Gateway to Divine Mercy 2012 - Illuminating our World
Gateway to Divine Mercy 2012
This page has been set up for participants of the GATEWAY 2012 - ILLUMINATING OUR WORLD Conference to leave their comments, feedback and share their experiences of the Conference.
Please feel free to add your comments and read comments left by others.
Comments (97)
Rafeeq Ahmad Mir: GATEWAY TO DIVINE MERCY! Love for The Humanity....
Asalaam Alakum,
Congratulations to you Billion times! All this Team of "GATEWAY TO DIVINE MERCY!", Subhan ALLAH! What a great website i don’t have words to describe and to thank you all , I pray from deep of my heart to all team member who have contributed towards this that all their Dua's comes true. This website will help in all the ways it has also a special place and respect in heart. I have been very impressed. Now you have made it outstanding and unbelievable. May Almighty Allah bless you! Aameen!
Thanks and Regards,
Rafeeq Ahmad Mir
Kashmir (India)
Congratulations to you Billion times! All this Team of "GATEWAY TO DIVINE MERCY!", Subhan ALLAH! What a great website i don’t have words to describe and to thank you all , I pray from deep of my heart to all team member who have contributed towards this that all their Dua's comes true. This website will help in all the ways it has also a special place and respect in heart. I have been very impressed. Now you have made it outstanding and unbelievable. May Almighty Allah bless you! Aameen!
Thanks and Regards,
Rafeeq Ahmad Mir
Kashmir (India)
2
Tuesday, 04 Dec 2012 at 13:54
Gateway 2013 Theme: The True Islamic Lifestyle - Following the footsteps
As Salaamu Alaikum,
I would like to suggest the above theme for the event in 2013, the main problem seen in our society in these times is the implementation of the Islamic lifestyle in our daily routines. Many young and elders are distracted by others causing the lifestyle to become altered and no longer remaining a Islamic lifestyle. The thought on Technology and Islam should also be considered where the youth should be told the many benefits of social networking and the internet but the problems and fitna there new technologies can cause and that they should never get distracted in the wrong when using such good devices. Jazak'Allah.
I would like to suggest the above theme for the event in 2013, the main problem seen in our society in these times is the implementation of the Islamic lifestyle in our daily routines. Many young and elders are distracted by others causing the lifestyle to become altered and no longer remaining a Islamic lifestyle. The thought on Technology and Islam should also be considered where the youth should be told the many benefits of social networking and the internet but the problems and fitna there new technologies can cause and that they should never get distracted in the wrong when using such good devices. Jazak'Allah.
3
Tuesday, 16 Oct 2012 at 21:08
Urs Shareef Guest: Miss
Assalamu Alaykum. To all these events I have attended,& I must admit they are well presented and good. The only problem is that people, especially women go to eat food & to chat away.. & they all bring children who cry, therefore making it harder to hear the speaker. Do not allow children. JazakAllah Khair
5
Friday, 14 Sep 2012 at 23:39
Mohammed Yasin Yaqub: : Gateway2013
Gateway 2013"Key to our Salvation"
6
Monday, 10 Sep 2012 at 17:27
Madhia: Subhanallah
The event was a success but improvements for next time is no kids as at the back all you could here was children running screaming,It is not fair on those youngsters who go to listen and learn from these talks where the children are making noise. Therefore as the children are too young to understand from the talk they should not really attend it may seem unfair for the parents but most of the time they arent listening anyway as they'r too busy taking care of their child distubring others around. In order for everyone to benifit equally no children under a certian age of where they cant understand should not attend.
Also a seperate event for students should be organised this is for the scholars to talk directly at a certian age group on daily issues that youngsters are facing the fitna etc.
Inshallah next year it will be a success and more non muslims should attend. Also the seating should be seperate for males and females.
Overall best event of UK that i have been to where the scholars were clear and to the point, Shaam were excellant
May allah rewards all the people who organised the event.
Also a seperate event for students should be organised this is for the scholars to talk directly at a certian age group on daily issues that youngsters are facing the fitna etc.
Inshallah next year it will be a success and more non muslims should attend. Also the seating should be seperate for males and females.
Overall best event of UK that i have been to where the scholars were clear and to the point, Shaam were excellant
May allah rewards all the people who organised the event.
7
Friday, 07 Sep 2012 at 15:08
Zeshan: Mohabbat-e-rasool (Sallallahu alayhi wassallam)
salaam
Gateway 2012 was Mashallah a very beautiful event and i was very proud and thankful to allah and the team for bringing it to birmingham. The speakers were mashallah with very notable scholars and individuals. The title above is what i believe should be the subject for 2013.
there werew only a few problems which the solutions are:
Noise control- some ushers can be employed
Food- instead of service packed foood.
People- next time be prepared for a high turnout.
Jazakallah.
Gateway 2012 was Mashallah a very beautiful event and i was very proud and thankful to allah and the team for bringing it to birmingham. The speakers were mashallah with very notable scholars and individuals. The title above is what i believe should be the subject for 2013.
there werew only a few problems which the solutions are:
Noise control- some ushers can be employed
Food- instead of service packed foood.
People- next time be prepared for a high turnout.
Jazakallah.
8
Tuesday, 04 Sep 2012 at 20:52
Shabeena: ...
an Amazing experience, but please bring Gateway back to Manchester..!! it's just not the same!! every year there has been a special connection of gateway with manchester.. no other city can replace that.. I have attended Gateway every year and it was odd to have Gateway in birmingham this year
9
Monday, 27 Aug 2012 at 00:35
Asim Rashid: ...
This is a beautiful mind blowing event it should be held every 6 months rather than once a year so more hearts can be enlightened as mine was when I attended ! May Allah keep this going for the years to come inshaAllah.
10
Saturday, 25 Aug 2012 at 11:23
Anwar: ...
[Shaykh]Abdal Hakim Murad is a real gem! A precious gift from God.I feel we are lucky to have him amongst us. Whatever he says always sounds honest, genuine, well considered,inspiring and relevant to our lives today. There is so much to learn from him.
May God give him a long life so we can continue to benefit from his wisdom and knowledge!
http://seekersguidance.org/blog/2010/08/timothy-winter-shaykh-abdal-hakim-murad-britains-most-influential-muslim-–-and-it-was-all-down-to-a-peach-the-independent/comment-page-1/
May God give him a long life so we can continue to benefit from his wisdom and knowledge!
http://seekersguidance.org/blog/2010/08/timothy-winter-shaykh-abdal-hakim-murad-britains-most-influential-muslim-–-and-it-was-all-down-to-a-peach-the-independent/comment-page-1/
11
Thursday, 16 Aug 2012 at 04:17
Ahmed: ...
Salam, does anyone have the details of the brother who was selling the nalain pak hats at gateway 2012
12
Friday, 10 Aug 2012 at 02:02
Anonymous: ...
The Gateway to divine mercy this year was amazing!!! Yes there were some problems with the food etc... but we need to over look these and remember the soul purpose of out attending. I have had the honor and pleasure of attending all the Gateway to divine mercy's excluding one. By far this was the best. It was a shame that Shaykh Pirzada didn't deliver a longer speech. I hope and pray to hear something lengthier next year. Mr Bakhtyar however delivered an awakening speech which was very uplifting and memorable.
Jazak'allah to everyone who was involved and may Allah Almighty bestow upon ALL of you the strength to continue your hard work for this beautiful religion. May He keep you all smiling for eternity.
May He bless Shaykh Pirzada with a long and healthy life so he can continue blessing this nation with this awe inspiring works. May Allah allow us to be in the presence of all of these Shaykh's and others including Pir Amin al-Hasant shah Sahib and personalities such as Habib Ali al Jifri, net year and may years to come.
AMEEN!!!
Jazak'allah to everyone who was involved and may Allah Almighty bestow upon ALL of you the strength to continue your hard work for this beautiful religion. May He keep you all smiling for eternity.
May He bless Shaykh Pirzada with a long and healthy life so he can continue blessing this nation with this awe inspiring works. May Allah allow us to be in the presence of all of these Shaykh's and others including Pir Amin al-Hasant shah Sahib and personalities such as Habib Ali al Jifri, net year and may years to come.
AMEEN!!!
13
Sunday, 05 Aug 2012 at 11:50
Jabeer : Masha'Allah I never felt more spiritualised!
Salaams,
I thank the organisers for the great efforts and Alhamdullilah by the grace of Lah swt a superb event and well worth the travel from Luton.
I have been watching the event for many years but given the central location of Birmingham I had no choice but to attend the auspicious occasion and sit in the company of the greatest Shayuks of this era and of the Ahle Sunnah and to be able to be enlighten by such Shakyhs was purely a gift from Allah swt.
The event is well worth visiting and should remain in Birmingham to make the travel easy rather than Manchester or London. Maybe more seats are needed and perhaps the food could have been provided in containers a simple aknee pilau would have suffice with a bottle of water as it was not the food we needed but the enlightenment and knowledge.
To be honest I've never felt so spiritualised or reflected upon myself as much as I did that day and night and surely Allah swt has shown me the gateway to divine mercy.
One other suggestion is perhaps Masjids should organise the attendance so numbers are planned my local Bengali Mosque has no knowledge of these events and I am probably the only person who travelled from there. The final thing I will say is we queued so patiently to meet the Shayukh but their sudden departure was very disappointing.
I hope you do not find me too critical but I cannot wait for the next event.
May Allah swt bless us all and accept us all. Ameen
I thank the organisers for the great efforts and Alhamdullilah by the grace of Lah swt a superb event and well worth the travel from Luton.
I have been watching the event for many years but given the central location of Birmingham I had no choice but to attend the auspicious occasion and sit in the company of the greatest Shayuks of this era and of the Ahle Sunnah and to be able to be enlighten by such Shakyhs was purely a gift from Allah swt.
The event is well worth visiting and should remain in Birmingham to make the travel easy rather than Manchester or London. Maybe more seats are needed and perhaps the food could have been provided in containers a simple aknee pilau would have suffice with a bottle of water as it was not the food we needed but the enlightenment and knowledge.
To be honest I've never felt so spiritualised or reflected upon myself as much as I did that day and night and surely Allah swt has shown me the gateway to divine mercy.
One other suggestion is perhaps Masjids should organise the attendance so numbers are planned my local Bengali Mosque has no knowledge of these events and I am probably the only person who travelled from there. The final thing I will say is we queued so patiently to meet the Shayukh but their sudden departure was very disappointing.
I hope you do not find me too critical but I cannot wait for the next event.
May Allah swt bless us all and accept us all. Ameen
14
Friday, 03 Aug 2012 at 09:30
Haroon: Great event
As-salamu al-aykum, I really enjoyed the event -- all Praise is due to ALLAH and may He bless and reward the organisers.
The event was well-organised but the audience was given too much freedom. My suggestions for improvement are:
1. Designated seating plan - people should be allocated seats when they are buying their tickets - this will ensure it is easy for everyone to have a seat and also limited stress/issues about seating halfway into a speech for example;
2. Once people are in their seats, they should only be allowed toilet breaks -- no access to the stalls because ultimately people are there for the lectures and not the food;
Because of these improvements, I believe the Royal Albert Hall (London) may be well suited - it has a capacity of just under 4,000 to nearly 5,300. The advantage is they have their own seating plan when buying tickets and ushers to ensure people are orderly when moving to their seats and afterwards. Another option may be a hotel dining hall although less people can be fitted in and it might be costlier -- but at least everyone has the food they would like without needing to disturb others and it generally has a more orderly atmosphere.
I hope this does not seem critically - I only wish for betterment and these suggestions are only made in light of the audience's behaviour and not necessarily that of organisers or speakers. I apologise for annoying anyone.
As-salamu al-aykum and thank you,
Haroon
The event was well-organised but the audience was given too much freedom. My suggestions for improvement are:
1. Designated seating plan - people should be allocated seats when they are buying their tickets - this will ensure it is easy for everyone to have a seat and also limited stress/issues about seating halfway into a speech for example;
2. Once people are in their seats, they should only be allowed toilet breaks -- no access to the stalls because ultimately people are there for the lectures and not the food;
Because of these improvements, I believe the Royal Albert Hall (London) may be well suited - it has a capacity of just under 4,000 to nearly 5,300. The advantage is they have their own seating plan when buying tickets and ushers to ensure people are orderly when moving to their seats and afterwards. Another option may be a hotel dining hall although less people can be fitted in and it might be costlier -- but at least everyone has the food they would like without needing to disturb others and it generally has a more orderly atmosphere.
I hope this does not seem critically - I only wish for betterment and these suggestions are only made in light of the audience's behaviour and not necessarily that of organisers or speakers. I apologise for annoying anyone.
As-salamu al-aykum and thank you,
Haroon
15
Sunday, 29 Jul 2012 at 05:27
kareem: ...
I was fortunate enough to be given the tawfeeq to attend this beautiful event. The scholars delivered amazing speeches, and the hall, was better than the previous venue, but was still too small to host the thousands !!!
I would request that for next time however, that the microphone system is louder. And maybe if during the food break, there can be some nasheeds.
Some are recommending scholars like nuh keller and dr tahir ul qadri to be called to the event. I request the organisers of the event not to call such contraversial scholars, as this is a platform of the ahlus sunnah wal jama'ah, and the likes of nuh keller and so on should not be invited to the event.
Allah reard you for your hard work in the putting together of this unique event. Ameen
I would request that for next time however, that the microphone system is louder. And maybe if during the food break, there can be some nasheeds.
Some are recommending scholars like nuh keller and dr tahir ul qadri to be called to the event. I request the organisers of the event not to call such contraversial scholars, as this is a platform of the ahlus sunnah wal jama'ah, and the likes of nuh keller and so on should not be invited to the event.
Allah reard you for your hard work in the putting together of this unique event. Ameen
16
Saturday, 28 Jul 2012 at 23:33
Ruquaya: ...
I agree with abu mustapha - you guys need to get some different scholars to the line up like sayyidi shaykhul islam dr professor Tahir ulQadri
17
Sunday, 22 Jul 2012 at 19:17
ahmad: CAN U UPLOAD THE PICTURES PLEASE
SALAM , I WOULD JUST LIKE TO MAK E A REQUEST THAT ALL PICTURES TAKEN ON THE EVENT SHOULD BE UPLOADED TO THE FACEBOOK PAGE JAZAKALLAH
18
Saturday, 14 Jul 2012 at 23:39
abu Mustapha: Mr
Allah bless Syaiedi Sheikh Pirzada and all the team, excellent event and Allah swt bless you more for not turning any one away from the divine Mercy. In terms of any other feedback not given yet is we perhaps need to only have one shiekh or 2 max. And we need other to see the Biggest ulema and daees of this Ummah and the next gateway, e.g the Habaib who's leader is Habib Umar although most people only know Habib Ali and dont even know who Habib Ali's Master is and Real Masters of Sufism like Shiekh BaBikr Sudani and ofcourse Shaykh Tahir Ul Qadri, Hamza Yusuf and even dare i say it Sheikh Nuh. Whatever our opinion will you deny that they are a great Suni Shcolar and Sufi Master. This is really coming toegether. And the only one who could get these wonderful Ulema to come together in the UK is surely Sayeidi Pirzada. We need a different line up. Allah swt bless you all.
19
Saturday, 14 Jul 2012 at 23:34
Jaz: ...
Bilal Mehboob - Yes there were shortcomings, and hopefully some lessons will be learned for next year, inshallah, but... You had the opportunity to spend time in the company of some of the most amazing people alive today - the wonderful Shaykhs who had travelled from around the world to illuminate our hearts. You were blessed with this opportunity, with the chance to actually be there.
With millions of muslims in such dire situations in the world today, and the suffering they are enduring on a daily basis, I find your demand for a £10 refund pretty sad. Millions of your brothers and sisters would have loved the opportunity just to be there to listen to the words of the Shaykhs, but are trapped in war zones with no food and water, and yet you ask for a £10 refund because the buffet was not up to scratch and the toilet floors were wet.
Perhaps, rather than criticising the organisation of such a wonderful event, from which so many of us were fortunate to benefit from, you could take a hard look at yourself and your own priorities.
With millions of muslims in such dire situations in the world today, and the suffering they are enduring on a daily basis, I find your demand for a £10 refund pretty sad. Millions of your brothers and sisters would have loved the opportunity just to be there to listen to the words of the Shaykhs, but are trapped in war zones with no food and water, and yet you ask for a £10 refund because the buffet was not up to scratch and the toilet floors were wet.
Perhaps, rather than criticising the organisation of such a wonderful event, from which so many of us were fortunate to benefit from, you could take a hard look at yourself and your own priorities.
20
Monday, 02 Jul 2012 at 07:43
Traveller: ...
Shaykh Ninowy once said "People do dhikr of their stomachs more than dhikr of Allah", and that seemed to be the case for many of the people at this event.....I was shocked at the level of noise and the lack of respect shown to the ulema during some of the talks, and it seemed many people came along just for lunch and a chat. VERY poor adab in the company of the Shaykh's.
Aside from that, this was a fantastic day. To sit in the company of such renowned scholars was an immense blessing. Our world and our hearts are illuminated once again. Thankyou to all involved in organising this event, and may it continue to sine for many years to come
Aside from that, this was a fantastic day. To sit in the company of such renowned scholars was an immense blessing. Our world and our hearts are illuminated once again. Thankyou to all involved in organising this event, and may it continue to sine for many years to come
21
Thursday, 28 Jun 2012 at 08:22
Hussain: gateway to divine mercy
subnallah what a amazing event,A great big THANKYOU to all THE ORGANISING TEAM. GREAT JOB.
bring the even to south england we would like have taste of that divine mercy aswell. may allah (SWT) bless and increase everyone who was part of oragnising team.
bring the even to south england we would like have taste of that divine mercy aswell. may allah (SWT) bless and increase everyone who was part of oragnising team.
22
Wednesday, 27 Jun 2012 at 22:37
Abdallah: al-Fatiha!
I enjoyed Sidi Ahmad Thomsons speecch, particularly his recitation of surah al-Fatiha towards the end. It was powerful different.
"How you say the Fatiha says it all" (Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad
Can I request all those who read this to recite surah al-Fatiha for my father.
"How you say the Fatiha says it all" (Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad
Can I request all those who read this to recite surah al-Fatiha for my father.
23
Tuesday, 26 Jun 2012 at 08:05
Faqir Alamm: An Amazing Event!
As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh
I pray this finds everyone in the best of states; seeking proximity to Allah Most High and His Beloved Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam.
This was my first visit to the Gateway to Divine Mercy Event and it was Amazing, The Ulama gave amazing and inspiring speeches. May Allah Ta'ala bless Sayyidi Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi Hafizullah Ta'ala and the other Ulama.
I pray this finds everyone in the best of states; seeking proximity to Allah Most High and His Beloved Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam.
This was my first visit to the Gateway to Divine Mercy Event and it was Amazing, The Ulama gave amazing and inspiring speeches. May Allah Ta'ala bless Sayyidi Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi Hafizullah Ta'ala and the other Ulama.
24
Monday, 25 Jun 2012 at 12:10
Mohammed Umar : ...
Alhamdulillah, once again i was blessed to attend this historical event, in the midst of the true torch bearers of the religion of Islam.
We are taught 'ilm is nur' and on saturday the ilm of the scholars definitely 'illuminated our world', as a result of which people from all over the country flocked towards the scholars, hence the venue was flooded with people who were thirsty for that light which shone from the scholars.
i would like to thank, with all my heart, the organizers of this event and all those who made it a success, like every year. May Allah the Almighty allow this event to become even bigger and allow it to illuminate the world and hearts of all of Ummah of His Messenger and Beloved(Upon them be infinite salutions and peace).
Finally, i want to sincerely thank 'Imdad ul Ummah' Syedi Shaykh Muhammad Imdad Hussain Pirzada (Hafidhah ullah),whom at the time when so many fitnas are bombarding the muslims, be that by non-muslims or those who claim to be muslims, our Shaykh is tackling these fitnas 'by any means neccessary'. I'd like to add that only a man of Allah can bring such esteemed and elite scholars of Ahl us Sunnah onto one platform.
May Allah bless the Ulama of Ahl us Sunnah and allow us to appreciate their hardwork and efforts.
Just as a sidepoint, it seems as though brother Bilal went to the event to do everything but to look and listen to everything that was happening on the stage, which was the main thing throughout the programme. So i would compare it to a person who goes to a football match and doesn't watch what's happening on the football pitch instead he is watching what everybody else is doing, like people eating, talking and cheering, then comes home and says that the football match was rubbish, because of what everybody else was doing, then intends to write a letter to FIFA and say the football match wasn't good because of what everybody except the footballers were doing. Those that listened to the honourable Scholars appreciated the event, on the other hand those that didn't listen to them need to clear there intentions then come to such an event.
Once again i want to say Jazakumullah khair to all those who had a hand in organizing this event.
We are taught 'ilm is nur' and on saturday the ilm of the scholars definitely 'illuminated our world', as a result of which people from all over the country flocked towards the scholars, hence the venue was flooded with people who were thirsty for that light which shone from the scholars.
i would like to thank, with all my heart, the organizers of this event and all those who made it a success, like every year. May Allah the Almighty allow this event to become even bigger and allow it to illuminate the world and hearts of all of Ummah of His Messenger and Beloved(Upon them be infinite salutions and peace).
Finally, i want to sincerely thank 'Imdad ul Ummah' Syedi Shaykh Muhammad Imdad Hussain Pirzada (Hafidhah ullah),whom at the time when so many fitnas are bombarding the muslims, be that by non-muslims or those who claim to be muslims, our Shaykh is tackling these fitnas 'by any means neccessary'. I'd like to add that only a man of Allah can bring such esteemed and elite scholars of Ahl us Sunnah onto one platform.
May Allah bless the Ulama of Ahl us Sunnah and allow us to appreciate their hardwork and efforts.
Just as a sidepoint, it seems as though brother Bilal went to the event to do everything but to look and listen to everything that was happening on the stage, which was the main thing throughout the programme. So i would compare it to a person who goes to a football match and doesn't watch what's happening on the football pitch instead he is watching what everybody else is doing, like people eating, talking and cheering, then comes home and says that the football match was rubbish, because of what everybody else was doing, then intends to write a letter to FIFA and say the football match wasn't good because of what everybody except the footballers were doing. Those that listened to the honourable Scholars appreciated the event, on the other hand those that didn't listen to them need to clear there intentions then come to such an event.
Once again i want to say Jazakumullah khair to all those who had a hand in organizing this event.
25
Saturday, 23 Jun 2012 at 18:04
Nadia Saleem: Mrs
A great congratulations to Qibla Baukhtyar sahib and Qibla Pirzada sahib of pulling of another successful event of at Birmingham this year. Was very shocked to see the sincerity and humbleness of Qibla Baukhtyar Sahib as they decided to start serving and were standing on the most packed out table, and whilst children were trying to take over the didn't allow it this shows a lot about a personality.
i pray for a bigger and more wonderful and successful event next year.
a few points which i think you you take into consideration for next year would be
1)Pack food up into containers instead of serving
2)Hire a few cleaning Employees of the hall to do the cleaning as it is more appropriate for them to take responsibility
3)keep ushers around so that the crowd could take seats and quite down as there was too much noise
4)A theater or stadium hall would be more appropriate e.g o2 stadium
5)A more colorful stage like kept before the stage was to boring.
A wonderfull speech by Qibla Baukhtyar sahib and Qibla shayk Mohammed Al Yaqoubi. the people were very hospitable especcially the door keeper silver suit purple tie was a very hospitable person as when the crowds built up her straight away seperated the mens and ladies which was much appreciated. would be good to see him there next year and also he was serving the food with a lot of effort. also the sister who was standing at the salaah place was very helpful and those sissters who were cleaning the washrooms as the event was going on. a big mubarak to all the people who made this event as a successful one and those who stayed standing on their feet the whole day just to help in the way of Allah jala jalalahu may he accept all the efforts and produce a greater event next year.
i pray for a bigger and more wonderful and successful event next year.
a few points which i think you you take into consideration for next year would be
1)Pack food up into containers instead of serving
2)Hire a few cleaning Employees of the hall to do the cleaning as it is more appropriate for them to take responsibility
3)keep ushers around so that the crowd could take seats and quite down as there was too much noise
4)A theater or stadium hall would be more appropriate e.g o2 stadium
5)A more colorful stage like kept before the stage was to boring.
A wonderfull speech by Qibla Baukhtyar sahib and Qibla shayk Mohammed Al Yaqoubi. the people were very hospitable especcially the door keeper silver suit purple tie was a very hospitable person as when the crowds built up her straight away seperated the mens and ladies which was much appreciated. would be good to see him there next year and also he was serving the food with a lot of effort. also the sister who was standing at the salaah place was very helpful and those sissters who were cleaning the washrooms as the event was going on. a big mubarak to all the people who made this event as a successful one and those who stayed standing on their feet the whole day just to help in the way of Allah jala jalalahu may he accept all the efforts and produce a greater event next year.
26
Saturday, 23 Jun 2012 at 11:25
has: ...
The students of jamia al karam are blessed to be in the company of the scholars and awliyag every year
27
Saturday, 23 Jun 2012 at 10:05
abdul : mr
salaam brother
gateway was next level no words to describe it. best event i been to in 23 years of my life. may Allah preserve you all everyone involved and give you more. insha'Allah.
ps. keep the event in bham next year as well
gateway was next level no words to describe it. best event i been to in 23 years of my life. may Allah preserve you all everyone involved and give you more. insha'Allah.
ps. keep the event in bham next year as well
28
Friday, 22 Jun 2012 at 18:26
tom: human
please could you stop harrassing the event and accepting the blessings earned from it.
29
Friday, 22 Jun 2012 at 16:01
Asif Pasha - India(Bangalore): Gateway to Divine Mercy - Huge success by grace of ALLAH SWT :-)
Assalam O Alaikum Team,
Masha ALLAH its a great honor to share my thoughts here.
I am very happy to say that i was on official work in UK & got t know about the conference a month before , felt very nice after checking in website & waiting for the BIG days & as it was a dream come true & was waiting to be part of such a blessed company. ALLAH(SWT) accepted my dua & blessed me & my wife to be in the company of such & great shaykhs .
InshaALLAH, God may bless the entire team to work more & more towards Ahele sunnat by tawassul of his beloved Prophet Mohammed(SAW).
Remember every one in your precious dua & May ALLAH(SWT) forgive us by the sadaqa of our great shaykhs.
Please keep posting about the conferences in future. as am a frequent visitor to UK..JazakALLAH Khair.
Asif :-)
India
Bangalore
Masha ALLAH its a great honor to share my thoughts here.
I am very happy to say that i was on official work in UK & got t know about the conference a month before , felt very nice after checking in website & waiting for the BIG days & as it was a dream come true & was waiting to be part of such a blessed company. ALLAH(SWT) accepted my dua & blessed me & my wife to be in the company of such & great shaykhs .
InshaALLAH, God may bless the entire team to work more & more towards Ahele sunnat by tawassul of his beloved Prophet Mohammed(SAW).
Remember every one in your precious dua & May ALLAH(SWT) forgive us by the sadaqa of our great shaykhs.
Please keep posting about the conferences in future. as am a frequent visitor to UK..JazakALLAH Khair.
Asif :-)
India
Bangalore
30
Friday, 22 Jun 2012 at 14:50
Zainab : ...
Salam, I really enjoyed the event and feel blessed to sit among sheikh's. I have two points, I know this has nothing to do with the organisers but the noise level was really dusturbing, and we have all come to listen and learn. The other is seating maybe have numbers allocated so no one can take anyone's seat... And if we over crowd then people should be happy to stand to listen to our belove sheikh. Thank you.
31
Friday, 22 Jun 2012 at 14:41
Noor Jahan: Heartfelt gratitude to the organisers!
Jazak’Allah khair! I can not but thank all those who organised such an amazing event!
It was spiritual, emotional, strengthening, beautiful, heart-warming, mind-blowing, peace-giving, problem-solving...
The combination of speakers was absolutely phenomenal from the spiritual talk by Sidi Ahmad Thompson, intellectual talk by Shaykh Adbal Hakim Murad, passionate talk by Shaykh Ninowy, fiery lecture by Shaykh Yaqoubi, youngster-relating talk by Imam Asim to the humility shown by Shaykh Pirzada who gave up his time for others.
Shaykh Pirzada just keeps on impressing, he is indeed sublime. I am amazed at how vast his literature has become. Each year I look forward to his latest released books. I purchased his latest book ‘Daughters of the Sublime Messenger’ at the Gateway and it is outstanding, it’s the first book that I have come across on this topic and is written in such a comprehensive manner.
His book ‘Human Rights in light of the Qur’aan and Sunnah’ is an incredible book which I can recommend to my non-Muslim friend. I can go on and on about his ‘Reflections’, ‘Ideal Father’ and ‘Ideal Mother’ books and the amazing ‘Sublime Messenger’ book which has been referred to as a ‘modern day Shama’il’. I was told at the book stall that there will be a complete ‘Sublime Messenger series’ with the upcoming ‘Wives of the Beloved Messenger’. I can wait for its release! I am honoured to have a complete collection of all the works of the Shaykh and though I haven’t met him many times in person, I feel like I know everything about him. I have gained immense love for him through his writing and would recommend others to read his works also. I hear that he is currently writing a commentary on Sahih al-Bukhari, is this correct? And when will the complete English of the commentary of the Qur’aan be published? I have read the first volume but the remainder are a dire need if one is to understand the true meaning of the Qur’aan.
It seems I’ve gone on a bit of a tangent whilst speaking about the Gateway event but passion leads an individual to speak from the heart. Please can those who have direct contact with the Shaykh request his duas for me.
Coming back to the Gateway, I think it is unique in every way. Organising events isn’t very difficult but organising events which leave a lasting impression is another story. It catered for a diversity of people, from youth to intellectuals…
To all the brothers and sisters who made it possible, Jazak’Allah and keep up the good work. I will eagerly anticipate, and Insha’Allah attend, next years Gateway, wherever its location may be!
It was spiritual, emotional, strengthening, beautiful, heart-warming, mind-blowing, peace-giving, problem-solving...
The combination of speakers was absolutely phenomenal from the spiritual talk by Sidi Ahmad Thompson, intellectual talk by Shaykh Adbal Hakim Murad, passionate talk by Shaykh Ninowy, fiery lecture by Shaykh Yaqoubi, youngster-relating talk by Imam Asim to the humility shown by Shaykh Pirzada who gave up his time for others.
Shaykh Pirzada just keeps on impressing, he is indeed sublime. I am amazed at how vast his literature has become. Each year I look forward to his latest released books. I purchased his latest book ‘Daughters of the Sublime Messenger’ at the Gateway and it is outstanding, it’s the first book that I have come across on this topic and is written in such a comprehensive manner.
His book ‘Human Rights in light of the Qur’aan and Sunnah’ is an incredible book which I can recommend to my non-Muslim friend. I can go on and on about his ‘Reflections’, ‘Ideal Father’ and ‘Ideal Mother’ books and the amazing ‘Sublime Messenger’ book which has been referred to as a ‘modern day Shama’il’. I was told at the book stall that there will be a complete ‘Sublime Messenger series’ with the upcoming ‘Wives of the Beloved Messenger’. I can wait for its release! I am honoured to have a complete collection of all the works of the Shaykh and though I haven’t met him many times in person, I feel like I know everything about him. I have gained immense love for him through his writing and would recommend others to read his works also. I hear that he is currently writing a commentary on Sahih al-Bukhari, is this correct? And when will the complete English of the commentary of the Qur’aan be published? I have read the first volume but the remainder are a dire need if one is to understand the true meaning of the Qur’aan.
It seems I’ve gone on a bit of a tangent whilst speaking about the Gateway event but passion leads an individual to speak from the heart. Please can those who have direct contact with the Shaykh request his duas for me.
Coming back to the Gateway, I think it is unique in every way. Organising events isn’t very difficult but organising events which leave a lasting impression is another story. It catered for a diversity of people, from youth to intellectuals…
To all the brothers and sisters who made it possible, Jazak’Allah and keep up the good work. I will eagerly anticipate, and Insha’Allah attend, next years Gateway, wherever its location may be!
32
Friday, 22 Jun 2012 at 13:13
Naz: Gateway to Divine Mercy
Masha'Allah a beautiful and very inspirational event. It was my first gateway event and thoroughly enjoyed it. Being able to be in the same room as they Shayukhs for a sister is immense blessings.
Insha'Allah Birmingham is the perfect location to hold such events as it is central in location. A larger venue insha'Allah would make it easier for all. Also during the lunch break, there were many sisters (unsure about what went on, on the brothers side) who had moved seatings and were blocking passageways. This made it difficult for sisters to come and go as they please. Also for health and safety reasons passageway should not be blocked.
It's important for all brothers and sisters attending such a large event to be considerate of others and not cause any harm or difficulty.
Also it might be a good idea to have seating numbers and tickets to be allocated a seat, this would have avoided confrontations regarding seatings.
Speakers at the back of the hall would certainly be a good idea and also instead of having a buffet meal (alhamduliah really enjoyed the food and everyone did a great job in providing us with food)a packed box might have been a easier option.
Alhamdulilah it was great and very inspirational to hear the revert sister talk about her experience but I would have prefered it if she hadn't have go on stage and spoke on a microphone from the sisters side.
A very well done to all the organisers, may Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala reward you all for your hardwork both in this life and the next.
Insha'Allah I look forward to the event next year.
Insha'Allah Birmingham is the perfect location to hold such events as it is central in location. A larger venue insha'Allah would make it easier for all. Also during the lunch break, there were many sisters (unsure about what went on, on the brothers side) who had moved seatings and were blocking passageways. This made it difficult for sisters to come and go as they please. Also for health and safety reasons passageway should not be blocked.
It's important for all brothers and sisters attending such a large event to be considerate of others and not cause any harm or difficulty.
Also it might be a good idea to have seating numbers and tickets to be allocated a seat, this would have avoided confrontations regarding seatings.
Speakers at the back of the hall would certainly be a good idea and also instead of having a buffet meal (alhamduliah really enjoyed the food and everyone did a great job in providing us with food)a packed box might have been a easier option.
Alhamdulilah it was great and very inspirational to hear the revert sister talk about her experience but I would have prefered it if she hadn't have go on stage and spoke on a microphone from the sisters side.
A very well done to all the organisers, may Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala reward you all for your hardwork both in this life and the next.
Insha'Allah I look forward to the event next year.
33
Friday, 22 Jun 2012 at 09:57
Saeed: ...
I was inspired to see so many sunni scholars together at one event. I think out of all the speeches I most benefitted from Shaykh Abdul Hakims.
"This is the age of hard hearts, what are we going to do about it?"
"This is the age of hard hearts, what are we going to do about it?"
34
Thursday, 21 Jun 2012 at 21:05
Abdullah: ...
To Brother Bilal Mahboob who said,
“I attended a few events by FOSIS (Federation of Student Islamic Societies) which in fairness appears a bigger event, scholars come from across the globe, students come across the country from different universities, the even is also typically a 2-3 day event and thus overnight accommodation is arranged. This is all arranged and organised by students, who pull all this together whilst sitting exams. Gateway should be ashamed that a bunch of students can organise an event much bigger and more complex far better than the Gateway organisers managed too.”
Brother Bilal, what you don’t clearly know that the Gateway event is helped by kids from the Al-Karam School and Students of Jamia Al-Karam from the age of 11! Not university students!! With the help of these students the Gateway has been running successfully for the past seven years. Keep in mind Shaykh Yaqoubi’s words that 7 is a number that signifies multiplicity!
Maybe you didn’t notice that at lunch time it was secondary school children who were serving at the buffet stations and it was other students who were doing a lot of running around behind the scenes. My brother in year 10 at the Al-Karam School stood at a buffet station for the good part of two hours serving people. So don’t compare to FOSIS, have respect for these passionate young kids benefitting from Jamia Al-Karam which gives them the opportunity to do such things.
I guess my brother didn’t fill your plate!
May Allah open your heart Brother Bilal.
“I attended a few events by FOSIS (Federation of Student Islamic Societies) which in fairness appears a bigger event, scholars come from across the globe, students come across the country from different universities, the even is also typically a 2-3 day event and thus overnight accommodation is arranged. This is all arranged and organised by students, who pull all this together whilst sitting exams. Gateway should be ashamed that a bunch of students can organise an event much bigger and more complex far better than the Gateway organisers managed too.”
Brother Bilal, what you don’t clearly know that the Gateway event is helped by kids from the Al-Karam School and Students of Jamia Al-Karam from the age of 11! Not university students!! With the help of these students the Gateway has been running successfully for the past seven years. Keep in mind Shaykh Yaqoubi’s words that 7 is a number that signifies multiplicity!
Maybe you didn’t notice that at lunch time it was secondary school children who were serving at the buffet stations and it was other students who were doing a lot of running around behind the scenes. My brother in year 10 at the Al-Karam School stood at a buffet station for the good part of two hours serving people. So don’t compare to FOSIS, have respect for these passionate young kids benefitting from Jamia Al-Karam which gives them the opportunity to do such things.
I guess my brother didn’t fill your plate!
May Allah open your heart Brother Bilal.
35
Thursday, 21 Jun 2012 at 21:03
Sunnidawah: GATEWAY TO DIVINE MERCY
MASHALLAH GETS BETTER AND BETTER EVERY YEAR! AMAZING EVENT!THIS EVENT NEEDS MOVE UP DOWN THE COUNTRY, GO DIFFERENT PLACES EVERY YEAR LEEDS,BRADFORD,LUTON,LONDON AND ECT. ALL READY IN THE ABOVE COMMENTS IT HAS BEEEN SAID SHOULD WNVITE ANTHA SCHOLARS LIKE SHAYKH HABIB KAZIM,SHAYKH HABIB UMAR BIN HAFIZ,SHAYKH HABIB ALI AL JIFIRI, SHAYKH HISHAM KABBANI AND SHAYKH DR THAIR UL QADRI.
NEXT ONE SHOULD BE IN DWON IN THE SOUTH, IT SHOULD BE CALLED GATE WAY TO DIVINE MERCY UNITNG FOR THE MESSENGEROF ALLAH. BIG SCHOLARS SHOULD BE INVITED LIKE SHAYKH MUHAMMAD AL YAQOUBI AGAIN AND NEW SCHOLARS LIKE HABIB KAZIM,HABIB ALI AND HABIB UMAR, HAMZA YUSUF, IMAM ZAID SHAKIR. SHOW THE OWRLD AHL SUNNAH IS UNTIED
NEXT ONE SHOULD BE IN DWON IN THE SOUTH, IT SHOULD BE CALLED GATE WAY TO DIVINE MERCY UNITNG FOR THE MESSENGEROF ALLAH. BIG SCHOLARS SHOULD BE INVITED LIKE SHAYKH MUHAMMAD AL YAQOUBI AGAIN AND NEW SCHOLARS LIKE HABIB KAZIM,HABIB ALI AND HABIB UMAR, HAMZA YUSUF, IMAM ZAID SHAKIR. SHOW THE OWRLD AHL SUNNAH IS UNTIED
36
Thursday, 21 Jun 2012 at 16:21
has: mr
Salaam I am absloutely gob smacked by the impeccable effort put in by the organisers to pull off an event of this sort and I am very thankful to all those who participated to make this event a 7th year grand slam. And to all those who are very eager in their thoughtful comments should pull off an event of the like then they are happily liable to air their recommendations to the public.
Over all though I am extremely passionate about this now established name and I am looking forward to the coming years of further success inshallah.
I was very inspired by shaykh pirzada's comment regarding his books and his students but upset to the fact that he himself did not speak. The shaykh is definitely an iconic figure for the Muslims of the UK.
I make dua that we get to see more of him.
Over all though I am extremely passionate about this now established name and I am looking forward to the coming years of further success inshallah.
I was very inspired by shaykh pirzada's comment regarding his books and his students but upset to the fact that he himself did not speak. The shaykh is definitely an iconic figure for the Muslims of the UK.
I make dua that we get to see more of him.
37
Thursday, 21 Jun 2012 at 15:53
A khan: First time experience
Subhanallah,it was a great event.I learned alot and found this experience amazing.The atmosphere was full of blessings and baraka, especially loved all the scholars.Thank you and inshahallah see you next year.
38
Thursday, 21 Jun 2012 at 13:58
khan: Gateway to devine mercy
the next event you should call Sayyidi Shaykh Hisham Kabbani, Sayyidi Habib Al Jifri,
39
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 23:36
Muslim: Muslimah
MashAllah a brilliant event people were very nice and i really enjoyed myself with my 7 month old baby.
He even enjoyed the event and he usually does not like crowds.
He even enjoyed the event and he usually does not like crowds.
40
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 21:13
Tanzil Khan: MASHALLAH - PLEASE READ FEEDBACK :)
This is the first time ive ever attended gateway , and i found it amazing + filled with barakah.These sort of events should be free so that it encourages more people to come, muslims in todays society especially youth find it hard to even go to free gatherings but when entry fee is charged it will put them off even more. Any ways i loved the talks and i would STRONGLY reccomend that next years event takes place in BIRMINGHAM at a bigger hall such as the NIA HALL IN BIRMINGHAM WHICH IS PERFECT SIZE FOR THIS SORT OF EVENT !!!!! + ALSO it would be really blessed if next year gateway could introduce additional scholers to create an even BIGGER sunni atmosphere such as the likes of shaykh habib al jifri , hamza yusuf , and more.
( I WOULD LOVE IT IF U TOOK MY IDEA FOR NEXTS YEARS VENUE INTO CONSIDERATION " THE NIA" and "THE ICC" BOTH BASED IN BIRMINGHAM which is eaier for everyone to travel to since birmingham is in the heart of england !!!
JAZAKALLAH
( I WOULD LOVE IT IF U TOOK MY IDEA FOR NEXTS YEARS VENUE INTO CONSIDERATION " THE NIA" and "THE ICC" BOTH BASED IN BIRMINGHAM which is eaier for everyone to travel to since birmingham is in the heart of england !!!
JAZAKALLAH
41
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 20:42
Shaheen: Illuminating our world
Absolutely amazing event yet again MashaAllah! I cannot express my gratitude enough. Birmingham was definitely illuminated!!! However, I have attended all previous events but I think there was far too much chatting going on towards the back of the hall this time which could have been avoided if there was some sort of a speaker system at the back also. Having stalls also delayed the preparation of the buffet so maybe this could be looked into for the next event. And for those who were overly critical, this is a non-profit organisation and can do without such comments.
42
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 18:00
Aysha Shuaib: SNM!! one in a million
it was an awsome event! my word cannot do justice to how superbly the event was run and managed by the orginiserrs. it has certinally iluminated my small world. to note i was really inspried by one of the orginisers talk namely mShaykh Baktyar and offcourse the likes of shaykh pirzada, shaykh yakubi and shyakh ninowy who smashed it :D i was a bit sad when i found out that shaykh tijani AKA Mr T couldnt make it but the great idea of the skype call was wlcked... ROLLEEY all the way from gana!! Imam Asim what should i say... Shaykh Asim is the lion of the young Scholars of this country. Cant wait till next year
NOW TO THE HATERS!!::
to all those haters out there namely MR BILAL MEHBOOB you should be ashamed of your self...what do you thinf your playing at your a discrace may Allah guide youInshallah and open your heart so you may attain the devine mercy of your lord and the rasool pbuh inshallah. and i surjest you apologice to firstly the shayukh nd the orginisers not forgetting the fellow muslims who left Illuminatined FOR YOUR SILLY COMMENT.
NOW TO THE HATERS!!::
to all those haters out there namely MR BILAL MEHBOOB you should be ashamed of your self...what do you thinf your playing at your a discrace may Allah guide youInshallah and open your heart so you may attain the devine mercy of your lord and the rasool pbuh inshallah. and i surjest you apologice to firstly the shayukh nd the orginisers not forgetting the fellow muslims who left Illuminatined FOR YOUR SILLY COMMENT.
43
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 14:50
khaled hussain: gateway 2012
AWESOME event - THANK U jaamia alkaram
44
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 14:03
Moody: I'll Be There Next Year InshAllah!
I did not have a chance to hear all of the speeches because I was in and out of the conference hall but those I did hear I thoroughly enjoyed especially Sidi Ahmad Thomson's, Shaykh Abdal Hakim's and Baktyar Pirzada's.
The food although a lesson in patience was very nice alhamdulilah. There was a lot of blessings with so many people present at the conference.
There was a diversity of stalls offering everything from sweets to Hilye frames to tea.
In all I felt it was a day full of Barakah. InshAllah I will attend next year and many years to come.
Salaams
The food although a lesson in patience was very nice alhamdulilah. There was a lot of blessings with so many people present at the conference.
There was a diversity of stalls offering everything from sweets to Hilye frames to tea.
In all I felt it was a day full of Barakah. InshAllah I will attend next year and many years to come.
Salaams
45
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 01:38
sunni: Professional Sunni
This is how the sunni scholars should organize events.
Sunnis need a professional outlook and this is a start.
Proud of sunnis for this GREAT event. cannot wait for next year.
Peace
Sunnis need a professional outlook and this is a start.
Proud of sunnis for this GREAT event. cannot wait for next year.
Peace
46
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 01:09
Brother: Mashaallahh
That was a big event, when i say big i mean Supernova scale. Shaykh after Shaykh, Nur on Nur. Looking forward to next years conference.
But the venue has to be bigger. NEC next time.
No body went for food. So food does not matter, It is the scholars and the experience that attracted the Muslims from accross the country.
when will people stop arguing about thier stomach (Peet ki puja).
But the venue has to be bigger. NEC next time.
No body went for food. So food does not matter, It is the scholars and the experience that attracted the Muslims from accross the country.
when will people stop arguing about thier stomach (Peet ki puja).
47
Wednesday, 20 Jun 2012 at 01:04
Waseem : Mr
MashAllah what a fantastic event. My first time to this event and i really enjoyed it.
The only minor issue was food and i would suggest to do a pack food next time overall it was a great event and Hats off to the organisors.
I see people vinging about food just to make you feel better my six year old didnt get any and she was still happy with it and didnt complain.
The only minor issue was food and i would suggest to do a pack food next time overall it was a great event and Hats off to the organisors.
I see people vinging about food just to make you feel better my six year old didnt get any and she was still happy with it and didnt complain.
48
Tuesday, 19 Jun 2012 at 22:42
Mohammad Ameer Ali, from Norway Oslo: Great Event
I came with a group of six brothers to Birmingham for this event, and masha'Allah it was a really good event. The speakers were amazing and mercy was showering on the event. There were some sound problems on the start, which was a bit disturbing. But overall it was a good event. It would have been nice if Imam Asim Hussain got more time :). I am looking forward to attend the event next year innsha'Allah.
49
Tuesday, 19 Jun 2012 at 22:00
Adeaq Rustam & Tayyibah Akbar: Gateway to dive mercy :)
Asalaamualaikum, the event as a whole went well and we look forward to the upcoming events as so. The Shayouks were amazing Alhumdullilah :)
50
Tuesday, 19 Jun 2012 at 21:58
Adeaq Rustam and Tayyibah Akbar : Gateway to Divine Mercy :)
Asalaamualaikum, the event went well as a whole although the capacity of people too much.. Overall the Shayoukhs Alhumdullilah were amazing :)
51
Tuesday, 19 Jun 2012 at 16:31
IF ITS NOT BROKE DONT FIX IT!!: PLS PLS PLS keep it in manchester
mashalla, thankyou for organising another gateway to devine mercy. I have been coming to these events for the last few years and have been inspired and has changed my life.
Unfortunatley I was dissapoined from the moment i arrived there as the parking was not sufficent, then the going in there was no room for my 3 children to sit or my wife or myself. then ofcourse the food belive me 3 hungry kids who were tired of standing after travling from oldham was not easy. The sound system was not up to the job, there was little space to read prayers for men and women.
I could go on....
The one and only thng i enjoyed was the blessed speakers and that is what got me through the day. pls take it back to manchester it has always been brilliant there everyting has so pls pls take it back to manchester.
Unfortunatley I was dissapoined from the moment i arrived there as the parking was not sufficent, then the going in there was no room for my 3 children to sit or my wife or myself. then ofcourse the food belive me 3 hungry kids who were tired of standing after travling from oldham was not easy. The sound system was not up to the job, there was little space to read prayers for men and women.
I could go on....
The one and only thng i enjoyed was the blessed speakers and that is what got me through the day. pls take it back to manchester it has always been brilliant there everyting has so pls pls take it back to manchester.
52
Tuesday, 19 Jun 2012 at 12:55
Madinah: Barakah-filled event
I'd like to say thanks & jazak'Allah khair to all of the organisers & volunteers. I understand that a lot of work & sacrifice of time goes into the organisation of this kind of event. May Allah reward you for making the event happen, for inviting the scholars to Birmingham & for being such generous hosts to us all. The £10 ticket price was very reasonable & it was lovely to include food in the price. The fact that more people turned up than were expected is a tribute to the event & last-minute attendees should accept some of the responsibility for the resulting overcrowding problems. The atmosphere was very warm & welcoming, despite the crowds! The volunteer sisters did their very best, mash'Allah.
I have some feedback regarding how the event might be improved in the future.
1) Volume & noise control - as others have pointed out it was almost impossible to hear Sh.A.H.Murad as he has a low voice, the sound system was inadequate & many people were talking. Organisers switched microphones half-way through his talk, but it still wasn't enough. Volunteers could perhaps have been encouraged to actively "shush" noisy people, as they were such a nuisance! And a better sound system might be an idea.
2) Arrange for packed food - I was amongst those ppl who gave up queuing for food in order to return to the talks. However, I was v. impressed by the concern of the volunteer sisters who went around the hall gathering ppl who hadn't eaten before putting away the food. Mash'Allah, may Allah bless them for their concern for their guests. Perhaps a food stall selling sandwiches etc would have helped share the burden of feeding hungry attendees.
3) Translation of Arabic & Urdu talks - it's more inclusive to provide translation for non-Arabic/Urdu speakers, especially for reverts in the audience.
4) Pls limit the time photographers spend on stage - at times they took far too long getting their shots, and they unwittingly obscured the shaykh from view of people who couldn't easily watch a screen. Very inconsiderate of them!
5) Provision of adequate prayer space for sisters
6) Include respected female scholars in the line-up please!
In response to other criticisms above:
*Segregation. I didn't feel there was need for any greater segregation. Perhaps the stalls area could have had set times for men & women because the brothers totally invaded the book stalls making it hard for a sister to get a look in! I guess the opposite was true for hijab stalls. :)
* An extra 1000 people is a lot of extra guests to look after so the resulting delays & queues are understandable. We need to take some responsibility for this as so many of us didn't plan ahead.
This was my first Gateway event - I hope to attend next year too insh'Allah.
I have some feedback regarding how the event might be improved in the future.
1) Volume & noise control - as others have pointed out it was almost impossible to hear Sh.A.H.Murad as he has a low voice, the sound system was inadequate & many people were talking. Organisers switched microphones half-way through his talk, but it still wasn't enough. Volunteers could perhaps have been encouraged to actively "shush" noisy people, as they were such a nuisance! And a better sound system might be an idea.
2) Arrange for packed food - I was amongst those ppl who gave up queuing for food in order to return to the talks. However, I was v. impressed by the concern of the volunteer sisters who went around the hall gathering ppl who hadn't eaten before putting away the food. Mash'Allah, may Allah bless them for their concern for their guests. Perhaps a food stall selling sandwiches etc would have helped share the burden of feeding hungry attendees.
3) Translation of Arabic & Urdu talks - it's more inclusive to provide translation for non-Arabic/Urdu speakers, especially for reverts in the audience.
4) Pls limit the time photographers spend on stage - at times they took far too long getting their shots, and they unwittingly obscured the shaykh from view of people who couldn't easily watch a screen. Very inconsiderate of them!
5) Provision of adequate prayer space for sisters
6) Include respected female scholars in the line-up please!
In response to other criticisms above:
*Segregation. I didn't feel there was need for any greater segregation. Perhaps the stalls area could have had set times for men & women because the brothers totally invaded the book stalls making it hard for a sister to get a look in! I guess the opposite was true for hijab stalls. :)
* An extra 1000 people is a lot of extra guests to look after so the resulting delays & queues are understandable. We need to take some responsibility for this as so many of us didn't plan ahead.
This was my first Gateway event - I hope to attend next year too insh'Allah.
53
Tuesday, 19 Jun 2012 at 12:28
Ali: Beautiful masha'allah
An amazing event ! Everything was perfect cant wait till 2013 gateway to divine mercy
54
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 23:01
Noor aala noor...: Gateway evet 2012
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahe wa barakatho,
May this find everyone who is readying this in the best of health and in the highest state of emaan, InshaAllah.
Firstly i would like to take this oppertunity to thank all those who had taken part in the gateway event. From the ones hosting the event, organisers and the Shayokhs. Allah accept the work of the noble, ameen thum ameen.
Now reading above some of the comments and reflecting over the whole event. As it is said '' Inna mal aamalon niyah'' (actions are but by your intentions, awqamqaal). Dispite the issues faced i.e the space, food and sound. I would like to remind myself first before anyone here that, our perpose of the gathering was to take heed of what the Ulema from around the world had to say. And on that i would state that, Allhu akbar! I have arranged, hosted and attended to many gatherings over the past number of years and never have been 'illuminated' by the noor of wisdom shared by the mare presence of the Ulema present late alone the enlighterning words. It was indeed a ''blessing'' as Shaykh Muhammad Yaqoubi stated.
It was an amazing feeling to be able to see and understand the true hikmah and the works of Pirzadah of al karam's dream come true.
Sadly the ummah being divided over gray matters we hardly see an international panal of Ulema travelling from across the world under the 'Ahle sunnah wal jammah'.
Me being one complaining about the about few comments which has been stated above is equally guilty, but only later realised after the apology made by the host the reason why it was the case with space etc...i put my hand on my heart and seek forgiveness for that and can say that Allah is trully taking kidmah of the deen from people like yourself.
However i can sit here looking down at that the flaws made but i will not but rather suggest that inshaAllah maybe in the gateway 2013 food could be provided in containers (this saves time and causes less mess). Also if i may also ask maybe next time have a pardah between the meen and the women (sitting area). And finally if it would be possible to ALSO make arrangments for sisters to meet the Ulema (to seek dua etc). Oh and please avoid the music played at the beginning, you will draw more people to the event that way.
Other then that, i request for duas and that Allah enables more of these gatherings to come under the one banner 'Ahle sunnah wal jammah' with all our differences.
Wa alaikum salam
May this find everyone who is readying this in the best of health and in the highest state of emaan, InshaAllah.
Firstly i would like to take this oppertunity to thank all those who had taken part in the gateway event. From the ones hosting the event, organisers and the Shayokhs. Allah accept the work of the noble, ameen thum ameen.
Now reading above some of the comments and reflecting over the whole event. As it is said '' Inna mal aamalon niyah'' (actions are but by your intentions, awqamqaal). Dispite the issues faced i.e the space, food and sound. I would like to remind myself first before anyone here that, our perpose of the gathering was to take heed of what the Ulema from around the world had to say. And on that i would state that, Allhu akbar! I have arranged, hosted and attended to many gatherings over the past number of years and never have been 'illuminated' by the noor of wisdom shared by the mare presence of the Ulema present late alone the enlighterning words. It was indeed a ''blessing'' as Shaykh Muhammad Yaqoubi stated.
It was an amazing feeling to be able to see and understand the true hikmah and the works of Pirzadah of al karam's dream come true.
Sadly the ummah being divided over gray matters we hardly see an international panal of Ulema travelling from across the world under the 'Ahle sunnah wal jammah'.
Me being one complaining about the about few comments which has been stated above is equally guilty, but only later realised after the apology made by the host the reason why it was the case with space etc...i put my hand on my heart and seek forgiveness for that and can say that Allah is trully taking kidmah of the deen from people like yourself.
However i can sit here looking down at that the flaws made but i will not but rather suggest that inshaAllah maybe in the gateway 2013 food could be provided in containers (this saves time and causes less mess). Also if i may also ask maybe next time have a pardah between the meen and the women (sitting area). And finally if it would be possible to ALSO make arrangments for sisters to meet the Ulema (to seek dua etc). Oh and please avoid the music played at the beginning, you will draw more people to the event that way.
Other then that, i request for duas and that Allah enables more of these gatherings to come under the one banner 'Ahle sunnah wal jammah' with all our differences.
Wa alaikum salam
55
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 21:58
Mohammed Yasin Yaqub: Gateway to divine mercy 2013 "the continous mercy"
Salaam 1st alhamdulilah that i have attended every gateway event and that inshahallah if I am alive next year will continue with my support of jamia al karam and this event. I think there were a few issues but some of the critisms have been harsh and unfair.
Few issues, the food didnt arrive on time and as a result the programme ran late, also inadequate seating in food area could have been resolved with everyone sitting on the floor!
There were no translaters for the arabic scholar unless like me you happen to sit next to a brother who was arab if am not mistaken, and translated every word my Allah bless him.
Seating was a problem I arrived at 11.20 and had to move 3 times also the large speakers at the front blocked the view maybe wireless next time.
But credit to pirzada sahib a gentleman scholar for giving up his time for Shaykh Muhammed Al Yaqoubi and having the vision for such an event, may the event continue and the problems get ironed out.
Jazakallah and please restart the countdown clock am lost without it
Few issues, the food didnt arrive on time and as a result the programme ran late, also inadequate seating in food area could have been resolved with everyone sitting on the floor!
There were no translaters for the arabic scholar unless like me you happen to sit next to a brother who was arab if am not mistaken, and translated every word my Allah bless him.
Seating was a problem I arrived at 11.20 and had to move 3 times also the large speakers at the front blocked the view maybe wireless next time.
But credit to pirzada sahib a gentleman scholar for giving up his time for Shaykh Muhammed Al Yaqoubi and having the vision for such an event, may the event continue and the problems get ironed out.
Jazakallah and please restart the countdown clock am lost without it
56
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 19:55
sister: ...
Wonderful event! enjoyed it very much! Fabulous guests! learned a lot from them.
May Allah reward all the organisers for a fantastic service and to keep such events going every year insha'Allah!
Such programmes are needed for the benefit of the community and appeal to all muslims and non muslims, hence the doors to divine mercy could not be closed and people kept on coming in Subhan'Allah!!!
Well done for all your efforts to serve the ummah:)
May Allah reward all the organisers for a fantastic service and to keep such events going every year insha'Allah!
Such programmes are needed for the benefit of the community and appeal to all muslims and non muslims, hence the doors to divine mercy could not be closed and people kept on coming in Subhan'Allah!!!
Well done for all your efforts to serve the ummah:)
57
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 19:46
Ibrahim Hasan: Visiting from Norway
SubhanAllah, for me this event came alive when Shaykh Muhammad Al -Yaqoubi entered the arena and ended when he left! First time I have experienced this much respect and awe in person!!! Blew me away! Alhumdulilah the other speakers were good aswell but from what I could hear and see and word on the 'street' was "when is shaykh yaqoubi coming?" now I get why they had him on last! Mistakes happen but we need to get over them!
58
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 14:43
Khurram Hussain: GATEWAY ZINDABAD!
Salaaam people,
Mashallah the event was definitely the best event I have EVER been to! Ok, there was a shortage of physical food and shortage of physical space and the hall was packed... but there was an abundance of spiritual food and spiritual space!!!
I am absolutely disgusted to hear the cheap comments by SOME people below such as "Bilal Mehboob" who SADLY is requesting a refund on his ticket (which was ONLY £10!) because there too many people and there was not enough food... you should be ashamed to ask for £10 back... I would happilly pay £50 for the Conference as it was thanks to the spiritual enlightenment that the Shuyukh and Scholars offered! Fair enough, there was a little shortfall from the organisers perspective and that was clearly - as described in the host's speech - due to the unexpected number of people coming. They had arranged for 2,200 people and 3,500 people turned up and I thank them for not closing the doors because as the host said, nobody should be turned away from the Gates of Divine Mercy!! Subhanallah! I pay tribute to Jamia Al-Karam, the organisers and especially Shaykh Imdad Peerzada who is a real gem for the Muslims in the UK as honourable Shaykh al-Yaqoubi described. THANK YOU!
Mashallah the event was definitely the best event I have EVER been to! Ok, there was a shortage of physical food and shortage of physical space and the hall was packed... but there was an abundance of spiritual food and spiritual space!!!
I am absolutely disgusted to hear the cheap comments by SOME people below such as "Bilal Mehboob" who SADLY is requesting a refund on his ticket (which was ONLY £10!) because there too many people and there was not enough food... you should be ashamed to ask for £10 back... I would happilly pay £50 for the Conference as it was thanks to the spiritual enlightenment that the Shuyukh and Scholars offered! Fair enough, there was a little shortfall from the organisers perspective and that was clearly - as described in the host's speech - due to the unexpected number of people coming. They had arranged for 2,200 people and 3,500 people turned up and I thank them for not closing the doors because as the host said, nobody should be turned away from the Gates of Divine Mercy!! Subhanallah! I pay tribute to Jamia Al-Karam, the organisers and especially Shaykh Imdad Peerzada who is a real gem for the Muslims in the UK as honourable Shaykh al-Yaqoubi described. THANK YOU!
59
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 14:34
farah: Mash'Allah
Subhan'Allah it is now 3 days after the event took place, yet i still can not get over it i was such a beautiful spiritually uplifting gathering that i can not explain in words, we had something so great, amazing sheikhs all under one roof and talks may Allah swt grant all your efforts nd cant wait for next years event xx
60
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 14:27
Kaiser : Ch.
Fantastic people brought in for speeches. However, for me personally, just seeing Shaikh Mohammed Al-Yaqouby live in person was sufficient.
Please, please, please organisers become the best organisers as possibly as you can. Birmingham is a big city; food is everywhere; so as far as I am concerned there should not have been any delay in regards to getting your hands on food and bringing it in. If the Wahabis knew how poorly the seating and food arrangements were made, they would have a field day; in their eyes we are alredy inferiors and misguided so please, please, please for next year do everything to the finest detail - so that everyone goes home physically (full stomach) and spiritually enriched.
In addition, I would suggest in order to stop people from talking during speeches, to have representatives in all four corners of the hall who would tell groups to hush.
You have got to get things better next year; start your planning now.
I love the Ahle-Bait and the Ahle-Sunnah-Wal-Jamaat. Islam, Zindabad.
Please, please, please organisers become the best organisers as possibly as you can. Birmingham is a big city; food is everywhere; so as far as I am concerned there should not have been any delay in regards to getting your hands on food and bringing it in. If the Wahabis knew how poorly the seating and food arrangements were made, they would have a field day; in their eyes we are alredy inferiors and misguided so please, please, please for next year do everything to the finest detail - so that everyone goes home physically (full stomach) and spiritually enriched.
In addition, I would suggest in order to stop people from talking during speeches, to have representatives in all four corners of the hall who would tell groups to hush.
You have got to get things better next year; start your planning now.
I love the Ahle-Bait and the Ahle-Sunnah-Wal-Jamaat. Islam, Zindabad.
61
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 13:34
Traveller: 2012 event
We travelled from far to see this event and I must say that the event itself was not organised properly. First of all as stated it was advertised that there would be a free buffet and that certainly was not the case. In fact when they announced that the middle section can go have food we went through to the hall where the food was supposed to be served. After waiting and waiting for hours for food that never came nor did a buffet we looked around and saw packs of people crowding. We then found out that this is where the que is. In fact it wasn't a que at all it was just packs of people who wanted to get to the food as soon as possible.
I must say this in such a big event the organisers should at least have made sure that people who came to the event where going to get food on time. I went to get food at 2.30pm approx. and ended up almost getting that annoyed that I was going to walk out without eating.
I think this criticism should be used to improve future events and the organisers should use this to know where they went wrong. The organizers need to understand that people like myself have spent hundreds of pounds just to go and see such an event. Organization should be such that people attending know what is happening and it I would not have had a gripe even if they had said food was not provided. At least we would have known this and could then have arranged food.
I must say this in such a big event the organisers should at least have made sure that people who came to the event where going to get food on time. I went to get food at 2.30pm approx. and ended up almost getting that annoyed that I was going to walk out without eating.
I think this criticism should be used to improve future events and the organisers should use this to know where they went wrong. The organizers need to understand that people like myself have spent hundreds of pounds just to go and see such an event. Organization should be such that people attending know what is happening and it I would not have had a gripe even if they had said food was not provided. At least we would have known this and could then have arranged food.
62
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 11:38
Mohammed: ...
Worst event so far had been told to move my seat 3 times. Could not hear the speeches properly due to the speakers. Also the food was delayed and there was not enough chairs to sit on in the food area. There were too many people and less chairs and you did not even get a proper trailer out so i knew that it was gonna be a disappointment. If you want more people to attend could you get bigger and better venue because i think that not many people would like to come back to this venue i for one dont
63
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 11:21
Hussain Bradford :): I LOVED IT
It was brilliant the sheikhs gave me Goosebumps lol :) but the only down side was the talking which was very rude amongst the audiences. But the occurrence of this variable was not the organisations fault but our own, My Allah forgive us. But one suggestion of intervention, to reduce the noise levels, next time would be to apply an age restriction to the audiences as babies cry a lot and is very distracting and alternatively ask those who are talking to please leave.
May Allah reward you for bringing such an event to existence :)
AMEEN
64
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 11:14
Pinar: Ms.
I enjoyed the speeches of the scholars and the nasheeds at this conference. However it was not well prepared and implemented. Firstly, there was no printed conference program, which made it impossible to know who was going to speak when, when there would be breaks, etc. A conference without a printed program is a stupid idea. Secondly, the number of tickets sold was much greater than the capacity of that hall. As a result the place was too crowded and there were long queues for everything. This is a health and safety risk and should not be repeated. Thirdly, the food was about an hour late and this meant the break for lunch took forever. This was not professional. In the end my friend’s family bought food from outside and so I gave up waiting in the queue. Fourth, there should have been consecutive translation for the speeches in Arabic. Most people did not understand what was being said. Fifth, the area for prayer (for women) was not sufficient and it should have been much better organized. Finally the man who spoke on behalf of the organization towards the end said he would speak briefly and took 15-20 minutes and he kept shouting. It was so loud that I had to cover my ears. He seemed to conclude that the conference was a success because it was so crowded. It was so crowded because the organizers did not know anything about organizing. I could not believe that he said this was the 7th time they were doing this. It looked like your very first conference. Then he kept advertising Al-Azhar University. Al-Azhar is a world famous institution, it does not need your advertising. Shouting like that is rude and congratulating yourself for a badly organized “conference” is ridiculous. I will avoid all of your future “conferences”.
65
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 01:45
Mohammed Ibn Zahid: ...
Thank you for organising such a great event for us. It was absolutely amazing. The speeches were all amazing and it was an honour to spend a day with such great Ullema and my fellow brothers and sisters. Yes the food may have been delayed but alhamdulillah we got something. Besides if anyone went for the food then I think the 10pound would have been better spend at a restaurant. We all got spiritual food and healing and that's what matters. One of the organisers, vice-principal of Jamia Alkaram i believe, mentioned that they expected 2000-2200 but got 3500 instead! I think that is great and they did a very compassionate thing for not denying anyone entry. After all, everyone has the right to divine mercy right? I hope to come again next year inshaALLAH and props to the organisers for everything and for trying your best to keep the event running smoothly, despite the setbacks (delay in food and 1000 extra people turning up). It's not easy to pull off an event like this without big financial backing and what not, so Well done.
Ma Salaam
Mohammed
Ma Salaam
Mohammed
66
Monday, 18 Jun 2012 at 00:45
Mahmood (Norway): BLESSED SUHBA!
Jazak'Allah kheir for giving us the opportunity to be in the company of big personalities, alhamdulillah. May Allah swt reward all the organiser and speakers.
67
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 23:55
Sidra Begum: Mrs
I absolutely Loved the event and Inshallah will make an effort to attend the next years event. I just wanted to say thankyou so much for a wonderful day to allow us to meet some the most blessed and noble people of our time. As only by sitting in thier presence may we be able to become more close to Allah (swt) and His messenger Muhammed (saw). Inshallah next year the small issues will be made better. I also would like to mention that the people who attended this even and felt the need to speak whilst such amazing speakers, shayks, scholars and imams were present. Not allowing others to hear the uplifting messages they had for everyone. Please can you not attend such events to ruin it for others. I was sitting there and I found it so unbelievable that people could speak in the presence of such an amazing event that has been taking such effort to be arranged for us. Please have some courtesy and go have your little chats outside the hall where the stalls are and not ruin it for others.
Anyway i send all my love and appreciation to the organisers of this event.
Jazakallah khair
Anyway i send all my love and appreciation to the organisers of this event.
Jazakallah khair
68
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 23:39
Abdullah : GV2DM
Assallamullakum
Overall it was a good event . However there were too many people engaging in their own cheap conversations whilst the Ulema were on the mic this adaab really disgusted me and I suppose it represented the overall state of our Sunni youth.
I would like the organizers in the future put signs up stating strictly no talking in the hall and remove people from the premises if they continue to talk.
SEGREGATION
I feel Bro / sis should have been properly segregated with a board running in between as a minimum requirement and if a venue allows separate entrances
I don't think the organizers are sincere and were not profit orientated but had good intentions and although seating was an
issue they couldn't possibly not allow people entry who have traveled 100s of miles. In order to avoid this over crowding tickets should be limited and only brought online to avoid any disappointment.
May Allah have Mercy upon us all.
Overall it was a good event . However there were too many people engaging in their own cheap conversations whilst the Ulema were on the mic this adaab really disgusted me and I suppose it represented the overall state of our Sunni youth.
I would like the organizers in the future put signs up stating strictly no talking in the hall and remove people from the premises if they continue to talk.
SEGREGATION
I feel Bro / sis should have been properly segregated with a board running in between as a minimum requirement and if a venue allows separate entrances
I don't think the organizers are sincere and were not profit orientated but had good intentions and although seating was an
issue they couldn't possibly not allow people entry who have traveled 100s of miles. In order to avoid this over crowding tickets should be limited and only brought online to avoid any disappointment.
May Allah have Mercy upon us all.
69
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 23:05
Halima: feedback
I would like to congratulate the team for all their efforts masha Allah it was a beautiful event, it was my first time attending and I have no regrets I look forward to the next event insha Allah. One point I would like to make is if the segregation could be more organised next time insha Allah and in terms of filming I don't agree with the camera team filming sisters.
70
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 22:35
Qur tul Ayan: ...
MashaAllah it was a very historic event, and very nice to see such a large turn out. Indeed a great honour to be blessed by so many of the sadaat and mashaykh. I would like to make the following points
With venue not being a mosque this is very difficult but separate entrance for sisters would be really appreciated. As clearly even though not intentional there was some free mixing very awkward
The delay in food arriving wasn’t intentional but the small amount of area for eating was. Even after having to queue for so long, not being able to sit down to eat properly wasn’t quite disappointing
Also would be very nice to have the full Arabic speeches translated there and then.
I know time was very short but I really felt let down Pirzada sahib didn’t do a speech; as his speech are so spiritual one can clearly see he is speaking from his heart, and every single one of his words eats nothing but the hearts of the listeners. I am sure I am not the only one who was eagerly waiting for his speech.
Hope I haven’t caused any offence to anyone, and I hope my feedback as well as all other feedback is taken on board. JazakAllah Khair
With venue not being a mosque this is very difficult but separate entrance for sisters would be really appreciated. As clearly even though not intentional there was some free mixing very awkward
The delay in food arriving wasn’t intentional but the small amount of area for eating was. Even after having to queue for so long, not being able to sit down to eat properly wasn’t quite disappointing
Also would be very nice to have the full Arabic speeches translated there and then.
I know time was very short but I really felt let down Pirzada sahib didn’t do a speech; as his speech are so spiritual one can clearly see he is speaking from his heart, and every single one of his words eats nothing but the hearts of the listeners. I am sure I am not the only one who was eagerly waiting for his speech.
Hope I haven’t caused any offence to anyone, and I hope my feedback as well as all other feedback is taken on board. JazakAllah Khair
71
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 22:12
Bilal Mehboob: Gateway 2012 - Birmingham
Sallam,
Yesterday I attended the Gateway event in Birmingham. I have to say I was extremely disappointed. It helt that the organisers were more concerned with making money than ensuring a positive and rewarding experience to the attendees, some of whom had come from far across the country.
I have listed my points below:
1. The host made a comment at a few points throughout the day that the venue was at its full capacity and that there were not enough seats. Yet, I saw myself at 2.45 people being sold tickets at the door. If there were not enough seats why were more tickets sold? This is unfair on both those who had paid in advance and those who were paying on the door.
2. The advertisement said free parking and buffet - there was not sufficient parking and there was definitely not a buffet. The definitition of buffet is where people serve themselves and can decide on the quantities they want. Yet this was clearly not the case. My bug bear is not with that there was no buffet or that there was not enough food, but rather the fact that your advertisement promised one thing yet you delivered another. As muslims, false promises should not be made and breaking promises is said to be an attribute of hypocrisy in Islam.
3. Throughout the day the host asked people not to talk, yet enough wasn't done to stop people talking, they should have either been sent out or been asked to leave completely. I also found that many people came in groups which exacerbated this situation. The chairs should have been organised in columns of 4-5 to prevent large groups from getting together and chatting, and this would have made it easier for people to sit down in chairs also.
4. Difficulty in hearing Shaikh Abdul Hakim Murad's talk - it was nigh on impossible to hear, I literally could not make out a single word. Again, the organisers should invest in better equipement
5. There was not enough space to pray, and the time of prayer should have been prompt. Why did we delay the prayer? Also, there was not enough space. Instead of trying to make money and sell space for stalls why didnt you set up space to pray in the back (it would have been of better quality floors also as this is a venue where people drink alcohol at weddings etc, and thus inevitablty some spills on the floors). The other option would have been to set up more space in the hall and have less chairs, and I understand profit has to be made but I would have happily paid £20 to a better organised event.
6. Wudu facilities were very poor, I appreciate that this venue is not specifically designed for making wudu, but people should have been attending in the toilets to make sure they were clean etc, if someone had fallen and hurt themselves (due to excessive water falling on the floor) you would have been liabile to litigation.
Due to these above points, the false promises and the poor and insufficient facilities, I would appreciate if my ticket and my wife's ticket were refunded (If you let me know the details you need for this I will pass it on). I have never been so disappointed. As Muslims we should have pride in what we do this was clearly not the case yesterday.
I attended a few events by FOSIS (Federation of Student Islamic Societies) which in fairness appears a bigger event, scholars come from across the globe, students come across the country from different universities, the even is also typically a 2-3 day event and thus overnight accommodation is arranged. This is all arranged and organised by students, who pull all this together whilst sitting exams. Gateway should be ashamed that a bunch of students can organise an event much bigger and more complex far better than the Gateway organisers managed too.
I have also made the above points on your website, but apparently all comments have to be reviewed so I am guessing they will not appear due to not wanting to cash bad light on the event, however I will be communicating the Worldwide Association of Al-Azhari scholars to let them now what they are being associated with, and inevitably my friends and families.
I look forward to hearing from you,
Sallam
Bilal
Yesterday I attended the Gateway event in Birmingham. I have to say I was extremely disappointed. It helt that the organisers were more concerned with making money than ensuring a positive and rewarding experience to the attendees, some of whom had come from far across the country.
I have listed my points below:
1. The host made a comment at a few points throughout the day that the venue was at its full capacity and that there were not enough seats. Yet, I saw myself at 2.45 people being sold tickets at the door. If there were not enough seats why were more tickets sold? This is unfair on both those who had paid in advance and those who were paying on the door.
2. The advertisement said free parking and buffet - there was not sufficient parking and there was definitely not a buffet. The definitition of buffet is where people serve themselves and can decide on the quantities they want. Yet this was clearly not the case. My bug bear is not with that there was no buffet or that there was not enough food, but rather the fact that your advertisement promised one thing yet you delivered another. As muslims, false promises should not be made and breaking promises is said to be an attribute of hypocrisy in Islam.
3. Throughout the day the host asked people not to talk, yet enough wasn't done to stop people talking, they should have either been sent out or been asked to leave completely. I also found that many people came in groups which exacerbated this situation. The chairs should have been organised in columns of 4-5 to prevent large groups from getting together and chatting, and this would have made it easier for people to sit down in chairs also.
4. Difficulty in hearing Shaikh Abdul Hakim Murad's talk - it was nigh on impossible to hear, I literally could not make out a single word. Again, the organisers should invest in better equipement
5. There was not enough space to pray, and the time of prayer should have been prompt. Why did we delay the prayer? Also, there was not enough space. Instead of trying to make money and sell space for stalls why didnt you set up space to pray in the back (it would have been of better quality floors also as this is a venue where people drink alcohol at weddings etc, and thus inevitablty some spills on the floors). The other option would have been to set up more space in the hall and have less chairs, and I understand profit has to be made but I would have happily paid £20 to a better organised event.
6. Wudu facilities were very poor, I appreciate that this venue is not specifically designed for making wudu, but people should have been attending in the toilets to make sure they were clean etc, if someone had fallen and hurt themselves (due to excessive water falling on the floor) you would have been liabile to litigation.
Due to these above points, the false promises and the poor and insufficient facilities, I would appreciate if my ticket and my wife's ticket were refunded (If you let me know the details you need for this I will pass it on). I have never been so disappointed. As Muslims we should have pride in what we do this was clearly not the case yesterday.
I attended a few events by FOSIS (Federation of Student Islamic Societies) which in fairness appears a bigger event, scholars come from across the globe, students come across the country from different universities, the even is also typically a 2-3 day event and thus overnight accommodation is arranged. This is all arranged and organised by students, who pull all this together whilst sitting exams. Gateway should be ashamed that a bunch of students can organise an event much bigger and more complex far better than the Gateway organisers managed too.
I have also made the above points on your website, but apparently all comments have to be reviewed so I am guessing they will not appear due to not wanting to cash bad light on the event, however I will be communicating the Worldwide Association of Al-Azhari scholars to let them now what they are being associated with, and inevitably my friends and families.
I look forward to hearing from you,
Sallam
Bilal
72
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 21:43
Sajida: Dr
MashAllah, an excellent evnet; definietly worth the journey down from Manchester. Although it's a shame Manchester didn't have the honour of hosting such a blessed event! Will there be any access to the lectures on the website - I want to show friends and family who missed it and inshAllah show them they need to go next year!
73
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 20:06
Naila: ...
great event overall. a few improvements required to make it perfect, wont go through them as theyve been reiterated by people here already. this may sound like a burden because no doubt such events take a lot of time, preparation and money but if it was possible to do more events like this on a small scale throughout the year that would be very beneficial. and doing it in different cities would lead to more recognition and hence more following. the talks and books of the other scholars should be made available at stalls. definitely agree with the comment about more female speakers!!
74
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 19:02
barkaat: ...
Mashaallah what a wonderful event i loved every single second of it.Shaykh yaqobi, shaykh ninowy, shakyh abdul hakim murad and ima asim smashed it. hopefully next year it will be in birmingham and i hope to see all the shaykh there!
ps. the only downside was the seating as many men took peoples seat even if they had their personal belongings there also the food causea lot if disturbance as many of the brothers dind't eat.
overall a wonderful event and i will be attneding next year!!
(hopefully it will be in birmingham next year)
ps. the only downside was the seating as many men took peoples seat even if they had their personal belongings there also the food causea lot if disturbance as many of the brothers dind't eat.
overall a wonderful event and i will be attneding next year!!
(hopefully it will be in birmingham next year)
75
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 18:56
Asif Hussain: Mr
Salaam Alaikum,
I attended the conference for the first time and MashAllah I really enjoyed the event, the Scholars were amazing. The Recitation by Sheikh Yasir Abdul Basit was beautiful and the speeches by Shaykh Al-Ninowy and Imam Asim were very beneficial, but the highlight of the evening for me was the speech by Shaykh al-Sayyid Muhammad al-Yaqoubi (the main reason for me attending was to hear this great Shaykh in person). May Allah (SWT) bless our Honorable Shaykh with a long life, Ameen.
If I could offer any constructive feedback for future events, it would the following:
1). During the morning session I was particularly annoyed at the noise levels and chatting when Shaykh Abdal-Hakim Murad were delivering their speech, I found this very rude and disrespectful to the Shaykh and I felt I was not fully able to benefit from their talk as I couldn't hear due to the noise levels. Now I fully understand that this is no fault of the organisers as the brothers introducing the speakers made several pleas with the audience to keep noise levels down, but I feel this point needs raising as we need to show more adab.
2). Secondly, I think in future years it would be good if food could be available through the day so people can purchase the food as and when i required. Personally I wasn't bothered with food being available as I was more interested in securing a good seat to listen to the Shaykhs (sorry if this sounds selfish).
My apologies for raising the above points and please forgive me if I have said anything untoward, overall the conference was very enjoyable and May Allah (SWT) bless Shaykh Pirzada Sahib with good health and a long life for organising such a wonderful event.
I attended the conference for the first time and MashAllah I really enjoyed the event, the Scholars were amazing. The Recitation by Sheikh Yasir Abdul Basit was beautiful and the speeches by Shaykh Al-Ninowy and Imam Asim were very beneficial, but the highlight of the evening for me was the speech by Shaykh al-Sayyid Muhammad al-Yaqoubi (the main reason for me attending was to hear this great Shaykh in person). May Allah (SWT) bless our Honorable Shaykh with a long life, Ameen.
If I could offer any constructive feedback for future events, it would the following:
1). During the morning session I was particularly annoyed at the noise levels and chatting when Shaykh Abdal-Hakim Murad were delivering their speech, I found this very rude and disrespectful to the Shaykh and I felt I was not fully able to benefit from their talk as I couldn't hear due to the noise levels. Now I fully understand that this is no fault of the organisers as the brothers introducing the speakers made several pleas with the audience to keep noise levels down, but I feel this point needs raising as we need to show more adab.
2). Secondly, I think in future years it would be good if food could be available through the day so people can purchase the food as and when i required. Personally I wasn't bothered with food being available as I was more interested in securing a good seat to listen to the Shaykhs (sorry if this sounds selfish).
My apologies for raising the above points and please forgive me if I have said anything untoward, overall the conference was very enjoyable and May Allah (SWT) bless Shaykh Pirzada Sahib with good health and a long life for organising such a wonderful event.
76
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 17:04
aishah: gateway to divine mercy
mashallah was perfect and inspiring inshallah it will continue on for many more years to come
77
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 16:20
Mariam (Oldham): GATEWAY TO DIVINE MERCY 2012 - ILLUMINATING OUR WORLD!
The Gateway to divine mercy is and was truly a beautiful event full of mercy and blessing upon the Muslim Ummaah. Being in the presence of the great scholars and shuyuks of islam was an amazing feeling of peace and blessing. The highly hourable, respectful, knowledgeable and humble Shaykh Muhammed al Yaqoubi and Shaykh Muhammed al Ninowy spoke the pearls of inspiration for the youth present and illuminated our hearts with the love of The Prophet Muhammed (Salallahu Alai'hi Wa' Alihi Wasallam). Beautiful spech by the inspirational Asim Hussain and the hounourable imam of masjid e Aqsa. Jazak Allah to all the great honourable and full of wisdom scholors of Islam who enlightened the event with their presence. Their speech touched the heart of the Muslim Ummah and filled eyes with tears of love. Moreover Jazak Allah to The Head and Chairman of Jamia al Karam, Muhammed Imdad Hussain Pirzada for holding such a blessed event to help unite individuals from the Muslim Ummah.
Subhanallah a blessed and merciful event..
Jazak Allah to all the brothers and sisters who have been busy organising the event. You all did a superb job mashallah
Hope to meet you all the the Gateway to Divine Mercy 2013 inshallah
Subhanallah a blessed and merciful event..
Jazak Allah to all the brothers and sisters who have been busy organising the event. You all did a superb job mashallah
Hope to meet you all the the Gateway to Divine Mercy 2013 inshallah
78
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 15:11
Sajjad Raja: ...
Salaam,
This was my first attendance to this event and the experience went beyond my expectations . I thoroughly enjoyed the event and was humbled to see and hear many distinguished speakers.
The highlight for me was Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi and Shaykh Muhammad al-Ninowy whom I was really wanted to see.
Overall well organized but MUST not have a repeat of having many people having to resort to standing or sitting on the floor.
Inshallah may Allah give me the opportunity to attend next year.
This was my first attendance to this event and the experience went beyond my expectations . I thoroughly enjoyed the event and was humbled to see and hear many distinguished speakers.
The highlight for me was Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi and Shaykh Muhammad al-Ninowy whom I was really wanted to see.
Overall well organized but MUST not have a repeat of having many people having to resort to standing or sitting on the floor.
Inshallah may Allah give me the opportunity to attend next year.
79
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 15:09
assam hussain: gtdm
alhamdullillah was a great event, all speeches went well and nasheeds may allah bless and reward all the scholars, everyone involved and the organisers as well as everyone who helped spread the message of the event and did dawah.only downside was the poor timing and organisation regarding the food being served i dont want to complain but it has to be said as many brothers and sisters did not get a chance to eat due to queing and it wasnt even a queue but people crowding around congestion more like, one brother i spoke to had been waiting up to an hour or more before he got any food another buzulgh(old man) was waiting for longer around 2 hours, and others only god knows. me myself waited probably around 45 mins to an hour all this of course after the half hour delay anyway. which delayed the time the event ended and when scholars were supposed to speak.
i think this could have been avoided if like in other events food is served throughout the day and people are seated on the floor so its more organised and it can be served. or on tables and similarly food is served in an organised manner. because this was a failure and the best example of unorganisation. sorry to be harsh wasalam
i think this could have been avoided if like in other events food is served throughout the day and people are seated on the floor so its more organised and it can be served. or on tables and similarly food is served in an organised manner. because this was a failure and the best example of unorganisation. sorry to be harsh wasalam
80
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 14:40
zifeera: Gateway to devine mercy
This was the bEst event ever!
Cant wait for next year
Cant wait for next year
82
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 14:15
Jamil: ...
Good event, I'm glad the door was opened to allow more people in. It was slightly spoiled by people talking whilst the speeches were on and also the rubbish people left behind. Please brothers and sisters make sure you pick up your rubbish at the end. Wasalam
83
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 14:07
salman khan chishti: GATEWAY TO DIVINE MERCY
My 6th time to this event and MashAllah it was brilliant and at times brought tears to my eyes as I heard some of the scholars enlighten us with their words of wisdom. May Allah (SWT) bless all those who helped organise this event and those who attended. AMEEN ♥
Did not get to the food due to big rush but was not bothered as gained plenty of spiritual food!!! I would like to make suggestion that in future years the food is packed into a container and given out. This would make it quicker than having to queue and then someone fill your plate with rice which takes time.
Anyhow I would like to say big Thank You to the scholars and staff/helpers at Jamia Al-Karam as thoroughly enjoyed it. My only regret was that I had to go home as I wanted it to last forever.
Thanks to My two fathers and teachers for the meal. I serious feel into tears in the car. But inshallah meet you all on urs. Ameen.
Did not get to the food due to big rush but was not bothered as gained plenty of spiritual food!!! I would like to make suggestion that in future years the food is packed into a container and given out. This would make it quicker than having to queue and then someone fill your plate with rice which takes time.
Anyhow I would like to say big Thank You to the scholars and staff/helpers at Jamia Al-Karam as thoroughly enjoyed it. My only regret was that I had to go home as I wanted it to last forever.
Thanks to My two fathers and teachers for the meal. I serious feel into tears in the car. But inshallah meet you all on urs. Ameen.
84
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 13:22
Naeema: ...
some good talks, hopefully it will be better organised next year, especially in terms of the food, its a good idea to give it packed. hope we can see more female scholars!! as well as younger scholars. the youth need to see more role models their age to be inspired.
would also be great to get the likes of habib ali and hamza yusuf on board!
would also be great to get the likes of habib ali and hamza yusuf on board!
85
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 12:58
Aneesa Hussain : Alhamdulilah! Amazing ! :)
Words cannot express the experience, I loved it Alhamdulillah :) the final Sheikh Sayyid Muhammad Al-Yaqoubi, may Allah bless them, really opened my eyes. When we are in such a beautiful environment with the presence of such beautiful people, that have devoted their entire lives to serving Islam, we shouldn’t pay attention to the slightest errors that have occurred in the event such as the food served :)
Also seeing the capacity of sisters really made me Happy, Alhamdulillah :)
2013 here I come...
Also seeing the capacity of sisters really made me Happy, Alhamdulillah :)
2013 here I come...
86
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 12:43
Mohammed Hassan: Beautiful Mashallah
Mashallah beautiful event indeed and may allah give imdad hussain pirzada saab long life for giving their time to shaykh mohammed al yaquobi shaykh mohammed al yaquobi was looking beautiful was speaking beautiful and having the chance to meet them was beautiful. Inshallah next year bradford please. Room for improvement will only be seats. For example having the names on the seat for example a sticket on it with name will definietly help in that way nobody will pinch the seats inshallah lol.
87
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 12:07
Tanzeela: ...
Mashallah!! It was truly a great experience and I have learnt a lot from the Shayukhs that were present. However on the downside , I think children under the age of 10 shouldn't be allowed to attend such events because it was hard for us ladies to listen to what was being said and concentrate as children were screaming , crying and one child was unwell and was vomiting. I understand that most women wouldn't be able to attend without bringing their children but this is a personal opinion of mine. Also , this was the first time that G2DM was being held in my hometown Birmingham and I have to say it was amazing. Inshallah it will be held here next year to and I look forward to meeting everyone again. Jazakallah Khair. P.S. Imam Asim Hussain "smashed it"
88
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 11:31
zenat: mrs
Allahmdulillah what a beautiful event very spiritually uplifting. Amazing atomosphere only dowmside was the level of rubbish our muslim bothers and sisters leave behind. What impression are we giving of ourselves to non muslims who are cleaning up after. Also the sound on the microphones was a bit echoey at the beginning but got better after and i would have to agree packed food should be served to all whilst they were sitting so less time was wasted with serving food. Overall a very good event and a big thank you to all the volunteers who worked very hard. Inshallah look forward to next year.
91
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 09:19
Teahleel: ...
Salaam. This was the best Islamic event I have been to. May Allah bless those who helped. It was an brilliant event. I would like to thanks all the scholars for their words of wisdom. The service was excellent and I loved the talks.
92
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 08:53
Asif: Mr
Salaams
My first Gateway and what can i say but an amazing experience! An absolutely
amazing line up of scolars! I hope this event is permamently based in Birmingham from now on and why not hold it over two days??
My first Gateway and what can i say but an amazing experience! An absolutely
amazing line up of scolars! I hope this event is permamently based in Birmingham from now on and why not hold it over two days??
93
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 08:10
Aisha Ali: Gateway to divine mercy
Subhan'allah! What a fantastic event this was, all the sheikhs were very inspiring and it was my birthday today and i think this event by far was the best birthday gift anyone could ever b given :) Mash'allah it was beautiful, a night to remember and never b forgotten! :)
94
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 00:52
Haleema Ghafar: Bringing Peace
Salaam.
Just got back to my hometown of Swindon and i must say the Gateway To Divine Mercy it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Despite being severely stressed about current A-Level exams going on, this event brought peace and tranquility to my heart and was a reminder that what ever comes is a mercy and a Gift from Allah. And .thanks to this event I got to speak to some of the most amazing scholars and attain there dua's and blessings.
Thank you so much for all the organizers for such a blessed opportunity, i never thought in a million years i will ever have. Really can not wait for next years.
May Allah shower you with blessings and reward you for your hard work ameen.
Wasalaam.
Just got back to my hometown of Swindon and i must say the Gateway To Divine Mercy it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Despite being severely stressed about current A-Level exams going on, this event brought peace and tranquility to my heart and was a reminder that what ever comes is a mercy and a Gift from Allah. And .thanks to this event I got to speak to some of the most amazing scholars and attain there dua's and blessings.
Thank you so much for all the organizers for such a blessed opportunity, i never thought in a million years i will ever have. Really can not wait for next years.
May Allah shower you with blessings and reward you for your hard work ameen.
Wasalaam.
95
Sunday, 17 Jun 2012 at 00:29
Imran: Mr
My first time to this event and MashAllah it was brilliant and at times brought tears to my eyes as I heard some of the scholars enlighten us with their words of wisdom. May Allah (SWT) bless all those who helped organise this event and those who attended.
Did not get to the food due to big rush but was not bothered as gained plenty of spiritual food!!! I would like to make suggestion that in future years the food is packed into a container and given out. This would make it quicker than having to queue and then someone fill your plate with rice which takes time.
Anyhow I would like to say big Thank You to the scholars and staff/helpers at Jamia Al-Karam as thoroughly enjoyed it. My only regret was that I had not attended this blessed event the past 6 years!
Did not get to the food due to big rush but was not bothered as gained plenty of spiritual food!!! I would like to make suggestion that in future years the food is packed into a container and given out. This would make it quicker than having to queue and then someone fill your plate with rice which takes time.
Anyhow I would like to say big Thank You to the scholars and staff/helpers at Jamia Al-Karam as thoroughly enjoyed it. My only regret was that I had not attended this blessed event the past 6 years!
96
Saturday, 16 Jun 2012 at 23:01
Anisha Kausar: GATEWAY TO DIVINE MERCY!
MashALlah such a great event. thanks to everyone who helped organise this amazing experience. everyone who came from worcester really enjoyed this experience and we hope to come again next year InshAllah! Great speech given by Imam Asim Hussain and other scholars. Mashallah you have organised everything so well, we hope next time even more muslim brothers and sisters come and experience this event. the one story i found really touching was when the revert came onto stage and told us all about hhow Imam Asim Hussain inspired her into Islam and how her story began. inshAllah We shall see you all next year .
97
Saturday, 16 Jun 2012 at 21:30
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