Hajji Noor Deen- A Master Calligrapher from China
The story of this gem is of a magnanimous soul whose presence and charisma lifts me up every time he comes to mind. May God Bless him with more of the spark that lights his spirit and brings light to our eyes and hearts. I was gifted with this discovery …
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Chance Encounter at the Phillips Collection- Klee’s Arab Song!
I’ve had an idea for a series of posts inspired by my gallery-run around Washington D.C. It came about as I finally went to see the Phillips Collection that is almost everyone’s favorite in D.C. and now I understand why!! It is hands down the best collection of Western art …
Continue ReadingMaiwand- A Zabiha Story in Santa Clara
So, this post is slightly off Bint Battuta’s beaten path, but I just had to share it with you as a whole new world has opened up for me and I am so excited to tell you all about it! This particular gem came about because, being here in California …
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Islam in Vietnam- An introduction to its history and culture
When I arrived in Vietnam I wasn’t sure if I would be able to connect with the Muslims there and have access to their history and culture, as I had no contacts and they were such a minority. However, with God’s Grace, I stumbled upon its presence by accident, in …
Continue ReadingAssala Nasri- A Syrian Nightingale
I wholeheartedly believe that one of God’s simple edicts is, that if your intention is to do good, then every once in while you will also receive abundant grace. This gem came into my path in just such a way. It felt like it was a reward for my good …
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Liza – Where The Art of Lebanese cuisine and culture unite
True to my Arab blood, food is a big deal to me. It’s a simple pleasure, an art form, and a profound way to express love. I rarely meet an Arab who doesn’t appreciate good food and when I do I am honestly perplexed. I feel the same way about …
Continue ReadingNewseum
This post is the most sobering for me so far because it touches on death and truth. I went to the Newseum in Washington D.C when I stayed with my niece during her internship because it was highly recommended by a friend who works in the news industry. She not …
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Islamic Musical Traditions’ Guardian Angel – Sami Yusuf
This is a gem that has been waiting patiently to be shared, and I think, now is the time to tell you of the extraordinary experience of nashid, spiritual lyrics, that unfolded at Sami Yusuf’s concert at Dubai Opera, in December 2017. It was an event that, honestly, I only …
Continue ReadingA story worth telling – Qirtas and the inventions of the Islamic Golden Age
This post is the inspiring story of Qirtas and the beautiful, brave and intelligent woman who founded it. I think you know the saying: Behind every great man is a great woman. Well, in this case, it is behind every great woman is an equally great man.. as we will …
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Stitchez – A touch of modern embroidery
My heart delights at the creativity of youth in the space of Muslim or Arab culture, and this gem certainly shows how the new generation is carrying on the traditions of the older generation beautifully. It came to light during Ramadan, when I realized that I needed more prayer clothes …
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