THANKS-giving by amina wadud

Amina Wadud 2 I am Muslim, by choice, practice and vocation

Last week was that most contested U.S. family holiday, Thanksgiving.  No, I’m not going to revisit the numerous points of contestation.  I’m hoping we’ve heard them all and maybe even participated in support for or against some of the contests.

I’m actually reflecting on thanks, and even more, on giving.

One of the five pillars upon which Islam stands is Zakah, the required “poor-due” or almsgiving.  Like tithing, the 10% of earnings required in certain branches of Christianity, Zakah is enumerated.  It is 2.5% of your unused wealth. Continue reading “THANKS-giving by amina wadud”

Vipassana: Intensive Meditation and Silent Retreat by amina wadud

Amina Wadud 2 I am Muslim, by choice, practice and vocation

It had been on my bucket list for some time.  I thought it preferable to fulfill it while I was still in India since this is where the current movement started.  How it ended up being completed during the last hectic and intense month of my year adventure in South Asia, I cannot say.  Now I take up the next challenge to write about it in 1000 words or less…

I live alone.  I don’t have radio, television, or such devices.  I rarely talk on the phone – phobia. But I do go online every day.  I’m a word person, so to give up words for 10 days: not to speak to anyone, not to read, not to write, and the only major daily activity being sitting in silent meditation, could be a challenge. Continue reading “Vipassana: Intensive Meditation and Silent Retreat by amina wadud”