IMAAD presents:

First Aid for the Spirit

Date

Saturday 23 October 2004. 1600-2000

Objective

The health of the self is dependent upon a translucent heart that allows the light of the spirit to illuminate our inner world and guide our actions. If our hearts become infected by spiritual diseases, spiritual medicine must be sought as a matter of urgency. The blessed month of Ramadan offers us a course of holistic spiritual medicine prescribed to restore comprehensive wellbeing to the self through detoxification, healthy nourishment and illumination.

In his talk Sidi Luqman will outline key diagnoses and treatments for the self based on the famous classical treatise of the 15th century sage, Shaykh Ahmad Az-Zarruq of Fez. By relating the author's prescriptions for the self to the larger self that is society, the speaker aims to illustrate how spiritual illness and health are at the core of 'how we are' as a community.
Speaker

Born in Washington DC in 1969, Sidi Luqman is a second-generation African American Muslim. He initially trained for 10 years in the sciences of Islam and the languages (Arabic, Persian and Urdu) and cultures of the Middle East and the Indian Sub-continent before spending a decade working as a linguist, writer and translator for various publishing houses in both the USA and the UK. He has also worked as a humanitarian worker.

Sidi Luqman co-founded Khayaal, the first professional theatre company of its kind offering audiences a fascinating experience of Muslim world culture through contemporary art forms. Since then he has been the company's chief conceptualist and artistic director.

Venue

Friends Meeting House, 2 Church Street, Reading.

Event Review

'If a man's heart is sound, then his whole body is sound; if his heart is sick, then his whole body is sick.' - Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

This event aimed to discuss the spiritual aspects of Ramadhan prompting the muslim community for self reflection. The talk began with recitation from the Qur’an regarding the importance of Ramadhan. We were fortunate to have a dynamic and passionate speaker in Luqman Ali. His passion was infectious as many came away from the event more positive about regenerating our own community. The talk concluded shortly before Iftar.. Luqman Ali then lead Maghrib prayers after which the attendees enjoyed dinner together.

Imaad’s third Iftar event was well-attended with many making the most of the supervised crèche facilities. This allowed parents the opportunity to enjoy the whole of the talk without worrying about their kids. I found the event an inspirational one; not only because of the thought provoking talk by Luqman Ali but also because there was a real sense of community present. It was encouraging to see muslims from so many different backgrounds (Indian, Pakistani, African, Syrian, Malaysian, Turkish, Maldivian, English etc) come together during Ramadhan.

Feedback from the event indicated that the audience would welcome a further, more in depth talk on this topic. IMAAD looks forward to welcoming Luqman Ali to share further his thoughts with us in December 2004 as part of Imaad’s regular fortnightly study circles.

Useful Links

For further information regarding the Khyaal theatre please visit http://www.khayaal.co.uk/

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