religion

How religion plays into corporate culture and office politics.

China’s Faith Factory for All Religions
The little angel you bought in the Vatican might actually come from a small Chinese town called Yiwu. Known as the world’s largest wholesale hub, Yiwu presents a unique phenomenon: a place where the faiths of the world sit side-by-side in the same aisle. As the world's leading small commodity distribution center, Yiwu has a rich history and plays a crucial role in global trade. Here, the sacred meets the industrial.
By Jingsourcing.com 2 days ago in Journal
My Life With OCD
I would like to share an excerpt from the chapter I wrote, titled "Just As I Am", in the anthology Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing My Healing Through Radical Self-Acceptance.
By Kim Osburn6 days ago in Journal
Is Wearing a Khimar Mandatory? Understanding Its Significance
The question of whether wearing a khimar is mandatory is one that many Muslim women ask at some point in their journey. With modest fashion evolving and different styles of covering becoming more accessible, understanding the religious and cultural context behind the khimar is important.
By Shahnaz Khan7 days ago in Journal
Yunus: The International Power Behind Bangladesh’s 2026 Election
By: Tuhin Sarwar। Dhaka । February 18, 2026 । Eight months after Bangladesh’s caretaker government assumed power following the collapse of the previous administration in August 2024, the nation experienced one of its most closely watched democratic transitions in recent memory. On 12 February 2026, the country concluded a general election that delivered a two-thirds parliamentary majority to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), enabling Tarique Rahman to take office as Prime Minister. Yet an analysis by India Today reflected across global media outlets frames the story differently: the true strategic victor of Bangladesh’s 18‑month political transition was Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate economist whose international stature and tactical maneuvering shaped the nation’s political landscape in ways no conventional politician has before.
By Tuhin Sarwar8 days ago in Journal
If God Is Not Physically Here, How Are We Supposed to Have a Relationship With Him?
If God is not physically standing in front of us… if we cannot see Him, hear Him audibly, or sit across from Him at a table… then how are we supposed to have a real relationship with Him?
By Sound and Spirit11 days ago in Journal
Are You Going to Hell for Being Gay?
If someone came up to me and asked, “Does being gay mean I’m going to hell?” I would not answer quickly. That question usually comes from fear. It comes from someone who is not trying to argue, but who is honestly worried about their soul.
By Sound and Spirit12 days ago in Journal
Maayan Aviv: Jewish Leaders on Practicing Tzedakah as Justice, Dignity, and Repair
Maayan Aviv (she/her) is Executive Director and CEO of American Friends of NATAL, leading the organization since March 2023. Trained in international relations, she brings 15 years of nonprofit leadership across strategic planning, community partnerships, fundraising, donor stewardship, and mission-driven marketing. Aviv emphasizes collaboration that strengthens psychosocial resilience and healthier societies. Before joining AFN, she served as Executive Director of American Friends of ALYN Hospital, supporting pediatric rehabilitation initiatives. She is a public-facing spokesperson who links philanthropy, governance, and impact measurement to durable, dignified support for communities in daily practice.
By Scott Douglas Jacobsen13 days ago in Journal
A Heart that makes room for God
In 2 Kings 4, we meet the Shunammite woman, a woman of discernment and quiet faith. She recognizes that Elisha is a holy man of God. But she does not merely admire him from a distance. She does not simply speak kindly of him or praise his ministry. Instead, she does something far more meaningful — she makes room for him. She prepares a small upper room in her home, placing a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp there. It is a simple space, yet it becomes a sacred space. She creates room for the presence of God in her everyday life.
By Tahira Ikram13 days ago in Journal
Scott Silverman, Ed.D. on What Makes a Jewish Community—and How It Survives Conflict
Scott Silverman, EdD, is Dean of Noncredit & External Programs at Santa Monica College, where he leads adult education, workforce training, and community partnerships that broaden access beyond traditional credit pathways. He designs programs for older adults, career re-entry learners, and working professionals, pairing analytical forecasting with student development and engagement. A teacher and public speaker, he also mentors higher-education staff on program design, training, and service. Known for clear communication, he emphasizes in-person connection while using hybrid tools strategically. His career path was sparked by an early mentor in student affairs, turning curiosity into a commitment to community learning. Scott has been a Hebrew School teacher, youth group advisor and Hillel Director, and has been a co-founder and board member for several nonprofit organizations.
By Scott Douglas Jacobsen14 days ago in Journal
Dr. Scott Silverman on Tzedakah as Justice: Dignity, Anonymity, and Accountability in Jewish Giving
Scott Silverman, EdD, is Dean of Noncredit & External Programs at Santa Monica College in Culver City, California. He leads adult and noncredit education, workforce training, community outreach, and student development initiatives that expand access beyond traditional degree pathways. Silverman is known for program building, data-informed forecasting, and practical student-engagement strategies, and he frequently speaks on higher education management and the evolving workplace. He also teaches, mentors staff, and partners with local organizations to support older adults and re-entry learners. His work blends service, accountability, and a campus-centred belief in human potential while keeping equity and dignity at the center.
By Scott Douglas Jacobsen15 days ago in Journal
Pakistan Announces Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya Amounts for Ramadan 2026. AI-Generated.
As the blessed month of Ramadan approaches in 2026, Muslims across Pakistan have begun preparing for fasting, charity, prayer, and reflection. One of the most important aspects of Ramadan is giving Sadqa-e-Fitr—also known as Zakat-ul-Fitr—and Fidya, payments that serve both spiritual and social purposes. This year, Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and prominent religious scholars have officially announced the recommended rates for Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya. The announcement provides clarity for millions of Muslims who wish to fulfill their obligations responsibly before Eid-ul-Fitr. The government issues these guidelines each year based on current market prices, ensuring fairness and accessibility for people from different economic backgrounds. With inflation and commodity fluctuations continuing to impact households, the updated rates for 2026 are particularly important for families planning their Ramadan budgets. What Are Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya? Sadqa-e-Fitr is a charitable donation offered by Muslims before the Eid prayer at the end of Ramadan. Its purpose is to: Purify a person’s fast Help the poor celebrate Eid with dignity Encourage social equality and compassion Sadqa-e-Fitr is mandatory for every Muslim who possesses the minimum wealth threshold (Nisab) and must be paid on behalf of each family member, including children. Fidya, on the other hand, is a payment made by individuals who are unable to fast due to long-term illness, old age, or other valid reasons. While most people who miss fasts make them up later (Qadha), those who genuinely cannot are permitted to pay Fidya instead. Both Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya revolve around the principle of feeding the poor. The payment amounts are tied to staple food items such as wheat, barley, dates, raisins, and others. Official Amounts for Ramadan 2026 For Ramadan 2026, scholars and government representatives based the calculations on prices of commonly consumed food items across Pakistan. While exact figures vary slightly depending on region and market conditions, the officially recommended nationwide amounts are standardized to ensure consistency. The Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya amounts are calculated according to the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) tradition of giving one Sa’a (approximately 2.25–2.5 kg) of staple food. Below are the recommended 2026 rates for both Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya: Sadqa-e-Fitr (per person): Wheat-based rate: Rs. ___ (You can fill with the year’s final announced value, usually the lowest category) Barley-based rate: Rs. ___ Dates (average quality): Rs. ___ Raisins (two types): Rs. ___ and Rs. ___ (Note: Replace blanks with real figures once officially released—these vary every year.) Traditionally, four categories are issued to allow people of different income levels to follow the Sunnah according to their means. Fidya (per missed fast): Wheat: Rs. ___ Barley: Rs. ___ Dates: Rs. ___ Raisins: Rs. ___ People who cannot fast for the entire month often calculate Fidya for all 30 days using the preferred rate. Why Multiple Amounts Are Announced Many people wonder why Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya always include multiple price categories. The reason lies in Islamic tradition. Different companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used different staple food items depending on what was affordable or available. Today, these differences translate into multiple categories: Wheat: Most affordable, ensuring charity remains accessible to everyone. Barley: Mid-range option used historically as a staple. Dates/Raisins: Considered superior foods, meaning giving these amounts brings greater reward for those who can afford it. This range allows Muslims to choose according to their means while fulfilling the obligation properly. Impact on Families and Communities The announcement of the Sadqa-e-Fitr rate holds special significance for families across Pakistan. With Eid expenses, food inflation, and overall economic challenges, many people plan their charity early in Ramadan. The yearly guidelines help: Parents calculate amounts for each family member Individuals set aside funds ahead of Eid Nonprofits organize distribution for needy communities Mosques prepare to collect and distribute donations fairly Meanwhile, families who cannot afford higher categories often rely on the wheat rate, ensuring the obligation remains manageable even in difficult times. For lower-income households receiving Fitrana, these funds can make a meaningful difference, especially during Eid when social expectations and festive expenses rise. How Pakistanis Prefer to Give Fitrana and Fidya Traditionally, people give Sadqa-e-Fitr directly to poor families, neighbors, mosque caretakers, or individuals in need. However, trends in recent years show a growing trust in organized distribution channels. Here are some ways Pakistanis give: Local mosques that identify families in need Charitable organizations known for transparent distribution Zakat and welfare foundations Online donation platforms Community centers and food banks Digital giving is especially popular among young people and overseas Pakistanis who want to support families back home. When Should Sadqa-e-Fitr Be Given? Islamic scholars emphasize that Sadqa-e-Fitr should be paid: Before Eid-ul-Fitr prayer Preferably during Ramadan, so the needy can prepare for Eid As early as possible if giving through an organization Delaying it until after Eid reduces its intended purpose, though the obligation remains. Economic Considerations in 2026 Pakistan continues to face inflation and rising commodity prices. Wheat, pulses, sugar, and edible oil have all experienced fluctuations. In such circumstances, annual Fitrana announcements help stabilize expectations and prevent confusion. Many households adjust their Ramadan charity budgets based on: Cost of daily essentials School fees Utility bills Eid clothing expenses Food preparations for guests Despite economic pressures, Pakistanis remain among the world’s most generous when it comes to charitable giving. Ramadan often becomes the peak season for donations, ensuring that even the most vulnerable communities can celebrate Eid with joy. A Meaningful Tradition That Strengthens Society The yearly announcements of Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya amounts highlight an important truth: beyond religious obligations, these practices serve as mechanisms of compassion. They strengthen community bonds, reduce inequality, and remind people of their responsibility toward others. Every contribution—whether small or large—helps someone eat, celebrate, and feel included. In a world where economic challenges are widespread, such practices carry deep social value. As Ramadan 2026 approaches, Pakistanis prepare not only for fasting and prayer but also for generosity. And as always, the spirit of giving remains at the heart of the holy month.
By Abid Ali16 days ago in Journal
Pakistan Announces Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya Amounts for Ramadan 2026. Content Warning. AI-Generated.
Islamabad: As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Pakistan’s religious authorities have officially announced the Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya amounts for Ramadan 2026, providing clarity for millions of Muslims preparing to observe fasting and fulfill their religious duties. The announcement aims to guide citizens in calculating their charitable obligations in accordance with Islamic principles and prevailing economic conditions.
By Ayesha Lashari16 days ago in Journal