On 28th November 2013, students of Egerton University, Njoro, visited Bilal Muslim Mission of Kenya to attend a Seminar cum exhibition on Discover Islam. he students were from the Department of Philosophy, History and Religion from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. They were accompanied by Dr. Onyancha , Chairman and Mr. Macharia Mwangi , Senior lecturer.
The students were taken through an exhibition of posters on “Discover Islam”. The seminar was opened by the recitation of a verse from the Holy Qur’an.
The first paper ‘Islam as a Religion and Islamic Attitude to other Religions’ was delivered by Sheikh Stambuli Abdillahi Nassir. In his captivating presentation, Stambuli described Islam as the only religion that recognizes the other two major religions namely Judaism and Christianity.
In his second paper – Jihad, Islam and Terrorism, Sheikh Stambuli defined Jihad in its right context. He categorized Jihad in two forms; major and minor jihad as described by the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.w). He described major Jihad as striving to remain on the right path. Minor jihad he said is to fight in defense.
Sister Ruiya Salim delivered a paper on the ‘Role of Women in Islam’ and ‘Significance of Hijab.’ In her speech she urged ladies to be mindful of their dress code. She likened the woman to a precious jewel which must always be protected and guarded.
A short video clip was shown to the students to get an idea on the activities undertaken by Bilal Muslim Mission of Kenya.
During the question and answer session, the students were able to ask question to the speakers on topics discussed at the seminar.
At the end of the session vote of thanks was presented by Dr Onyancha. Addressing the students, facilitators and the Mission, Dr. Onyancha said, “Thank you to Bilal Muslim Mission of Kenya and the presenters. This has been a wonderful talk and very convincing indeed. I describe this as a privilege, listening to a very open and informed talk on the Islamic faith. Religion is a phenomenon that is misunderstood both by the insiders and outsiders. Especially, religions with scriptures because, readers give varied interpretations of the same. For example, on the concept of Jihad, I have been telling my students that ‘I think this concept is misunderstood. Today, I say I know what Jihad means and I think I will teach the in a better way than I have been doing. Thank you very much.”
“I have learnt a lot; especially on the relationship between Islam and other religions. I have also learnt that Islam has got nothing to do with terrorism. I request the Mission to send the presenters to visit the department of Philosophy, History and Religion so that they can address and respond to our many questions about Islam because today the time was short.” Paul Angasa, Student – Egerton University
Bilal Muslim Mission of Kenya would like to thank all those involved in this Educative event and pray to Allah (S.W.T) to reward all who have generously assisted towards making this event a success.
Bilal Muslim Mission of Kenya
P O Box 82508-80100, Mombassa, Kenya
Tel: (254) 41 2229641
Email: admin@kenbilal.org
For news of our activities, visit: www.kenbilal.org DECEMBER 2013