More than 350 Qur’ans from the library’s collection will be showcased
Updated 11 March 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Public Library will host an exhibition of rare gilded and decorated Qur’ans on Thursday in celebration of the holy month of Ramadan.
The event will take place at the library’s King Abdulaziz Historical Center in the Al-Murabba branch. It is part of the library’s efforts to showcase rare items on religious and national occasions.
More than 350 Qur’ans from the library’s collection will be showcased, including intricately gilded and decorated copies from past centuries. They reflect the values and aesthetics of Islamic decorative arts, illustrating artistic methods used in designing the margins of the surahs and verses of the Qur’an.
The Qur’ans featured in the exhibition showcase a range of artistic calligraphy styles, such as Naskh, Kufi, Thuluth, Timbuktu, Sudanese, as well as the calligraphy of Sham, Iraqi, Egyptian and Yemeni scripts.
One copy is a holy manuscript from the 13th century AH, adorned with floral and geometric designs, featuring coloring and gilding. Golden clouds embellish the spaces between the lines, and the text is composed in a creative style known as “mirror,” where a letter, word or phrase in the first line corresponds to the last line. This unique alignment imparts symmetry, with each line mirroring its counterpart based on the specific type of arrangement.
On exhibit is a Timbuktu Qur’an, distinguished by its bag-shaped case and diverse decorations. Additionally, there will be a Qajar Qur’an featuring floral and geometric designs, accompanied by concise explanations in a non-Arabic language within the margins. This volume showcases drawings of varnish-coated flowers, representing a distinct school of Qur’an writing, drawing, gilding and binding.
Scholars at Makkah conference call for unity among Muslims
Muslim leaders of various sects from 90 countries present
Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Asheikh urges compassion
Updated 07 March 2025
Tareq Al-Thaqafi
MAKKAH: Participants at the second “Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought” conference in Makkah have called for unity among Muslims globally.
The conference opened on Thursday under the patronage of King Salman, bringing together Muslim leaders of various sects from more than 90 countries.
The event, organized by the Muslim World League, is being held under the theme “Towards an effective Islamic alliance.”
The conference opened with several sessions addressing developments in Palestine, Sudan and Syria, as well as issues concerning Muslim minorities around the world.
The participants include senior muftis, scholars, intellectuals and representatives from Islamic councils across different sects and denominations.
Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Asheikh, in his opening remarks, stressed the critical responsibility of Islamic scholars to “elevate the voice of wisdom” to ensure Muslim unity.
His remarks, read by Dr. Fahd Al-Majed, secretary-general of the Council of Senior Scholars, called for reason to prevail over division.
He stressed that “our obligation, in pursuit of compassion for Muslims and their collective unity, is to fortify relationships, establish mutual trust, and strengthen the essential ties of brotherhood.”
“During a time when uncertainties proliferate and debates grow heated, faith’s wisdom emerges to direct both intellect and sentiment toward proper understanding.
“We must reject extremism, factionalism, and capricious thinking in favor of evidence-based truth and conscious guidance within Islam’s framework.
“The challenges and hardships facing the Islamic world should serve as catalysts for unification rather than opportunities for blame, projection, or division.”
The grand mufti added that the event was taking place in “Saudi Arabia, a blessed land that serves as the pulsing heart of the Muslim world and consistently upholds its responsibilities.
“The Kingdom stands as a vanguard in matters of Muslim unity, solidarity, and collective aspirations, exercising its leadership through effective mechanisms that bring together diverse voices, consolidate ranks, and harmonize efforts and positions.”
The MWL’s chief Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa said the conference extends the groundwork laid by the document produced after the inaugural meeting last Ramadan.
Al-Issa noted that differences and diversity are natural but require proper management. “When awareness is heightened and intentions are noble, diversity follows a sound path,” he said.
He warned warning that negative doctrinal debates have historically harmed both perpetrators and the broader Muslim community.
He emphasized that genuine unity, coexistence and solidarity do not require complete agreement but rather mutual understanding and respect.
“While dialogue represents an essential and worthwhile endeavor championed by the wise, it has remained largely static for decades without progressing to the crucial next phase of practical implementation and constructive action.
“This advancement is particularly vital now that we have established our foundation — the broad Islamic commonality that brings us together today and authenticates our identity as true adherents to Islam’s name and principles.”
He explained that the conference will launch practical initiatives based on the “Building Bridges” document.
“The initiative, which has received formal endorsement from Organization of Islamic Cooperation member states, now moves to the implementation phase,” he said.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement welcomed prospect of hosting meeting
Follows recent talks in Riyadh between US and Russia
Updated 07 March 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Talks between the US and Ukraine will take place in Jeddah next week, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed.
A statement said the Kingdom welcomed the prospect of hosting the meeting and reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine.
Saudi Arabia has facilitated multiple discussions to support a diplomatic solution over the past three years and remains committed to fostering dialogue and promoting stability.
The meeting follows recent talks in Riyadh between the US and Russia when officials discussed various international issues including the Ukraine crisis.
Culture Ministry launches Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year
Saudi Arabia contemporary artist Ahmed Mater will have a show in Shanghai from March 8 to July 8
Updated 07 March 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: The Ministry of Culture has announced the launch of a Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year for 2025 in China, to highlight the decades-long ties between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.
The year will feature a series of events designed to enrich the cultural landscapes of both nations, the SPA report stated.
Last month, the Ministry of Culture, in partnership with the Saudi Embassy, organized a Founding Day celebration in Beijing.
The event showcased Saudi Arabia’s heritage with displays of traditional handicrafts and Arabic calligraphy.
This year, the ministry’s Visual Arts Commission is hosting an exhibition of renowned Saudi Arabia contemporary artist Ahmed Mater.
Taking place from March 8 to July 8, 2025, at the UCCA Edge in Shanghai, the exhibition, titled “Antenna,” marks the artist’s first major solo show in China.
Featuring over a hundred artworks, the show traces the artist’s creative journey and offers a comprehensive view of his oeuvre.
Mater is one of the most celebrated Saudi Arabia artists who has contributed significantly to the Kingdom’s contemporary art scene and visual arts ecosystem.
His work has been presented at several leading museums and institutions worldwide.
In October 2024, the two nations’ ministries signed a Saudi-China Cultural Year 2025 Executive Program, laying the foundation for a deepening of ties.
MAKKAH: Volunteers in Makkah devote themselves every year to serving pilgrims during the holy month of Ramadan.
Among them are doctors, university professors, teachers, students, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, all driven by a shared commitment to providing comfort, care, and reassurance to the pilgrims.
The volunteers display unwavering dedication and generosity, preparing for their tasks well in advance of the holy month.
This service is a heartfelt act of devotion to them, a profound expression of love for serving the guests of God, and a noble mission that embodies the essence of human and Islamic values. They see it as a path to faith and charity in the holiest place on Earth.
Numerous charitable organizations and volunteers begin their efforts early in Makkah’s central area and the corridors of the Grand Mosque, where touching humanitarian moments unfold, showcasing an exceptional model of generosity and dedication.
Mohammed Al-Yousfi, a student at Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, shared with Arab News his experience as a young volunteer.
He said that serving Zamzam water to pilgrims was “a profound expression of devotion and a deeply rewarding experience that enables pilgrims to perform their worship with ease.”
He added: “Every volunteer considers it an honor to serve, recognizing the lasting impact that their efforts leave on the hearts of pilgrims.”
Saudi men offer pilgrims Zamzam water upon their arrival in the holy city of Mecca on August 7, 2019, ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. (AFP)
Maha Al-Sharif, leader of the volunteer team Ruoh Makkah (Spirit of Makkah), described volunteering in Makkah as both an honor and a deeply rewarding experience.
She said: “Volunteers work with a unified vision and shared purpose — to serve the guests of God — rooted in the humanitarian principles of volunteerism and the pursuit of social good.”
She highlighted the profound sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from this noble mission, which includes welcoming pilgrims, guiding them, offering Zamzam water, and distributing gifts.
She added: “Volunteers from all walks of life — including doctors, engineers, and healthcare professionals — selflessly dedicate their time, setting aside their professional roles to earn the honor of serving the guests of God.”
She said that many volunteers are fluent in languages such as Urdu, English, Turkish, and French, allowing them to engage with pilgrims, understand their needs, and provide personalized assistance.
Al-Sharif added: “Volunteer work deepens the sense of belonging to society, nurtures humanitarian values, and cultivates an atmosphere of participation and tolerance.
“It also instills in young people a profound appreciation for service, reinforcing the importance of contributing to nation-building while honoring and assisting visitors.”
Ehsan Hawsawi, a volunteer with the Lajlk Ya Watan (For You, My Homeland) team, stressed that volunteer work reflects the highest ideals of generosity and solidarity, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
She noted the importance of embracing innovation and diversity in volunteer efforts, expanding their scope to encompass religious, cultural, social, health, and tourism-related initiatives.
Abeer Fakira, leader of the Hur Makkah volunteer team, affirmed that generosity and giving continue to thrive. She spoke about how human beings are inherently social and flourish within communities built on cooperation and shared kindness.
She said: “Volunteer work at the Grand Mosque is an example of generosity and community service, reflecting the profound humanitarian values deeply embedded in Saudi society.”
As all these efforts demonstrate, male and female volunteers continue to embody the spirit of dedication and selflessness, carrying a message of love and peace to visitors.
Cumin has health benefits but seek medical advice first
Saudi Food and Drug Authority urges cautious ingestion
Possible complications for diabetics, pregnant women
Updated 07 March 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Cumin offers notable health benefits and nutrition, including aiding digestion and relieving flatulence, but medical advice should be sought for its use, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority said on Thursday.
Cumin, particularly the Cuminum cyminum species, is an aromatic spice used as a seasoning for food, has its oil extracted for perfumes, and is also a popular traditional medicine.
But the SFDA has emphasized that herbs, like any substance with therapeutic effects, should be used with caution.
“Medical consultation is essential, as certain herbs may interact with medications or affect nutrient absorption,” the authority said in an advisory carried by the Saudi Press Agency.
The SFDA has recommended a daily intake of 1.5 to 3 grams of cumin, noting that one teaspoon is equivalent to 5 grams.
Cumin may interact with blood thinners and diabetes medications, potentially mimicking their effects and leading to complications, it said.
Medical advice is particularly recommended for individuals with blood clotting disorders or diabetes, as well as pregnant and lactating women, the SFDA said.
It warned that cumin may induce uterine contractions, increasing the risk of premature birth, and could also affect hormonal balances during pregnancy.
Cumin may also cause acid reflux or diarrhea and could influence milk production in breastfeeding mothers, potentially leading to colic or diarrhea in infants, the advisory warned.
It further recommended discontinuing cumin consumption at least two weeks before any surgical procedure, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
