I know this is posted late but you have a great presentation very educational and informed.
I respect that being very impassioned with your views your able to be calm and persuasive. Your willingness to look at the whole picture taught me tonight.
Thank you very much for sharing yourself and views.
I need to know this:who told US media that Rania speaks for Muslim women of the world?
Rania wields an important and destructive political role,as she wants to build a fortune in at least 2ways:1)she registers state lands in the king's name,&then sells them at high prices and pockets the money;2)she has entered into business with Baha' Hariri in Jordan(sources say the Hariris paid Rania anywhere between $75-400 million.This about a kingdom that was created by the fountain pen of Churchill
yup, human being she is, but she is ALSO the Queen of Jordan. THAT'S why she should be addressed that way! Out of respect for her title, or maybe you don't understand the concept of respect!
I seriously agree with that, in fact I was gonna say the exact same thing. "Hey Rania??" Who is Rania, your girlfriend? Jeeeezz, there's something called etiquette, and it would be appropriate to respect titles of people. Well this is what you get with the internet.. "Hey Rania! WTF Rania? You suck Rania!"
yes , No society is perfect as you say, but what is shown in the media is only the negative part of this society PLUS amplifeing this part few thousands times . so it is wise to show the world what is the true arab world .
And Rania did not say that this world is perfect .
Most of what we hear about the middle east is negative, do you not agree that we should also be shown some positive aspects. No society is perfect as you say, neither is America, so let them show their good side as well, we know all about their negative sides (or at least what the western world considers negative)
there is nothign wrong with discussing the negative aspects.. but we dont have to do that everytime we bring up the word muslim or arab. This is about stereotypes!
there is nothign wrong with discussing the negative aspects.. but we dont have to do that everytime we bring up the word muslim or arab. This is about stereotypes!
someone who is trying to look at the positive rather than the negative side..why not? do we always have to focus on whats wrong? i think the west have done a pretty good job on that.. we can now learn to love our selves and love who we are
i agree that the we should not ignore the current problems in our region but thats our problem and no one else's. if we are to discuss the negative aspects of this, then we should do it with other arabs and muslims and not europeans and americans because who are they to discuss our problems. we certainly dont have a say in theirs! Queen Rania is trying to involve the west in a discussion on stereotypes..this have nothing to do with us admitting whats wrong about our societies. For once there is
i agree with you on how we shouldn't be filtering out the bad and draw this rosy image in our heads and accept only that. What I believe Queen Rania is trying to do is bring out the positives of the middle eastern world since all there is are negatives that are constantly talked about and misportrayed and not understood.
Good video but too, what is the good and bad of the middle east in your eyes. I think you are a good person and I don't see you as a fanatic...that is my hope.
Whatever is positive is ommitted. Don't you find that odd? Doesn't that at least raise an eyebrow? Those who seek justuce and equality need to unite and stop ignoring the plight of others. Because of the facts you just shared with me for the past month I've been discouraging Blacks from converting to Islam. When Blacks convert to Islam, it's an attempt to return to their roots. What I say is why look for their allegiance when there is a high probability that they're just going to look down on u?
I admire your courage for addressing this issue. This term , "Aabeed" shouldn't go back to far because the slave trade began in 1500's (AD) When I think "antiquity" I think back at least 1000 years. How long has man been in existence? And how long were Blacks slaves? This is a small point in time when compared to all of man's history. Every race has a dark part in their history. But for some reason in regards to Blacks, it seems only the negative is emphasized. Whatever is positive is ommited.
Apostle74: There are, of course, black Arabs in most countries, and nearly all of North Africa is black to a major degree. I again reiterate that I do not know where the racism stems from, but it exists. If I were to look at it from etymology, the technical term for a black person in Arabic should be Al-Aswad, which means black person. However, in perfectly acceptable colloquial terms, blacks are called A'abeed, which means "slaves." Blacks may be looked down upon simply because of history.
Apostle74: I find it odd that there would be discrimination, though. The term "Islam" itself means "submission", so to be a servant or slave to God is the acceptable way of life for most Arabs (where the majority indeed practices Islam). I think the etymology of "a'abeed" indicates slavehood to another human, which implies lower status. Islam as a faith doesn't condone that, but Arabia as a society did and continues to, even though far less than before, of course. Think of it like the US South.
Continued' But when they would address Whites they would do it with the utmost respect. But then talk about them negatively when they're not around. Is this typical? This confuses me. When did Blacks ever oppress Arabs and Persians? Why do they show more respect towards those who mave mistreated them the most, while looking down upon those who see them as brethren? Blacks shed blood in the Civil War and also shed blood in the Civil Rights movement of the 60's which facilitated the assimilation
So tell me IssaAmin, what do Jordanians say about Blacks at the dinner table? I've been discriminated by many Arabs and Persians. And I know not everybody holds the same sentiments but it is challenging. I had a Persian girl tell me at a club, "We don't swing that way!" And also when I was working in the Banking industry I would say "good morning" to them and they would ignore me. It was until I was one of the top salesmen that they started talking to me. But by then I didn't want their comapany
Apostle74: I'm not Jordanian myself, but from my dealings with Arabs of all nationalities, the view on blacks is generally (and I emphasize "generally") that it's ok to use their color as an insult. I'm sure this is rooted in antiquity. This is "dinner table" talk, of course, but Arabs discriminate as much as they are discriminated against, which is why I called for open dialogue, and not just one-way dissolution of Arab "stereotypes."
Remember, though, individuals are different from society.
"Racism" there can be discriminative comments but that's as far as it will go. I confirm that there exists religious discrimination but never against your skin color. You can be classified as "black" but never a "slave". I understand that you believe we call blacks "slaves" but that is referring to black people's struggle than it is an insult.
Insaan2: Upfront, I only know as much as has been reported by major outlets that have been granted access. I couldn't tell you anything you probably don't already know. Remember: It's always ok to say "I don't know."
As for the Islamic perspective: You could ask that about any of the extremist actions in the last 40-60 years. Religion is a crutch that they fashion themselves. Interpretation is subjective.
Yeah, proper logic is rare these days. There's no excuse for it. All they have to do is go to the library and get a book on Critical Thinking. Pretty simple. Religion is like a two edged sword, it can be used to help the innocent or destroy them. It depends on who's weilding it. To say religion in and of itself is evil is to make a hard generalization. I'm sure you know of many who have done good in the name of their religion.
Lebasilah (Continued): You call for a better understanding of Arabs. Understanding does not come through a filter, however. Understanding is a holistic approach, and it takes a full picture to truly understand things. I say this because the goal of understanding is to finally ACT after justified conclusions are drawn. You cannot simply act because you've been provoked, or because your feelings are hurt. Put emotion aside; Substitute logic.
You wanted people to have a look at the bad sides of Arabs as well. What do you think is actually happening in Darfur? As an Arab, do you have any better understanding of this?
Muslims if they practice Islam are not allowed to be unjust even to their enemies, as far as they are not in active conflict.
'If you took one life for no reason, you have killed the whole humanity' That is what Islam teaches. How can then a genocide happen in a muslim land?
Lebasilah: May I ask on what basis you claim that my video would do harm?
I understand that Arabs are prejudiced against in a number of areas internationally, but only propping up positive views is just as bad as only propping up negative views. Truth is what restores order, because truth leads to progress. Positive aspects can be strengthened, and negative aspects can be addressed. I point to Barack Obama's recent speech on race, where he correctly showed both sides of blacks AND whites.
You have the right to express yourself, but I do think this video could do more harm than good. Arab-Americans, Arab-Europeans, etc. all face a great deal of prejudice and even hate crimes, due to their heritage. What Queen Rania is doing could actually save lives. There needs to be a better understanding of Arabs. Maybe you just haven't been called a "sandnigger" or "camel-jockey" enough times. Perhaps, you've never heard the saying: "He/She's as dumb as an Arab." Something must be done.
Apostle74: I'm not sure why your comment was marked as spam, but I did you the service of unmarking it.
The Kingdom of Jordan participated in an Arab conference in Khartoum late last year, which the goal of addressing the genocide. The JHCO had put in $8 million at that point for electricity and water, as well as beginning work on a medical center earlier this year, while Rania herself was personally involved with UNICEF in the region to care for children there.
I think YouTube doesn'twant my logic to penetrate into the minds ofthe people.Many of my comments have been either spammed or deleted.I like what you said about truth and understanding,you r right on with that. But bear in mind there is a"Demographic"of people which transcends color,religion, gender,and so on and so forth,who want chaos and oppression to run rampid in our society.And what they do is they try to keep individuals such as myself from being heard. Because the truth will set you free
Apostle74 (Concluded): To be sure, this doesn't help stop the genocide; It only alleviates pain as it rages on. That said, Jordan isn't standing by idly. Should they be more aggressive in solving the problem? No more than any other nation individually. Would it be beneficial if ANYBODY took a stand? Definitely. The probability of individual action of that magnitude is very low, though. It would need to be via partnership, and team efforts don't materialize until there's communication.
I really appreciate the way you participate in this dialogue and answer all these comments, the positive ones, the ones that are critical and also the disrespectful ones. It seems like you are practicing some sort of mental aikido, very inspiring. It is note always easy to respond to disrespect without being disrespectful. It's a balancing game, your right, between maintaining a fruitful dialogue and still addressing the difficult problems.
Antonin0101: Thank you for both the appreciation and the analogy you used; I liked the comparison to aikido.
I've found that more often than not, people tend to lead with negative words, or at the very least, simply respond on instinct. Human nature? Perhaps. All I know through my experiences is that you just have to let people get things off their chests, which is perfectly healthy. What's unhealthy is when it causes a chain reaction and a vicious circle. Thankfully, patient people exist. :)
JoulseyCupid: As I stated in a comment previously to cybermotaz, she's no different than us; She's human. Yes, she happened to marry into a royal family. That makes no lasting impact on me. What makes a lasting impact is that she, by utilizing her position, is opening up to the thoughts of a wide assortment of people. I don't think calling her "Queen" would do anything to show that respect. As it were, in past media appearances, she has shied away from her title, so I tried to follow her wishes.
It looks like you dont have a clue what is going on in the Middle East.All what you know is what we all know,from TV.I dont know what did you want to say here to Rania....what was this about?Huh..?
Genaevgenija: On what basis do you doubt my knowledge of Middle Eastern affairs?
As for what I wanted to say to Rania, I repeat to you what I said to jade28tx above: I appreciated Queen Rania's desires, but I wanted her to speak the full truth as well. The Middle East isn't heaven...It definitely has problems. We have to speak about the problems, just as much as we speak about the good things that come out of all those lands. We can't hide the negatives behind the term "stereotype".
Giving yourself a nice big hug,look at me sending a video to the Queen of Jordan.
You live in the land of the free an the home of the brave,with a skyhigh murder rate not to mention rape.muggings,driveby shootings and people living in ghettos.You should look to change these things first.There are no Arab stereotypes all people are different,individal and talking about it makes know difference all we need is tolerance.
Rightforkoff: Thank you for detailing your criticism. It comes off as much more helpful than "Utter Bullshit." I agree with you on some points, disagree with you on others, and hope that you find that perfectly ok. Beginning with what I disagree with, this wasn't about ego. It was about joining a conversation that another person started and about extending that conversation. If it was just about "sending a video to the Queen of Jordan," I wouldn't be trying to reply promptly to commenters here.
Rightforkoff (Continued): Other than that one point, I mostly agree with you. The United States has its own issues, and solving them locally needs to be a priority. One of those problems, however, pervades both the local and international level, and it's that intolerance that you speak of. Intolerance breeds when communication is lacking, and the point of engaging in a wider conversation is to solve that issue.
Rightforkoff (Continued): As a matter of fact, one of presidential candidates, Barack Obama, centers his campaign around that mentality of open conversation. It seems to be working. America is shedding off the intolerance that has been expected of it, and a black man actually has a chance to lead the nation, when that would have been unheard of 40, 30, 20, and even 10 years ago.
Rightforkoff (Concluded): Conditions are improving in all the crimes you raised; Locally, we're progressing, so we'd like to work on international relations while we can. The key word in "international relations" is "relations." Why? Because we must RELATE before relations improve, and relating requires tearing down preconceived notions. It requires the education of tolerance.
Rightforkoff (Err...actually, this is the conclusion): See? I agree with you more than I disagree. We just had to relate further and actually speak. Keep that in mind; Speaking at length trumps short statements like "Utter Bullshit", which tend to be inflammatory. I forgive you for the first impression you made on me, but I knew there was more behind your statement, so no hard feelings, my friend.
what is u said made me think..doesnt the bible also make women inferior?it does actualy and yes maybe i do judge muslims by the few bad that we hear like in saudi.truth is not all muslims are bad people the same as not all christians believe that women are impure...
Religions across the board have points which are usually found to be offensive to a number of people. Society's nature is to have offensive tendencies at times. The problem with religions having offensive tendencies is that religions tend to be used as crutches to justify those tendencies.
Cybermotaz: She's no different than us; She's human. Yes, she happened to marry into a royal family that wasn't democratically elected. That makes no lasting impact on me. What makes a lasting impact is that she, by utilizing her position, is opening up to the thoughts of a wide assortment of people. I don't think calling her "Queen" would do anything to show that respect. As it were, in past media appearances, she has shied away from her title, so I tried to abide by her implied wishes.
first the royal family was elected..not an election like modern world elections...but since I'm a pure jordanian who descends from a native jordanian tribe i know the history of jordan as my ancestors told me...so i'm let me give you a history lesson about jordan..King abdullah the first came to Jordan in 1923 he was elected by the tribes shieks as the prince of east bank..then the tribes of southeren and northren jordan decided to join the west bank emerate..that's when it became Jordan..
so actually we chose him as our king 80 years ago..n every king that followed king abdullah has to be agreed upon by the tribes...but since we love the hashemite family and we trust them through their achievement and hard work..all we care for is that he's hashemite..cause we chose the hashemite tribe to rule us...
Maybe you wont understand that kind of elections since you do not descend originally from Jordanian tribes...this is our tradition and we are proud of it..
Cybermotaz: My understanding is that Jordan's modern history is as muddled as most other nations' in the area due to British mandates and influences. Was not Abdullah installed by the British government as the ruler of the proto-country of Transjordan before being given the role of King of what has become Jordan?
Dude...Please go read history...at least a little bit of it, it's good for your health :)...king abdullah and the hashemite family were helped by britain and france against the ottomans since they both had a common enemy, his father al shareef hussien(shareef mecca at that time) started an arab revolution...they freed jordan, iraq, palestine, syria, lebanon, and Al hijaz(currently Saudi arabia)..
at the same time Britain and France had Sycs-Pico treaty without the knowledge of the arabs, the whole reason behind this treaty is to give palestine to the Jews and separate the arab-hashemite middle east into smaller countries ruled by different families so that the middle east will be easier to tackle when israel takes place...So they created Jordan, lebanon, palestine(israel later on), Iraq, Hijaz..etc.
They wanted to get rid of the hashemites because they used to unite arabs, and they were afraid of that, So the US supported Al Saud in Saudi arabia in their fight against hashemites, France supported the chaos in Syria to get king faisal to Iraq, then Russia supported the iraqi revolution that killed king Faisal, his 9 years old son, his family even a baby of 2 years. the only place they were left to stay in was Jordan, and thank god for this. then they killed king abdullah himself.
the reason than they kept king abdullah was because he decided to obey Britains orders and have the highest ranks of military in the hand of british soldiers, he didn't like it but that was the only way, Then they killed king abdullah himself, becuase he only had one son King talal who was sick so that they thought by killing him the new king will be weak and the reign of hashemites may end, King Hussien replaced king Talal when he was 16 years old.
But they got the strongest King in place without knowing that...the first thing he did he kicked the British soldier out of the military and renamed the jordanian military as the ARABIAN military, in 1956 a military revoltion was held agaist king hussien, but he turned it down and got the guys who were behind that revolution...not killed...no prisoned...but close to him!! he was a great politician. King hussien founf out that there is no way that he can keep this bad realtionship with the west
So he actively worked in having a good relationship with the west, so that they became friends, and instead of being hunted by them he became the west favorite middle eastren ruler, that's why a lot of people say he's westrenized and a traitor...but believe me he did what's right for himself, his people(jordanians) and his country, even in 1970 he gave a safe haven for the PLO so they tried to kill him and take over the country what is know as black septembre, but again he was strong.
Jordan and the hashemites as we speak are still under heavy fire of the arab media, my friend think about jordan, it's a very poor country with no natural resources, still we have the best education system and health system in the middle east and north africa according to the UN. We are the safest spot in the middle east without having a US military base on our land like many gulf states. WE jordanians and palestinians under the leadership of the majesties built jordan out of the desert...
Don't put too much emphasis on the fact that she's the Queen of Jordan. Her impact is felt, yes, but it is our voices that actually make a difference, and we shouldn't wait until someone spurs us to open our mouths. We should be aware that the responsibility is ingrained within us to affect our environment positively in a way that sets foundations for further progress.
Estranged00: As an atheism-leaning agnostic, I understand where you're coming from when you put the blame on religion, but I'm against making blanket statements; They tend to be inflammatory and difficult to defend indefinitely. That said, religion is ingrained so deeply into everyday life in the region that an attack on it would be an attack on the society itself. It stifles relations; I know firsthand.
i agree, and that makes it an even bigger problem.
agnostic, you say? you're lucky to be able to say that. i come from one of the few 100% muslims countries in the world, and you know what they do to apostates :)
Estranged00: I only use the term agnostic out of convenience, since I see no way to disprove such a fluidly defined concept such as God. If you disprove one definition, someone provides you with another. To be clear, I am an atheist when it comes to established religions.
But yes, I am fortunate enough to live in a country where the death penalty for apostasy is unjustified. It's justified or commanded nowhere in the Qur'an either, but it doesn't stop Sharia governments for some reason.
er..actually, it IS justified in the Qur'an. and it is clearly stated in Sharia law (which is derived from the Qur'an) that the penalty for apostates is death by decapitation.
Estranged00: I was not aware of the verse. My understanding from my reading is that apostasy would be dealt with in the afterlife by Allah. Sharia law's call for death is derived from the Hadith, which seems to be the way that much of anything is justified in modern Muslim culture. I know that in my dealings with family and Muslim peers, most of their justifications for actions and thoughts are actually via Hadith, rather than Qur'an, and when I point it out, they are at a loss.
perhaps i'm misinformed, and it is derived from Hadith. but as far as i know, and was raised to believe , the Qur'an and Hadith are considered equal sources of guidance.
i'll look into it though ;)
i'm sure islam calls for decapitation of apostates, be it the word of Qur'an or Hadith, it doesn't matter, because it comes from the same person.
Muslims think otherwise. The Hadith is just an account of Muhammad's life and actions, while the Qur'an is supposed to be the perfect Word Of God, forever unaltered. In the minds of the Muslim community, there's definitely a difference. That said, Muslims almost idolize Muhammad at this point. That's why the Hadith accounts, be they verified or not, are used so often in Islamic life.
Apostates that publicly flaunt their reverting from islam. Those apostates that walk around denouncing islam, allah and the prophet DO get decapitated.
Every religion does that, read a book- take a look it's in there.
You're right. This is a great time to be looking not at each other but at ourselves. The comments on Queen Rania's videos should give us something to think about.
Just remember, there are more than two sides to any story.
Mensoelrey: Time has one dimension. Space has three dimensions. Perception has an almost infinite number of dimensions. Each observing eye and calculating mind adds another "side of the story", but if no one is sharing their part of the greater story, we're getting an incomplete picture of the situation. Incomplete pictures are of little help if the ultimate goal is understanding and progress.
Thank you for your opinion and your agreement. Feel free to take part in the greater conversation.
Time has no dimension at all. Space has no dimension at all. You're just saying "i perceive time with one dimension" and "i perceive space with three dimension". :)
Have a nice day amin, you're a really good person.
Judoka1: Haha, I seriously laughed out loud, as horrible as that accusation was. If I was part of Al-Mukabarat, don't you think I'd have enough of a privilege to be among the first accepted video responses under Rania's video? I'm being beaten by a video about a potato. :P
do you think this little game you are playing is going to fool any? Who said that being a peon of the pig of Jordan makes you important enough to list high on youtube?
I did not realize that you were being serious with what you had to say. You seem to have some deep-seated concerns and an underlying emotion of disgust toward...something, though I'm not sure exactly what. May I ask what those concerns are and where your negativity stems from? I don't wish to misunderstand you at all.
Ok, It's obvious what rania is trying to do she want's to give legitimacy to regimes of tyranny such as the one she is part of! How low can she get? It's just getting ridicules! she is a "queen" of a country that sold the Palestinian people many times over let alone killed over 10 thousand of them in a couple of days, and yes she is part of the same regime that did that, her regime can suspend the entire parliament if they dared to defend the country's sovereignty...
I could go on for endless pages about that regime..And you are playing along by posting such a video to propagandize her video as if things were happening in that part of the World with human rights and liberties..and the only thing missing is the western worlds perceptions! It's like when her mentor; bush puts out a video about spreading "democracy" in that region you know an oxymoron
Educate me about these crimes, disservices, and cruelties which you are aware of. I don't want to instinctively respond. I'd rather take the time to hear you out.
Spoke like a true mukabaraty! Your response reminds of a question I forwarded to a "proud jordanian"; a monarchy puppet, that why do you support "king" hussein and love him like he claimed even though he is responsible for killing over 10,000 Palestinians and conspiring against Arab causes..He said because the "king" believes in diversity he married an english woman! Well...He thought since I live in the US I would appreciate that! All this does is to show that you all are monarchy puppets.
I did try to post at her video but of course it was pending approval! just like any thing one try to do in that country..it could be that I also asked her about her steroid abuse and how much did that help her blowing bush when he stops by her to give instructions!
I don't understand how people who're just on here to attack and be ignorant just do so- i just wasted a few minutes of my time thinking this JUDOKA1 was going to bring me into the light and fill me in- but instead I'm reading about steroid abuse?? you are ridiculous!
Roshmn: As I stated in an earlier reply, I'm not Muslim, although I'm an Arab. Those are two different things, and it's a misconception that needs to be overcome. Nevertheless, I can answer your questions, because I grew up in a Muslim household.
Roshmn (Continued): First, the Qur'an does not support the killing of non-Muslims. Christians and Jews are held in high esteem as "People of the Book", since they are also of an Abrahamic religion. Other faiths are still looked upon as human. Judgement and action are reserved for Allah alone, although Allah, via the Qur'an, commanded the first Muslims to do battle with specific tribes of the region. Taking those commands out of context leads to the extremism we have today.
Roshmn (Continued): The beating of wives is also not supported by the Qur'an. Wives are supposed to be treated with utmost respect, and outside of matters of property, they actually have more power when it comes to the family, including the power to divorce if she feels the man is inadequate. The supposed elimination of women's rights by Islam is something perpetrated by obscene modern governments, such as the Saudi's. Most of the worst stereotypes actually spawn from that one country alone.
Roshmn (Continued): Surprisingly, they're one of the few Arab allies to the US, which may be why more of their influence is felt here. Unfortunately, it's a negative influence. We should still be free to speak about it and criticize it, however. Governments who wish to govern TOTALLY will impose a fabricated "will of God" to do so, knowing that few will fight something that they feel they should abide by and fear.
What about Sura IV, verse 34? From the Dawood translation:
"Men have authority over women because God has made /the/ one superior to the other, and because they spend their wealth to maintain them. Good women are obedient. They guard their unseen parts because God has guarded them (hymen). As for those from whom you fear disobediance, admonish them and send them to beds apart and beat them. Then if they obey you take no
further action against them. God is high, supreme."
"Men are in charge of women, because Allah hath made the one of them to excel the other, and because they spend of their property (for the support of women). So good women are the obedient, guarding in secret that which Allah hath guarded. As for those from whom ye fear rebellion, admonish them and banish them to beds apart, and scourge them. Then if they obey you, seek not a way against them. Lo! Allah is ever High, Exalted, Great."
Rurne (Continued): To clarify, however, it's not meant as a regular occurrence. I infer this due to the fact that there are two commands to action before that if a disagreement occurs. The first is admonishment, which is basically verbal chastising. The second is to simply sleep in two beds. The third is where physicality is introduced, and the Arabic term used implies nothing more severe than how you would reprimand a child.
Rurne (Continued): To provide further context, the next verse suggests - if the problem continues - solving the problem via family involvement and allowing arbiters from both families to help alleviate the situation. Of course, at that point, God's Will is invoked, but I won't touch that.
I personally think that no violence is acceptable, since it breeds. Your point still stands in my eye, but not as severely as it's interpreted in English. I apologize for the mistaken statement I made earlier.
Roshmn (Concluded): Islam is no more violent than any other major faith in the world, which all contain accounts of aggression. It just so happens to be used at this point in history as the scapegoat for violence. Christianity had its time earlier last century under Hitler, and Islam is being utilized now. I present these two examples of how easily a belief can be used against us, especially if words are the only that can back them up. Words can change them, too. There's no proper control.
Hultonclint: I actually knew very little about Rania before viewing her posted video. I knew basic stats, but that's about it. Before recording a reply, I thought of it as my duty to know more about her before speaking. After all, communication is only effective within context. She seems like a genuinely altruistic person (or at least above-average, haha). Take some time out to do your research; She's been calling for this sort of interaction for at least two years now.
Txbadgirl1: That's why acclimation, education, and communication are the prescription that the doctor ordered. To see someone of Rania's position trying to get that prescription in order is refreshing. I know there are more than her, but the blogosphere lit up when she stepped out front.
HermannTheGreat: I visit the region every year for at least a month (and at most, 3 months). The people I meet hold two traits: Curiosity and fear. Their questions about America stem from their knowledge that the nation cannot be how the media portrays it; Otherwise, how could I possibly be living here? However, due to the ignorance about America, fear breeds, and that fear sometimes metamorphosizes into anger. I'll be quite honest about that. That's why I want both viewpoints to be shown.
It's no different here in America, however. The people have fear and curiosity. They know that the Middle East is not exactly how traditional media portrays it; Else, how can there be so many Arabs in America, and how can Islam remain as the fastest growing religion in the world? Despite that, we as a people have been spoon-fed fear of something we're collective ignorant of, and that fear also transforms into anger here. That's why communication has to be open and reciprocal.
Verified1: Thank you. Your sentiment about YouTube is expressed in the video, as you well know, and I feel gracious that a media conduit such as YouTube is quickly gaining a reputation around the world, both in developed and developing countries. We have a technological megaphones for our voices now, and it's our responsibility to utilize them.
i just saw Queen Rania video and a few others of course yours and really i agree with you in the begining (not saying i dont) specially in that Queen Rania used this as a media of communication that's really a smart choice giving people like me a way to discuss topics in a open wordwide forum. now you look like a smart guy too, but i could not understand your point clearly.i wish you have sometime and talk more since i have a wide open mind to everybody.
Here is basically what I had to say in my video, jade28tx: I appreciated Queen Rania's desires, but I wanted her to speak the full truth as well. The Middle East isn't heaven...It definitely has problems. We have to speak about the problems, just as much as we speak about the good things that come out of all those lands.
Islam gave women rights.Islam was forward and civilized when society was backward. Prior to Islam, the Middle East had a barbaric culture which they mixed with Islam for many generations and misinterpreted the Koran to convey violence.For example, Jihad means "Struggle" but it is the inner struggle within the self, not holy war. If the Koran teaches terrorism, then EVERY SINGLE MUSLIM would be violent. Think about it. The pre-Islamic barbaric culture MIXED with Islam is causing all of this mess.
ChubbatheBOSS: I respect the obvious dedication you have to Islam. I also respect your interpretations of your faith. Your history is a bit muddled, however. Yes, civilization wasn't as advanced pre-Islam as it was during and post-Islam, but there wasn't anything resembling barbarianism. The Greeks and Romans had both set solid societal examples, even involving the rights of women. If there was no precedent, Khatijah would not have been a prominent business woman before Muhammad came along.
hi there.. by barbaric I meant places like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the regions we typically think of backward today, not the Roman or Greek civilizations... By the way I'm actually a non-Muslim (non practicing Hindu but believer in God to be exact), so I don't claim to know everything about Islam...please do correct me if I'm wrong on this stuff! I do see your point. What I said is from what I understand of the religion and Muslims I know.
That said, I do agree that a mixture of Islam with current worldly context has distorted core actions and beliefs which the faith wishes to spread. Worldly context tends to affect all beliefs if they can only be backed up by words alone.
I look to having to any kind of debate on any subject regarding Islam (or even other subjects), the comment you have posted represents the true and positive faith of Islam.
Chubba: I apologize for thinking you were Muslim. I took a quick glance at the videos you had posted, and I saw Allah mentioned a few times. I should have asked before assuming. As it were, I still take issue with your claim that Arab societies were barbaric pre-Islam. History has shown that their role as traders helped to spread more than goods throughout the ancient world; They spread knowledge, and they spread culture. As a matter of fact, the trading probably led to the rise of Islam itself.
no problem.I've always had a fascination with Islam, have a lot of Muslim friends, and am a fan of the romanticized picture they paint in Bollywood ha!(although probably not accurate much)so I have a lot of respect for Muslims and often defend the religion when there's no one around to do so and there are nonsense attacks coming at them (and just the "brown people" in general, so some of the attacks against Islam are racially motivated too).The trading thing is interesting.I should look into it
Bravo! Cant wait to hear your next response to Rania's video.
I am an American too and I really enjoy hearing replies from Muslims. The more faces we can see in a positive light the better that drowns out the faces of the extremists we sadly so often see in the media.
check out my blog. I discuss my afforts in Ending Muslim Stereotypes
Soon, I will write a post discussing the disadvantages of the 50 yr. Israeli occupation in palestine.
Binky059: Thank you for the kind words and open ears. With that said, I'd like to take this opportunity to point out a stereotype within your comment. After all, we're working toward more open channels of communication, correct? ;)
You stated that you enjoy hearing replies from Muslims. I'm assuming that you assume I'm Muslim. In the video, I stated that I was an Arab, and those two terms are not interchangeable. Being Arab is related to nationality or race. Being Muslim is related to religion.
Binky059 (Continued): As a matter of fact, I'm an atheism-leaning agnostic (which is a term I use because I think that people who are fanatical and "sure" about atheism are just as detrimental to society as those who are fanatical and (sure) about their specific faith).
You have to remember this key difference in nationality and faith. It's propagated in the media that the two can be inseparable, but they're not. There is a healthy mix of people, even though relations in the area are strained.
Binky059 (Concluded): I'll be looking forward to your writing, and I urge you to jump into the conversation that Rania has started. Use any means necessary.
Thanks for your super informative response. I did know though that being Muslim, is a religion and being Arab implies race. So, I have one question so I can understand further. So, is it safe to say Arabs come from a specific region? As, opposed to Muslims are people who follow the Islmaic religions but are spread out across, India, Mid-East, Asia etc.
So, explain to me how to use the term Arab correctly. Is it people who live in the Mid-East region?
The term "Arab" can be defined by a number of criteria, such as via genealogy, linguistics, or politics. It depends on who you ask. On the world stage, language seems to be the defining feature, with the "Arab World" being those countries which speak the language. It's assumed that language follows genes, I suppose. Following that baseline would probably be the safest route, although some places like Sudan and Somalia would scoff at that. Race is subjective; Just pay heed to the region.
I know this is posted late but you have a great presentation very educational and informed.
I respect that being very impassioned with your views your able to be calm and persuasive. Your willingness to look at the whole picture taught me tonight.
Thank you very much for sharing yourself and views.
Marc in NYC
silentfades 3 years ago
I need to know this:who told US media that Rania speaks for Muslim women of the world?
Rania wields an important and destructive political role,as she wants to build a fortune in at least 2ways:1)she registers state lands in the king's name,&then sells them at high prices and pockets the money;2)she has entered into business with Baha' Hariri in Jordan(sources say the Hariris paid Rania anywhere between $75-400 million.This about a kingdom that was created by the fountain pen of Churchill
jozrania 3 years ago
Ummmmmm I guess the word MAJESTY fell by mistake!? Huh?
LQubain 3 years ago
you are stupid.
how can you speak to royal people like this, hey Rania like she was with in school.
Ass hole
munsbuns 3 years ago
she is still just a person!
tamms001 3 years ago
Hey Rania?? Where's the respect for the Queen?? Queen Rania is more proper don't u think?
summartimefun 3 years ago
please, she's also a human being - why should she be addressed with more reverence than anyone else just cos of who she married?
beshameless 3 years ago
yup, human being she is, but she is ALSO the Queen of Jordan. THAT'S why she should be addressed that way! Out of respect for her title, or maybe you don't understand the concept of respect!
summartimefun 3 years ago
i treat people with equal respect, unless they make it hard for me to respect them.
beshameless 3 years ago
I seriously agree with that, in fact I was gonna say the exact same thing. "Hey Rania??" Who is Rania, your girlfriend? Jeeeezz, there's something called etiquette, and it would be appropriate to respect titles of people. Well this is what you get with the internet.. "Hey Rania! WTF Rania? You suck Rania!"
chubbatheBOSS 3 years ago
yes , No society is perfect as you say, but what is shown in the media is only the negative part of this society PLUS amplifeing this part few thousands times . so it is wise to show the world what is the true arab world .
And Rania did not say that this world is perfect .
lbwwotsw 3 years ago
Most of what we hear about the middle east is negative, do you not agree that we should also be shown some positive aspects. No society is perfect as you say, neither is America, so let them show their good side as well, we know all about their negative sides (or at least what the western world considers negative)
Downsouthway 3 years ago
there is nothign wrong with discussing the negative aspects.. but we dont have to do that everytime we bring up the word muslim or arab. This is about stereotypes!
nga4 3 years ago
there is nothign wrong with discussing the negative aspects.. but we dont have to do that everytime we bring up the word muslim or arab. This is about stereotypes!
nga4 3 years ago
someone who is trying to look at the positive rather than the negative side..why not? do we always have to focus on whats wrong? i think the west have done a pretty good job on that.. we can now learn to love our selves and love who we are
nga4 3 years ago
i agree that the we should not ignore the current problems in our region but thats our problem and no one else's. if we are to discuss the negative aspects of this, then we should do it with other arabs and muslims and not europeans and americans because who are they to discuss our problems. we certainly dont have a say in theirs! Queen Rania is trying to involve the west in a discussion on stereotypes..this have nothing to do with us admitting whats wrong about our societies. For once there is
nga4 3 years ago
Asalaamu Alaykum akhi,
As a Muslim American, I think dealing with stereotypes is my job and your job and not Queen Rania's job.
All her efforts should be focused on helping the Palestinians
extempers 3 years ago
i agree with you on how we shouldn't be filtering out the bad and draw this rosy image in our heads and accept only that. What I believe Queen Rania is trying to do is bring out the positives of the middle eastern world since all there is are negatives that are constantly talked about and misportrayed and not understood.
xnermeenx 3 years ago
Looking at the light is better than getting lost in the chaotic dark, buddy!
EmperorOfPsyche 3 years ago
Good video but too, what is the good and bad of the middle east in your eyes. I think you are a good person and I don't see you as a fanatic...that is my hope.
TAPS711 3 years ago
Issa, bravo for this video! =D
bgazem 3 years ago
Whatever is positive is ommitted. Don't you find that odd? Doesn't that at least raise an eyebrow? Those who seek justuce and equality need to unite and stop ignoring the plight of others. Because of the facts you just shared with me for the past month I've been discouraging Blacks from converting to Islam. When Blacks convert to Islam, it's an attempt to return to their roots. What I say is why look for their allegiance when there is a high probability that they're just going to look down on u?
apostle74 3 years ago
I admire your courage for addressing this issue. This term , "Aabeed" shouldn't go back to far because the slave trade began in 1500's (AD) When I think "antiquity" I think back at least 1000 years. How long has man been in existence? And how long were Blacks slaves? This is a small point in time when compared to all of man's history. Every race has a dark part in their history. But for some reason in regards to Blacks, it seems only the negative is emphasized. Whatever is positive is ommited.
apostle74 3 years ago
Continued 2" of other cultures into American society. So from whence comes this hatred?
apostle74 3 years ago
Apostle74: There are, of course, black Arabs in most countries, and nearly all of North Africa is black to a major degree. I again reiterate that I do not know where the racism stems from, but it exists. If I were to look at it from etymology, the technical term for a black person in Arabic should be Al-Aswad, which means black person. However, in perfectly acceptable colloquial terms, blacks are called A'abeed, which means "slaves." Blacks may be looked down upon simply because of history.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Apostle74: I find it odd that there would be discrimination, though. The term "Islam" itself means "submission", so to be a servant or slave to God is the acceptable way of life for most Arabs (where the majority indeed practices Islam). I think the etymology of "a'abeed" indicates slavehood to another human, which implies lower status. Islam as a faith doesn't condone that, but Arabia as a society did and continues to, even though far less than before, of course. Think of it like the US South.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Continued' But when they would address Whites they would do it with the utmost respect. But then talk about them negatively when they're not around. Is this typical? This confuses me. When did Blacks ever oppress Arabs and Persians? Why do they show more respect towards those who mave mistreated them the most, while looking down upon those who see them as brethren? Blacks shed blood in the Civil War and also shed blood in the Civil Rights movement of the 60's which facilitated the assimilation
apostle74 3 years ago
So tell me IssaAmin, what do Jordanians say about Blacks at the dinner table? I've been discriminated by many Arabs and Persians. And I know not everybody holds the same sentiments but it is challenging. I had a Persian girl tell me at a club, "We don't swing that way!" And also when I was working in the Banking industry I would say "good morning" to them and they would ignore me. It was until I was one of the top salesmen that they started talking to me. But by then I didn't want their comapany
apostle74 3 years ago
Apostle74: I'm not Jordanian myself, but from my dealings with Arabs of all nationalities, the view on blacks is generally (and I emphasize "generally") that it's ok to use their color as an insult. I'm sure this is rooted in antiquity. This is "dinner table" talk, of course, but Arabs discriminate as much as they are discriminated against, which is why I called for open dialogue, and not just one-way dissolution of Arab "stereotypes."
Remember, though, individuals are different from society.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
In the arab world there is no such thing as
"Racism" there can be discriminative comments but that's as far as it will go. I confirm that there exists religious discrimination but never against your skin color. You can be classified as "black" but never a "slave". I understand that you believe we call blacks "slaves" but that is referring to black people's struggle than it is an insult.
xnermeenx 3 years ago
Insaan2: Upfront, I only know as much as has been reported by major outlets that have been granted access. I couldn't tell you anything you probably don't already know. Remember: It's always ok to say "I don't know."
As for the Islamic perspective: You could ask that about any of the extremist actions in the last 40-60 years. Religion is a crutch that they fashion themselves. Interpretation is subjective.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Yeah, proper logic is rare these days. There's no excuse for it. All they have to do is go to the library and get a book on Critical Thinking. Pretty simple. Religion is like a two edged sword, it can be used to help the innocent or destroy them. It depends on who's weilding it. To say religion in and of itself is evil is to make a hard generalization. I'm sure you know of many who have done good in the name of their religion.
apostle74 3 years ago
Lebasilah (Continued): You call for a better understanding of Arabs. Understanding does not come through a filter, however. Understanding is a holistic approach, and it takes a full picture to truly understand things. I say this because the goal of understanding is to finally ACT after justified conclusions are drawn. You cannot simply act because you've been provoked, or because your feelings are hurt. Put emotion aside; Substitute logic.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Issa Amin,
You wanted people to have a look at the bad sides of Arabs as well. What do you think is actually happening in Darfur? As an Arab, do you have any better understanding of this?
Muslims if they practice Islam are not allowed to be unjust even to their enemies, as far as they are not in active conflict.
'If you took one life for no reason, you have killed the whole humanity' That is what Islam teaches. How can then a genocide happen in a muslim land?
insaan2 3 years ago
Lebasilah: May I ask on what basis you claim that my video would do harm?
I understand that Arabs are prejudiced against in a number of areas internationally, but only propping up positive views is just as bad as only propping up negative views. Truth is what restores order, because truth leads to progress. Positive aspects can be strengthened, and negative aspects can be addressed. I point to Barack Obama's recent speech on race, where he correctly showed both sides of blacks AND whites.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
You have the right to express yourself, but I do think this video could do more harm than good. Arab-Americans, Arab-Europeans, etc. all face a great deal of prejudice and even hate crimes, due to their heritage. What Queen Rania is doing could actually save lives. There needs to be a better understanding of Arabs. Maybe you just haven't been called a "sandnigger" or "camel-jockey" enough times. Perhaps, you've never heard the saying: "He/She's as dumb as an Arab." Something must be done.
lebasilah 3 years ago
Ok. What is Queen Rania doing to stop the genocide by Arabs in Darfur?
apostle74 3 years ago
Apostle74: I'm not sure why your comment was marked as spam, but I did you the service of unmarking it.
The Kingdom of Jordan participated in an Arab conference in Khartoum late last year, which the goal of addressing the genocide. The JHCO had put in $8 million at that point for electricity and water, as well as beginning work on a medical center earlier this year, while Rania herself was personally involved with UNICEF in the region to care for children there.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
I think YouTube doesn'twant my logic to penetrate into the minds ofthe people.Many of my comments have been either spammed or deleted.I like what you said about truth and understanding,you r right on with that. But bear in mind there is a"Demographic"of people which transcends color,religion, gender,and so on and so forth,who want chaos and oppression to run rampid in our society.And what they do is they try to keep individuals such as myself from being heard. Because the truth will set you free
apostle74 3 years ago
Apostle74 (Concluded): To be sure, this doesn't help stop the genocide; It only alleviates pain as it rages on. That said, Jordan isn't standing by idly. Should they be more aggressive in solving the problem? No more than any other nation individually. Would it be beneficial if ANYBODY took a stand? Definitely. The probability of individual action of that magnitude is very low, though. It would need to be via partnership, and team efforts don't materialize until there's communication.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
I really appreciate the way you participate in this dialogue and answer all these comments, the positive ones, the ones that are critical and also the disrespectful ones. It seems like you are practicing some sort of mental aikido, very inspiring. It is note always easy to respond to disrespect without being disrespectful. It's a balancing game, your right, between maintaining a fruitful dialogue and still addressing the difficult problems.
Antonin0101 3 years ago
Antonin0101: Thank you for both the appreciation and the analogy you used; I liked the comparison to aikido.
I've found that more often than not, people tend to lead with negative words, or at the very least, simply respond on instinct. Human nature? Perhaps. All I know through my experiences is that you just have to let people get things off their chests, which is perfectly healthy. What's unhealthy is when it causes a chain reaction and a vicious circle. Thankfully, patient people exist. :)
IssaAmin 3 years ago
JoulseyCupid: As I stated in a comment previously to cybermotaz, she's no different than us; She's human. Yes, she happened to marry into a royal family. That makes no lasting impact on me. What makes a lasting impact is that she, by utilizing her position, is opening up to the thoughts of a wide assortment of people. I don't think calling her "Queen" would do anything to show that respect. As it were, in past media appearances, she has shied away from her title, so I tried to follow her wishes.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Why did you address a Queen as HEY RANIA!? How lame
JoulseyCupid 3 years ago
It looks like you dont have a clue what is going on in the Middle East.All what you know is what we all know,from TV.I dont know what did you want to say here to Rania....what was this about?Huh..?
genaevgenija 3 years ago
Genaevgenija: On what basis do you doubt my knowledge of Middle Eastern affairs?
As for what I wanted to say to Rania, I repeat to you what I said to jade28tx above: I appreciated Queen Rania's desires, but I wanted her to speak the full truth as well. The Middle East isn't heaven...It definitely has problems. We have to speak about the problems, just as much as we speak about the good things that come out of all those lands. We can't hide the negatives behind the term "stereotype".
IssaAmin 3 years ago
All you are doing is massaging your own ego.
Giving yourself a nice big hug,look at me sending a video to the Queen of Jordan.
You live in the land of the free an the home of the brave,with a skyhigh murder rate not to mention rape.muggings,driveby shootings and people living in ghettos.You should look to change these things first.There are no Arab stereotypes all people are different,individal and talking about it makes know difference all we need is tolerance.
rightforkoff 3 years ago
Rightforkoff: Thank you for detailing your criticism. It comes off as much more helpful than "Utter Bullshit." I agree with you on some points, disagree with you on others, and hope that you find that perfectly ok. Beginning with what I disagree with, this wasn't about ego. It was about joining a conversation that another person started and about extending that conversation. If it was just about "sending a video to the Queen of Jordan," I wouldn't be trying to reply promptly to commenters here.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Rightforkoff (Continued): Other than that one point, I mostly agree with you. The United States has its own issues, and solving them locally needs to be a priority. One of those problems, however, pervades both the local and international level, and it's that intolerance that you speak of. Intolerance breeds when communication is lacking, and the point of engaging in a wider conversation is to solve that issue.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Rightforkoff (Continued): As a matter of fact, one of presidential candidates, Barack Obama, centers his campaign around that mentality of open conversation. It seems to be working. America is shedding off the intolerance that has been expected of it, and a black man actually has a chance to lead the nation, when that would have been unheard of 40, 30, 20, and even 10 years ago.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Rightforkoff (Concluded): Conditions are improving in all the crimes you raised; Locally, we're progressing, so we'd like to work on international relations while we can. The key word in "international relations" is "relations." Why? Because we must RELATE before relations improve, and relating requires tearing down preconceived notions. It requires the education of tolerance.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Rightforkoff (Err...actually, this is the conclusion): See? I agree with you more than I disagree. We just had to relate further and actually speak. Keep that in mind; Speaking at length trumps short statements like "Utter Bullshit", which tend to be inflammatory. I forgive you for the first impression you made on me, but I knew there was more behind your statement, so no hard feelings, my friend.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Utter Bullshit.
rightforkoff 3 years ago
Rightforkoff: May I ask what you deem to be "Utter Bullshit?"
IssaAmin 3 years ago
thanx 4 yr reply
what is u said made me think..doesnt the bible also make women inferior?it does actualy and yes maybe i do judge muslims by the few bad that we hear like in saudi.truth is not all muslims are bad people the same as not all christians believe that women are impure...
roshmn 3 years ago
Religions across the board have points which are usually found to be offensive to a number of people. Society's nature is to have offensive tendencies at times. The problem with religions having offensive tendencies is that religions tend to be used as crutches to justify those tendencies.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
HEY RANIA..Show some respect to the queen or even her people...she's a symbol..other than that I like your video!
cybermotaz 3 years ago
Cybermotaz: She's no different than us; She's human. Yes, she happened to marry into a royal family that wasn't democratically elected. That makes no lasting impact on me. What makes a lasting impact is that she, by utilizing her position, is opening up to the thoughts of a wide assortment of people. I don't think calling her "Queen" would do anything to show that respect. As it were, in past media appearances, she has shied away from her title, so I tried to abide by her implied wishes.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
I applaud you both in your quest to educate. Good Job.
granitta64 3 years ago
I appreciate the kind sentiments.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
first the royal family was elected..not an election like modern world elections...but since I'm a pure jordanian who descends from a native jordanian tribe i know the history of jordan as my ancestors told me...so i'm let me give you a history lesson about jordan..King abdullah the first came to Jordan in 1923 he was elected by the tribes shieks as the prince of east bank..then the tribes of southeren and northren jordan decided to join the west bank emerate..that's when it became Jordan..
cybermotaz 3 years ago
so actually we chose him as our king 80 years ago..n every king that followed king abdullah has to be agreed upon by the tribes...but since we love the hashemite family and we trust them through their achievement and hard work..all we care for is that he's hashemite..cause we chose the hashemite tribe to rule us...
Maybe you wont understand that kind of elections since you do not descend originally from Jordanian tribes...this is our tradition and we are proud of it..
cybermotaz 3 years ago
Cybermotaz: My understanding is that Jordan's modern history is as muddled as most other nations' in the area due to British mandates and influences. Was not Abdullah installed by the British government as the ruler of the proto-country of Transjordan before being given the role of King of what has become Jordan?
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Dude...Please go read history...at least a little bit of it, it's good for your health :)...king abdullah and the hashemite family were helped by britain and france against the ottomans since they both had a common enemy, his father al shareef hussien(shareef mecca at that time) started an arab revolution...they freed jordan, iraq, palestine, syria, lebanon, and Al hijaz(currently Saudi arabia)..
cybermotaz 3 years ago
at the same time Britain and France had Sycs-Pico treaty without the knowledge of the arabs, the whole reason behind this treaty is to give palestine to the Jews and separate the arab-hashemite middle east into smaller countries ruled by different families so that the middle east will be easier to tackle when israel takes place...So they created Jordan, lebanon, palestine(israel later on), Iraq, Hijaz..etc.
cybermotaz 3 years ago
They wanted to get rid of the hashemites because they used to unite arabs, and they were afraid of that, So the US supported Al Saud in Saudi arabia in their fight against hashemites, France supported the chaos in Syria to get king faisal to Iraq, then Russia supported the iraqi revolution that killed king Faisal, his 9 years old son, his family even a baby of 2 years. the only place they were left to stay in was Jordan, and thank god for this. then they killed king abdullah himself.
cybermotaz 3 years ago
the reason than they kept king abdullah was because he decided to obey Britains orders and have the highest ranks of military in the hand of british soldiers, he didn't like it but that was the only way, Then they killed king abdullah himself, becuase he only had one son King talal who was sick so that they thought by killing him the new king will be weak and the reign of hashemites may end, King Hussien replaced king Talal when he was 16 years old.
cybermotaz 3 years ago
But they got the strongest King in place without knowing that...the first thing he did he kicked the British soldier out of the military and renamed the jordanian military as the ARABIAN military, in 1956 a military revoltion was held agaist king hussien, but he turned it down and got the guys who were behind that revolution...not killed...no prisoned...but close to him!! he was a great politician. King hussien founf out that there is no way that he can keep this bad realtionship with the west
cybermotaz 3 years ago
So he actively worked in having a good relationship with the west, so that they became friends, and instead of being hunted by them he became the west favorite middle eastren ruler, that's why a lot of people say he's westrenized and a traitor...but believe me he did what's right for himself, his people(jordanians) and his country, even in 1970 he gave a safe haven for the PLO so they tried to kill him and take over the country what is know as black septembre, but again he was strong.
cybermotaz 3 years ago
Jordan and the hashemites as we speak are still under heavy fire of the arab media, my friend think about jordan, it's a very poor country with no natural resources, still we have the best education system and health system in the middle east and north africa according to the UN. We are the safest spot in the middle east without having a US military base on our land like many gulf states. WE jordanians and palestinians under the leadership of the majesties built jordan out of the desert...
cybermotaz 3 years ago
so DOESN'T SHE DESERVE THE WORD HER MAJESTY...DOESN'T SHE DESERVE TO BE RESPECTED. ofcourse you have the right to disagree.
cybermotaz 3 years ago
very well delivered.
labadme 3 years ago
Thank you, labadme.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
DAMN!!!!!!!!!!
Rania`s call out to people really touched MILIONS!!!!!!
She has a justified goal,Go Rania!!!!
kokopilko 3 years ago
Don't put too much emphasis on the fact that she's the Queen of Jordan. Her impact is felt, yes, but it is our voices that actually make a difference, and we shouldn't wait until someone spurs us to open our mouths. We should be aware that the responsibility is ingrained within us to affect our environment positively in a way that sets foundations for further progress.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
I have a very similar Feeling as i don't have but one place that i call home, Home to me is were Friends and family are.
"The world is but one Country and Mankind it's Citzens" Peace :)
anychaitilen 3 years ago
Ultimately, the lowest common denominator is that we're human. To subdivide for weak reasons will leave a weak result.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
right you are.
and lets not forget the root of all problems in the Middle-East.
estranged00 3 years ago
What is the root of all problems in the Middle East, by your estimation?
IssaAmin 3 years ago
religion, my friend.
estranged00 3 years ago
Estranged00: As an atheism-leaning agnostic, I understand where you're coming from when you put the blame on religion, but I'm against making blanket statements; They tend to be inflammatory and difficult to defend indefinitely. That said, religion is ingrained so deeply into everyday life in the region that an attack on it would be an attack on the society itself. It stifles relations; I know firsthand.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
i agree, and that makes it an even bigger problem.
agnostic, you say? you're lucky to be able to say that. i come from one of the few 100% muslims countries in the world, and you know what they do to apostates :)
estranged00 3 years ago
Estranged00: I only use the term agnostic out of convenience, since I see no way to disprove such a fluidly defined concept such as God. If you disprove one definition, someone provides you with another. To be clear, I am an atheist when it comes to established religions.
But yes, I am fortunate enough to live in a country where the death penalty for apostasy is unjustified. It's justified or commanded nowhere in the Qur'an either, but it doesn't stop Sharia governments for some reason.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
er..actually, it IS justified in the Qur'an. and it is clearly stated in Sharia law (which is derived from the Qur'an) that the penalty for apostates is death by decapitation.
estranged00 3 years ago
Estranged00: I was not aware of the verse. My understanding from my reading is that apostasy would be dealt with in the afterlife by Allah. Sharia law's call for death is derived from the Hadith, which seems to be the way that much of anything is justified in modern Muslim culture. I know that in my dealings with family and Muslim peers, most of their justifications for actions and thoughts are actually via Hadith, rather than Qur'an, and when I point it out, they are at a loss.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
perhaps i'm misinformed, and it is derived from Hadith. but as far as i know, and was raised to believe , the Qur'an and Hadith are considered equal sources of guidance.
i'll look into it though ;)
i'm sure islam calls for decapitation of apostates, be it the word of Qur'an or Hadith, it doesn't matter, because it comes from the same person.
estranged00 3 years ago
Muslims think otherwise. The Hadith is just an account of Muhammad's life and actions, while the Qur'an is supposed to be the perfect Word Of God, forever unaltered. In the minds of the Muslim community, there's definitely a difference. That said, Muslims almost idolize Muhammad at this point. That's why the Hadith accounts, be they verified or not, are used so often in Islamic life.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Apostates that publicly flaunt their reverting from islam. Those apostates that walk around denouncing islam, allah and the prophet DO get decapitated.
Every religion does that, read a book- take a look it's in there.
xnermeenx 3 years ago
You're right. This is a great time to be looking not at each other but at ourselves. The comments on Queen Rania's videos should give us something to think about.
Just remember, there are more than two sides to any story.
mensoelrey 3 years ago
Mensoelrey: Time has one dimension. Space has three dimensions. Perception has an almost infinite number of dimensions. Each observing eye and calculating mind adds another "side of the story", but if no one is sharing their part of the greater story, we're getting an incomplete picture of the situation. Incomplete pictures are of little help if the ultimate goal is understanding and progress.
Thank you for your opinion and your agreement. Feel free to take part in the greater conversation.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Time has no dimension at all. Space has no dimension at all. You're just saying "i perceive time with one dimension" and "i perceive space with three dimension". :)
Have a nice day amin, you're a really good person.
bagna82 3 years ago
Ha! Touché! I should probably shy away from analogies like that. :)
IssaAmin 3 years ago
IssaAmin! How long have you been a Jordanian mukabarat agent?
judoka1 3 years ago
Judoka1: Haha, I seriously laughed out loud, as horrible as that accusation was. If I was part of Al-Mukabarat, don't you think I'd have enough of a privilege to be among the first accepted video responses under Rania's video? I'm being beaten by a video about a potato. :P
Alas, it is not so.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
do you think this little game you are playing is going to fool any? Who said that being a peon of the pig of Jordan makes you important enough to list high on youtube?
judoka1 3 years ago
I did not realize that you were being serious with what you had to say. You seem to have some deep-seated concerns and an underlying emotion of disgust toward...something, though I'm not sure exactly what. May I ask what those concerns are and where your negativity stems from? I don't wish to misunderstand you at all.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Ok, It's obvious what rania is trying to do she want's to give legitimacy to regimes of tyranny such as the one she is part of! How low can she get? It's just getting ridicules! she is a "queen" of a country that sold the Palestinian people many times over let alone killed over 10 thousand of them in a couple of days, and yes she is part of the same regime that did that, her regime can suspend the entire parliament if they dared to defend the country's sovereignty...
judoka1 3 years ago
I could go on for endless pages about that regime..And you are playing along by posting such a video to propagandize her video as if things were happening in that part of the World with human rights and liberties..and the only thing missing is the western worlds perceptions! It's like when her mentor; bush puts out a video about spreading "democracy" in that region you know an oxymoron
judoka1 3 years ago
Educate me about these crimes, disservices, and cruelties which you are aware of. I don't want to instinctively respond. I'd rather take the time to hear you out.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Spoke like a true mukabaraty! Your response reminds of a question I forwarded to a "proud jordanian"; a monarchy puppet, that why do you support "king" hussein and love him like he claimed even though he is responsible for killing over 10,000 Palestinians and conspiring against Arab causes..He said because the "king" believes in diversity he married an english woman! Well...He thought since I live in the US I would appreciate that! All this does is to show that you all are monarchy puppets.
judoka1 3 years ago
I did try to post at her video but of course it was pending approval! just like any thing one try to do in that country..it could be that I also asked her about her steroid abuse and how much did that help her blowing bush when he stops by her to give instructions!
judoka1 3 years ago
I don't understand how people who're just on here to attack and be ignorant just do so- i just wasted a few minutes of my time thinking this JUDOKA1 was going to bring me into the light and fill me in- but instead I'm reading about steroid abuse?? you are ridiculous!
xnermeenx 3 years ago 2
pliz ans
why would your holy book want to support the killing of non muslims.also why would it support the beating of a wife.
thnx for what your doing
roshmn 3 years ago
Roshmn: As I stated in an earlier reply, I'm not Muslim, although I'm an Arab. Those are two different things, and it's a misconception that needs to be overcome. Nevertheless, I can answer your questions, because I grew up in a Muslim household.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Roshmn (Continued): First, the Qur'an does not support the killing of non-Muslims. Christians and Jews are held in high esteem as "People of the Book", since they are also of an Abrahamic religion. Other faiths are still looked upon as human. Judgement and action are reserved for Allah alone, although Allah, via the Qur'an, commanded the first Muslims to do battle with specific tribes of the region. Taking those commands out of context leads to the extremism we have today.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Roshmn (Continued): The beating of wives is also not supported by the Qur'an. Wives are supposed to be treated with utmost respect, and outside of matters of property, they actually have more power when it comes to the family, including the power to divorce if she feels the man is inadequate. The supposed elimination of women's rights by Islam is something perpetrated by obscene modern governments, such as the Saudi's. Most of the worst stereotypes actually spawn from that one country alone.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Roshmn (Continued): Surprisingly, they're one of the few Arab allies to the US, which may be why more of their influence is felt here. Unfortunately, it's a negative influence. We should still be free to speak about it and criticize it, however. Governments who wish to govern TOTALLY will impose a fabricated "will of God" to do so, knowing that few will fight something that they feel they should abide by and fear.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
What about Sura IV, verse 34? From the Dawood translation:
"Men have authority over women because God has made /the/ one superior to the other, and because they spend their wealth to maintain them. Good women are obedient. They guard their unseen parts because God has guarded them (hymen). As for those from whom you fear disobediance, admonish them and send them to beds apart and beat them. Then if they obey you take no
further action against them. God is high, supreme."
Rurne 3 years ago
Pickthal's translation:
"Men are in charge of women, because Allah hath made the one of them to excel the other, and because they spend of their property (for the support of women). So good women are the obedient, guarding in secret that which Allah hath guarded. As for those from whom ye fear rebellion, admonish them and banish them to beds apart, and scourge them. Then if they obey you, seek not a way against them. Lo! Allah is ever High, Exalted, Great."
Or are they misinterpreting?
Rurne 3 years ago
Rurne: Thank you for bringing this verse up. There definitely is a command for physicality, and you are not wrong in bringing attention to it.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Rurne (Continued): To clarify, however, it's not meant as a regular occurrence. I infer this due to the fact that there are two commands to action before that if a disagreement occurs. The first is admonishment, which is basically verbal chastising. The second is to simply sleep in two beds. The third is where physicality is introduced, and the Arabic term used implies nothing more severe than how you would reprimand a child.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Rurne (Continued): To provide further context, the next verse suggests - if the problem continues - solving the problem via family involvement and allowing arbiters from both families to help alleviate the situation. Of course, at that point, God's Will is invoked, but I won't touch that.
I personally think that no violence is acceptable, since it breeds. Your point still stands in my eye, but not as severely as it's interpreted in English. I apologize for the mistaken statement I made earlier.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Rurne (Concluded): Thank you for opening the conversation further. Don't ever let statements stand unquestioned. My appreciation goes to you.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Roshmn (Concluded): Islam is no more violent than any other major faith in the world, which all contain accounts of aggression. It just so happens to be used at this point in history as the scapegoat for violence. Christianity had its time earlier last century under Hitler, and Islam is being utilized now. I present these two examples of how easily a belief can be used against us, especially if words are the only that can back them up. Words can change them, too. There's no proper control.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Great reply. Her video is coming out of Fantasy Land...I'm having trouble guessing what motivated it.
hultonclint 3 years ago
Hultonclint: I actually knew very little about Rania before viewing her posted video. I knew basic stats, but that's about it. Before recording a reply, I thought of it as my duty to know more about her before speaking. After all, communication is only effective within context. She seems like a genuinely altruistic person (or at least above-average, haha). Take some time out to do your research; She's been calling for this sort of interaction for at least two years now.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
People seem to fear what they do not understand and fear what is different from what they consider "normal"
Great vid
txbadgirl1 3 years ago
Txbadgirl1: That's why acclimation, education, and communication are the prescription that the doctor ordered. To see someone of Rania's position trying to get that prescription in order is refreshing. I know there are more than her, but the blogosphere lit up when she stepped out front.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
You realize the Arabs over there want to kill you because you live in America?
HermannTheGreat 3 years ago
herman your an idiot have somthing more educated to say
LIMABEANS2day 3 years ago
HermannTheGreat: I visit the region every year for at least a month (and at most, 3 months). The people I meet hold two traits: Curiosity and fear. Their questions about America stem from their knowledge that the nation cannot be how the media portrays it; Otherwise, how could I possibly be living here? However, due to the ignorance about America, fear breeds, and that fear sometimes metamorphosizes into anger. I'll be quite honest about that. That's why I want both viewpoints to be shown.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
It's no different here in America, however. The people have fear and curiosity. They know that the Middle East is not exactly how traditional media portrays it; Else, how can there be so many Arabs in America, and how can Islam remain as the fastest growing religion in the world? Despite that, we as a people have been spoon-fed fear of something we're collective ignorant of, and that fear also transforms into anger here. That's why communication has to be open and reciprocal.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Great response. This is the real value of You Tube to help us all understand each other better.
Verified1 3 years ago
Verified1: Thank you. Your sentiment about YouTube is expressed in the video, as you well know, and I feel gracious that a media conduit such as YouTube is quickly gaining a reputation around the world, both in developed and developing countries. We have a technological megaphones for our voices now, and it's our responsibility to utilize them.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Salam... this is for you IssaAmin.
i just saw Queen Rania video and a few others of course yours and really i agree with you in the begining (not saying i dont) specially in that Queen Rania used this as a media of communication that's really a smart choice giving people like me a way to discuss topics in a open wordwide forum. now you look like a smart guy too, but i could not understand your point clearly.i wish you have sometime and talk more since i have a wide open mind to everybody.
jade28tx 3 years ago
Here is basically what I had to say in my video, jade28tx: I appreciated Queen Rania's desires, but I wanted her to speak the full truth as well. The Middle East isn't heaven...It definitely has problems. We have to speak about the problems, just as much as we speak about the good things that come out of all those lands.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Islam gave women rights.Islam was forward and civilized when society was backward. Prior to Islam, the Middle East had a barbaric culture which they mixed with Islam for many generations and misinterpreted the Koran to convey violence.For example, Jihad means "Struggle" but it is the inner struggle within the self, not holy war. If the Koran teaches terrorism, then EVERY SINGLE MUSLIM would be violent. Think about it. The pre-Islamic barbaric culture MIXED with Islam is causing all of this mess.
chubbatheBOSS 3 years ago 2
ChubbatheBOSS: I respect the obvious dedication you have to Islam. I also respect your interpretations of your faith. Your history is a bit muddled, however. Yes, civilization wasn't as advanced pre-Islam as it was during and post-Islam, but there wasn't anything resembling barbarianism. The Greeks and Romans had both set solid societal examples, even involving the rights of women. If there was no precedent, Khatijah would not have been a prominent business woman before Muhammad came along.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
hi there.. by barbaric I meant places like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the regions we typically think of backward today, not the Roman or Greek civilizations... By the way I'm actually a non-Muslim (non practicing Hindu but believer in God to be exact), so I don't claim to know everything about Islam...please do correct me if I'm wrong on this stuff! I do see your point. What I said is from what I understand of the religion and Muslims I know.
chubbatheBOSS 3 years ago
That said, I do agree that a mixture of Islam with current worldly context has distorted core actions and beliefs which the faith wishes to spread. Worldly context tends to affect all beliefs if they can only be backed up by words alone.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
I look to having to any kind of debate on any subject regarding Islam (or even other subjects), the comment you have posted represents the true and positive faith of Islam.
Torchmark 3 years ago
Chubba: I apologize for thinking you were Muslim. I took a quick glance at the videos you had posted, and I saw Allah mentioned a few times. I should have asked before assuming. As it were, I still take issue with your claim that Arab societies were barbaric pre-Islam. History has shown that their role as traders helped to spread more than goods throughout the ancient world; They spread knowledge, and they spread culture. As a matter of fact, the trading probably led to the rise of Islam itself.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
no problem.I've always had a fascination with Islam, have a lot of Muslim friends, and am a fan of the romanticized picture they paint in Bollywood ha!(although probably not accurate much)so I have a lot of respect for Muslims and often defend the religion when there's no one around to do so and there are nonsense attacks coming at them (and just the "brown people" in general, so some of the attacks against Islam are racially motivated too).The trading thing is interesting.I should look into it
chubbatheBOSS 3 years ago
Bravo! Cant wait to hear your next response to Rania's video.
I am an American too and I really enjoy hearing replies from Muslims. The more faces we can see in a positive light the better that drowns out the faces of the extremists we sadly so often see in the media.
check out my blog. I discuss my afforts in Ending Muslim Stereotypes
Soon, I will write a post discussing the disadvantages of the 50 yr. Israeli occupation in palestine.
TheUniteNiche(dot)blogspot(dot)com
binky059 3 years ago
Binky059: Thank you for the kind words and open ears. With that said, I'd like to take this opportunity to point out a stereotype within your comment. After all, we're working toward more open channels of communication, correct? ;)
You stated that you enjoy hearing replies from Muslims. I'm assuming that you assume I'm Muslim. In the video, I stated that I was an Arab, and those two terms are not interchangeable. Being Arab is related to nationality or race. Being Muslim is related to religion.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Binky059 (Continued): As a matter of fact, I'm an atheism-leaning agnostic (which is a term I use because I think that people who are fanatical and "sure" about atheism are just as detrimental to society as those who are fanatical and (sure) about their specific faith).
You have to remember this key difference in nationality and faith. It's propagated in the media that the two can be inseparable, but they're not. There is a healthy mix of people, even though relations in the area are strained.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Binky059 (Concluded): I'll be looking forward to your writing, and I urge you to jump into the conversation that Rania has started. Use any means necessary.
IssaAmin 3 years ago
Thanks for your super informative response. I did know though that being Muslim, is a religion and being Arab implies race. So, I have one question so I can understand further. So, is it safe to say Arabs come from a specific region? As, opposed to Muslims are people who follow the Islmaic religions but are spread out across, India, Mid-East, Asia etc.
So, explain to me how to use the term Arab correctly. Is it people who live in the Mid-East region?
thanks!
binky059 3 years ago
Bianca
ps I did use the term interchangebly in one blog entry because I was addressing both the people in the Arab regions and Muslims who believe in Islam.
binky059 3 years ago
The term "Arab" can be defined by a number of criteria, such as via genealogy, linguistics, or politics. It depends on who you ask. On the world stage, language seems to be the defining feature, with the "Arab World" being those countries which speak the language. It's assumed that language follows genes, I suppose. Following that baseline would probably be the safest route, although some places like Sudan and Somalia would scoff at that. Race is subjective; Just pay heed to the region.
IssaAmin 3 years ago