The world of Islamic Media, is not really known, to most, and often confused even, for Islamic Civilization itself. The two though, do differ, as Islamic Media in all, refers to really, basic existential modes, found within, Islamic Civilization. Islamic Media, unlike Islamic Civilization really, does continue to exist really, in places, where the Civilization, did exist mainly before (including, regions of India, Central Asia, and even into Afrique itself) [where the majority (in Afrique), are actually, Islamic Media].
Islamic Media though, is mainly a Media, that is highly, News/news, oriented. A Media, highly defined, by the Event, in all its forms (event, occasion, meeting, appointment etc.). A Media, as with the Event, that reaches its highpoint, with the news [with the Hajj itself], and with the Miracle too, as with the News. While too, many presuppose, that Arabic, is the main language, associated with Islamic Media, it infact, is not, but actually on the otherhand, Tudor English, Middle East Vernacular, and even perhaps too, Sanskrit itself, are, as unknowingly to most out there, Arabic, is used in the Middle East, to create, National Identities (of all forms really) [and as with Dialects too] [with Cities, or regions even, within a Country, in the Middle East, capable, of being rather different in all, from each other].
The Islamic world, is often highly, patronized perhaps, by the Western Media, who falsely continue, to make outsiders to the Middle East really, believe, its a World, heavily imbued, with all forms, of Gender issues (as perhaps seen even, in the Feminist West). Truth is, the Islamic world, and Islamic Media too even, mainly deals, with Age related issues, and not Gender. Issues perhaps, associated with Employment, or even, Family duty (as with Marriage, being regarded as such). In all really too, Islamic Media, is at the very base level, of all other forms of Media, seen in the Middle East, with for instance, some of the works, of Idries Shah, being Islamic Media, and at the base level too, of Koranic Media.
Finally in all, one has to realize too, that Islamic Media, represents in all, the lowest levels too (as with Islamic Media, still being in all, a rather, stand alone, high achieving Media), of existence, in the Middle East (as even with, low level income, or even too, basic levels of speech), as the Western Media in all, often tends, to portray, the Middle East Region, as somewhat being barbaric (even moreso, than Africa believedly), when in reality, Islamic Media in all, is driven, by the so termed '5 Pillars of Islam' (at their base levels) [Zakat/'alms-giving', Hajj/Pilgrimage etc.]
Islamic Media though, is mainly a Media, that is highly, News/news, oriented. A Media, highly defined, by the Event, in all its forms (event, occasion, meeting, appointment etc.). A Media, as with the Event, that reaches its highpoint, with the news [with the Hajj itself], and with the Miracle too, as with the News. While too, many presuppose, that Arabic, is the main language, associated with Islamic Media, it infact, is not, but actually on the otherhand, Tudor English, Middle East Vernacular, and even perhaps too, Sanskrit itself, are, as unknowingly to most out there, Arabic, is used in the Middle East, to create, National Identities (of all forms really) [and as with Dialects too] [with Cities, or regions even, within a Country, in the Middle East, capable, of being rather different in all, from each other].
The Islamic world, is often highly, patronized perhaps, by the Western Media, who falsely continue, to make outsiders to the Middle East really, believe, its a World, heavily imbued, with all forms, of Gender issues (as perhaps seen even, in the Feminist West). Truth is, the Islamic world, and Islamic Media too even, mainly deals, with Age related issues, and not Gender. Issues perhaps, associated with Employment, or even, Family duty (as with Marriage, being regarded as such). In all really too, Islamic Media, is at the very base level, of all other forms of Media, seen in the Middle East, with for instance, some of the works, of Idries Shah, being Islamic Media, and at the base level too, of Koranic Media.
Finally in all, one has to realize too, that Islamic Media, represents in all, the lowest levels too (as with Islamic Media, still being in all, a rather, stand alone, high achieving Media), of existence, in the Middle East (as even with, low level income, or even too, basic levels of speech), as the Western Media in all, often tends, to portray, the Middle East Region, as somewhat being barbaric (even moreso, than Africa believedly), when in reality, Islamic Media in all, is driven, by the so termed '5 Pillars of Islam' (at their base levels) [Zakat/'alms-giving', Hajj/Pilgrimage etc.]
Haraam: The case for Disobedience
Edwin Abdul Aleem, is seated, at a friends/contact, home, while the friend, Hadad, watches TV aimlessly. He is seated, reading some magazines, that Hadad, had laying really, all over a mini-table, that was close by, where he was seated. About, 4 hours ago, Edwin had arrived, in Muscat, Oman, on a flight, coming in from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He had gone there, to Saudi Arabia, on a worthwhile endeavour, that Hadad, had helped him, set up. As they are seated there, and Hadad still watching some Television (although rather nonchalantly), Hadad does take the opportunity, to actually ask, Edwin, how he had faired on, in Saudi Arabia, knowing the place, to be rather unkind, to those, not publicly, recognized. Edwin, had nothing to say to the query, as he had no complaint, or question even, to attempt in all, to clear up (with Hadad really). As they are still seated, with Hadad happy in all, to hear Edwins reply, he gets up, and goes out of the open door, to his front lawn, to simply hang out (while standing).
It was 12 Noon, when Edwin, had arrived, in Muscat, Oman, on his flight, from Riyadh. The flight had gone well, and rather smooth, it being Emirati, and on coming out, at the exit, to wait, at the Airport Terminal, for Hadad, he had sat in, an outdoor Cafe, where had had ordered, a cup of tea, to somewhat keep him company, while he waited, for Hadad. Tea done, and Hadad, having not yet showed up, Edwin had left his Bag, at the Cafe, while he drifted on, to a nearby, Newspaper & Magazine Vendor, to buy a Newspaper, which turned out, to be an Israeli Daily, to keep him busy, while he waited on. While reading the Daily, and back onto his previous seat, at the Cafe, he is by now too, listening to his IPod, while reading the Daily still, and somewhat nervously, awaiting Hadad, unreachable by cellphone, to show up. His IPod, has some Sunnah recitals, playing, as he wonders why, the World seems so disorganized (atleast to the Israelis), as to him, it all seems a case, of poor showmanship, in all. While still pondering this, with an Islamic Mindset in all, he can't but help, suddenly glance up, and while still reading, to see, Hadad, making his way, to the Terminal, while appearing to ride, in his Car. He somehow, puts the paper down, and when he fully recognizes Hadad, begins to pull out the IPod's earphone set, from his ears, as he now truly, begins to prepare, to actually somewhat, board the Car. Hadad, having finally slowed down to a stop, just by really, where Edwin is seated at the Cafe, he looks him through the Car window, as Edwin by now, is making his way to it, and as he approaches, Hadad, bends over really, to open somewhat, the door facing Edwin, as he also too, unfastens his seatbelt, gets out of the door, to his side, and begins, to make, for the Car boot. As he is doing this, Edwin has entered into the Car, slid into his seat, and has also too, placed his Bag, onto the back seat, as Hadad, somewhat watching all this, from the back Car window, makes his way somewhat, to his Car door, to ask Edwin, if he so wishes, to place his Bag, into, the Car boot. Edwin, rejects the offer, and Hadad then, almost immediately, slides onto his Car seat, and with time, after fastening his seatbelt, they are off, from the Airport Terminal itself.
They arrived back, at Hadads place, and soon after, had left for a Fastfood Eatery, where Hadad, had ordered, 'Kiob', as Edwin is commonly known around, a rather delicious Hamburger, which had not failed, to register, in Edwins mind. Soon after the meal was done, they had made, their way back, to Hadads place, somewhere in the outskirts, of Muscat, and they were soon, conversing, briefly really, to the point whereby, Hadad, decided, to make a go, for the front lawn, to simply hang out, and think some things out really. As all this is happening, with the Music Stereo, somewhat really, turned on to an audible level, 'Kiob', cant but help, hear noticeably, George Michael's Careless Whisper, come on, to which he somewhat listens to, and on looking up rather quick too, somewhat senses, on seeing Hadad on the front lawn, that he too, has somewhat recognized, the tune. 'Kiob', can't but help, listen clearly, to the tune for somewhile, not knowing really too either, why he likes it. As he listens to the song, Hadad, comes back into the house, and makes his way, to the fridge, to get a drink or two, and on getting two, offers one to Edwin, with a throw by his hand, which Edwin catches neatly, and possibly, can't help, but silently congratulate himself, on doing this. Hadad then, on opening his Drink, reminds Edwin, that they will be going out for a while, later on, in the night.
It is later on, that night, at about 10:00 p.m., when 'Kiob' and Hadad, find themselves really, at a popular Night Spot, in Muscat, Oman, where they are actually, hanging out, at the parking lot, while talking, to some friends/people, Hadad knows. There is talk abounding, on all sorts of eventful news making, communal wise, with the talk, steering on to fights, arguments, quarrels, and even love affairs, that have seemed, to spring up, between known entities, in the Islamic commune (media filled), that all the participants, are members to perhaps. Hadad, does not think too much of it all, while Edwin, shakes his head somewhat, even disappointed, at whats, been going on. As this is proceeding on, Edwin, can't but help, hear, "Real Love", by Mary J. Blige, blaring loudly, from the Night Spot, right behind his and Hadads back. He for a while, ponders going in, to dance for a while, while getting himself a drink, but finds himself again, steered onto the conversation at hand, which he attempts to engage in, by trying to put forth an answer, to a question somewhat targeted at him, while still at the back of his mind, he listens, to Mary J. Blige, singing on, to one of his favourite tunes. Hadads answer, to any question put forward to him, is always the same "whats new?!!", as he seems, to have heard, all this really, many a time before, even in, the Msikitini itself (it being, a kind of Mosque, associated, with Islamic worship). Much later, as they drive back, to Hadads place, Hadad somewhat states, that he is tired, of the whole commune scene, and is thinking, of quitting, while at it really. Edwin, does not say much, as he looks out, of his Car window, and hopes truly, that his pre-arranged ideas, that will see him, living in Saudi Arabia, come through. He wants to move on, with his life, and was thankful, when a friend of Hadads, Hamal, had somewhat guided him, to all this, based on somehow rediscovering himself, as an ancestral being perhaps.
It was about, 6 months before all this, when Hadad, had invited Edwin, over to Israel, for a surprise visit. According to Hadad, they would simply, be in and about the place, while visiting, a few folks, they might know. Edwin, who holds a job, as an Electrician, had agreed to all this, thinking for some reason, it might be good for him, religiously (as Hadad, had spoken of visiting, the Dome of the Rock). Edwin, often questioned himself, with regards to Identity often. He did now know, how he actually, fitted, into the Middle East well, as every book he had read, on the History of the Middle East, seemed to have, white skinned people in it, and interestingly enough, not brown skinned, who were, the majority. There were times, he believed himself somewhat African, or even Tanzanian, as he simply, could not fit somehow, into the cultural climate at hand, in the Middle East. His fears, about himself really, as a happy person perhaps, had been somewhat put to rest, by Hadads friend Hamal, whom 'Kiob', had perceived, as being enlightened, if not spiritual atleast. 'Kiob', identified himself, as a Muslim, and even devout perhaps, but wondered, whom Hamal really was, while also identifying subconsciously perhaps, Hadad, as an Omani. 'Kiob' had asked Hamal, if he was a Muslim, and if he had attended the last Hajj. Hamal, while looking on at 'Kiob', with Hadad somewhat glaring too, had simply stated, that he was not a Muslim, but Islamic perhaps, in a different way: Solomonic. He did not care, for Hajj, as he identified, differently, with the Islamic world, as compared, to Muslims in all. For him, religious life, in the Islamic world, consisted really, of the works of Solomon, the Dome of the Rock, and even too, the Occitan Cross. Instead of Hajj, he was, a Christian Copt, and believed in being, not a devout Muslim, but actually, Antar himself (as a Copt figure). In all, he truly stated, that while, what some refer to, as Muslim Civilization, might have been at the height, of Islamic Civilization, he on the otherhand, identified, with the Yemenite Kingdoms (as home, to Antar). This had led, an almost disbelieving, 'Kiob', to ask whether, he was a Jew, as it was believed, that the Yemenite Kingdoms, were Jewish, to which he replied, that it could not be so, as the Yemenite Kingdoms, were mainly brown, and therefore, they could not, have been Jewish. He was a Copt (as Islamic), and to him, so were Antar, and the Yemenite Kingdoms. While most too, saw Hajj, as a huge event, in the Islamic/Muslim world, to him, the Miracle, was what truly, defined him. To him too really, Antar, was no different, from Solomon.
'Kiob', had listened to this, almost disbelievingly, as in believing, that Hamal, should not even, be in, the Middle East, as to him, those who failed to recognize, Hajj, and the Islamic Brotherhood, were pariahs really, of existence itself. Hamal instead, had corrected him, by speaking of, the Muslim Brotherhood, who had aspired in all, to take over, Islamic Civilization, based on the prevalent belief, that Muslim Civilization, as distinct, from Islamic Civilization, was at the top, of any Islamic hierarchy, thought up. 'Kiob' seemed, bothered by all this, and even wished, to whisper out the word, 'Haraam', to somewhat explain, what he had heard, from Hamal. Hadad had sat silently by, not saying anything, as while all that had been said, was thought-provoking, he had always seen himself fully, as an Omani. It was then, Hamal, noticing Kiob's discomfort, knowingly told him "I know you". "You do not care" he had continued, "to be a Muslim much, knowing by now, its all rhetoric, for growing disparities, seen in the Middle East". "Its all Media", is what, Hamal, had told 'Kiob', as with mentioning, the Hajj, meant nothing much really, as with bringing those, in the Middle East together, as soon after, Media born disparities, would rise, to the top of society, again. 'Kiob', had paid attention, to what was said, as he found the topic, rather interestingly in all (having engaged in it, numerous times before), and he could not, simply avoid the fact, that living, in the Middle East, was difficult, from a psychological perspective, and not monetary. He had money to him, which allowed him travel, through the Middle East, but truly too, had never found a home, in the place, as with really, a cultural form of existence (other than tales, of fights, quarrels, arguments etc., that sprung up, once in a while). It was then, Hamal, as if struck up, by an idea, and knowing too, of Edwins leadership skills, mentioned to him invariably "Kiob, you might wish, to not be, a Muslim anymore". 'Kiob', had been taken aback, by the statement, and wondered what it could mean, as it was all, he truly knew, while Hamal, had nothing more really, than distaste, for the Muslim world, and Islamic Civilization, as it stood now. "You know of course" he had began again, saying to Edwin in all, "of Islamic Spain", to which, 'Kiob', had nodded in approval. Further statements, told in a story-like manner, had simply asked 'Kiob', to identify, with Islamic Spain, as the heights perhaps, of Islamic Civilization in all. "It was a civilization", Hamal had said, "of scholars, as compared to Muslim Civilization, which was one, of messengers in all". "Of being, a mtumwa", 'Kiob', had somewhat, furtherly said. 'Kiob' had seen his mind, drift off a while, while thinking, Al-Andalus, as the idea, of being an Islamic Scholar, strongly even, appealed to him. In the end, it was decided, as he left, Hamals rental apartment, somewhere in Jerusalem, he was no longer, a Muslim, but actually, Al-Andalus, and also too, a Mozarab (or an Islamic Spain Scholar). He almost felt himself, punch the air, at feeling free, of his lifelong burden, of not knowing truly, whom he was.
About 3 months after all this, 'Kiob' really, had thought out, everything that Hamal, had spoken to him about, When Hamal, had offered him, another choice to his life, he had immediately, truly noticed, he was unsatisfied, with his life, and the way, he was living. He had began to question, everything he saw, and hated himself somewhat, for being an Electrician, that operated very much, as a messenger (or mtumwa, as he saw it). Hamal, in a later discussion in Doha, Qatar, where he spent alot of his time, had asked 'Kiob', to simply begin, life as an Islamic Scholar, by asking for funding, to not only, open up his own, Electrician business, but to actually, begin doing some individual Research, on his Trade (as an Electrician). 'Kiob', one not to be taken easily by anything, had somehow though, seen the wisdom in all this, when Hamal, had asked him to contact the Mohammedan Sect, in Saudi Arabia, with regards, to such funding. 'Kiob', seeing a way out, of his even, perceived miseries, had taken the advice, which had eventually even led him, into Bahrain itself, to learn more on this.
It was about, three months later again, when 'Kiob', found himself seated, in the home, of an acquaintance, of Hadads, who went by the name, of Adel, who had promised, to accommodate him, while he stayed on, in Saudi Arabia. Adel, who worked, as a translator of languages, in Riyadh, was a kind of loner, who did not actually, expose himself to others, too often. 'Kiob', on the otherhand, believed him, kind of elitist, as Adel in all, was known somewhat, on the Dubai party circuit. Adel lived, in a spacious, residence, in downtown Riyadh, but despite his life going rather well, as others saw it apparently, he was not, too happy with it really. They were seated, in Adels living room, watching Television, with a music channel on, showing Tamia's 'Stranger in my house'. As they both, somewhat anxiously, watched the music video, with Edwin even, twitching a little bit, he could not but help, somewhat noncahalantly, ask Adel, who was seated, a bit far off "unataka kuoa?!!", to which Adel, had somewhat clicked his tongue, at the question posed to him, as marriage, was not in his view at all, and as he got up, to go into the Kitchen, to grab himself a drink, he could only mutter out really "we Kiob', usitutayarishe", as he moved on, into the Kitchen itself. Edwin, was beginning, to tire of, the musical environments, he often found himself in. Right after, the Tamia video, a song, by No Doubt, "Don't Speak", had began playing, which he recognized, as having heard, at Hamals place, about six months ago, in Jerusalem. He sought more culturally at least, in his life, other than, the music filled environments, he often found himself in. It was one of the main reasons, he was pondering, moving to Saudi Arabia, as the Mohammedan Sect there, and through Bahrain, had agreed in all, to help him out, with his endeavours. Still yet, the question of a cultural inexistence, in his life, was still lagging, but Adel, on listening to him, speak of this, had asked him perhaps, to resort to, collecting, the Islamic Art, that 'Kiob', had once greatly admired, when he had told the Commune perhaps, of a former trip, to Dubai. "Itakupendeza", had said Adel, attempting in all, to notify Edwin, that such an endeavour, was a worthwhile, cultural pursuit. Islamic music, to both Adel and Edwin, had taken the popular root, even somewhat making its way, as with inspiration perhaps, into Western nightclubs. Edwin remembered, that Hamal, enjoyed engaging in, Islamic cuisine, while Hadad, simply had good taste in all, in music, which though, did not truly, appeal, to Edwin really.
Edwin was happy though, his life, was going well somewhat, as a member of the Mohammedan Sect, had listened favourably, to his request in all, and had notified him, that while he would be based in Riyadh, and working in all, for them, his funding, would be coming in, from Bahrain. He did not think, the endeavour hard or impossible at all (as some acquaintances, he had told this too, believed it to be), as having read, Thomas Edisons biography, he could discern, absolutely no pattern or order even, to the creation, of GE (General Electric). To him, it was all "uwezeshaji", meaning that, he actually, had a pattern/order, to what, he wanted to do. Later on that day, Adel, who was more cultural, and intellectual, than others thought him to be, believing him only, to be a 'Ladies man', had invited, Edwin out really, to watch, a rather inspiring perhaps, Islamic Dance, that he had seen, in Riyadh before, that was being replayed, at the moment too.
It was a Sunday morning, a week later, after his arrival in Muscat, that Edwin, found himself boarding, a plane back, to Kuwait, his official home residence. He loved Kuwait somewhat, maybe as a child, but to him, it was now all, "uangamizi", as with there, being too many people in it, he could not, identify with. He was happy, that with time, he would be moving, to Riyadh, and even perhaps, interacting with Adel more oftenly, whom he found, to be rather open minded, as compared to Hadad, who could be dictatorial, or even Hamal, who cared not, to know him, but always knew, what he was talking about. Hadad was there, to seem him off, and as they somewhat, said goodbye to each other, even nervously, as with each knowing, nothing was really going on at that moment, he heard Hadad somewhat state "Kiob, usiniwezeshe", to which 'Kiob', had somewhat shaken his head, even hatefully, at probably, the perceived lack of culture, in it all. Hadad though, had been simply, out to amuse himself, and on doing so, had jumped back into his Car, and somewhat sped off, leaving 'Kiob', at the exit, to the parking lot, at the Airport Terminal. In another 1 hour, he was on board, and on his way back, to Kuwait City.
'sounds' of Islamic Media:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqxJMCQxb_Q
[Flamenco music, comes in many variations, and styles; from Seville, to Tango/Iberian, to Spanish Gypsy, and even, Al-Andalus. In many ways, the Flamenco music seen, in the video above, is of the Al-Andalus variation, and consists mainly, of single (or singular really), perfomances. In many ways, a Flamenco music style, well suited, for the Islamic world, as with daily sounds even]
Islamic Media and its associated 'materiality':
[The Hummer H1]
[The Loft]
[The Barbat, or Islamic Lute even]
[The Islamic Intellectual]
[Tennis (and as a Byzantine creation too)]
Edwin Abdul Aleem, is seated, at a friends/contact, home, while the friend, Hadad, watches TV aimlessly. He is seated, reading some magazines, that Hadad, had laying really, all over a mini-table, that was close by, where he was seated. About, 4 hours ago, Edwin had arrived, in Muscat, Oman, on a flight, coming in from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He had gone there, to Saudi Arabia, on a worthwhile endeavour, that Hadad, had helped him, set up. As they are seated there, and Hadad still watching some Television (although rather nonchalantly), Hadad does take the opportunity, to actually ask, Edwin, how he had faired on, in Saudi Arabia, knowing the place, to be rather unkind, to those, not publicly, recognized. Edwin, had nothing to say to the query, as he had no complaint, or question even, to attempt in all, to clear up (with Hadad really). As they are still seated, with Hadad happy in all, to hear Edwins reply, he gets up, and goes out of the open door, to his front lawn, to simply hang out (while standing).
It was 12 Noon, when Edwin, had arrived, in Muscat, Oman, on his flight, from Riyadh. The flight had gone well, and rather smooth, it being Emirati, and on coming out, at the exit, to wait, at the Airport Terminal, for Hadad, he had sat in, an outdoor Cafe, where had had ordered, a cup of tea, to somewhat keep him company, while he waited, for Hadad. Tea done, and Hadad, having not yet showed up, Edwin had left his Bag, at the Cafe, while he drifted on, to a nearby, Newspaper & Magazine Vendor, to buy a Newspaper, which turned out, to be an Israeli Daily, to keep him busy, while he waited on. While reading the Daily, and back onto his previous seat, at the Cafe, he is by now too, listening to his IPod, while reading the Daily still, and somewhat nervously, awaiting Hadad, unreachable by cellphone, to show up. His IPod, has some Sunnah recitals, playing, as he wonders why, the World seems so disorganized (atleast to the Israelis), as to him, it all seems a case, of poor showmanship, in all. While still pondering this, with an Islamic Mindset in all, he can't but help, suddenly glance up, and while still reading, to see, Hadad, making his way, to the Terminal, while appearing to ride, in his Car. He somehow, puts the paper down, and when he fully recognizes Hadad, begins to pull out the IPod's earphone set, from his ears, as he now truly, begins to prepare, to actually somewhat, board the Car. Hadad, having finally slowed down to a stop, just by really, where Edwin is seated at the Cafe, he looks him through the Car window, as Edwin by now, is making his way to it, and as he approaches, Hadad, bends over really, to open somewhat, the door facing Edwin, as he also too, unfastens his seatbelt, gets out of the door, to his side, and begins, to make, for the Car boot. As he is doing this, Edwin has entered into the Car, slid into his seat, and has also too, placed his Bag, onto the back seat, as Hadad, somewhat watching all this, from the back Car window, makes his way somewhat, to his Car door, to ask Edwin, if he so wishes, to place his Bag, into, the Car boot. Edwin, rejects the offer, and Hadad then, almost immediately, slides onto his Car seat, and with time, after fastening his seatbelt, they are off, from the Airport Terminal itself.
They arrived back, at Hadads place, and soon after, had left for a Fastfood Eatery, where Hadad, had ordered, 'Kiob', as Edwin is commonly known around, a rather delicious Hamburger, which had not failed, to register, in Edwins mind. Soon after the meal was done, they had made, their way back, to Hadads place, somewhere in the outskirts, of Muscat, and they were soon, conversing, briefly really, to the point whereby, Hadad, decided, to make a go, for the front lawn, to simply hang out, and think some things out really. As all this is happening, with the Music Stereo, somewhat really, turned on to an audible level, 'Kiob', cant but help, hear noticeably, George Michael's Careless Whisper, come on, to which he somewhat listens to, and on looking up rather quick too, somewhat senses, on seeing Hadad on the front lawn, that he too, has somewhat recognized, the tune. 'Kiob', can't but help, listen clearly, to the tune for somewhile, not knowing really too either, why he likes it. As he listens to the song, Hadad, comes back into the house, and makes his way, to the fridge, to get a drink or two, and on getting two, offers one to Edwin, with a throw by his hand, which Edwin catches neatly, and possibly, can't help, but silently congratulate himself, on doing this. Hadad then, on opening his Drink, reminds Edwin, that they will be going out for a while, later on, in the night.
It is later on, that night, at about 10:00 p.m., when 'Kiob' and Hadad, find themselves really, at a popular Night Spot, in Muscat, Oman, where they are actually, hanging out, at the parking lot, while talking, to some friends/people, Hadad knows. There is talk abounding, on all sorts of eventful news making, communal wise, with the talk, steering on to fights, arguments, quarrels, and even love affairs, that have seemed, to spring up, between known entities, in the Islamic commune (media filled), that all the participants, are members to perhaps. Hadad, does not think too much of it all, while Edwin, shakes his head somewhat, even disappointed, at whats, been going on. As this is proceeding on, Edwin, can't but help, hear, "Real Love", by Mary J. Blige, blaring loudly, from the Night Spot, right behind his and Hadads back. He for a while, ponders going in, to dance for a while, while getting himself a drink, but finds himself again, steered onto the conversation at hand, which he attempts to engage in, by trying to put forth an answer, to a question somewhat targeted at him, while still at the back of his mind, he listens, to Mary J. Blige, singing on, to one of his favourite tunes. Hadads answer, to any question put forward to him, is always the same "whats new?!!", as he seems, to have heard, all this really, many a time before, even in, the Msikitini itself (it being, a kind of Mosque, associated, with Islamic worship). Much later, as they drive back, to Hadads place, Hadad somewhat states, that he is tired, of the whole commune scene, and is thinking, of quitting, while at it really. Edwin, does not say much, as he looks out, of his Car window, and hopes truly, that his pre-arranged ideas, that will see him, living in Saudi Arabia, come through. He wants to move on, with his life, and was thankful, when a friend of Hadads, Hamal, had somewhat guided him, to all this, based on somehow rediscovering himself, as an ancestral being perhaps.
It was about, 6 months before all this, when Hadad, had invited Edwin, over to Israel, for a surprise visit. According to Hadad, they would simply, be in and about the place, while visiting, a few folks, they might know. Edwin, who holds a job, as an Electrician, had agreed to all this, thinking for some reason, it might be good for him, religiously (as Hadad, had spoken of visiting, the Dome of the Rock). Edwin, often questioned himself, with regards to Identity often. He did now know, how he actually, fitted, into the Middle East well, as every book he had read, on the History of the Middle East, seemed to have, white skinned people in it, and interestingly enough, not brown skinned, who were, the majority. There were times, he believed himself somewhat African, or even Tanzanian, as he simply, could not fit somehow, into the cultural climate at hand, in the Middle East. His fears, about himself really, as a happy person perhaps, had been somewhat put to rest, by Hadads friend Hamal, whom 'Kiob', had perceived, as being enlightened, if not spiritual atleast. 'Kiob', identified himself, as a Muslim, and even devout perhaps, but wondered, whom Hamal really was, while also identifying subconsciously perhaps, Hadad, as an Omani. 'Kiob' had asked Hamal, if he was a Muslim, and if he had attended the last Hajj. Hamal, while looking on at 'Kiob', with Hadad somewhat glaring too, had simply stated, that he was not a Muslim, but Islamic perhaps, in a different way: Solomonic. He did not care, for Hajj, as he identified, differently, with the Islamic world, as compared, to Muslims in all. For him, religious life, in the Islamic world, consisted really, of the works of Solomon, the Dome of the Rock, and even too, the Occitan Cross. Instead of Hajj, he was, a Christian Copt, and believed in being, not a devout Muslim, but actually, Antar himself (as a Copt figure). In all, he truly stated, that while, what some refer to, as Muslim Civilization, might have been at the height, of Islamic Civilization, he on the otherhand, identified, with the Yemenite Kingdoms (as home, to Antar). This had led, an almost disbelieving, 'Kiob', to ask whether, he was a Jew, as it was believed, that the Yemenite Kingdoms, were Jewish, to which he replied, that it could not be so, as the Yemenite Kingdoms, were mainly brown, and therefore, they could not, have been Jewish. He was a Copt (as Islamic), and to him, so were Antar, and the Yemenite Kingdoms. While most too, saw Hajj, as a huge event, in the Islamic/Muslim world, to him, the Miracle, was what truly, defined him. To him too really, Antar, was no different, from Solomon.
'Kiob', had listened to this, almost disbelievingly, as in believing, that Hamal, should not even, be in, the Middle East, as to him, those who failed to recognize, Hajj, and the Islamic Brotherhood, were pariahs really, of existence itself. Hamal instead, had corrected him, by speaking of, the Muslim Brotherhood, who had aspired in all, to take over, Islamic Civilization, based on the prevalent belief, that Muslim Civilization, as distinct, from Islamic Civilization, was at the top, of any Islamic hierarchy, thought up. 'Kiob' seemed, bothered by all this, and even wished, to whisper out the word, 'Haraam', to somewhat explain, what he had heard, from Hamal. Hadad had sat silently by, not saying anything, as while all that had been said, was thought-provoking, he had always seen himself fully, as an Omani. It was then, Hamal, noticing Kiob's discomfort, knowingly told him "I know you". "You do not care" he had continued, "to be a Muslim much, knowing by now, its all rhetoric, for growing disparities, seen in the Middle East". "Its all Media", is what, Hamal, had told 'Kiob', as with mentioning, the Hajj, meant nothing much really, as with bringing those, in the Middle East together, as soon after, Media born disparities, would rise, to the top of society, again. 'Kiob', had paid attention, to what was said, as he found the topic, rather interestingly in all (having engaged in it, numerous times before), and he could not, simply avoid the fact, that living, in the Middle East, was difficult, from a psychological perspective, and not monetary. He had money to him, which allowed him travel, through the Middle East, but truly too, had never found a home, in the place, as with really, a cultural form of existence (other than tales, of fights, quarrels, arguments etc., that sprung up, once in a while). It was then, Hamal, as if struck up, by an idea, and knowing too, of Edwins leadership skills, mentioned to him invariably "Kiob, you might wish, to not be, a Muslim anymore". 'Kiob', had been taken aback, by the statement, and wondered what it could mean, as it was all, he truly knew, while Hamal, had nothing more really, than distaste, for the Muslim world, and Islamic Civilization, as it stood now. "You know of course" he had began again, saying to Edwin in all, "of Islamic Spain", to which, 'Kiob', had nodded in approval. Further statements, told in a story-like manner, had simply asked 'Kiob', to identify, with Islamic Spain, as the heights perhaps, of Islamic Civilization in all. "It was a civilization", Hamal had said, "of scholars, as compared to Muslim Civilization, which was one, of messengers in all". "Of being, a mtumwa", 'Kiob', had somewhat, furtherly said. 'Kiob' had seen his mind, drift off a while, while thinking, Al-Andalus, as the idea, of being an Islamic Scholar, strongly even, appealed to him. In the end, it was decided, as he left, Hamals rental apartment, somewhere in Jerusalem, he was no longer, a Muslim, but actually, Al-Andalus, and also too, a Mozarab (or an Islamic Spain Scholar). He almost felt himself, punch the air, at feeling free, of his lifelong burden, of not knowing truly, whom he was.
About 3 months after all this, 'Kiob' really, had thought out, everything that Hamal, had spoken to him about, When Hamal, had offered him, another choice to his life, he had immediately, truly noticed, he was unsatisfied, with his life, and the way, he was living. He had began to question, everything he saw, and hated himself somewhat, for being an Electrician, that operated very much, as a messenger (or mtumwa, as he saw it). Hamal, in a later discussion in Doha, Qatar, where he spent alot of his time, had asked 'Kiob', to simply begin, life as an Islamic Scholar, by asking for funding, to not only, open up his own, Electrician business, but to actually, begin doing some individual Research, on his Trade (as an Electrician). 'Kiob', one not to be taken easily by anything, had somehow though, seen the wisdom in all this, when Hamal, had asked him to contact the Mohammedan Sect, in Saudi Arabia, with regards, to such funding. 'Kiob', seeing a way out, of his even, perceived miseries, had taken the advice, which had eventually even led him, into Bahrain itself, to learn more on this.
It was about, three months later again, when 'Kiob', found himself seated, in the home, of an acquaintance, of Hadads, who went by the name, of Adel, who had promised, to accommodate him, while he stayed on, in Saudi Arabia. Adel, who worked, as a translator of languages, in Riyadh, was a kind of loner, who did not actually, expose himself to others, too often. 'Kiob', on the otherhand, believed him, kind of elitist, as Adel in all, was known somewhat, on the Dubai party circuit. Adel lived, in a spacious, residence, in downtown Riyadh, but despite his life going rather well, as others saw it apparently, he was not, too happy with it really. They were seated, in Adels living room, watching Television, with a music channel on, showing Tamia's 'Stranger in my house'. As they both, somewhat anxiously, watched the music video, with Edwin even, twitching a little bit, he could not but help, somewhat noncahalantly, ask Adel, who was seated, a bit far off "unataka kuoa?!!", to which Adel, had somewhat clicked his tongue, at the question posed to him, as marriage, was not in his view at all, and as he got up, to go into the Kitchen, to grab himself a drink, he could only mutter out really "we Kiob', usitutayarishe", as he moved on, into the Kitchen itself. Edwin, was beginning, to tire of, the musical environments, he often found himself in. Right after, the Tamia video, a song, by No Doubt, "Don't Speak", had began playing, which he recognized, as having heard, at Hamals place, about six months ago, in Jerusalem. He sought more culturally at least, in his life, other than, the music filled environments, he often found himself in. It was one of the main reasons, he was pondering, moving to Saudi Arabia, as the Mohammedan Sect there, and through Bahrain, had agreed in all, to help him out, with his endeavours. Still yet, the question of a cultural inexistence, in his life, was still lagging, but Adel, on listening to him, speak of this, had asked him perhaps, to resort to, collecting, the Islamic Art, that 'Kiob', had once greatly admired, when he had told the Commune perhaps, of a former trip, to Dubai. "Itakupendeza", had said Adel, attempting in all, to notify Edwin, that such an endeavour, was a worthwhile, cultural pursuit. Islamic music, to both Adel and Edwin, had taken the popular root, even somewhat making its way, as with inspiration perhaps, into Western nightclubs. Edwin remembered, that Hamal, enjoyed engaging in, Islamic cuisine, while Hadad, simply had good taste in all, in music, which though, did not truly, appeal, to Edwin really.
Edwin was happy though, his life, was going well somewhat, as a member of the Mohammedan Sect, had listened favourably, to his request in all, and had notified him, that while he would be based in Riyadh, and working in all, for them, his funding, would be coming in, from Bahrain. He did not think, the endeavour hard or impossible at all (as some acquaintances, he had told this too, believed it to be), as having read, Thomas Edisons biography, he could discern, absolutely no pattern or order even, to the creation, of GE (General Electric). To him, it was all "uwezeshaji", meaning that, he actually, had a pattern/order, to what, he wanted to do. Later on that day, Adel, who was more cultural, and intellectual, than others thought him to be, believing him only, to be a 'Ladies man', had invited, Edwin out really, to watch, a rather inspiring perhaps, Islamic Dance, that he had seen, in Riyadh before, that was being replayed, at the moment too.
It was a Sunday morning, a week later, after his arrival in Muscat, that Edwin, found himself boarding, a plane back, to Kuwait, his official home residence. He loved Kuwait somewhat, maybe as a child, but to him, it was now all, "uangamizi", as with there, being too many people in it, he could not, identify with. He was happy, that with time, he would be moving, to Riyadh, and even perhaps, interacting with Adel more oftenly, whom he found, to be rather open minded, as compared to Hadad, who could be dictatorial, or even Hamal, who cared not, to know him, but always knew, what he was talking about. Hadad was there, to seem him off, and as they somewhat, said goodbye to each other, even nervously, as with each knowing, nothing was really going on at that moment, he heard Hadad somewhat state "Kiob, usiniwezeshe", to which 'Kiob', had somewhat shaken his head, even hatefully, at probably, the perceived lack of culture, in it all. Hadad though, had been simply, out to amuse himself, and on doing so, had jumped back into his Car, and somewhat sped off, leaving 'Kiob', at the exit, to the parking lot, at the Airport Terminal. In another 1 hour, he was on board, and on his way back, to Kuwait City.
'sounds' of Islamic Media:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqxJMCQxb_Q
[Flamenco music, comes in many variations, and styles; from Seville, to Tango/Iberian, to Spanish Gypsy, and even, Al-Andalus. In many ways, the Flamenco music seen, in the video above, is of the Al-Andalus variation, and consists mainly, of single (or singular really), perfomances. In many ways, a Flamenco music style, well suited, for the Islamic world, as with daily sounds even]
Islamic Media and its associated 'materiality':
[The Hummer H1]
[The Loft]
[The Barbat, or Islamic Lute even]
[The Islamic Intellectual]
[Tennis (and as a Byzantine creation too)]
