Taped on: May 1st, 1998

Title: Hopes and Dreams for a New Year

Speaker: Imam Yahia Abdul Rahman Ph.D.

Location:

     In this visionary look at the objectives of the Muslim community at the dawn of a new century, Dr. Yahia Abdul Rahman discusses the following topics:

• Praising God (Allah) the creator of the heavens and earth and provider of all sustenance. Life belongs solely to God (Allah). He, almighty who has revealed his messages to human beings so that we can rightly guided.

• Lessons of the hijrah. Recalling that the Islamic calendar is based not on the birth of the blessed Prophet (peace be upon him), but upon the great event of migration from Mecca to Medina that signaled the establishment of the Muslim peoples.

• Reflecting on the urgency of creating truly independent and sustainable political and financial models, here and abroad. Such systems should be neither founded on maintaining power relations that subjugate the poor; nor work at the behest of foreign influence. Rather they should be rooted in the divine teachings of Islam, unifying the Prophetic tradition of Moses, Jesus and God’s final messenger, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon all of them).

• Education and empowerment are inseparable. Be productive and proactive in using the tools and informational resources at your disposal.

• As the Holy Qur’an urges us never to abandon our values when tempted by the potentially corrupting forces of money, power and avarice; stand resolute against injustice. Earn wealth so that not only your family and the Muslim community may benefit, but that the poor may have their right as well.

• We must become the pillars of our neighborhoods and workplaces, which are looked to for our dedication and reliability. This comes through sincere efforts and always giving our best. Beware that shortcuts or quick solutions may ultimately yield failure.

• Rising above petty differences and achieving a unified vision does not imply imitating one another, but rather, appreciating the diversity that God (Allah) has created among us. Be respectful and compassionate in hearing out the ideas of our brothers and sisters.