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Washington
D.C., USA - October 1, 2003
Imam Qazwini delivers opening prayer speech at the 108th Congress
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| The United Sates Congress invited Imam Sayid Hassan
Al-Qazwini to attend the 108th Congress session held in the
Congress in Wahington D.C. on October 1, 2003, to deliver the
opening prayer speech before all the congressman of the United
States. After Imam Sayid Hassan delivered his prayer speech, one of
the respected congressmen, John D. Dingell, gave a brief biography of
Imam Sayid Hassan
and expressed gratitude for joining the congress in the meeting.
The congressman stated: "Imam
Qazwini has become a leading voice for Muslims in America. He has
spoken movingly of the need for reconciliation, for tolerance, and
for the recognition of our humanity. He has worked with leaders in
both the Christian and Jewish communities to help bridge the
differences between us and to dispel prejudice. His work has touched
Muslim and non-Muslim alike, and his devotion to our State and our
community of Dearborn has been recognized by the mayor, the
governor, and by President Bush."
Although it might seem as supporting non-supporters of Islam, it can also be a positive step for Islam in
America because usually the speech is delivered by either a
priest or rabbi, and now finally after a Muslim scholar has
delivered the speech, this places Islam in the cohesive picture
respectfully along with the other religions. Since Muslims and
Islam have always been oppressed and ignored, this can be
considered as a first step for Islam and Muslims in America as
they rise and voice Islam's opinion in the nation. Sayid Hassan
also mentioned the name of Allah and his holy messenger in the
speech, which can be also be considered as a positive mark in
Islam as the name of Allah was raised in the congress. With the
help of Allah, this and the efforts of many other devout Muslims
will help Islam as it is raised and enlightens all that pursue the right path.
The prayer speech by Imam Qazwini:
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Respected Congressmen and Women, I would like to greet you with
the greeting of Islam. Peace be with you in the name of Allah,
the Compassionate, the Merciful.
Glory be to Allah, the Lord of Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and
Muhammad. As we commence our legislative day in this 108th
Congress, we ask You to bestow Your blessing upon us and help
our legislators enact that which pleases You and ensures the
interest of our people. Lend Your infinite wisdom to this
Congress and allow them to embrace what is right, not what is
popular.
As our Nation faces many challenges, we beseech Your
guidance. And as we pursue those who intend harm to our country,
let us seek justice rather than revenge. Guide our leaders to
use the influence of their power as an instrument for the
betterment of all humankind and peace throughout the world.
Oh, Allah, endow the people of this great land with a growing
trust in one another and an increasing faith in You. Help us all
uphold our God-given rights of freedom and equality. Allow us
never to evoke Your law by embracing color or creed as tools for
superiority. As You say in the Holy Koran, "Oh people, We had
created you from one male and one female, and made you into
nations and tribes so that you may know one another. Verily, the
best amongst you are those who are the most pious.'' |
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