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Gulf Today
31-03-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Zaynab Ahmed's creativity is heightened and art deepened by the Holy Month
Zaynab Ahmed, who is a student in Amity University, Dubai, is also a recognised artist. For her, as for many other artists, Ramadan is an inspirational time to create works that reflect the beauty and spirituality of the Holy Month. Art and spirituality are intimately linked, and their blending has produced some of humanity's most sublime and enduring expressions of artistry. Zaynab Ahmed describes to Gulf Today how Ramadan becomes a studio for her spiritual art How can the spirituality of Ramadan be represented by art? Since the spiritual aspects of Ramadan stem from one's Iman (Faith), its representation in art would be through depictions that tap into it. I find that the most emotional images tend to be the most commonly found, such as the painting of the hands making dua (supplication). It is a sight so common, it is often overlooked. But by painting it in an impactful way, I have managed to capture its deep significance. Zaynab Ahmed is based in the UAE. Is it symbolism or realism that factually presents the values of Ramadan? Or both, in their own ways? I see a balance between the two that coexists in a way that not only presents the values of Ramadan, but also underscores them. The realism taps into the more logical side of a person's thoughts, while symbolism pushes the boundaries of those thoughts and provokes a person to think deeper about how they relate to himself. For example, in my painting of the night sky through a window, the realism is represented by the full moon and the burning oil lamp, which are cultural markers of Ramadan. But the symbolism is in the picturisation of the night sky, which is representative of Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power, when the Quran was first sent down from heaven). It is paired with the light I installed to make the oil lamp glow even more brightly, to highlight the importance of the night. Are secular art and spiritual art organically linked? In my opinion, they are linked, as they are both characterised by one factor - religion. They exist as mirrors of each other, and both take inspiration from the real world and present it through their own narratives. Religion is what society has always incorporated into its foundations; it bridges the two art styles together. Secular and spiritual art are two sides of the same coin. Hands raised in supplication. What, according to you, are the special qualities of the art that represents Ramadan? I notice that Ramadan art tends to have a peaceful and inviting aesthetic. One that relaxes the heart of the viewer and works to promote connections within a community - which makes sense, as it is a month dedicated to worship through selfless action and the elimination of individuality. Ramadan reminds us that we are all one; that can be seen in the art as well. Is Ramadan art a personal or a collective exploration for you? Or both? I find the creation of Ramadan art to be a deeply personal exploration. I am a very intuitive person, and every piece I make, is reflective of some part of me. For me, Ramadan art is an opportunity to look inward and examine my faith, to see where I am strong and what I lack, and showcase it honestly. How is art a means of contemplation and reflection? In order to create art, an artist must be moved enough by a concept to want to capture and present it; that in itself speaks volumes of his intentions. If done correctly, an artwork will cause the viewer to contemplate the meaning of the piece and reflect on its relevance to his own life. It is a phenomenon that I try to achieve in my work. The Night of Power. Can you please tell us how calligraphy speaks for Ramadan? Arabic calligraphy is its own art form; its complexity and beauty is mesmerising - which is why Quranic verses are written in a decorative manner with calligraphy. Calligraphy adds a profound feature to the values presented in Ramadan art, rooting it in Islamic beliefs. In my calligraphy paintings, I have quoted the Shahada, the simple phrase which declares the Muslim faith. Effectively, calligraphy speaks for the Holy Month. Who are the artists who inspire you with their religious art? I greatly appreciate Maaida Noor's art style. She uses an array of bright colours to capture traditional Islamic patterns on watercolour backgrounds. Other than the perfection of her patterns, she also incorporates calligraphy into some of her pieces, using an array of contrasting and complementary colours that catches your eye. I'm also very inspired by Nawaf Aldossari. While he sticks to a striking black-and-white colour scheme, he incorporates heart drawings in multiple pieces, using it to convey religious meaning, which I greatly admire. How does the ambience of the Holy Month impact your artmaking? Just as everything else, I notice my pace slows down during this month. I find myself taking my time and pondering every little detail, wanting to perfect it. Additionally, my focus gets more concentrated on my work - which makes the experience of painting much more rich and spiritual. I find I am not as wasteful (in both resources and creativity) during fasting, and want to embed meaning in every inch of my canvas. Overall, Ramadan helps clear my mind and heighten my productivity level. Artmaking becomes a spiritual act and a daily habit, alongside worship.
Al-Ahram Weekly
29-03-2025
- Politics
- Al-Ahram Weekly
El-Sisi checks on Al-Azhar Grand Imam's health - Society
During the call, El-Sisi wished El-Tayyeb a speedy recovery and praised his role in serving Islam and Muslims. According to the Egyptian presidency, El-Tayyeb thanked El-Sisi for his concern and support. He also commended the president's backing of Al-Azhar and its scholars, while praying for Egypt's security and regional stability. The Grand Imam had recently fallen ill, forcing him to cancel all engagements, including attendance at the Laylat Al-Qadr (Night of Power) celebration.
Morocco World
27-03-2025
- General
- Morocco World
Laylat Al Qadr: Morocco's Most Sacred and Beautiful Night
Marrakech – Laylat Al Qadr, the Night of Power, is a night when the heavens open, angels descend, and prayers carry a weight beyond measure. That night is Laylat Al Qadr, the Night of Power. A Night Wrapped in Divine Mystery Laylat Al Qadr marks the night when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad through the angel Jibril (Gabriel). It was the moment that changed history, binding the Muslim ummah to the sacred text that would guide generations to come. But here's the thing — no one knows exactly when Laylat Al Qadr happens. Many believe it falls on the 27th night of Ramadan, a date widely observed in Morocco with special prayers and celebrations. However, Islamic teachings suggest that it could be on any of the last ten odd-numbered nights of Ramadan. This divine uncertainty is intentional — it encourages believers to seek the night, to pray more, and to reflect deeper. Moroccan traditions In Morocco, Laylat Al Qadr is not just about spiritual devotion — it's also a deeply cultural event. The night carries a sense of quiet reverence and joyful anticipation. Families gather after Taraweeh prayers, homes glow with soft candlelight, and mosques fill with worshippers seeking divine mercy. But there's another beautiful tradition — dressing up. On this sacred night, Moroccans don their finest djellabas. Women often wear elegant white or pastel-colored djellabas with intricate embroidery, symbolizing purity and renewal. Men step out in classic jabadors and striped djellabas paired with traditional leather babouches. Even young children get to participate, many experiencing their first night of fasting, making it a milestone in their spiritual journey. A night of reflection, prayer & giving Laylat Al Qadr is believed to be a night where prayers are answered, sins are forgiven, and destinies are written. Moroccan families take this to heart. Sadaqah (charity) plays a big role, with many giving donations to mosques or helping those in need. Some even prepare extra meals to share with their neighbors, reflecting the spirit of generosity that Ramadan embodies. And of course, there's couscous. After a long night of prayer, Moroccan families often gather for a late-night couscous feast, a comforting end to a night filled with devotion. You can't find it — It will find you Laylat Al Qadr is more than just a date on the calendar — it's an experience. Whether you find yourself in the dim glow of a mosque, on a prayer mat at home, or wrapped in a silk djellaba. Tags: Laylat al-Qadrramadan 2025ramadan morocco
Zawya
27-03-2025
- General
- Zawya
Over 3mln worshipers offer special prayers at Two Holy Mosques on 27th night of Ramadan
MAKKAH — More than three million worshipers thronged the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah to offer Isha and special night prayers of Taraweeh and Qiyamullail on the 27th night of Ramadan on Wednesday, which is widely believed to be Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power. All the floors of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque and their courtyards were full of worshipers, and the rows of worshipers spilled over to the streets of the central Haram areas. In an unparalleled spiritual ambience that the fasting month has offered, the faithful engaged in supplications, seeking Laylatul Qadr and the infinite blessings and forgiveness from Almighty God. The Holy Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet (peace be up on him) in the Night of Power which is better than a thousand months. At the Grand Mosque, worshipers attended the Isha and special night prayers of Taraweeh and Qiyamullail that ended with the special supplication, led by Sheikh Abdurahman Al-Sudais, head of the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. The tears of pilgrims and worshippers in the Grand Mosque mingled with the rain of mercy that fell heavily in the courtyards of the Holy Mosque. The faithful performed their prayers under the rain, raising their hands to the sky in supplication to God, seeking His mercy and forgiveness. The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has implemented a foolproof operational plan and integrated services for the faithful. The authority has mobilized all its human and mechanical resources to facilitate the smooth and orderly flow of pilgrims and worshipers within the Grand Mosque in coordination with all the concerned agencies and security forces. There was a steady influx of Umrah pilgrims and worshippers arriving at the Grand Mosque and its courtyards from the early morning hours. All areas within the mosque, including its corridors, floors, rooftops, courtyards, basement, and the Third Saudi Expansion, were filled with worshippers, enabling them to perform their prayers and rituals in an environment of faith, serenity, security and peace. Copies of the Holy Qur'an in multiple languages were accessible, cleaning efforts were intensified, and the operation of loudspeakers, ventilation fans, and air-conditioning systems were optimized for the comfort of worshippers. Golf carts, regular carts, and electric carts were provided through the "Tanaqol' app, operating efficiently according to systematic plans. The Makkah region's health affairs department enhanced its services by deploying medical centers within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards, ensuring that pilgrims received the necessary medical care when needed. More than 400 scouts from the Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association contributed to the crowd management inside the Grand Mosque. This effort was made in cooperation with the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, the Makkah Health Cluster, and Public Security. They guided those lost, directed pilgrims to their destinations, managed crowds, facilitated movement, and reduced congestion, especially in densely populated areas. This helped enhance the comfort of pilgrims and facilitate the smooth performance of their rituals. The scout units also provided qualitative support to the healthcare sector, supporting health centers and hospitals in Ajyad and the Grand Mosque by guiding patients and providing emergency support to medical teams, as part of integrated efforts aimed at improving the level of services provided to pilgrims. At the Prophet's Mosque, the prayer halls were filled early in the morning with worshippers from within and outside the Kingdom. The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, in coordination with various departments and relevant authorities, has been keen to fully prepare the Prophet's Mosque and put in place all necessary arrangements to maintain the safety and comfort of the faithful. This included getting ready of prayer areas with carpets, purification and cleaning services, fumigation and perfuming, provision of Zamzam water to worshippers, environmental protection services, care for facilities and restrooms, and the provision of trolley services and a monitoring and reporting system to achieve a high level of satisfaction with the services provided to visitors to the mosque. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Arab Times
27-03-2025
- General
- Arab Times
Kuwait's mosques overflow with worshippers on the 27th night of Ramadan, seeking the Night of Power
KUWAIT CITY, March 27: Kuwait's mosques celebrated the 27th night of the holy month of Ramadan on Wednesday in a spiritually charged atmosphere, with tens of thousands of worshippers gathering to observe Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power. This night, believed to be when the Holy Quran was revealed, is considered "better than a thousand months." During the evening, worshippers chanted humbly, "O Allah, You are the Pardoner and You love forgiveness, so forgive us," seeking divine mercy and blessings. In line with the Prophet Muhammad's Sunnah, mosques across Kuwait held Qiyam and Tahajjud prayers, attracting large crowds of faithful Muslims. The prayers offered on this special night focus on seeking forgiveness, salvation from Hellfire, and the immense goodness associated with Laylat al-Qadr, continuing until dawn. Muslims worldwide aim to gain the blessings of this night during the final ten days of Ramadan, particularly on the odd-numbered nights: the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th. This practice is based on the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) guidance to "seek the Night of Qadr on the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan."
