July 2014 51 www.bahrainthismonth.com SIMI KAMBOJ In a rapidly changing world, the dichotomy between the theory and practice of religion is glaring. Reminding people of the real message of the Quran is Basair. Established in 2013 as a registered charity in Bahrain, Basair in Arabic means discernment. The objective behind the initiative is simple — tadabbur, or contemplation of the verses of the Quran and their application in real-life situations. Basair founder Dr Ruqaia Al Alwani says her work reflects her concerns about the world events around her and the global image projected by Islam. “Many problems in our world stem from the fact that Muslims are becoming detached from the Quran. People increasingly read the Quran as a ritual and when it comes to putting its teachings into practice, they tend to do something entirely different,” says Dr Ruqaia, who is also associate professor of Islamic Studies at the University of Bahrain. The Iraqi scholar grew up in several countries across the world owing to the strife in her motherland, and believes her understanding of the Quran deepened because of her diverse experiences. “The image of Islam has suffered worldwide because many Muslims are not being honest with the Quran and with themselves,” she observes. “People tend to misquote the Quran to suit their own ends. Reading about the Prophet’s life, we find him the perfect example of tolerance. In his lifetime, Christians, Jews and even non-believers lived in harmony in Medina and were respected as citizens.” Over the past year, Dr Ruqaia has published 25 books and 30 CDs on the message of the Quran. Published in a dozen languages, the books have been disseminated free of charge in France, Turkey, Malaysia, the UK, US, Canada and Australia in addition to the GCC. She is now planning to release the CD recitals on iTunes. In Ramadan, Dr Ruqaia will deliver lectures across Bahrain and in the GCC. She is also planning a youth programme in English and Arabic for telecast on Bahrain TV’s Channel 55. “Being an educator, I’ve always been interested in youth and their thought process. The programme will have a question and answer format because Muslims are encouraged to ask questions. Our religion doesn’t encourage blind faith,” she says. Dr Ruqaia’s work however, is not merely of a spiritual nature, but also focuses on reason and the need to practise real values. Promoting Real Values Standing Up for Faith, p52 this month INTERVIEWS Dr Ruqaia Al Alwani Backseat Chat, p60 Precious Feeling, p54 A Noble Calling, p56 Home-grown Innovation, p58
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