Latest news with #Taaruf
Observer
22-03-2025
- General
- Observer
Nizwa hosts 'Taaruf' event to promote culture, Islamic values
NIZWA: The Directorate of Awqaf and Religious Affairs in Al Dakhiliyah, represented by the Department of Introduction to Islam and Cultural Exchange and the Women's Education and Guidance Center, in partnership with Madayn Nizwa, hosted the third edition of 'Taaruf' event at the Intercity Hotel in Nizwa. This initiative aimed to introduce non-Muslim expatriates to Omani culture and the core values of Islam. Held under the auspices of Dr Khalaf bin Salem al Ishaqi, a member of the State Council, the event included a variety of activities such as a lecture on 'Modesty in Omani Society' by Hamad bin Salem al Dhaheri, a volunteer at the Grand Mosque's Islamic Information Center. The talk highlighted modesty as a fundamental Islamic value promoting respect, kindness, and moral integrity. One of the highlights of the event was the personal stories shared by new Muslims, recounting their journeys to Islam and the profound impact it had on their lives. 18 individuals — 17 women and one man — embraced Islam, citing the kindness and hospitality of Omanis as key influences. Nizwa hosts 'Taaruf' event to promote culture, Islamic values The programme also featured an interactive session on the Quran's universality, a cultural quiz, and a communal Iftar, giving participants a firsthand experience of the unity in Muslim prayer and fasting traditions. Saad bin Suleiman al Kindi, Head of the Islamic Awareness and Cultural Exchange Department, emphasised that such events foster interfaith understanding and showcase Oman's longstanding tradition of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence. He also highlighted Oman's historical role in spreading Islam through dialogue rather than conflict, positioning the country as an ideal venue for such initiatives. Through 'Taaruf', Oman continues to promote cultural exchange, religious harmony and the values of Ramadhan, compassion, generosity and unity.
Observer
12-03-2025
- General
- Observer
New converts experience holy month to the fullest
Those who have recently converted to Islam are fully embracing iftar and suhoor alongside their predecessors, sharing their experiences with the world. Speaking at the eighth edition of Taaruf, an annual event aimed at promoting understanding of Islam among non-Muslims and new converts, Sarah, a French national fasting for the second time in her life, shared her preparation process. She began fasting intermittently a month before Ramadhan, gradually adjusting her body to the practice. Sarah found fasting during Ramadhan easier than in other months, attributing her success to her preparation. Ulrica, a German national who adopted the name Alia after converting to Islam, expressed her smooth journey, particularly with the support of her Bahraini husband. She shared that she was initially drawn to fasting during Ramadhan for both religious and health reasons, having fasted even before her conversion. Ulrica emphasised the importance of fasting as a means of self-care, allowing time for reflection and mindfulness in the midst of daily life. Mary, a domestic worker from Nairobi, shared her experience of converting to Islam with her employer, who supported her decision. Mary expressed her admiration for the closeness to God, love for others and kindness displayed by Muslims, which ultimately drew her to the faith. She described her joy in participating in her first Ramadhan alongside her mentor, Umm Kulthoom. The event, organised by the Department of Introduction to Islam and Cultural Exchange at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, was held under the theme 'Quran for Every Soul'. It was attended by Azzan bin Qasim al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism and Islamic preacher Abdur Raheem McCarthy on March 7 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC).
