#visualization of the personal name of allah

[asma-al-husna]

Allah calls Himself Al-Quddoos— The Most Pure, The All-Perfect— on two occasions in the Quran. He is the One who is the absolutely pure in essence and attributes. Al-Quddoos is free from and far above any worldly imperfection, and He is beyond all human understanding of purity and perfection!

The Most Pure, the All-Perfect

Quddoos comes from the root qaaf-daal-seen, which points to three main meanings. The first main meaning is to be pure and clean. The second is to be far removed from impurity or imperfection, and the third main meaning is to be sacred or blessed.

This root appears ten times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are al-qudusi (“the Holy [spirit]”) and al-muqadasi (“the sacred”).

Linguistically, quddoos is on the intense structure of the attribute of quds, which refers to cleanliness or tahaarah and comes from the verb qadasa. Al-Quddoos is ‘clean’ or free from any partner, spouse, or child, from death, from injustice, lying, forgetfulness, error, poverty, and stinginess. Laa ilaaha illa huwa– there is no God but He.

Al-Quddoos Himself says: He is Allah , other than whom there is no deity, the Sovereign, the Pure . . . [Quran, 59:23] Whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth is exalting Allah, the Sovereign, the Pure, the Exalted in Might, the Wise. [Quran, 62:1]

Subhanallah and alhamdulillah

They said, ‘Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?’ [Quran, 2:30]. The angels glorify and praise Allah al-Quddoos continuously and so does the whole universe. Al-Quddoos created us human beings to worship, glorify, and praise Him as He gave us something different: our hearts.
Using the human heart to reflect on His creations, His perfection and greatness, it realizes that glorification and praise of the Creator is inevitable. So we praise and thank Al-Quddoos (alhamdulillah) and glorify Him (subhanAllah) as He is high above anything that does not befit Him. Isn’t it a blessing to have such a perfect lord, and aren’t we blessed to be able to praise Him?

How can you live by this name?

1.Have a pure belief in Al-Quddoos.
Believe in the oneness of Al-Quddoos and make sure your creed (or aqeedah) is pure by studying the types of tawheed and their practical meanings in your daily life from trustworthy sources, like Kitaab ut -Tawheed (The Book of Tawheed) by ibn Abd Al-Wahhab.

2. Praise Al-Quddoos.
Say alhamdulilah and subhanAllah from the bottom of your heart. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to say in his prayer while in the bowing position (ruku): subboohun quddoosun Rabbul-malaa’ikati war-rooh (praise and Holiness be to You, Lord of the angels and the Soul). [Muslim] You can add this beautiful invocation to enhance your prayer.

3. Purify yourself through prayer.
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam asked the companions: If someone bathes in a river outside of his house five times a day, will there be any impurity left on him? [Muslim] Visualize your prayer as cleansing your body and soul. Your prayer also protects you: indeed the prayer prevents from the indecency and evil. [Quran, 29:45]

4. Give the best sadaqah.
Give zakah (obligatory) and sadaqah (charity) to “purify” and increase your wealth. Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase. [Quran 9:103] Remind yourself when you give sadaqah to give the best, as Allah is Al-Quddoos and He deserves the best to be given for His sake. Aishah radiyalahu anha used to perfume the charity she gave!

5. Don’t be unjust.
Allah does not wrong a person even to the amount of an atom’s weight [Quran 4:40]. Even if people do dhulm (injustice) to Him, Al-Quddoos never does injustice to people. Allah ‘azza wa jall also made injustice and oppression forbidden for you; so don’t be unjust to anyone, family or stranger, child, adult or even to animals.

6. Be clean.
Be clean inside and out and strive to purify and keep renewing your intentions when you do a good deed. Be thoughtful with your wudu; do your best to not only keep your belongings and house clean, but also your environment by not throwing litter and by removing harmful objects. Consume healthy and permissable food and drink— bought with halaal earnings— and teach children this way of living.

7. Let the Quran purify you.
And who is more truthful than Allah in speech? [Quran, 4:122] The speech of Al-Quddoos is pure and is a cure, healing, and guidance for you to purify yourself. So turn to the Quran to seek cure from the diseases of your heart, let the ayaat help you to improve your character, and recite the Quran daily to clean your heart and bring tranquillity to your body.

8. Ask Al-Quddoos.
The Prophet salallahu’ alayhi wa sallam used to ask Al-Quddoos at the beginning of prayer:
اللهم باعد بيني وبين خطاياي كما باعدت بين المشرق والمغرب اللهم نقني من خطاياي كما ينقى الثوب الأبيض من الدنس اللهم اغسلني من خطاياي بالثلج والماء والب
O Allah, distance me from my sins just as You have distanced The East from The West, O Allah, purify me of my sins as a white robe is purified of filth, O Allah, cleanse me of my sins with snow, water, and ice. [Al-Bukharee, Muslim] Use and reflect on this supplication as it contains all forms of purification: distancing (moving far away from dirt and deficiencies), removing dirt or filth, and washing or cleansing, so no impurity remains at the end.

O Allah, Al-Quddoos, we know that You are the absolutely pure beyond imagination. Lead us to a sound belief in Your oneness, help us in purifying our hearts, deeds, and intentions, and guide us to purify our bodies and keep our environment clean. Aid us in performing the best salah, giving the best charity, and helping us to turn to the Quran so we can come to You with a pure heart, ameen!

[puppyluver256]

[Image Descriptions: Two nearly identical images. Both feature a feminine person with light skin and short brown hair, seen from the back. They are wearing a purple t-shirt and blue denim pants. They have both their hands up in front of them, the middle finger of each extended. Beyond them is the depiction of the abrahamic god yahweh (or allah, or any number of other names) used in the Shin Megami Tensei franchise, specifically as seen in SMT4 Apocalypse, taking on the form of several identical floating heads of the same old man, seemingly made of gold and all scowling at the person blatantly insulting it while in its presence. Text on the image reads as follows:

"It cast its creation to ruin for the crime of wanting to know." "It drowned countless innocents in a vain attempt to rid them of evils it had made." "It demanded a father sacrifice his son. It ruined a man's life for the sake of a personal gamble." "It ordained and commanded the taking of slaves, the violation of women, and the abuse of children." "It murdered its own son before it could even be bothered to forgive anyone of the wrongs it so selfishly perceived to be done against it." "Those of certain groups claim that one day, every knee shall bow before this monster. Were it to be real, I shall not bow. I shall stand firm and tall before the tyrant of the skies, in opposition of all its evil couched in the language of the good, and present to it a salute befitting my fury at its indignant entitlement."

The second image removes the text, allowing the illustration behind to be seen completely unobscured.

End ID.]

-----

I'm having very strong feelings about religions' insistence--specifically christianity, as that's my experience--that people follow its rules whether or not they genuinely believe it. I'm especially having strong feelings about the specific god shared by three major religions, even if they want to pretend there's enough distinction between their views on it to make it count as different between them.

So to everyone who would ever say people like me will have no choice but to bow to their god after I'm dead and literally can't do or experience anything, this one's for you. I hope it gets you just as angry as it makes me to see kids get roped into this near-endless cycle of needless guilt and coercion. And for those of you who are like me and are frustrated with the secular world being bent so far by these zealots as it reaches the breaking point of potential theocracy coming to ill-earned power in the more influential nations, I hope this inspires you to speaking out for yourselves.

...and yes, this is SMT yahweh, it's the best visual representation of this asshole for the point I'm making and it also makes it easier to make the image composition as a whole more visually appealing when I can just copy-paste the same angy head over and over again.

💖🐶 Check out my pinned post for ways to support my artwork, among other things! 🐶💖

~Likes are appreciated, but reblogs are preferred as they let more people see my artwork! If you have something to say, feel free to give feedback in tags/comments/replies as well!~

My persona and artwork © PuppyLuver Studios This particular visualization of yahweh, the abrahamic god, is property of ATLUS, but yahweh is a public domain character so anyone can do whatever the hell they want with it. No matter what the people in its book club say.

[sisterssafespace]

Salam alaykum sister,

I want to talk about modesty and ask for your view on this and that of other sisters.

I am a single muslim woman and i've been looking for a spouse for a long time.

I try to please Allah with my modesty in clothes, speech and behaviour but sometimes it feels like it makes me so unattractive that no prospective spouses notice me.

I've had meetings with good religious men wanting to marry but who told me that although I am interesting, nice, religious etc. They are not attracted to me.

I don't blame them. They have access to women on social media and real life who both display and flaunt their beauty and profess piety. Although, men are commanded to lower their gaze, aren't they?

I try to look nice but in a modest way.

I know I could be more attractive if I wore certain clothes, more makeup and behaved in a more seductive or flirty way. But it would go against what Allah has ordained us. We can only do this for our husband.

Of course, it's better to please Allah than human beings.

It's just so disheartening. I know my worth (good and bad) but I don't know why no men see it. Or if they do, they only see me as a good person but not a woman they'd want to marry.

I don't understand what muslim men want. I know that we are told that men are more visual. But what is a modest pious woman to do about this?

I don't want to complain too much as we all have different type of struggles and this is nothing.

I just wanted to know if other sisters felt the same and how they find the right balance.

We practice modesty for God... but we do have or want to get married. How do we go about this?

Being ourseleves? But there's only a certain degree of our natural behaviour that we can display to non maharram men.

What do you think?

و عليكم السلام و رحمة اللّٰه و بركاته،

I finally found the time and the energy to reply to this between falling sick and everything that's going on outside of my tumblr life, thank you for being so patient 🤍

بسم اللّٰه الرحمان الرحيم 🤍

And here is what I have for you:

" This is, sadly, the struggle of almost every woman I know. Although men are ordered to lower their gaze, they're exposed to higher unrealistic standards. They, not all, unable to notice the modest or pious women, and if they do, they might think (she's unapproachable, or better than us) so they withdraw.

Keep doing what you're doing, stay modest and thoughtful of Allah. Seeking to obtain something halal in a way that is not so halal, will corrupt the end goal. I can't say end will the justify the means.

On the other hand, being modest doesn't mean looking ugly or unattractive. Part of being a muslim is to be composed in a presentful way. It's Sunnah to take care of our clothing and wear what's appropriate.

I loved how connected you're to your self-worth and know the positive and yet to be positive aspects. Guard this mentality and strive to be a better person of your previous self.

You don't need to compete to get men's attention. You only need one pious man to appreciate the woman who is taking care of herself and maintaining herself in a way that pleases Allah swt.

Be yourself but also guard yourself. Not everyone is worth to get to know what you have. In this day, women are pressured to show what they have in the name of being free to present/express herself. But do you really need every and anyone to know who you really are? You can be as kind, nice, funny, smart as possible but without showing these qualities in unsuitable way. It's about the boundaries you set. Know how to act and react around men. Firm, caring, assertive, kind, and confident can combine together. Find the balance, don't alter yourself to please others so they notice you.

Now to get to a core point. As a woman, what can you do to find the man. You can't just wait for him to notice/find you! You have to know yourself first and then put yourself out there. Get to know yourself, really know yourself; then, look for what's compatible with you. Know what you have and what you want/need/wish; what you lack/need to improve on or can't change (and make peace with it); what kind of relationship goals and boundaries you want; what qualities/personality you think is compatible with your personality; what not so positive qualities you can put up with (this is very important since we all have flaws)? That being said, make the expectations realistic, not Hollywoody or Bollywoody ones, please 😂

Then, put word out and don't be shy about it. Let people around you know that you're looking for these xyz qualities. Talk to a masjid imam in your community, your brother, father and aunties 😅. They can look for you and help you. But also, they have to be smart about it 😬

Also, you can attend lectures and workshops about marriage and maybe your guy is just there to meet you 😅

In addition to that, do your share of dua’a and supplications. Check your neyiah نيّة (intentions), make in the sake of Allah (to follow the sunnah, to help each other to love Allah and obey his commands, to find halal way of expressing love and desire etc..). Read Quran in general and those surahs in particular "طه Taha" and "يس Yaseen" are said to have a positive outcome. Read surah "Al-Baqarah", if there're obstacles of hasad (evil eye) or sihir (magic) they'll be voided بإذن الله. Give sadaqat (charity) and have tawakkul upon the One who had decreed everything, Allah swt.

Finally, remember that what has been written for you won't pass you by. All those who didn't find you attractive enough or to their standards are not meant for you. You only need one man to do so and İnşallah that one will be who is destined for you.

If you are meant to be married, you and your husband will find each other.

May Allah make it easy for you and all those seeking to find the pious man that'll be the coolness to your eye and your companion to Jannah. "

--------------------------------- All the above has been thought of, detailed and conceptualized by my amazing sister @3ayyn Allahuma barik laha ✨🤍 her reply was so thorough and so nicely detailed I couldn't have said it any better! So I humbly copy-pasted it :') I felt that it was so kind and so satisfying, I hope you feel the same about it my dear.

I will only add this one verse that I want you to hold on to and to remember whenever you start feeling doubtful or upset:

وَمَنْ يَتَّقِ اللَّهَ يَجْعَلْ لَهُ مَخْرَجًا وَيَرْزُقْهُ مِنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَحْتَسِبُ ۚ وَمَنْ يَتَوَكَّلْ عَلَى اللَّهِ فَهُوَ حَسْبُهُ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ بَالِغُ أَمْرِهِ ۚ قَدْ جَعَلَ اللَّهُ لِكُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدْرًا.

And he who takes Allâh as (his) shield, He will always make a way out (of his ordeals) for him. And He will provide him sustenance from where he least expects. And he who puts his trust in Allâh, He is sufficient for him (to fulfill his needs). Allâh is sure to accomplish His purpose. Allâh has set a measure for everything.

So take Allah swt as your shield my dear, and the outcomes will blow your mind 🤍

I pray that Allah swt keep you firm on His path, and fills your heart with strength and patience to stand your ground in this fight. This is your jihad. Everything you are feeling is never going unnoticed by Allah swt as-samie al-aleem. May He swt reward you immensely 🤍

Allahu al mustaān 🤍

- A.Z. 🍃

[londoncrafts]

Muslim Wall Decor: Transform Your Space with Londoncrafts' Acrylic Stickers

Home décor is a reflection of personal style, beliefs, and cultural values. In Muslim households, wall decorations often serve not only as aesthetic enhancements but also as a way to express faith, tradition, and identity. The rise in modern Islamic art and design has led to a growing interest in Muslim wall décor, with a focus on combining spiritual symbolism with contemporary aesthetics. Londoncrafts, a leader in innovative home décor, offers a range of acrylic wall stickers that beautifully capture the essence of Islamic art and faith-based motifs.

This article explores the significance of Muslim wall décor, highlights the benefits of using acrylic stickers for Islamic-inspired designs, and provides ideas on how to incorporate Muslim-themed wall decorations into different rooms of your home.

The Importance of Muslim Wall Décor in Islamic Homes

Islamic wall decor art and design have a long and rich history, characterized by intricate patterns, calligraphy, geometric shapes, and floral motifs. In Muslim homes, wall décor is often imbued with spiritual significance, serving as a visual reminder of one’s faith and values. Common themes include Quranic verses, the name of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, and other sacred symbols that resonate with Islamic teachings.

1. Spiritual Significance

Muslim wall décor often includes sacred texts and symbols, making the home a sanctuary where one is constantly reminded of the divine. Quranic verses such as Ayatul Kursi, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah Al-Ikhlas are commonly used in Islamic wall art to invoke protection, blessings, and peace. Displaying these verses in prominent areas of the home not only beautifies the space but also creates an atmosphere of spirituality and mindfulness.

2. Cultural and Artistic Expression

Islamic art is known for its intricate patterns, symmetry, and geometric designs, which have influenced architecture, textiles, and visual arts for centuries. Muslim wall décor is an extension of this rich artistic tradition, allowing homeowners to incorporate timeless designs into their living spaces. Whether through calligraphy, arabesque patterns, or floral motifs, Islamic wall art serves as a connection to a cultural and artistic heritage that spans the Islamic world.

3. Creating a Peaceful Environment

In Islam, the home is considered a place of peace and refuge. Wall decorations that reflect Islamic values and teachings help create a serene and harmonious environment. Muslim wall décor often includes calming colors, balanced patterns, and uplifting messages, all of which contribute to a sense of tranquility in the home. This is especially important in spaces such as the living room, prayer area, and bedroom, where individuals seek peace and reflection.

Why Choose Londoncrafts' Acrylic Stickers for Muslim Wall Décor?

When it comes to choosing Muslim-themed wall décor, quality, durability, and design flexibility are essential factors. Londoncrafts specializes in creating high-quality acrylic stickers that offer a modern and versatile approach to Islamic wall art. Here’s why our acrylic stickers are the ideal choice for Muslim homes:

1. Premium Quality and Durability

Londoncrafts’ acrylic stickers are made from premium materials designed to last. Unlike traditional vinyl decals or paper-based posters, acrylic stickers offer a glossy, high-end finish that mimics the look of glass or ceramic art. These stickers are resistant to fading, water damage, and peeling, ensuring that your wall décor remains vibrant and beautiful for years to come. This makes them ideal for use in various rooms, including areas prone to humidity such as bathrooms or kitchens.

2. Ease of Application and Repositioning

One of the key benefits of acrylic stickers is their ease of application. Londoncrafts’ products are designed to be user-friendly, allowing homeowners to apply them to any smooth surface in minutes. Whether you’re decorating a large living room wall or a small corner in your home, our acrylic stickers can be easily applied without the need for nails, screws, or professional installation.

Additionally, our stickers are easy to remove and reposition, making them a great option for renters or those who like to frequently update their décor. The stickers leave no residue and cause no damage to walls, offering a hassle-free decorating experience.

3. Wide Range of Islamic Designs

At Londoncrafts, we understand the importance of offering a variety of designs that cater to different tastes and preferences. Our Muslim wall décor collection includes a wide array of designs, from traditional Islamic calligraphy to modern geometric patterns. Whether you prefer minimalist styles or more elaborate designs, you’ll find something that resonates with your aesthetic preferences and spiritual beliefs.

Popular designs include:

Calligraphy of Quranic Verses: Elegant representations of verses such as Ayatul Kursi, Surah Al-Falaq, or Surah Al-Baqarah.

Names of Allah and the Prophet Muhammad: Decorative art featuring the 99 names of Allah or the name of the Prophet in graceful Arabic calligraphy.

Islamic Geometric Patterns: Timeless geometric patterns inspired by Islamic architecture and art.

4. Customization Options

Londoncrafts also offers customization options for homeowners who want to create personalized Muslim wall décor. Whether you want to feature a specific Quranic verse, a family name, or a meaningful Islamic symbol, our team can design custom acrylic stickers that meet your exact specifications. This level of personalization allows you to create a unique and meaningful space that reflects your individual faith and style.

Muslim Wall Décor Ideas for Different Spaces

Muslim wall décor can be incorporated into various rooms throughout your home, each with its own unique purpose and ambiance. Here are some creative ways to use Londoncrafts’ acrylic stickers to enhance different areas of your home.

1. Living Room

The living room is often the heart of the home, where families gather, guests are entertained, and daily life unfolds. It’s an ideal space to display Muslim wall décor that sets a spiritual and welcoming tone. Large acrylic stickers featuring Quranic verses or the names of Allah can serve as a focal point on a central wall, adding depth and meaning to the room’s overall design.

Geometric patterns can be used to complement modern or minimalist living rooms, while gold or silver calligraphy can add a touch of elegance and luxury to more traditional settings. For a cohesive look, consider pairing your wall décor with complementary elements such as Islamic-themed cushions, rugs, or artwork.

2. Prayer Room (Musalla)

In Muslim homes, the prayer room or musalla is a sacred space dedicated to worship and reflection. The décor in this room should be calming and spiritually uplifting. Acrylic stickers featuring Quranic verses, such as Surah Al-Fatiha or Ayatul Kursi, are perfect for creating a peaceful and focused environment for prayer.

Opt for a simple, elegant design that doesn’t overwhelm the space. A single large verse or a series of smaller, intricately designed stickers can be placed on the wall facing the prayer mat to create a sense of serenity and connection to the divine.

3. Bedroom

Bedrooms are personal sanctuaries where individuals retreat to rest and rejuvenate. Incorporating Muslim wall décor into this space can foster a sense of peace and spirituality. Verses that promote protection and blessings, such as Surah Al-Ikhlas or Surah Al-Falaq, are commonly used in bedroom décor.

Londoncrafts’ acrylic stickers allow you to choose designs that align with your personal style, whether you prefer soft, muted colors for a calming effect or more vibrant tones to create a focal point. Place the stickers above the headboard or on a wall adjacent to the bed to set a serene and comforting atmosphere.

4. Hallway or Entryway

Hallways and entryways offer unique opportunities to display Muslim wall décor. These transitional spaces are perfect for showcasing Islamic calligraphy or geometric patterns that make a bold statement. Consider using acrylic stickers to create a welcoming ambiance for guests by featuring a large, decorative verse or Islamic symbol at the entrance of your home.

Additionally, a series of smaller designs can be used to create a gallery wall that guides visitors through the hallway, offering glimpses of your faith and personal style.

5. Kitchen or Dining Room

The kitchen and dining room are often gathering places for family meals and discussions, making them suitable spaces for Muslim wall décor that emphasizes gratitude, blessings, and togetherness. Calligraphy featuring the Arabic word "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah) can be placed in these areas as a reminder to begin meals and daily tasks with gratitude and mindfulness.

Londoncrafts offers durable, water-resistant acrylic stickers that are well-suited for use in kitchens, where humidity and heat may be a concern. The glossy finish of the stickers adds a polished, elegant touch to the space, creating a harmonious balance between functionality and beauty.

The Londoncrafts Advantage for Muslim Wall Décor in London

London is a city where cultural diversity and artistic expression thrive. Whether you live in a contemporary apartment in the heart of the city or a traditional home in the suburbs, Londoncrafts’ acrylic stickers offer a versatile and modern solution for Muslim wall décor. Our designs are crafted to meet the needs of London’s diverse Muslim community, combining traditional Islamic art with contemporary design principles.

Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation makes Londoncrafts the preferred choice for homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces with meaningful and visually striking wall décor. With our wide range of designs and customization options, we offer something for everyone, whether you’re decorating a small apartment or a large family home.

Conclusion

Muslim wall decor is a powerful way to infuse your home with beauty, spirituality, and cultural significance. Londoncrafts’ acrylic stickers provide a modern and versatile approach to Islamic wall art, offering homeowners high-quality designs that are easy to apply, durable, and visually stunning. Whether you’re looking to create a peaceful prayer space, a welcoming living room, or a serene bedroom, our Muslim-themed wall.

[boxupgifting]

Embrace the Spirit: Meaningful Ramadan Gifts for the Whole Family

Introduction:

As the sacred month of Ramadan approaches, it brings with it a time of reflection, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. This Ramadan, why not elevate the joyous atmosphere by sharing meaningful gifts that embody the essence of the holy month? From heartfelt gestures to cherished traditions, explore our curated selection of Ramadan gifts designed to bring the entire family together in reverence and celebration.

1. Ramadan Journal and Reflection Guide:

Encourage spiritual introspection with a beautifully crafted Ramadan journal and reflection guide. This thoughtful gift provides a space for family members to record their thoughts, prayers, and moments of gratitude throughout the blessed month.

2. Handcrafted Tasbih (Prayer Beads):

Celebrate the tradition of dhikr (remembrance of Allah) with handcrafted tasbih beads. Each bead serves as a reminder to recite prayers and engage in contemplation, fostering a deeper connection to faith and spirituality.

3. Ramadan Recipe Book:

Embark on a culinary journey with a Ramadan recipe book filled with mouthwatering dishes and traditional delicacies. From savory iftar recipes to sweet treats, this gift inspires family bonding through the joy of cooking and sharing meals together.

4. Personalized Quran:

Delve into the teachings of the Quran with a personalized copy adorned with the recipient's name. This timeless gift offers the opportunity for family members to deepen their understanding of Islam and strengthen their bond with the holy scripture.

5. Islamic Story Books for Children:

Nurture a love for learning and storytelling with Islamic-themed storybooks for children. These engaging tales inspire young minds with moral lessons, spiritual teachings, and the rich heritage of Islamic culture.

6. Prayer Rug with Embroidered Designs:

Create a sacred space for prayer with a beautifully embroidered prayer rug. Adorned with intricate designs and patterns, this gift serves as a visual reminder of the importance of daily prayer and spiritual connection.

7. Ramadan Lantern (Fanoos):

Illuminate the nights of Ramadan with a traditional Ramadan lantern, or fanoos. Symbolizing hope and guidance, these ornate lanterns add a touch of warmth and ambiance to the home during the holy month.

8. Charity Donation in Their Name:

Give the gift of compassion by making a charity donation in the name of your loved ones. Whether it's supporting local initiatives or global humanitarian causes, this gesture embodies the spirit of giving and generosity central to Ramadan.

9. Family Iftar Set:

Enhance the experience of breaking fast together with a family iftar set. Complete with elegant dinnerware, utensils, and serving dishes, this gift creates a memorable and festive atmosphere for sharing meals and creating cherished memories.

10. Handwritten Letters of Love and Encouragement:

Express heartfelt sentiments with handwritten letters of love and encouragement. Take the time to convey appreciation, blessings, and prayers for each family member, fostering a sense of unity, support, and love throughout Ramadan and beyond.

Conclusion:

This Ramadan, embrace the spirit of togetherness and devotion with meaningful gifts that nourish the soul and strengthen family bonds. From spiritual resources to cherished traditions, each gift serves as a reminder of the blessings and significance of this sacred month. May these gestures of love and kindness enrich your Ramadan celebrations and inspire moments of reflection, gratitude, and joy for the whole family.

[zaneandnoora]

Uplift your Home Decor with Arabic Calligraphy Wall Art

Arabic calligraphy has been there for centuries. It is a creative and artistic way to give a feel of elegance to any space. Arabic calligraphy wall art is a popular trend in home decor and for good reason. It is as well as visually appealing and also holds a deep spiritual meaning.

 The oldest form of calligraphy

The most popular and old form of Arabic calligraphy art is personalized name signs in hardwood calligraphy. Having your name or your loved one's name carved in beautiful hardwood calligraphy is a special way to show your love to them. It is just a perfect gift for occasions like childbirth, a wedding, or any other special occasion.

 A reminder of Allah's presence

The Arabic calligraphy is not just eye-pleasing but also holds a deep spiritual significance. It is an integral part of Islamic art and is often used to depict verses from the Quran. These verses are not just words but carry deep spiritual meanings and serve as a constant reminder of Allah's presence in our lives.

In the end Personalized name signs in hardwood calligraphy are a unique gift for special occasions. Explore the diverse range of Arabic calligraphy wall art and personalized name signs at Zane and Noora's online store. They offer beautiful and unique pieces that are perfect for any home and budget. Bring elegance and spirituality to your home Visit Zane and Noora today!

[sultanbahubooks]

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https://books.google.com/books/about?id=R5fYDwAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=R5fYDwAAQBAJ

[mc-critical]

hey, hope you're doing well! i was re-watching mc:k ep60 the other day and one comment had asked why was kosem murdered with a purple cloth. people gave random answers in the replies. but i thought that the reason why she was murdered with a purple cloth was to signify the end of it all, the end of the show... i mean, if we go back to ep1, we have hurrem dancing for suleyman and suleyman dropping a purple handkerchief in front of her to summon her to his bed. this was the start of it all. hurrem first just impressed suleyman but then from here, she just went on and on until she reached the highest position possible. it was the purple handkerchief which started this whole show, this whole era and tbh i thought that kosem being strangled with a purple cloth just signifies the end of the show, the end of the era of women. it could be because turhan wanted to humiliate kosem by not strangling her with the traditional white rope used for the dynasty (& important state officials too). but then i thought about this theory and well, if turhan wanted to humiliate kosem even more, she could've strangled her with her own hair. it's even more humiliating imo and even kind of historically accurate. i just thought of it in the start and end symbolization and i thought that this was intentionally and explicitly done but i guess others didn't perceive it this way? well, i wonder what you think of the theory? is it obvious & intentional and definitely what the purple cloth meant or is this just a cool theory? excited to read your opinion, thanks <3

Hey! I'm fine, thank you. :)

I agree that Kösem getting killed with a purple cloth is clearly intentional, because the show loves telling a story through the costuming in general and choosing a certain attire to symbolize something for such an important moment in a character's life that is their death... of course the way they would get killed is something the show crew would consider. (and again, death is big in this franchise.)

I don't think there is only one definite right interpretation on the symbolism of the purple cloth. There are many things you can associate with this purple cloth both in the franchise, the show, the themes and the episode itself and the meaning of the color purple, hence you can view this symbol in many different ways, look at it in many different angles and there would still be a high chance for you to be correct. I think the writers themselves also left this to people's imagination, for them to figure it all out by themselves. Of course they had a certain intended meaning for this cloth, but I don't feel they showed that meaning clearly. That's why so many people have so many different interpretations of it.

I absolutely love your theory and it indeed makes so much sense for the show to end the cycle this way. But I think it is tied more into Hürrem and Kösem as the respective  protagonists of both shows rather than the Sultanate of Women as a whole. After all, the cycle of the SOW isn't over, as Kösem's death happened along with the massacre Turhan started and she is the next and last member of the SOW. Yes, Turhan is the most extreme display of the application of the concept of power in the show SOW and her actions would normally be the logical peak, but it was never implied that the massacre would be the end of it all. The purple handkerchief and the purple cloth could truly represent the start of Hürrem and the end of Kösem, connecting the two characters and their protagonist character arcs in an interesting visual way, despite of them being so different. And it started with something more personal and normal (the concubines dancing and SS choosing Hürrem) and ended with something more massive (the devastating execution of Kösem). The little handkerchief and the little purple cloth could showcase the gradual development of the franchise's ruthlessness through Hürrem and Kösem. I love the theory and I wouldn't mind at all if that were the intention.

Personally, I have two theories of my own regarding the symbolism of Kösem's purple cloth:

The first one is connected more with Kösem's death itself. When I watch the scene, I always see a contrast between the brutality of her execution and the way she views this execution from start to finish. After the execution of Ibrahim, conscience spoke to her and she finally lost her innocence completely. She was capable of anything on the outside, acting like an entirely different person who strives to stop Turhan any way she knew how, but on the inside, she has lost a part of her being which made her stop caring deep down. She didn't care about the death itself, she faced it regardless, leaving everything behind after her moral downfall. But she would die bravely, wouldn't show weakness. The color purple is a symbol of regality, as well, showing that even though they took her crown and jewels and everything away, she would still die a Valide, still die as the representative of the state, the one who fought the Fatih law. (hence her screaming that she's Valide Kösem when the men entered in her chambers which also corresponds to the official name of the episode: the martyred mother/Valide.) And on a deeper level: they robbed her of everything material, but she still preserved who she is spiritually. The purple cloth is a symbol of Kösem's soul in this scene, the only thing she has left and they left her with after the massacre. She may be killed and strangled, but her own being shines through the color. She died in the most brutal way possible, but the purple in the cloth gives some regality to this death.

The second one is connected with the way her relationship with Ibrahim connects to her own death. After Murat immediately went to declare Ibrahim's execution after Kasim's death in E54, Kösem immediately rushed in to save him. This was a very pivotal scene both for her and her relationship with Ibrahim - Kösem officially lets go of Murat as her own son and begs for Allah's help to get out of the situation and that massively impacts how Ibrahim views her as a mother. And guess what? In both this scene and her death scene she has something purple. When she saved Ibrahim, she wore a purple dress and coat and when she died, she got killed with the purple cloth. The purple cloth may represent the turnaround in Kösem and Ibrahim's relationship - she saved him once, but then she was ready to end his life. In the night she killed him he cursed her to die a horrible death and to never have one good day again and the cloth may be a way of connecting that, her saving him and the death, connecting the cause and effect of her character arc. The purple cloth may symbolize her own life values getting back to her after she did the deed, which made her lose them to begin with. Of course the color purple would tie this all together. And it brings in Turhan, too. She was behind the massacre as well as she played a big part in convincing Kösem to go for killing Ibrahim. I don't think she would think of a harsher punishment for Kösem, she caused enough of a ruckus with what she already did. Kösem's death was already devastating enough in its own right, I don't think she would need to do more, as long as Kösem died. It would also be useless brutality just for brutality's sake. The coath did enough to deliver a message to the audience.

These theories are more strictly "inside the show" than they're franchise-wide, but yeah, these are my thoughts on the purple coath and again, all the interpretations have the chance to be correct.

[b-lessings]

Tips to stick to your athkar ( morning/ evening remembrance )

This post was recommended by my amazing sis @doulunay Allahuma barik laha 💛

We all know the importance and the benefits of saying your daily athkar especially in the morning (after fajr or upon waking up), in the evening (after asr) and when going to bed. For one, it brings you closer to Allah set. In fact, by uttering those phrases daily you reaffirm your tawhid and keep close to Allah. They always remind a believer to accept his own weakness and remain in awe of His Lord – whom he always praises and seeks assistance from for every need. Alhamdulillah. Besides, it has been agreed upon among the ulama'a and scholars that daily remembrance and duaa protects the person from su' ,illness, sadness and all evil.

Ustadha Yasmine Mogahed even goes to say that your athkar can help you calm your anxiety given that:

" الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَتَطْمَئِنُّ قُلوبُهم بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ أَلَا بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ الْقُلُوبُ

Allatheena amanoo watatmainnu quloobuhum bithikri Allahi ala bithikri Allahi tatmainnu alquloobu

Those who believed, and whose hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allah. Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.

So, the question is, in the middle of all this busy life full with distractions and fake attractions, how do we stick to our athkar? How do we make it a habit to say our morning/ evening remembrance?

These next few tips that I am sharing with you are from my personal experience, so please tell me what do you think and if you have anything to add, please do!

1) Go Small but keep going:

This one tip I learned from a lecture of Ustadha Yasmine Mogahed. She said that Allah swt loves consistency. It is okay to just start small, you don't have to read or say the whole list of athkar every morning and every evening, you can choose even just one or two utterances, but you have to stick to them daily. And it's actually a great hack. Some of us look for perfection. SubhanAllah, they will say I should recite the full list of athkar but today I don't have the time to do that so there is no point, maybe tomorrow, maybe after tomorrow, maybe next week. However, even if you recite one or two utterances every single day, that's good enough.

My personal go-to utterances when I don't "have the time" to go thru the whole list are :

- بسم الله الذي لا يضر مع اسمه شيء في الأرض و لا في السماء و هو السميع العليم ×3

In the Name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All- Knowing (x3)

- حسبي الله لا إله إلا هو عليه توكلت و هو رب العرش العظيم × 7

Allah is sufficient for me, there is no god but He; on Him do I rely, and He is the Lord of mighty power (×7)

I can't leave the house without them.

2) Use visuals:

If you are a person who relies on their visual memory and need to see things in front of you to remember them, then here's a hack for you: get a paper (preferably colored), write down the utterances and duaa you want to remember and put it on a wall in your bedroom or somewhere you can see it so often during the day. I have only managed to say the " upon waking up " duaa by writing down on a big paper and hanging it facing my bed in a way that I see it as soon as I open my eyes in the morning. And it works 👌🏼.

3) Use audios:

So it happens to be busy and running late or running errands in the morning that you can't get your phone out to google or read from an app your morning or daily remembrance. In this case and on busy mornings what I do is I play the audio on my phone, put my earphones on and go on about my day, whether I'm traveling or using transportation or walking down the street, the recitation is playing in my ears and I get to repeat along with the qari'. There are plenty of morning athkar recitations on youtube, you can download the one to your liking, with your favorite sheikh or qari', convert it to any audio version and save it on your phone. They usually don't exceed 20 or 25mins and they are very relaxing and pleasant to hear, Alhamdulillah.

4) Use technology:

This one is the easiest. I think most of us if not all of us have a Muslim/ Salah/ Azan/ Quran app on our phones. There is a hundred of them on the play/ istore. Just choose the one that is most convenient for you, easiest or most user-friendly. Some apps offer to set notifications and reminders to the morning/evening remembrance, you can even select your favorite utterances and not all of them, set the time, and everyday it will remind you to recite them.

In this respect, what is your favorite Muslim app to use?

I hope this post brings you some benefits and helps you in any way. Thank you so much for reading through, and please leave some feedback 🤍

Assalamu Alaikom.

- bintafriqiya.

[asma-al-husna]

Allah calls Himself Al-Quddoos— The Most Pure, The All-Perfect— on two occasions in the Quran. He is the One who is the absolutely pure in essence and attributes. Al-Quddoos is free from and far above any worldly imperfection, and He is beyond all human understanding of purity and perfection!

The Most Pure, the All-Perfect

Quddoos comes from the root qaaf-daal-seen, which points to three main meanings. The first main meaning is to be pure and clean. The second is to be far removed from impurity or imperfection, and the third main meaning is to be sacred or blessed.

This root appears ten times in the Quran in five derived forms. Examples of these forms are al-qudusi (“the Holy [spirit]”) and al-muqadasi (“the sacred”).

Linguistically, quddoos is on the intense structure of the attribute of quds, which refers to cleanliness or tahaarah and comes from the verb qadasa. Al-Quddoos is ‘clean’ or free from any partner, spouse, or child, from death, from injustice, lying, forgetfulness, error, poverty, and stinginess. Laa ilaaha illa huwa– there is no God but He.

Al-Quddoos Himself says: He is Allah , other than whom there is no deity, the Sovereign, the Pure . . . [Quran, 59:23] Whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth is exalting Allah, the Sovereign, the Pure, the Exalted in Might, the Wise. [Quran, 62:1]

Subhanallah and alhamdulillah

They said, ‘Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?’ [Quran, 2:30]. The angels glorify and praise Allah al-Quddoos continuously and so does the whole universe. Al-Quddoos created us human beings to worship, glorify, and praise Him as He gave us something different: our hearts.
Using the human heart to reflect on His creations, His perfection and greatness, it realizes that glorification and praise of the Creator is inevitable. So we praise and thank Al-Quddoos (alhamdulillah) and glorify Him (subhanAllah) as He is high above anything that does not befit Him. Isn’t it a blessing to have such a perfect lord, and aren’t we blessed to be able to praise Him?

How can you live by this name?

1.Have a pure belief in Al-Quddoos.
Believe in the oneness of Al-Quddoos and make sure your creed (or aqeedah) is pure by studying the types of tawheed and their practical meanings in your daily life from trustworthy sources, like Kitaab ut -Tawheed (The Book of Tawheed) by ibn Abd Al-Wahhab.

2. Praise Al-Quddoos.
Say alhamdulilah and subhanAllah from the bottom of your heart. The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to say in his prayer while in the bowing position (ruku): subboohun quddoosun Rabbul-malaa’ikati war-rooh (praise and Holiness be to You, Lord of the angels and the Soul). [Muslim] You can add this beautiful invocation to enhance your prayer.

3. Purify yourself through prayer.
The Prophet salallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam asked the companions: If someone bathes in a river outside of his house five times a day, will there be any impurity left on him? [Muslim] Visualize your prayer as cleansing your body and soul. Your prayer also protects you: indeed the prayer prevents from the indecency and evil. [Quran, 29:45]

4. Give the best sadaqah.
Give zakah (obligatory) and sadaqah (charity) to “purify” and increase your wealth. Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase. [Quran 9:103] Remind yourself when you give sadaqah to give the best, as Allah is Al-Quddoos and He deserves the best to be given for His sake. Aishah radiyalahu anha used to perfume the charity she gave!

5. Don’t be unjust.
Allah does not wrong a person even to the amount of an atom’s weight [Quran 4:40]. Even if people do dhulm (injustice) to Him, Al-Quddoos never does injustice to people. Allah ‘azza wa jall also made injustice and oppression forbidden for you; so don’t be unjust to anyone, family or stranger, child, adult or even to animals.

6. Be clean.
Be clean inside and out and strive to purify and keep renewing your intentions when you do a good deed. Be thoughtful with your wudu; do your best to not only keep your belongings and house clean, but also your environment by not throwing litter and by removing harmful objects. Consume healthy and permissable food and drink— bought with halaal earnings— and teach children this way of living.

7. Let the Quran purify you.
And who is more truthful than Allah in speech? [Quran, 4:122] The speech of Al-Quddoos is pure and is a cure, healing, and guidance for you to purify yourself. So turn to the Quran to seek cure from the diseases of your heart, let the ayaat help you to improve your character, and recite the Quran daily to clean your heart and bring tranquillity to your body.

8. Ask Al-Quddoos.
The Prophet salallahu’ alayhi wa sallam used to ask Al-Quddoos at the beginning of prayer:
اللهم باعد بيني وبين خطاياي كما باعدت بين المشرق والمغرب اللهم نقني من خطاياي كما ينقى الثوب الأبيض من الدنس اللهم اغسلني من خطاياي بالثلج والماء والب
O Allah, distance me from my sins just as You have distanced The East from The West, O Allah, purify me of my sins as a white robe is purified of filth, O Allah, cleanse me of my sins with snow, water, and ice. [Al-Bukharee, Muslim] Use and reflect on this supplication as it contains all forms of purification: distancing (moving far away from dirt and deficiencies), removing dirt or filth, and washing or cleansing, so no impurity remains at the end.

O Allah, Al-Quddoos, we know that You are the absolutely pure beyond imagination. Lead us to a sound belief in Your oneness, help us in purifying our hearts, deeds, and intentions, and guide us to purify our bodies and keep our environment clean. Aid us in performing the best salah, giving the best charity, and helping us to turn to the Quran so we can come to You with a pure heart, ameen!

[witnessingeyes14]

Self Awareness

Dive into the beauty of the elegant night sky with stars glittering over or the awe-inspiring dancing northern lights of auroras filled with magnificence. Enchanted much? The universe that lives inside you is even breathtaking. It is all about us searching and finding that within ourselves which can unlock numerous doors for us.

“The ultimate knowledge of a man is to know himself” – Imam Ali(a)

“Whenever the knowledge of a man increases, his attention to his soul also increases and he tries his best to train, and purify' it”-

Self Awareness as a type of Intelligence

An American cognitive psychologist and author, who is best known for his theory of multiple intelligences characterizes it into eight types; Visual-Spatial, Linguistic-verbal, logical-mathematical, Bodily-Kinesthetic, Musical, Naturalistic, Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Intelligence where Intrapersonal Intelligence is about introspection and self-reflection. Self-awareness is the complete field of one's capabilities and a very vast universe to discover with no limits or boundaries unless you set them for yourself.

A Glance in the History

“The unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates

"It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles." - Gautama Buddha

We all know Gautama Buddha, a philosopher, mendicant, meditator, spiritual teacher, and most importantly, A religious leader, His religious teachings are observed in Buddhism today, one of the world’s religions, and Socrates, one of the three great figures of the ancient period, a famous philosopher. In fact, Those unforgettable individuals, who live in the book holding the history of mankind's evolution, mastered this art and marked the pages with their accomplishments because they were self-aware, they knew their talents and shortcomings, their strengths and weaknesses, and ways to manifest their abilities into achieving something and hence they proved to be the great leaders, influencers and remarkable personalities.

 Why is it important

“When I discover who I am, I’ll be free.”  – Ralph Ellison

Self-awareness thus is an important aspect in our life to grow as a person, morally or religiously. It develops emotional intelligence, giving you control over your mind and not the mind, controlling you.

It is a 'guidance' in the lands of lost, an 'oasis' in the desert of thirst, a 'pair of oars' for your boat in oceans of depth, a rescue in the middle of nowhere.

Unfortunately, this is the area we are least aware of, we keep ourselves busy in focusing on external factors that we completely forget to take a look inside ourselves causing us to lose our sense of direction our flow the sense of what we want, and eventually, we lose ourselves as a consequence and this, in turn, leads us to depression.

“I wonder at the person who urgently searches for that which he has lost, but he has lost his soul and is not searching for it.” –Imam Ali (a)

Islam and Self-awareness

Allah subhanahu wa ta’aala says:

“And there are signs on the earth for those who are certain. And in your own souls (too); wi11 you not then see?”(51: 20, 21)

Explaining the above verse Muhammad Ali Shomali in his book “Self Knowledge” writes,

"We learned that Allah has two kinds of signs, the ones in the external, physical world, and those within ourselves. Verse 20 deals with those signs that have to do with the physical realm. In it, the Almighty God tells us that there are signs on the earth for those who believe."

For verse 21 he further states “This verse calls to our attention to the need to look for these signs within ourselves. We are clearly and unambiguously told that there are signs in the external world as well, and these are sources of guidance for us.”

 'I wonder how a person who ignores himself can know his Lord.'- Imam Ali

Another matter is that Islam focuses on self-control, namely Jihad bin nafs, and this again requires knowing one’s self first.

Words of Allah subhanahu wa ta’aala in the Quran are as follows:

... By the soul and (by) Him who made it perfect, and then inspired it to understand what is wrong and what is right for it. Truly is successful the one who purifies (his soul). (Holy Qur'an, 91: 7-9)

It has been narrated, Imam Ja’far al‑Sadiq (a) said: “The Prophet (s) of God dispatched a contingent of the army (to the battlefront). Upon their (successful) return, he (s) said: ‘Blessed are those who have performed the minor jihad and have yet to perform the major jihad.’ When asked, ‘What is the major jihad?’ the Prophet (s) replied: ‘The jihad of the self (struggle against self)’”. [Al-Majlisi, Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 19, p. 182, hadith no. 31]

It is clear from the above pieces of evidence that Islam guides us towards self-knowledge, to get better out of our lives for Dunya as well as Akhirah.  

 The keys to self-awareness

Analyzing and examining ourselves, evaluating the shortcomings

Making a report of our daily habits and routine

Meditating (meditate in sujood if you are a Muslim)

Accept the weaknesses and work on them to develop as a better person

Last but not the least

It is only through self-awareness we wipe out dozens of toxicity from our beings, lives, and even society to a certain extent without even knowing it. Working on one's self can influence the external matters as well without any efforts and that is beauty.

[penhive]

Analysis of the Writings of Jorge Luis Borges

Tlon Uqbar Orbis and Tertius

The author owes the discovery of Uqbar to the conjunction of a mirror and an encyclopedia. The book and the mirror become symbols of a mystical labyrinth. From there, there is a dialogue with Herbert Ashe, a man of mystery and bewitchment, Borges in the first person traces the inventor of Tlon to the philosopher Leibniz. From there Borges traces the idealism of the metaphysical world. In the language of Tlon, there are strange to say no nouns but only verbs. For example, moon is a verb: moonate. Objects are composed of two terms, one the visual and the other auditory. For example, the color of the rising sun, the cry of a far-away bird. An interesting thought is that the future has no reality but of the present hope. Language is a game of paradoxes. Nouns have a metaphoric value.

The Garden of Forking Paths

The Garden of Forking paths is a metaphoric dualism of symbols. The story is told in the first-person narrative. The captain Richard Madden goes to the house of Dr. Stephen Albert. They discuss about labyrinths and the garden of forking paths. The narrator shoots Albert and Madden arrests the narrator. The narrator was able to communicate to the Germans about the bombing of a place in England.

The Lottery in Babylon

The Lottery in Babylon is a symbolic secret of chance to a winning or losing. The lotteries failed as they were not directed to man’s faculties but to hope.

Pierre Menard the Author of Quixote

The author Borges writes about an imaginary Don Quixote which does not exist. Quixote is a play of language of words. In it he makes History the mother of truths.

The Circular Ruins

In the circular ruins, a man is prone to having dreams and visions. These dreams pertain to esoteric wisdom. The man comes to a period of enlightenment.  The universe proposes a grandiose plan for the man to enact. Dreams are full of wit and irony showing a remonstrance of Socratic humor.

The Library of Babel

In the Library of Babel, the narrator compares the Universe to that of a library. The library is unending. Man is an imperfect librarian. The limitations of the alphabet do not deter the language in creating infinity.

Funes the Memorious

The author narrates the strange behavior of a man. He narrates the story of a man who had been maimed tragically by an untamed horse. Funes possess a phenomenal memory.

The Shape of the Sword

There is a man who has a scar on his face and he tells how his face was pierced with a sword. There is a hint of revolution taking place in Ireland.

The Theme of the Traitor and the Hero

In the theme of the traitor and the hero, there is the protagonist, Kilpatrick who is paradoxically an enemy and hero.

Death and the Compass

There occurs a series of puzzling murders which traced to Historical and Literary reasons.

The Secret Miracle

A person is condemned to the gallows by the Gestapo. In prison, he is undergoing the delirium of death. The man, the protagonist has a literary lineage.  There is a brilliant narrative of describing the agonies of death.

Three Versions of Judas

In it, the first argument that the author lays down is that all the accusations against Judas are preposterous and false. Is there a need to betray Christ who is a popular figure? He then goes on to explain the Platonic idea of forms, that is what ever in the real world has an ideal form in the spiritual world.

The Sect of the Phoenix

The sect of the Phoenix is a mystical sect which embraces the Philosophy of Esotericism. The doctrines of the sect are akin to the bird phoenix which renews itself from the flames.

The Immortal

This is a fable in search for immortality. Immortality is examined as a search for meaning in life. There is a conversation about God who is an excavator of meaning.

The Theologians

In it, there is an enigmatic description of the wheel, symbol and the serpent juxtaposed with an aura of mysticism. The author ponders on the meaning of time.  Again, he goes on to say the vilest of all sinners can be cleansed by the blood of Jesus.

The Story of the Warrior and the Captive

This is a story of a warrior who paradoxically becomes the captive.

Emma Zunz

The story begins with Emma’s father committing suicide. Her father is wrongly accused of cash embezzlement. Emma executes her father’s boss Lowenthal.

The House of Asterion

The house of Asterion is a mysterious mythical place. There is a mystical connotation of the number 14.

Deutsch’s Requiem

This a legend of a man who faces death for being a murderer.  He is a man who is inspired by philosophers and dramatists. The birth and death of a man has been preordained.

Averroes Search

Averroes is a mystical man whose scholarly interests lie in books and literature. In it, there is an exposition there is no other God than Allah. He goes on to say that writing is an art.

Zahir

The Zahir is made up of many things like a coin, a tiger, a blind man from a mosque, an astrolabe, and a compass.  Then in the Zahir, the writer speaks of a maiden Clementia.  Her death moved the author into tears.  The coin, Zahir symbolized man’s freewill. Everything, even the mind and imagination is a Zahir.

The Waiting

A man alights from a cab. This man is named Villari. For Villari, the coincidence of art and reality were alien to him. He was a man filled with weariness. Villari reads Dante’s Divine Comedy and he believes that hell does not exist.

God’s Script

There is a person in captivity in a cell. In the cell, the man is contemplating the order of the stone carved serpents.  He is wondering about the mysterious script of God. The symbol is a magical element of thought.  Ecstasy does not repeat itself in symbols. God for him as a concept has been a blazing light, a sword in the circles of a rose, and also a rose.

The Argentinian Writer and Tradition

Argentinian tradition exists in gauchesque poetry. The classic poem by Martin Fierro is akin to Homeric Poems.  Poems are composed on themes of love, solitude, nature and romance.  Poetry also speaks of abstract themes like time, space and the sea. Borges asks the question whether literature should address national themes. Argentinian history wants to free itself from Spanish influences.

The Wall and the Books

In it, the author mentions the emperor of China who built the great wall of China and ordered the burning of books.

The Fearful Sphere of Pascal

Universal history is the history of handful metaphors. The sphere is the most uniform and perfect thing in existence.  Divinity in its perfection is represented as a sphere. God is an intelligent sphere whose center is everywhere and whose circumference is nowhere.

Partial Magic in Quixote

Quixote is a work of realism. The novel served the purpose of parody of the elegant traditions of knighthood.  Every novel is an ideal plane inserted into the realm of reality.

Valery as a Symbol

Valery is a symbol of infinite dexterities. Valery personifies the labyrinths of the mind. Valery is a symbol of Europe in delicate twilight.  Valery at his death leaves us with the symbol of man who is very sensitive.

[islamicrays]

Assalamu’Alaikum. I have someone I like and I wish to get married to him, however, his family isn’t agreeing to it because we are front two different cities back in our home countries (although we’ve lived abroad all our lives). They don’t even want to know anything about me because of this difference. Please keep me in your duaas. I feel like we’ll end up doing sin and we won’t be happy marrying Other people. Please please I need your duaas.

Walaikum Assalaam

My advice will be bit harsh but that's the truth our spouse are already written.If it's meant to happen it will happen; if it's not no matter how hard you try it won't happen. His family is not giving you any respect. Do you want to get into a marriage where his family won't give respect to you and your family. I suggest you to have distance and focus on your relationship with Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala and keep yourself busy. Don't compromise your values. Make dua to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala that He grant you a righteous spouse who will be the coolness of your eyes. His plans are better than our wishes. Trust His plans.

If you plan to get over him then read the post further. Cut off your contact with him. If you can’t get married then stay away from each other. Distract yourself and work on your relationship with Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala. Do productive things that will help you in the hereafter as well. Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala has already written our spouse name. It’s just matter of time. So don’t compromise your values and lead a life pleasing to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala. Abstain from haram relationships. If something is meant for you then you will eventually get in halal way in shaa Allah. We are not perfect and we may make mistakes so rectify it and try your best to abstain from haram.

First we need to attach ourselves to Allah then we can easily detach from others. We need to balance the love of Creator and the Creation. Keep the love of the creation in your hand and the love of Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala in your heart that’s difficult to do but with time you will learn. For this we need to make dua and love for the sake of Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala

“Call on your Lord when your heart is brittle, that is a time when it’s in pieces and the Light of Allah can fill the gaps. That is why Allāh is with the broken hearted.”

-Shaykh Hamza Yusuf

“The fastest way to heal a broken heart is to find someone better to love, and love more. Know that sometimes heartbreak happens just to push you to Allah.”

-Yasmin Mogahed

Fix your prayers and ask Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala for the help. Always remember that Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala plans are better than our wishes. Make lots of dua and while asking Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala always say “if it’s good for me” because we don’t know what’s good for us only Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala knows.

“But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah Knows, while you know not.” (Quran 2:216)

Advice from Hadia Alia on moving from a ex boyfriend

“Moving on from an ex-boyfriend can sometimes be very complex. Every situation is uniqe and will require different actions. Here are a few tips to get over him:

Cry. It is ok to cry if you want as it feels better when you let all the emotions out instead of keeping them bottled up inside you forever.Talk to someone you trust. Sometimes you just need someone to listen rather than offer advice. Even you cannot understand why it happened, talking about it can help you accept that the relationship is over.Get the help you need. A breakup can have serious negative effects on your mental and physical well-being, especially if you find that you are still dwelling on it months later. Breakups have been associated with weakened immune systems and an increased risk of illness. People who have not gotten over a breakup within 16 weeks can even experience physical changes in their brains that reduce their motivation, concentration, and emotions. A therapist can help by listening to you, encouraging you to confront your feelings, and teaching you new ways to do with your pain.Remind yourself to let go. There are variety of behavioral techniques you can try to stop thinking about your ex. All of these techniques rely on your ability to recognize when a thought about your ex enters your mind and to take a specific action to stop that thought from coming back. Remember that these techniques are to be used for obsessive thoughts only! If you have not yet dealt with your feelings and taken the time to grieve, you should not try to suppress your thoughts.

– You can try wearing a rubber band around your wrist and snapping it each time you think about your ex.

– You can write down the thoughts you are having about your ex on a piece of paper and then throw it away.

– You can try a visualization exercise, which requires you to visualize a specific scene whenever a thought of your ex occurs to you. For example, you could think of a stop sign in order to remind yourself that you need to stop what you are doing. If you do this consistently, the association should become automatic.

Focus on taking care of yourself. In order to boost your mood, it’s important to practice healthy habits. Make sure you exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep. Committing yourself to a healthy lifestyle will not only make you feel good, but it may just offer you the escape you need from thoughts about your ex

– Start praying five times. It will help you to regain your positivity and let go of the stress associated with your breakup.

Remember, you are strong and can get over him if you really want to.”

Always remember this:

“No amount of guilt can change the past and no amount of worrying can change the future. Go easy on yourself for the outcome of all affairs is determined by the decree of Allah. If something is meant to go elsewhere, it will never come on your way, but if it is yours by destiny, from you it cannot flee.”

-Umar ibn al Khattab (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu)

On healing broken hearts:

If you are trying to get over a person you can’t be with, treat it like an addiction:

1. Cut yourself off from the drug completely: Cut off all communication and reminders–even if that means blocking numbers, emails, a Facebook profile, and stop checking their Facebook! This is your detox.

2. Replace it with something better: Increase in your thikr (remembrance of Allah) and get closer to Allah. If you aren’t praying your daily prayers, fix that. Pray all and pray on time. Pray qiyam in the last third of the night (just before fajr). Make duaa, tawbah (repentance), cry, plead to Allah. This is your treatment.

(Yasmin Mogahed)

Unlawlful love before marriage…

Ibn al Qayyim al Jawziyyah (rahimahullah) mentions in regards to unlawful love before marriage (i.e. haram sexual relations, or love for someone who you are unable to marry).

“And the cure for this deadly illness (i.e. unlawful love before marriage) is for the person that is afflicted to realise that this love is only due to his/her own delusions and ignorance.

So upon such a person is to first and foremost strengthen their Tawheed and reliance upon Allah, and secondly to increase in worship and busy themselves with it, so much so that they do not have any spare time letting their minds wander and think about their beloved.

And they should call upon Allah to protect them and save them from this evil, just as Prophet Yusuf called upon Allah and he was saved. And they should do as he did, be as he was, in terms of ikhlaas (sincerity) and remembering Allah in abundance.

This is because if the heart is filled with ikhlaas for the sake of Allah, there will be no space left for any unlawful love to be present, rather this only happens to a heart that is empty and has no ikhlaas whatsoever.

And let such people remind themselves that whatever Allah has decreed for them is only in their own best interests, and when Allah commands something it is never to cause harm or misery to His slaves.

And let them also remind themselves that their unlawful love does not benefit them, neither in this world or the hereafter! As for this world then they will be so preoccupied with their love that it will cripple them and will cause them to live in a fantasy world. And as for the hereafter then it will cause them to be preoccupied with the love of the creation instead of love for the Creator!

These people need to be reminded, that the one who is submerged in something will never see it’s ill effects, neither will the person who has never experienced such things. The only people who will be able to relate to them are those who have experienced the same thing but have been saved. Such people can look back and realise how evil it is.”

I hope it will be helpful. May Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala guide us all to the straight path. May Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala grant you a righteous spouse who will be the coolness of your eyes.

Allahumma Ameen

[usertoxicyaoi]

Hi Faiza! I hope you're having a wonderful day! I wanted to educate myself more thoroughly on Islam, because the representation of this religion in Europe is awfully bad and particularly biased. I wonder if you could, only if you want of course, recommend some books, articles or even videos that could help me know more about Islam as it really is rather than what my country tries to make us believe it is. Thank you for the positivity and enlightenment you bring everyday! Take care of you!

hiiii anon!!!! thank you thank you!!!! i hope you're in the best of health right now!! mmm. the first true and authentic place would be the qur'aan, since as muslims we believe that the qur'aan is the literal true word of Allah, a mircale in and of itself, which hasnt changed and has been preserved in its truest form ever since it was revealed to muhammad (peace be upon him) over 1400 years ago. whats really interesting personally for me is just how much you get to learn about other faiths like judaism and christianity in and through the qur'aan. that it acknowledges them as the people of the book, since we cant be muslims if we dont believe in abraham and david and solomon and moses and jesus (peace be upon them) and the torah and gospel and the psalms.

now, that can be quite daunting. it took me 3 years to study it under my teacher who was a scholar, and even today, i study it and learn and come away with something new. so here's what i do:

- when i want to recite it privately, i read it in arabic and english, chapter by chapter. there's 114 chapters in the qur'aan in total, and some are v long, so i break those down over days. i use this website for reciting qur'aan on my phone, or otherwise, just the book itself. sometimes, i just wanna simply listen to recitations, ya know. different muslims have different reciters (is that how its spelt??) they like. i personally love sheikh shuraim and sheikh raad al kurdi (here's just one example of sheikh raad al kurdi reciting from his channel). so if you wanna just listen to qur'aan recitations, you can enter these 2 names into youtube and you'll get access to tonnes of videos of them reciting. its so so calming. some of them have subs too so you can literally just listen to the recitation along with reading the subs! for example, this video of raad al kurdi reciting blew up on youtube and so many people that were non muslims reacted to it and it was so so interesting to see how moved they were by it.

- now to understand the qur'aan is a great task. bc it has to be understood with context, and some verses dont give context whilst others do. the best person who emobodied the qur'aan, was the prophet muhammad (peace be upon him) since his own wife described him as "the walking qur'aan". so we should look to his life and his sayings that often get quoted in the videos i watch for my self-learning, where ive been turning to 3 key places/people on youtube:

the merciful servant channel: they do really great visual videos about different topics from an islamic perspective using the qur'aan and ahaadith (the sayings of the prophet muhammad (peace be upon him), such as the meaning of life, how to seeks hope from Allah, the day of Judgement, understanding the signs from Allah about His creation, His rewards and punishments, the stories narrated in the qur'aan of the prophets (peace be upon them all) etc.

imam omar suleiman: you can just search his name on youtube and you'll get tonnes of videos of his lectures. his own channel of his own institute is this. subhanallah, he is such a great speaker and ambassador of islam. he speaks so eloquently in things like inter faith dialogues like this one as well as when he is explaining life stories of the prophets (peace be upon them all) or the companions of the prophet muhammad (peace be upon them all). yesterday i was watching him narrate the life of bilal (peace be upon him), a black man who turned from a slave before islam existed into being given the elevated honour and status of being freed and becoming the first man ever to give the adhaan (call to prayer) in all 3 of the holy sites/masjids (mosques) in islam: masjid an nabawi in madinah, masjid al haram in makkah and masjid al aqsa in palestine. and the way imam omar said his story? was heart touching and so visceral. he's amazing. but he also touches on really beautiful topics like racism, how to help others, why do innocent people suffer, the wife of pharoh, aasiya, and mary (peace be upon them both) (which is one of the personal favourites of mine) etc.

mufti menk: likewise, just search his name on youtube and you'll see tonnes of videos. his own channel is this. he's just. he's so funny? but also v v humbling. he speaks a lot about mental health and does loads of ig lives too! the way he talks about the stories in the qur'aan? he just ... its like you can vision it. i've learnt so much about the prophets (peace be upon them all) through his narrations. he's a favourite amongst young muslims just bc of how current he is in the topics he speaks about.

special mentions should also go to dunia shuaib, yasmin mogahed and dalia mogahed, dr. zakir naik, the talk islam channel (especially this video), mohamed hoblos, mufti abdur rahman. these are all speakers i listen to who are so so passionate and you can enter and search into youtube to watch their videos.

[mohdadibnoh]

On Blogging

More than 20 years ago,I started to write weekly short notes as Cerita Kedai Kopi at geocities.com.At that time,the term blogging was not invented yet.My nickname was Berisman then.Later on,I joined blogger.com but it has limited features to include photos,links etc.I was very serious about blogging and wanted my blogs to look cool and professional.So,I subscribed for a fee based typepad.com in 2004 for nine years but I stopped in August ,2013 when I was badly bitten by Facebook bugs.I left blogging because my usual regular readers had reduced from 200 hits to 100 hit daily.That was one of the reasons.However,I still do update my sister blogs at blogger.com for my cycling and photography hobbies.Sadly,my reading hobby has taken a back seat.Facebook has an apps called Notes,which I use to write my photography notes and in a way,it is a blog inside Facebook.What is missing is the " blogging community and culture" in Facebook context and Facebook friends.And this missing dimension is a void that is waiting for something to happen. Did I miss blogging in the last two years?The answer is not really.I was then busy with photo blogging at Flickr,500px,EyeEm.It is just about uploading photos and very little to write. One important event that inspired me to get serious with my photography was when Putrajaya Holding S/B used my photo to advertise the sale of their propoerties in Putrajaya and I got paid for it.The second event is when more than a dozen of my photos were selected to be on sale at Getty Images.These events boasted my interest in photography.My  Facebook and Photoblogs are updated almost every week with my best shots of that period.By becoming an avid and serious photographer,it taught me to be more observant and patient. Now,I appreciate more the beauty and the power of Allah's creations.As a consultant and teacher in project management,I am using photos as my visual communications methodology to enhance my consultancy work for my clients and better understanding for my students. Fast forward  to five  ago,I read a note from Kakteh@Puan Zaharah about going back to blogging.She invited us to kickstart blogging again and in the event we cannot walk or run due to us getting older,at least we can bloghop!Her note reminds me of my blogging days and I felt nostalgic about it.Many of  my bloggermates of the last decade had stopped blogging and a few had passed away.Anyway,I said yes that I will go back to blogging and the D-Day of our blogger reunion is on 6th of May,2015.Two of my regular blog readers sent me email asking why I stopped blogging for more than a year.I replied to their questions but there was no intention to go back to blogging.I was happy with my Facebooking.Facebook is just like a Swiss knife with many blades and gadgets attached and I still love it to communicate and to collaborate my reading,cycling and photography hobbies with my friends. After saying yes to blogging again,I sat down on my lazy chair and started wondering what made me want to do it again.Surely,it is not just about writing and who read my blog.It has to do with the COMMUNITY OF BLOGGERS..In the last five years,we don't have Facebook meeting or Teh Tarik (TT) session but we did have  our BLOGGERS TT sessions during my blogging days.It is more personal and some have become real friends-unlike Facebook friends. A few times,I attended political forum initiated and managed by bloggers.Some bloggers were political activists and also act as voice of dissent-especially during the height of REFORMASI.A few bloggers were labelled as the enemies of the ruling elite.In fact,blogging and bloggers were given bad names by a few Malaysian government ministers.Now,even our Prime Minister has his own blog,not to mention our ex-PM TDM.Blogs have the depth and the width,unlike Facebook that feels like Touch N Go. Looking back,I have been a serious and regular blogger for about a decade from 2003 to 2013.There are more than 3000 postings-short and long!You can read my postings at my old blog The Reader.Last year,I plan to do a few eBooks on managemen/tazkiraH/ cycling based  from my previous postings.Some how,my plan did not take off.Hopefully,I could get some fund to kick off the eBook projects this year or next. One of the reasons why I blog was to share my little knowledge and experience with the younger generations.A few of them have benefitted and some of them have become my personal friends.As I grow older ,I am losing more old friends,but at the same time,I am getting new friends from younger generations.Likewise,I also benefited a lot from  blogging.The most obvious one is it keeps on improving my writing and expanded my social and business networking. Reading is my first hobby before I get bitten by cycling and camera bugs.Blogs may not be like real books,however reading blog is just like reading a few paragraphs from books yet to be completed/published  by my fellow bloggers.One of my friends,Awang Goneng ,has turned his blog into a book-Growing Up in Terengganu. A question comes to my mind:What shall I write in the coming weeks or months?Well,I am not going to be living in the future.At my age,my planning horizon is short.I am living a day at a time and I shall write whenever I have something to write-even twice a day or none at all. Last but not least,my thank to Kakteh@Zaharah for inspiring me to blog again.Blogging is cool;old blogger is cooler! Please read The Reader at blogger.com. Next I am writing a book on my hobby -cycling.The e-Book version should be completed in April,2021

[adposto2]

WHERE is Gulberg Greens Islamabad.

Whom to trust whom not to?. Especially when it comes to investments, I think making decisions in this regard are harder than that lifetime effort made to earn that heavy amount. For instance me, who had been saving up for a decade now but took me more than three years to gain confidence enough to buy land. The money lying in the bank was only losing its worth . So, I knew I had to make a decision soon for my future security.  Now the question rises whom to trust, rather how to? . Commercial Projects  in Gulberg Islamabad

As we all know how fraud is common in this market. I can’t forget the first time I visited a real estate agent, the land that cost 15lac he was selling for 20 lac. And when I made a decision to buy it, it turned out to be a non-progressing land and probably have no worth howsoever. Now I knew this time is the right time to invest especially in the vicinity of Islamabad, my tension turned into frustration as I had never felt so helpless before. I was desperate for help YES… but was there anyone to guide me… unfortunately NO! One day while I was surfing Facebook, I came across Gulberg Islamabad’s post. The image was visually pleasing . Later ,when I dig down more to the content of their posts and website, the features seemed interesting too. Flat for sale in Gulberg islamabad

On top of all that, the name of Gulberg was quite promising itself. It suddenly clicked me to visit that place and visit their sales office rather than random property dealers. I entered Gulberg Greens and I was stunned by its beauty and grand look. I was overwhelmed by the hospitality of the Sales team that involved educated men and women as well. A lady helped me out with all the queries and procedure. For the first time I felt relieved to be in the right place and right away… yes right away I signed a cheque and booked an apartment in Gulberg Heights. The Roman architecture and amazing features and facilities that this place is offering was worth relying. So now I own my property and I surely believe that where there is a will there is a way! Commercial Plots in Gulberg Islamabad

My New Year Resolution

New Year Resolution: Enough of struggles… now it’s time to do more with my life! This is what I said to myself in the beginning of 2019 and changed my perspective about life. Life as we all know tests us in every way but it’s us who decide whether to become a victim of it or have control over it by learning from our mistakes and experiences… We can surely make it better by becoming stronger, by expecting less and giving more, by focusing on our dear ones rather than those who hurt us and most of us by analyzing what we want from life and how to get it! Of course it isn’t as easy as it sounds and not a work of day or two.

With time I realized that though we are always trying to comprehend everything around us, the most difficult thing to understand is what lies within us. Literally sometimes it takes years to figure out something as little as what is best for us and what isn’t. If I sound silly just try convincing yourself to do something against your will… My time for the last 4 years didn’t seem to be in my favor . But I simply accepted my fate till I couldn’t bear more, as not just my personal and professional life but also the lives attached to me were getting unbearably affected. I for once realized the cost of shattering my confidence and blaming myself.

No one was going to offer me solutions… I had to be my own master. I started off by taking care of myself, making my faith in Allah stronger . Also in any type of  circumstance I didn’t let anything get me down. All this seemed impossible initially, but today I am where I am because of this. My relationships got better and I showed good progress at work. Along with work I started a new online business of mobile accessories in collaboration with my cosine. In just one year I have earned enough to make an investment. For 2020 I can proudly say that this year I will start a new better life at my favorite place in Islamabad, The Gulberg Islamabad.

I have already booked a plots in Gulberg Residencia and now I can’t wait to see my home being built where I will have everything I wish for, a place rather than a house will be my home. I will finally be able to make my family happy with this beautiful gift. As no doubt there is no place like Gulberg Islamabad.

Everyone wants to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Don’t you???

In the serene and green Gulberg Residencia, is my beautiful home which means the world to me. And in that 7 marla home is my small lawn which is undoubtedly my favorite spot, my peace place. I can spend hours in my garden without getting bored since it makes me come alive from inside and I just love that feeling.

My mother, my favorite person is another person who loves this spot equally. Gardening is her hobby and more than me she the one who takes good care of this garden. My garden may be tiny, but its is filled with numerous colors of nature. Here you will see a huge and unique variety of flowers, fruits and vegetables. Roses are my all time fave. In addition to which we keep growing seasonal flowers and vegetables in the garden . Plots in Gulberg Green Islamabad.

The feeling is indescribable when you see the buds blooming, vegetable growing and new leaves sprouting… its like a new beginning of joy, hope and success. Plants are not just growing stem, they have a life. I often talk to them, while I water them, i pour my love and and when i hoe the soil, i know this care I put in them will in return bring more freshness to my life. Usually my day starts in my garden. It is a positive way to begin a day with the peace of mind. I practice deep breathing for around 20 minutes and then look at all the plants that I have.

I love spending the evening hours in my garden if I have time. Best are the days when my friends come over for evening tea. We chat and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. My pretty little garden is surely an integral part of my life. This place vanishes all the negativeness and makes me happy in seconds.

THE BIG REAL ESTATE QUESTION

Isn’t it hell of a confusion to decide which society is the best! These days too many new residence societies are emerging and everyone claims to be the best.

Other than few famous names such as Bahria Town and GULBERG, we can’t really rely on anyone… can we? So many fraud examples are there to scare us from making an investment. Also when it comes to business, we are either putting all our money in the drain or luck has knocked our door.

I wonder how many people get looted just because they trust the decent looking humans who convince them with their words. With the out of the world promises imagine how lifetime savings are blown away with just a signature. Though we can’t blindly trust any agent few things must be considered before making any decision.

They have been working in Real Estate for a quite a long time.

Check out the successful transactions and the feedbacks of their previous clients.

Their contact details, be it online or offline should always be available and so should be the responsive rate.

They should definitely be affiliated with a registered office or should be registered by themselves.

They should have in-depth information of the real estate industry.

Must supply your real estate needs as their utmost priority.

They should guide properly for your transaction

My Encounter with a Real Estate Agent

Today, thanks to the education and awareness, women believe there is nothing on earth they can’t do, well… try dealing with an ignorant person without him staring at you top to bottom, as if you are sitting naked just for his entertainment.

Seems relatable doesn’t it? That’s not it, my encounter with the goof I’m referring to kept getting more and more interesting. He was none other but a real estate agent. My colleague told me about good investment opportunities at societies near new airport so I took some time off to visit a real estate office for a better understanding.

I entered a small office with few people all in white kameez shalwar, which till this day I don’t get why they only where white… is it their dress code? Or do they try to portray decency through their look. Well if so it didn’t really work on me. Instead of gaining interest all I wanted was to get away from the creepy looks.  I asked him straight about the rates and the best offers they had within the budget I had. And after this long question he asked … “Madam Ji, what would you like to have chai or thunda (cold drink)” ? Confused I simply said, “NO, I don’t have time, please come straight to the point”… “Madam, how can we let our guest go unserved? Please feel comfortable.

So I ended up with a glass of juice which turned out to be much needed to clear my throat. Every time I asked a questioned, his eyes became wider and he bent towards me more… I thought he was going to sit on the table on some point. Well long story short, I changed my mind, received a fake call and escaped. It was till few months back when I went to the sales office of Gulberg Islamabad where I realized that decent dealing is possible in this profession.

I went with my colleague expecting disaster but she came out satisfied with all her quires answered. Now I too have made up my mind to invest only in Gulberg Green Islamabad because it’s not just serene and green, it has the best offers according to your requirements.

Life at Gulberg Residencia

Indeed, it was one of the best decisions of my life… we can’t regret the fact that our environment has a great influence on us. In other words, if we can’t adjust in our surrounding, nothing else can make us happy, neither money nor luxury. On the other hand, peace of mind in this fast moving era is not that easy to find. Cities are getting more and more crowded and so when I was capable of making an investment, all I could think was… PEACE! My residence  was living in central area of Rawalpindi.

The daily traffic block added extra half an hour to my office distance which was only 10 km away. And not just travelling, I was sick of the noises, pollution and altogether, I was unhappy with my lifestyle… even going for outing was not a fun thing for me. I know many people are happy the way they are but not me and I couldn’t help it. I had imagined a better life for my wife and my two kids who meant the world to me.

One day I crossed a newly emerging society, the Gulberg Islamabad and I felt the urge to visit it. Though the elegant entrance with wide roads and amazing farmhouses, I thought this place is only for the elite class.  Out of curiosity I asked a shopkeeper who showed me the way to the Gulberg Customer Dealing office. Again I was impressed but hopeless for I knew my savings were not enough.

Gathering up my confidence, I told the Sales Executive guy Mr. Mohsin about my total saving. Of course his response surprised me with a proposal not just for a living opportunity, but it offered an exceptional lifestyle, beyond my expectations at Gulberg Green Residencia. Though I could only afford a 5 marla plot, it was more than enough for me and my family. I thought it was the best gift I could give to my family and so it was.

When I brought my wife my kids and my parents to show them my plot, my wife was in tears of happiness and my mother couldn’t be more proud of me. I can’t wait for the time when I will move in to spend my dream life with my family. At Gulberg Islamabad, live your DREAM with SERENE AND GREEN LIFESTYLE!