Odes to Beirut

An aerial view of Beirut. (AFP)
An aerial view of Beirut. (AFP)
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Odes to Beirut

An aerial view of Beirut. (AFP)
An aerial view of Beirut. (AFP)

A book of insights, reflections and recollections of memories of growing up in Beirut, and the pain of separation and nostalgia, is to be released soon by Dar Nelson Publishing House. It comes as the Lebanese capital is in the midst of one of the darkest moments of its history and attempts to resurrect the city and revive hope in its soul.

Interestingly, the book entitled “The Beirut Quartet”, presents itself as a series of odesto the tormented city. It was written between 2014 and 2019, and was complete before the terrible blast that struck Port of Beirut. But, to its readers, the book appears to have been born out of their suffering, not that of the recent past.

The book’s author, a Lebanese expat by the name of Faris al-Haramouni al-Mahajri, wrote its odes from his distant home. He recollects his childhood and the days of his life and contemplates the many faces of his city and its neighborhoods; he addresses it:

“You cannot be done without ... the enchanter of history and the incubator of my youth
From you come sailing boats... laurel, basil, and elderberry
Ishtar, Adonis and their disciples
And the cedar wood of divine shrines
The queens dreamed of you as a crown on their heads
They left mourning, bewildered
Because they did not reside in you.”

In the book, the author recalls Beirut’s landmarks. He almost tours the city street by street and monument by monument.

“The Evangelical Church, the Americans’ School, Hamra Street, Raouche’s Cafes, Horse Shoe, Fairouz’s Piccadilly, sycamore trees, chinaberry trees, gardens of basil and lemon trees, jasmine bushes and cactus trees. The tramway, Faysal’s for wealthy Arabists and Saber, the king of falafel, for poor students, Uncle Sam for the Americans, the shores’ lighthouse, the sunset’s magnificence and the waves’ radiance.”

Like locations, he recalls people, addressing his capital saying: “They departed and left you behind; they were not all Lebanese, it is not just Gibran, Rihani, Naima, Onsi al-Hajj, Shoushou, Youssef al-Khal and Poetry Magazine that left, but also Zorba Kazantzakis, Laurence Daryl, Pablo Neruda, Camus and De Gaulle... referencing Beirut’s historical and cultural junctures bringing together figures and events of the East and the West.

After the flood of names that have passed through the city, the author stops at the final a juncture where “only Fairuz’s ballads bring hope. She sings and prays for invigoration, for a Beirut reinvigoration that one day revives all deities, the youngest, the eldest and those in-between, their clay, their gold and their marble, brides of the murex red jinn (genies), the blue-and-white scarfs, the philosophers, every whim and approach, and the splendor of colors, so that the people are lifted with them and sing along with them, at the top of their lungs, building and creating.”

The odes oscillate between description and emotion, reproach and hope, and praise and condemnation. The book is an amalgamation of sentiments, and its author wanted them to be personal to the same extent that it evokes collective memories. It is perhaps the kind of book that appeals to millions of Lebanese expatriates, including the book’s author. It wanders between events, evokes the paths of the stars of modern times, Beirut’s cultural junctures, and surveys its flora, flowers, trees, and even its stones and the rocks on which its first buildings and structures were built. Thus “it was perfumed with rose water and basil, crowned with roses and murex, it was adorned, ornated, exhilarated and educated with letters and knowledge.

He concludes with sentimental words for his suffering capital: “Enlighten the sinners’ minds, expel the evils stalking us from all sides, shower us with good deeds, and present yourself as our mother and mediate among us.”



International Fair and Museum in Madinah Showcases Islamic History with State-of-the-Art Technology

The International Fair and Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through Islamic history. (SPA)
The International Fair and Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through Islamic history. (SPA)
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International Fair and Museum in Madinah Showcases Islamic History with State-of-the-Art Technology

The International Fair and Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through Islamic history. (SPA)
The International Fair and Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through Islamic history. (SPA)

Nestled near the Prophet's Mosque in Saudi Arabia’a Madinah, the International Fair and Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through Islamic history.

Overseen by the Muslim World League, this innovative institution highlights the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, offering a range of engaging experiences.

It boasts 4DX cinema halls, an educational entertainment hall and giant screens, unique in the Middle East, projecting captivating visuals of the Prophet's Sunnah and biography, as well as cutting-edge technology like VR, AR, and holography.

Visitors embark on a visual exploration of the Prophet's Hijrah (migration) from Makkah to Madinah. Detailed models show the urban landscapes and landmarks of both cities during his time.

The fair also traces the evolution of the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque, highlighting their historical significance.

The exhibits are available in six major languages.


Saudi Arabia Launches 'Cultural Universe' Platform

Cultural Universe is an innovative platform that utilizes metaverse technology to provide users with the rich heritage of the Kingdom.
Cultural Universe is an innovative platform that utilizes metaverse technology to provide users with the rich heritage of the Kingdom.
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Saudi Arabia Launches 'Cultural Universe' Platform

Cultural Universe is an innovative platform that utilizes metaverse technology to provide users with the rich heritage of the Kingdom.
Cultural Universe is an innovative platform that utilizes metaverse technology to provide users with the rich heritage of the Kingdom.

The Saudi Ministry of Culture has launched Cultural Universe (https://cup.moc.gov.sa), an innovative platform that utilizes metaverse technology to provide users with an immersive and interactive experience of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's rich heritage, the Saudi Press Agency said on Sunday.
Visitors to the platform can embark on a virtual journey through time, starting from the founding of Saudi Arabia in 1727 and continuing to the present day. This interactive platform delves deep into various aspects of Saudi culture, encompassing arts, architecture, design, heritage, theater, cinema, culinary arts, libraries, visual arts, and literature.
Cultural Universe goes beyond a simple virtual tour by offering extensive customization options. Users can create their own avatars, control their movements within the platform, and adjust the graphics and language to their preference.
The platform boasts a stunning 360-degree view of the virtual environment, enabling users to explore every detail and immerse themselves in the experience.
Visitors can also learn about the Ministry of Culture and its affiliated entities, thus gaining a deeper understanding of the efforts to preserve and promote Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage.
This groundbreaking platform represents a significant leap forward in utilizing metaverse technology for cultural purposes. It provides a unique and engaging way for people worldwide to explore the rich tapestry of Saudi culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for its history and traditions.


Saudi Literature Commission Wraps up Presence at 2024 London Book Fair

Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission (LPTC) concluded its participation in the 2024 London Book Fair. (SPA)
Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission (LPTC) concluded its participation in the 2024 London Book Fair. (SPA)
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Saudi Literature Commission Wraps up Presence at 2024 London Book Fair

Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission (LPTC) concluded its participation in the 2024 London Book Fair. (SPA)
Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission (LPTC) concluded its participation in the 2024 London Book Fair. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission (LPTC) concluded its participation in the 2024 London Book Fair held at Olympia London between May 12 and 14, the Saudi Press Agency said on Sunday.
The LPTC's primary goal was to raise the international profile of Saudi publishers and literary agents by offering them a platform to connect with international counterparts, thus fostering a cultural dialogue and exchange of knowledge.
The Saudi pavilion proved to be a hub of activity, facilitating agreements between Saudi publishers, agents and international publishing houses. These partnerships are expected to enrich Arabic content and provide new opportunities for Saudi authors.


Islamic Artistry Shines in Embellished Qurans

Embellished and decorated Qurans highlight the depth of Islamic arts (King Abdulaziz Public Library)
Embellished and decorated Qurans highlight the depth of Islamic arts (King Abdulaziz Public Library)
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Islamic Artistry Shines in Embellished Qurans

Embellished and decorated Qurans highlight the depth of Islamic arts (King Abdulaziz Public Library)
Embellished and decorated Qurans highlight the depth of Islamic arts (King Abdulaziz Public Library)

The King Abdulaziz Public Library in Riyadh has opened an exhibition of 42 rare and beautifully decorated Qurans.

The display showcases the artistry of Islamic calligraphy, ornamentation, and coloring inspired by Quranic verses.

Faisal bin Muammar, the library’s general supervisor, stated Thursday that the exhibition is part of their program to organize exhibitions during national and religious events, both within Saudi Arabia and abroad.

He explained that these Qurans highlight the beauty of Islamic art through their intricate decorations and diverse styles. They show how Islamic art has evolved over time, drawing inspiration from Quranic verses and reflecting on the world, nature, and humanity.

Bin Muammar emphasized that these arts have influenced the world, particularly in the West, evident in various forms such as calligraphy, patterns, and ornamental designs seen in textiles, glassware, and pottery.

He also pointed out to the importance of calligraphy and decorative elements in Qurans, stressing how they symbolize the core identity and artistic unity of the Islamic world and Arab-Islamic civilization.

The library plays a crucial role in preserving Saudi, Arab, and Islamic heritage with its vast collection of manuscripts, including over 350 rare Qurans written in different styles across Islamic history.

In other news, the King Abdulaziz Foundation has launched the first-ever workshop in the Arab world for copying Qurans in Ottoman script.

This unique initiative blends artistry and scholarly precision, aiming to improve calligraphers' skills and preserve cultural heritage.

The workshop aims to train 16 participants in accurately copying Qurans using traditional manuscript techniques. This effort is expected to enhance their abilities and support organizations involved in Quranic studies, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.


Saudi Arabia Welcomes UN General Assembly’s Endorsement of ‘Measures to Combat Islamophobia’

File photo of Saudi flag/Asharq Al-Awsat
File photo of Saudi flag/Asharq Al-Awsat
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Saudi Arabia Welcomes UN General Assembly’s Endorsement of ‘Measures to Combat Islamophobia’

File photo of Saudi flag/Asharq Al-Awsat
File photo of Saudi flag/Asharq Al-Awsat

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomed the United Nation General Assembly’s endorsement of the “Measures to Combat Islamophobia" resolution.
The Kingdom also appointed a special envoy at the United Nations for Islamophobia, according to SPA.
The Ministry reiterated the Kingdom’s support for all international efforts aimed at combating extremist ideas and countering financing of radicalism, underlying the Kingdom’s promotion and adoption of the values of peace and dialogue among followers of faiths and civilizations.

It also supports establishing a culture of mutual respect among faiths and civilizations and promotes a culture of coexistence among peoples to achieve peace and prosperity for the world.


Arab Parliament Calls for Global Action Against Islamophobia

A statement was issued by the Arab Parliament Speaker on the occasion of the International Day To Combat Islamophobia, observed on March 15
A statement was issued by the Arab Parliament Speaker on the occasion of the International Day To Combat Islamophobia, observed on March 15
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Arab Parliament Calls for Global Action Against Islamophobia

A statement was issued by the Arab Parliament Speaker on the occasion of the International Day To Combat Islamophobia, observed on March 15
A statement was issued by the Arab Parliament Speaker on the occasion of the International Day To Combat Islamophobia, observed on March 15

The Arab Parliament urged the international community on Thursday to step up efforts to combat Islamophobia, a growing threat to Muslim communities worldwide.
A statement issued by Arab Parliament Speaker Adel Al-Asoomi, on the occasion of the International Day To Combat Islamophobia, observed on March 15, highlighted the need to promote tolerance and acceptance by encouraging a culture that embraces diversity and rejects discrimination.
Al-Asoomi stressed the need to challenge negative portrayals and counter attempts to distort the image of Islam and Muslims, often falsely linking them to terrorism.
The statement emphasized that terrorism is a global threat, not related to a specific nationality or religion, and that the recent trend to unfairly associate Islam with terrorism has fueled hatred toward Muslims.


Alaliyah Museum, a Window onto Jazan's Rich Heritage

Situated in Dhagareer Village in Jazan region, Alaliyah Museum plays a significant role in the preservation of human and cultural heritage. (SPA)
Situated in Dhagareer Village in Jazan region, Alaliyah Museum plays a significant role in the preservation of human and cultural heritage. (SPA)
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Alaliyah Museum, a Window onto Jazan's Rich Heritage

Situated in Dhagareer Village in Jazan region, Alaliyah Museum plays a significant role in the preservation of human and cultural heritage. (SPA)
Situated in Dhagareer Village in Jazan region, Alaliyah Museum plays a significant role in the preservation of human and cultural heritage. (SPA)

The people of Jazan region have had a fascination with collecting antiques and archaeological pieces for many years. They would often embark on personal quests, scouring valleys, forests, and heritage sites in search of such pieces, collecting them to preserve them, SPA said on Thursday.
Recognizing their historical importance, they established private museums that now serve as cultural centers, providing valuable information to researchers, and helping new generations know their country's history.
Situated in Dhagareer Village, Samtah Governorate, Jazan region, Alaliyah Museum plays a significant role in the preservation of human and cultural heritage, and in enriching the knowledge of current generations; it also helps researchers and history enthusiasts through its collection of archaeological pieces.
The museum houses a notable artifact and a traditional sofa cherished by the people of Jazan region. With a remarkable age of over 160 years, it retains its original legs crafted from jujube tree.
There are other numerous heritage pieces displayed that encapsulate the essence of traditional life in Jazan region.
Mohammed bin Mohsen Al-Dhagareeri has gathered these artifacts for 50 years. In 1425 AH, he established Alaliyah Museum, named after the ancient city of Alaliyah, which was constructed on the remnants of the city of Al-Khusuf on the southern side of Wadi Khaleb. Although the city vanished in the late 10th century, its ruins served as the foundation for the present-day Village of Dhagareer.
Alaliyah Museum stands as testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and traditions of the bygone city of Alaliyah. It showcases various heritage pieces, including an archaeological hook that was used in the well of Alaliyah 500 years ago.
The museum's exhibits encompass a wide array of artifacts, such as traditional farming and agricultural tools, measuring instruments crafted from tamarisk wood, copper pots, water jars, pottery, stone lamps, and camel shackles. It also houses a collection of antique women's jewelry, alongside an assortment of daggers, swords, old weapons, and coins.


Madinah's Historical Al-Faqir Well Reopens After Restoration

Saudi Madinah's historic Al-Faqir Well reopens - SPA
Saudi Madinah's historic Al-Faqir Well reopens - SPA
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Madinah's Historical Al-Faqir Well Reopens After Restoration

Saudi Madinah's historic Al-Faqir Well reopens - SPA
Saudi Madinah's historic Al-Faqir Well reopens - SPA

Saudi Madinah's historic Al-Faqir Well has reopened to visitors after restoration process was completed.
Dating back over 14 centuries, this landmark site stands testament to the Prophet Mohammad's acts of charity and kindness.
Located in Al-Aliyah district, the well is surrounded by lush orchards and other historical sites associated with the Prophet's life, SPA reported.
Water would originally be drawn from the three-meter diameter well using traditional waterwheels. Later, pumps were employed.
Currently, the well falls under the management and development purview of Al-Madinah Region Development Authority and other entities.
Besides the well itself, the site has features including a pool and channels that distribute water to nearby orchards. The well is naturally fed by water from the Bathan Valley.


First Makkah Clock: Historic Symbol of Saudi Care for Holy Sites

The first Makkah clock ordered by King Abdulaziz in 1933 (Darat al-Malik Abdulaziz/The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives)
The first Makkah clock ordered by King Abdulaziz in 1933 (Darat al-Malik Abdulaziz/The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives)
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First Makkah Clock: Historic Symbol of Saudi Care for Holy Sites

The first Makkah clock ordered by King Abdulaziz in 1933 (Darat al-Malik Abdulaziz/The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives)
The first Makkah clock ordered by King Abdulaziz in 1933 (Darat al-Malik Abdulaziz/The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives)

In the 1930s, as Muslims began their regular pilgrimages to the holy sanctuary in Makkah for Umrah and Hajj, signs of modernization emerged under the Saudi reign.

One significant addition was a giant clock atop Makkah’s government building, commissioned by King Abdulaziz. This clock served the worshippers’ need for accurate timing during their religious rituals and prayers in the Grand Mosque.

King Abdulaziz made caring for the holy mosques and the well-being of pilgrims a top priority for the Saudi government. He set the groundwork for future kings to improve services and make the pilgrimage experience smoother for visitors to Makkah and Medina.

From the early days of Saudi rule, King Abdulaziz showed a strong commitment to serving the holy sites and pilgrims from around the world.

He pledged to protect pilgrims and ensure their comfort and rights. In a statement published in the official newspaper before the Hajj season of 1343 AH, he expressed happiness in welcoming Muslims and making their journey to Makkah easier.

Recognizing the need for better timekeeping at the Grand Mosque, King Abdulaziz imported a large clock. Its hands were visible from far away, helping worshippers in Makkah and nearby areas keep track of prayer times.

King Abdulaziz ordered the construction of the clock in 1933, placing it atop the Hamidiyah Government Building. A tower reaching 15 meters high housed the clock, elevating it over 30 meters above street level.

The clock’s white background and black hands made it visible from afar, with electric lighting illuminating it at night. Construction began and finished in 1933.

Since then, the Two Holy Mosques have received special attention from Saudi leadership, particularly under the ambitious “Vision 2030” initiative, which has made the pilgrimage easier and enhanced the spiritual experience for millions of pilgrims.


In Malaysia, Ramadan Calls to Curb Food Waste 

Muslims walk in Putra Mosque for prayer during sunset ahead of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Monday, March 11, 2024. (AP)
Muslims walk in Putra Mosque for prayer during sunset ahead of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Monday, March 11, 2024. (AP)
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In Malaysia, Ramadan Calls to Curb Food Waste 

Muslims walk in Putra Mosque for prayer during sunset ahead of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Monday, March 11, 2024. (AP)
Muslims walk in Putra Mosque for prayer during sunset ahead of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Monday, March 11, 2024. (AP)

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when the faithful fast from dawn to dusk, began at sunrise Tuesday in much of Asia, a day after many Muslims in the Middle East began their fasts.

In the Muslim lunar calendar, months begin only when the new moon is sighted, which can lead to variations of a day or two.

In Malaysia, mosques began preparing bubur lambuk, a hearty traditional porridge dish made with meat and spices that is distributed for free to the public during Ramadan. But at the same time, critics urged people to keep their iftars to a reasonable size.

The Consumers’ Association of Penang said that food waste increases by up to 20% during Ramadan. Some 90,000 tons of food were reportedly thrown out across the country during Ramadan last year, it said.

“Ramadan is supposed to be a month of intense devotion for Muslims but for some, it has become a month of feasting and wasteful spending,” the association’s president Mohideen Abdul Kader said in a statement Tuesday.

“Now, more than 2 million Palestinians are facing starvation so we should not be throwing away huge quantities of food in the holy month,” he added.

Rozman Abdul Rahman, a security guard, said his wife will cook just enough for to break the fast each day so that no food will go to the landfills. He said rising cost of living also means that essential food items have become more expensive.

Rozman said he enjoys the fasting season as it allows him to build his resilience. He's removed all food and water containers from the security hut where he works to avoid temptation.

“I have been waiting for Ramadan. This is a tough period, but I enjoy it as it tests my faith and helps me to control myself. We cannot even scold people during this period,” said Rozman, 50.

During Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual intercourse from sunrise until sunset. Even a tiny sip of water or a puff of smoke is enough to invalidate the fast. At night, family and friends gather and feast in a festive atmosphere.

The fasting is aimed at bringing the faithful closer to God and reminding them of the suffering of the poor. Muslims are expected to strictly observe daily prayers and engage in heightened religious contemplation. They are also urged to refrain from gossip, fighting or cursing during the holy month.