Tania Henzell-Thomas, the author of Uroboros: The Circle of Time, explores how the Quran and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) inspired her writing.
Quranic Themes in Uroboros
Ramadan Countdown Reflections
Aussie-super-mum, Stephanie Boyle, reflects on the Ramadan countdown she and her son, Ayman (5 years old), undertook this year with the help of our book, The 99 Names of God. We hope you enjoy reading and feel inspired to do something similar next year!
A Rabbi’s Reflections
Book Review of The 99 Names of God by Rabbi Yonassan Gershom:
Although The 99 Names is intended for Muslim children, it’s really a treasure for all ages and faiths. In fact, it could be used as a basic primer on spirituality, and would be a fine addition to any religious library. I defy anyone to read this book and not come away with a deeper appreciation of God’s presence in the universe.
Reflections on as-Sami and al-Basir
with Uzma Taj
I came across these two Names when I found myself pulling out my hair in frustration, desperately trying to understand the Mathnawi and other spiritual books, including my trepidatious relationship with the Quran.
Reflections on ad-Darr and an-Nafi
with Shanon Shah
In this book’s entry on these two names, Daniel highlights a verse from the Qur’an that sings to me hauntingly, “Say, ‘It is not within my power to bring good to, or divert harm from, myself, except as God wills.’” (Surah al-Araf, 7:188)
Reflections on al-Quddus, the Holy
with Sofi Hersher
As a dedicated student of religion and interfaith understanding, I am endlessly curious about how religious ideas can reflect, or allude to, larger human truths that transcend individual faith traditions. Holiness is one such idea.
Reflections on al-Alim, the All-Knowing
with Hifsa Haroon-Iqbal
We bear our pain and our burdens with the belief that God is with us. He helps and supports us through the bad times and shares our joy in the good. And whatever befalls us we say “Alhamdulillah” – all praise belongs to God. For he is indeed the Knower of All, al-Alim.
Reflections on at-Tawwab, The Guide to Repentance
with Siema Taj
At first glance, this Name doesn’t feel so comforting because I immediately recognise that I have to sincerely try and see what I have to be regretful for, and that is an uncomfortable feeling I would like to avoid – it means I am wrong, and so my pride resists…
Reflections on al-Azim, the Tremendous
with Matthew Bain
I find myself drawn to Allah’s names of majesty and wrath such as al-Azim, the Tremendous. Daniel chooses strong words and images on these pages: earthquakes, sinews, mountains, cracks and dust.
Through the cracks wrought by earthquake and mountain-splitting, there is always the leavening of light which Daniel invokes using a Leonard Cohen quote. Daniel could have gone back to Rumi for the original but it is in the spirit of this wonderful book to embrace variety and diversity wherever possible…
Jesus and the 99 Names of God
with Julian Bond
The phrase ‘The 99 Names of God’ is a particularly Islamic phrase and probably doesn’t ring too many bells outside the places where non-Muslims are familiar with Islam. Yet, this is one of the most inclusive Islamic books that I have seen, of course it follows the Quran in that respect…
Reflections on al-Wasi, the All-Embracing
with Marie Dyer
In the climate of division and exclusion that is our world today, the Name that inspires me is al-Wasi, the All-Embracing. God embraces all people, regardless of colour, race, religion or beliefs. The world would be a much better place if we all aspired to al-Wasi, especially those in power and authority…Reflections on as-Salam, the Source of Peace
with Debra Shatoff
As infants, we are welcomed into this world by You, the Source of Peace, when we are gently placed on our mother’s chest, above her beating heart. We feel deeply cared for, warm and safe. When we are close to You, Beloved, there is that same deep feeling of inner peace, as if we are resting on Your tender chest. With each inhale and exhale, with as-Salam on our lips and in our heart, You draw us in, even closer. Perhaps this is what You speak of in the Holy Quran when You say You are closer to us than our jugular vein…
Reflections on al-Wadud, the Loving
with Julian Bond
I chose al-Wadud not only because it is close to my heart but for its important message about Islam. Yes, Islam is indeed a religion of love, though it is usually Christianity which has that reputation. Listen out for Muslims talking about the love of God…