In 2019, Nigerian-American rapper Jidenna released a music video for his song, “Sufi Woman.” The song and video go beyond Islamic mysticism, with references to spiritual practices like brujería and tarot as well. Orientalizing lyrics aside – “Sufi woman / read me Rumī ‘til I fall asleep upon your bosom” – the music video, directed … Read More
Niyya, a newly launched Muslim lifestyle brand, has given that most fundamental of Islamic objects, the prayer mat, a long overdue makeover. In lieu of plush velvetesque fabrics, jewel tones, and ornate patterns, Niyya.co utilizes thick cotton, a pop art color palette, and an abstract aesthetic informed equally by modern art and Muslim iconography. Pushing … Read More
Khizr Khan, the father of an American soldier who died in Iraq, delivered a speech about American democracy on Thursday at the Democratic National Convention. Hillary Clinton introduced Khizr Khan as an immigrant who came from the United Arab Emirates with his family, including his then 2-year-old son Humayun Khan, who would later serve in … Read More
On July 21st, President Obama held his first White House Eid reception, inviting Muslim Americans to celebrate the festival with him. He spent much of the event commending various contributions to American society made by Muslim Americans. @POTUS giving tribute to Muhammad AIi at the White House Eid reception.pic.twitter.com/cAgMtAOYF2  — @radbrowndads For many Muslims, it was … Read More
“Toss this outside,” she says, handing me a hot cigarette butt. As if I was thinking about dropping it inside the car. I roll my eyes, but she doesn’t notice because she’s too busy fanning the car for evidence of her indiscretions. She turns the air on full, pulling a can of aerosol deodorant … Read More
My friends and I started wearing the hijab at various points in 3rd and 4th grade. One day, we just came to school wearing pieces of square cloths our mothers had to tie onto our heads for the first few years. My school’s uniform only permitted white, black and navy blue scarves. Do you know … Read More
in madrasah they taught us Allah has one hundred names, asmaa’ al-husna allah ar-rahman ar-rahim al-malik al-quddus ramadhan: dadima keeps the TV on the Islamic channel “khabees, idhar aao” calls me over to watch the du’a with her 10 minutes before iftar, she smells like adhrak and tulsi the day-long sweat of kitchen-labor, masterchef of … Read More
