prayer, he sat on the pulpit smiling and said: Every worshipper should keep sitting at his place. He then said: Do you know why I had asked you to assemble? They said: Allah and His Messenger know best. He said: By Allah. I have not made you assemble for exhortation or for a warning, but I have detained you here, for Tamim Dari, a Christian, who came and accepted Islam, told me something, which agrees with what I was-telling, you about the Antichrist. He narrated to me that he had sailed in a ship along with thirty men of Bani Lakhm and Bani Judham and had been tossed by waves in the ocean for a month. Then these (waves) took them (near) the land within the ocean (island) at the time of sunset. They sat in a small side-boat and entered that Island. There was a beast with long thick hair (and because of these) they could not distinguish his face from his back. They said: Woe to you, who can you be? Thereupon it said: I am al-Jassasa. They said: What is al-Jassasa? And it said: O people, go to this person in the monastery as he is very much eager to know about you. He (the narrator) said: When it named a person for us we were afraid of it lest it should be a Devil. Then we hurriedly went on till we came to that monastery and found a well-built person there with his hands tied to his neck and having iron shackles between his two legs up to the ankles. We said: Woe be upon thee, who are you? And he said: You would soon come to know about me but tell me who are you. We said: We are people from Arabia and we embarked upon a boat but the sea-waves had been driving us for one month and they brought as near this island. We got into the side-boats and entered this island and here a beast met us with profusely thick hair and because of the thickness of his hair his face could not be distinguished from his back. We said: Woe be to thee, who are you? It said: I am al- Jassasa. We said: What is al-Jassasa? And it said: You go to this very person in the monastery for he is eagerly waiting for you to know about you. So we came to you in hot haste fearing that that might be the Devil. He (that chained person) said: Tell me about the date-palm trees of Baisan. We said: About what aspect of theirs do you seek information? He said: I ask you whether these trees bear fruit or not.
We said: Yes. Thereupon he said: I think these would not bear fruits. He said: Inform me about the lake of Tabariyya? We said: Which aspect of it do you want to know? He said: Is there water in it? They said: There is abundance of water in it. Thereupon he said: I think it would soon become dry. He again said: Inform me about the spring of Zughar. They said: Which aspect of it you want to know? He (the chained person) said: Is there water in it and does it irrigate (the land)? We said to him: Yes, there is abundance of water in it and the inhabitants (of Medina) irrigate (land) with the help of it, He said: Inform me about the unlettered Prophet; what has he done? We said: He has come out from Makkah and has settled In Yathrib (Madinah). He said: Do the Arabs fight against him? We said: Yes. He said: How did they deal with him? We informed him that he had overcome those in his neighbourhood and they had submitted themselves before him. Thereupon he said to us: Had it actually happened? We said: Yes. Thereupon he said: If it is so that is better for them that they should show obedience to him. I am going to tell you about myself and I am the MESSIAH (Antichrist) and would be soon permitted to get out and so I shall get out and travel in the land, and will not spare any town where I would not stay for forty nights except Makkah and Madinah as these two (places) are prohibited (areas) for me and I would not make an attempt to enter any one of these two. An angel with a sword in his hand would confront me and would bar my way and there would be angels to guard every passage leading to it; then Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) striking the pulpit with the help of the end of his staff said: This implies Taiba meaning Madinah. Have I not, told you an account (of the Antichrist) like this? 'The people said: Yes, and this account narrated by Tamim Dari was liked by me for it corroborates the account which I gave to you in regard to him (Antichrist) at Madinah and Makkah. Behold he (Antichrist) is in the Syrian sea (Mediterranean) or the Yemen sea (Arabian sea). Nay, on the contrary, he is in the east, he is in the east, he is in the east, and he pointed with his hand towards the east. I (Fatima bint Qais) said: I preserved it In my mind (this narration from Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him).

Friday, June 21, 2024

Who was John Naisbitt?

John Naisbitt is a name synonymous with foresight and the exploration of societal trends, particularly in the context of the information age. His work has significantly influenced how individuals and organizations understand the complex interplay between technology, society, and economics. This article will delve into Naisbitt's life, his key ideas, and the impact of his work on contemporary thought.

Early Life and Education

John Naisbitt was born on January 7, 1929, in Florida, and he grew up in the Midwest of the United States. He pursued higher education at the University of Utah, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. His academic journey laid the groundwork for a career that would see him become a prominent thinker and author in the fields of sociology, business, and futurism. After college, Naisbitt served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, which helped to shape his worldview and understanding of global issues.

Career and Rise to Prominence

Naisbitt’s professional career began in the 1950s and 1960s, during which he held various positions in the corporate world, including as a senior executive at IBM and as a marketing consultant for other major companies. This experience in the corporate sector gave him valuable insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of business and technology.

In the late 1970s, he shifted his focus from corporate life to become a full-time futurist and author. Naisbitt's breakthrough came with the publication of his first book, Megatrends: Ten New Directions Transforming Our Lives (1982). This seminal work quickly gained popularity and has been credited with introducing many readers to the concept of futurism.

Megatrends: Key Concepts

In Megatrends, Naisbitt outlined ten key trends that he believed would shape the future of society and the economy. These trends were based on extensive research and analysis of societal changes occurring at that time. Some of the key megatrends he identified include:

From an Industrial Society to an Information Society: Naisbitt argued that society was transitioning from an industrial-based economy to one driven by information. This shift had profound implications for how people work, communicate, and interact.

The Rise of the Global Economy: He highlighted the growing interconnectedness of global economies, driven by advancements in technology and communication. Naisbitt emphasized that businesses needed to think globally rather than locally.

From Hierarchical Structures to Networks: He observed that organizations were moving away from rigid hierarchies to more fluid and flexible network structures. This change reflected the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world.

The Importance of Quality of Life: Naisbitt stressed that as material needs were increasingly met, people would prioritize quality of life, leading to greater emphasis on health, education, and environmental sustainability.

Technology and Human Interaction: He explored how technology was transforming human relationships, arguing that while it could facilitate communication, it could also lead to isolation if not used mindfully.

These megatrends resonated widely, appealing to both business leaders and the general public. The book became a bestseller and established Naisbitt as a leading figure in the study of future trends.

Continuing Contributions

Following the success of Megatrends, Naisbitt continued to explore themes related to technology, society, and culture. He published several other influential works, including Megatrends 2000 (1990), which updated his original ideas, and High Tech/High Touch: Technology and Our Search for Meaning (1999), where he examined the balance between technological advancement and human values.

Megatrends 2000: In this sequel, Naisbitt expanded upon his earlier predictions and added new insights regarding the changing landscape of the 1990s. He introduced additional trends, such as the increasing importance of women in leadership roles and the growing significance of health and wellness.

High Tech/High Touch: This book emphasized the need for individuals to seek deeper meaning in life amidst the relentless march of technology. Naisbitt argued that while technology could enhance our lives, it should not replace fundamental human connections.

Legacy and Influence

John Naisbitt's work has left an indelible mark on various fields, including business strategy, education, and public policy. His insights into the future of work, globalization, and the role of technology continue to inform discussions about how to navigate the complexities of modern life.

Influence on Business Leaders: Many business leaders have adopted Naisbitt's concepts to anticipate market trends and adapt their strategies accordingly. His work has been particularly relevant in the context of the digital transformation that has taken place over the last few decades.

Contributions to Futurism: Naisbitt is often credited with popularizing the field of futurism, encouraging individuals and organizations to think proactively about future challenges and opportunities. His emphasis on evidence-based predictions has influenced how futurists approach their analyses.

Global Perspective: His ideas on globalization and interconnectedness have gained even greater significance in today’s world, as events in one part of the globe can have ripple effects on economies and societies worldwide.

Educational Impact: Naisbitt’s work is frequently cited in academic settings, and he has inspired a generation of students and scholars to engage with the complexities of societal change and the implications of technological advancements.

Later Life and Recognition

In addition to his literary contributions, Naisbitt became involved in various public speaking engagements, sharing his insights with audiences worldwide. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to the fields of futurism and sociology.

In his later years, Naisbitt moved to Taiwan, where he continued to write and engage with students and professionals interested in his work. His commitment to understanding the implications of social change and his vision for a balanced approach to technology and human values remains relevant in discussions about the future.

Conclusion

John Naisbitt’s exploration of megatrends and his insights into the information age have made him a prominent figure in understanding societal changes. His ability to identify and articulate emerging trends has provided valuable frameworks for individuals, businesses, and policymakers navigating the complexities of modern life.

Through his writings, Naisbitt has encouraged a proactive approach to the future, emphasizing the importance of adapting to change while remaining grounded in human values. As society continues to evolve in an increasingly interconnected world, the principles outlined by Naisbitt serve as a guiding light for those seeking to understand and shape the future. His legacy as a thinker and futurist endures, inspiring future generations to engage thoughtfully with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Friday, June 14, 2024

Who is Francis Fukuyama?

Francis Fukuyama is a prominent American political scientist, economist, and author, best known for his controversial thesis on the end of history and the implications of liberal democracy in the modern world. Over the years, Fukuyama's work has sparked extensive debate in academic and political circles, making him a significant figure in contemporary political thought. This article explores his background, key ideas, and the impact of his work on international relations and political theory.

Early Life and Education

Francis Fukuyama was born on October 27, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, to a family of Japanese descent. His father was a Japanese immigrant, and his mother was of Russian Jewish descent, which exposed him to a diverse cultural background from an early age. Fukuyama's academic journey began at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Classics in 1974. He later pursued graduate studies in political science at Harvard University, receiving his Ph.D. in 1989.

Career and Early Works

Fukuyama's early career was marked by a series of significant positions in academia and government. He worked as a research assistant at the RAND Corporation and held various roles in the U.S. government, including at the State Department during the Reagan administration. His work during this period focused on issues related to Soviet policy and international relations.

His academic reputation grew through his early writings, which addressed topics such as political order, governance, and the influence of culture on political institutions. Fukuyama's early work laid the groundwork for his later, more famous theories.

The End of History

Fukuyama achieved worldwide recognition with the publication of his essay "The End of History?" in 1989, which was later expanded into the book The End of History and the Last Man (1992). This work posited that the collapse of communism and the end of the Cold War signaled the triumph of liberal democracy as the final form of government for humanity. Fukuyama argued that while history has seen various ideological battles, the evolution of political systems had reached a point where liberal democracy was the ultimate resolution.

Key Arguments

Liberal Democracy as the Final Form: Fukuyama suggested that liberal democracy, characterized by individual rights, free markets, and the rule of law, represented the pinnacle of political development. He believed that this system offered the best framework for human governance, aligning with universal human desires for freedom and recognition.

The Role of Economic Development: Fukuyama asserted that economic development and modernization played crucial roles in the transition toward liberal democracy. As societies became more affluent and educated, he believed they would naturally gravitate toward democratic governance.

Human Nature and Recognition: One of the core elements of Fukuyama's thesis is the concept of recognition, which he derived from the philosophical ideas of Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Fukuyama argued that the quest for recognition is a fundamental human motivation that drives individuals and societies. In a liberal democracy, individuals find recognition through their rights and freedoms, ultimately fostering a stable political order.

Criticism and Controversy

While The End of History and the Last Man was widely praised and became a bestseller, it also faced significant criticism. Scholars and political analysts raised several points of contention:

Over-Simplification: Critics argued that Fukuyama's thesis oversimplified the complexities of global politics. They pointed out that many regions around the world still faced significant challenges to democratic governance, including authoritarian regimes, ethnic conflicts, and economic disparities.

Misinterpretation of History: Some historians contended that Fukuyama's assertion of an "end of history" suggested a linear view of historical progress that did not account for the cyclical nature of political power and conflict.

Rise of Illiberalism: The resurgence of authoritarianism and illiberal movements in various parts of the world, particularly in the 21st century, raised questions about the viability of Fukuyama's predictions. Events such as the Arab Spring, the rise of populist movements, and the resurgence of nationalism challenged his thesis that liberal democracy was the ultimate political order.

Later Works and Thought Evolution

In the years following the publication of his groundbreaking thesis, Fukuyama continued to develop his ideas and engage with contemporary issues. His later works include:

Our Posthuman Future: Consequences of the Biotechnology Revolution (2002): In this book, Fukuyama examines the ethical implications of biotechnology and its potential to alter human nature. He raises concerns about the social and political consequences of genetic engineering and enhancement technologies.

America at the Crossroads: Democracy, Power, and the Neoconservative Legacy (2006): Fukuyama critiques the neoconservative movement and its influence on U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the context of the Iraq War. He argues for a more nuanced understanding of democracy promotion and highlights the challenges of nation-building.

The Origins of Political Order: From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution (2011) and Political Order and Political Decay: From the Industrial Revolution to the Globalization of Democracy (2014): In these two volumes, Fukuyama explores the historical development of political institutions and the factors that contribute to political stability and decay. He emphasizes the importance of strong institutions in fostering democratic governance.

Current Perspectives

In recent years, Fukuyama has become increasingly vocal about the challenges facing liberal democracy in the contemporary world. He has addressed issues such as the rise of authoritarianism, political polarization, and the impact of technology on democratic institutions. His insights have resonated amid growing concerns about the future of democracy in various countries, including the United States.

Conclusion

Francis Fukuyama remains a significant figure in the fields of political science and international relations. His early work on the end of history generated substantial debate and discussion, influencing generations of scholars and policymakers. While his predictions have faced challenges and criticisms, Fukuyama's ongoing exploration of political order, democracy, and the impact of technology reflects a deep engagement with the complexities of modern governance.

As the world grapples with emerging political challenges, Fukuyama's insights continue to provide valuable frameworks for understanding the evolution of political systems and the enduring quest for human recognition and freedom. His legacy is characterized by a commitment to examining the intersection of history, philosophy, and politics, making him a vital voice in contemporary discussions about the future of democracy and governance.

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Book 10 Summary > Menanti Imam Ke-12: Peranan Revolusi Iran Di Belakang Tabir Dalam Mempersiapkan Kedatangan Dajjal

Online:
Menanti Imam Ke-12

Medium:
Malay

Future Publisher:
PTS Publications

Translated in English as 'Awaiting The Twelth Imam: Hidden Role Of The Iranian Revolution In Preparing The Antichrist'.

The work is not meant to incite hatred between Shiites and Sunnis or adherents to other religions but to raise their awareness, with the hope of building a better world.

Hopefully it will expose the hidden hands behind the current World situations that the International public probably had never even known of, discussing:

The Judaic origins of Shiism. Shiism and Islam are two different religions. Penetration of the Kharijites into Shiism after demise of the Caliph Ali. They were extreme Muslims who had left the mainstream Islamic community and war was declared by Ali against them following advice of the Prophet Muhammad who insisted on killing them for they will be followers of The Antichrist

Prophecy by the Prophet that the Antichrist will appear among the Kharijites. The book traces the religious lineage of present Shiites back to their Kharijite forefathers

Hizbullah's involvement in the killing of innocent civilians of Shabra Shatila. What are they up to now in Lebanon? Are they are trying to ignite the Middle East into potential World War Three and more dangerously attempting to win the attention of the Islamic World?

The secret US-Iran relationships. Enemies in public but friends in private. 'Irangate' scandal touched. Khomeini's path to power eased by the White House. Khomeini's strange beliefs and diversion from true Islamic teachings of the Prophet Muhammad

The mention by the Prophet Muhammad of the appearance of the Antichrist in Isfahan, Iran. Why in Iran, an Islamic fundamentalist state? Not in America?

Many Shiite scholars mentioned that The Twelth Imam, will also be the Messiah of the Jews and the Christians. Will it be the same figure who will appear as The Twelth Imam of the Shiites, Moshiach of the Jews and Christ of the Christians? Will he be the Antichrist?

The prophecy of the Prophet Muhammad in authentic narrations that the Antichrist will appear within the Muslim world (between Syria and Iraq), and not in the West as imagined by many Muslims. Several Biblical scholars argued based on their research that the Beast will come from the Eastern leg of The Roman Empire (now the vast area encompassing Syria, Iraq and Iran). The 3 countries are at present under the tight grip of the Shiite Governments

Situation in Iraq. Countless of Muslims are being slaughtered daily by Shiites, assisted by the Americans

Nostradamus prophesied that the Antichrist will destroy present Christianity and distort beliefs of Islam. Also mention by him of the taking over of Iran by placing a human decoy (Ahmadinajad?) into power and subsequently his future assasination before the Antichrist (Shiite Hidden Imam?) appears on the scene. The Hojjatieh Society, a secret society now controlling President Ahmadinajad and all levels of the Iranian Government, having philosophy very much similar to Freemasonry, one motto being 'creation of order before chaos to hasten the arrival of the Hidden Imam'

The Author's views regarding future World events in chronological order:
1) Appearance of the true Imam Mahdi appearing from Madinah, leading the World into Global peace and prosperity and paving the way for the second coming of Christ
2) World War 3 will erupt in the Middle East, wiping out both Middle Eastern Zionist and Islamic Worlds
3) Emergence of Iran as the new Superpower in the Middle East with support of the Antichrist appearing as 'The Twelth Imam'. The Antichrist will use Iran, not America as his stepstone, in order to confuse the minds of the believing people
4) Appearance of the Antichrist on the global scene after the War as Saviour of Humanity, appearing simultaneously as 'The Twelth Imam' of the Shiites, 'Moshiach' of the Zionists, 'Christ' of the Christians, 'Maitreya' of the Buddhists and Saviour awaited by other religions. Possibility of the present Ecumenical Movement being precursor to the future New World Messianic Religion of the Antichrist
5) The possibility of Greater Israel State being also Greater Shiite State. President Ahmadinajad's rhetoric to 'wipe out' the State of Israel is a charade designed to deceive the Muslims. Will the wiping out be followed by the greater combined Zionist-Shiite State?
6) If prophecies of Nostradamus can be relied, the taking over of Iran by the Antichrist, to be followed by unity of the entire Islamic Nation under him (The Prophet mentioned that majority of his followers will be deceived by 'Al-Masih Ad-Dajjal'), and eventually the merger of the entire Islamic nation with atheistic Russia and China to become the next Superpower. America's influence will be reduced greatly
7) Finally, the Antichrist will be killed at the hands of Jesus Christ who will put an end to tyranny and oppression on the Globe. The Golden Age (The Kingdom of God) will be established with the second coming of Jesus, after destruction of the Antichrist and subsequently Gog Magog. Humanity will embrace Islam in large numbers. Christ will take humanity to the understanding of Islam as originally brought by the Prophet Muhammad and his companions; Islam that is pure from polytheism and innovations and Islam that promotes advancement in spirituality as well as economy, business, science and technology