#caliph

In an age of digital misinformation, the early Islamic world offers a powerful model. This article breaks down Al-Isnād (الإسناد), the rigorous system of source verification for Prophetic traditions, and connects its timeless lessons to our modern world.

Why would an Arabic instructor show "The Exorcist" in class? Reginald Hefner explains how the film's "crazy" opening in Iraq - full of authentic Arabic script, sounds, and culture - became an unexpectedly perfect lesson for his beginner students.

The minaret is a key symbol of Islam, but early mosques likely lacked them. This article traces the history of the Islamic prayer call (Adhan) and the development of minarets, discussing their origins and meaning in Islamic architecture.

Al-Suli, a key chess master from the 10th century, played an important role in developing modern chess and is seen as one of its first champions. Who was Al-Suli, and how are chess terms expressed in Arabic?

Based on such insights, it is narrated that ʿUmar (RA) established a guideline limiting the length of time a man serving in the army could remain away from his wife to four months. This ensured that a woman's needs—both emotional and physical—were not neglected due to prolonged absence.

Caliph of Baghdad, for a 18th century opera scene - an illustration for a long-term book project...

The correct vowel endings damma, kasra, fatha in Arabic can be a headache. If you are careless, you could turn verse 9:3 of the Qur'an into blasphemy (kufr).

did a piece with rendering and a background for the first time in million years, pretty proud of it