Women are like Flowers
Jummah Mubarak, sis! Tomorrow we’re hosting our Inaugural Gala and whether you're attending or not, I feel compelled to share this message with you, especially as we reflect on the blessings of this beautiful day.
The analogy of women being a flower is often used, but it’s so much more than just a cliché when we truly look deeper. Just like flowers, we have been created with a unique beauty and purpose that is far beyond the surface. Flowers have the incredible ability to convert light into energy, and in the same way, as women, we have been blessed with the ability to take the light of faith, the light of knowledge, and the light of love, and transform them into something that nourishes not just ourselves, but those around us.
Flowers don’t just exist to look pretty—they give fragrance, a sweet scent that spreads far and wide. Likewise, as Muslim women, we have the ability to spread goodness, kindness, and positivity through our words and actions, making the world a better place. Our strength, grace, and wisdom can uplift our communities, and our commitment to faith and service brings a beauty that goes beyond the physical.
So, as you go about your day today, remember that you too are a radiant light—whether you're caring for your family, working towards your goals, or simply being a source of support to those around you. Your energy, your strength, and your dedication to your faith shine in ways that are both seen and unseen, and the fragrance of your character can uplift everyone you encounter.
May Allah continue to bless you with strength, beauty, and wisdom, just like the flowers that bloom in His creation. You are a reflection of His light, and for that, we are truly grateful.
Jummah Mubarak, sis!
Surah An-Nur | 24:35
ٱللَّهُ نُورُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضِ ۚ مَثَلُ نُورِهِۦ كَمِشْكَوٰةٍۢ فِيهَا مِصْبَاحٌ ۖ ٱلْمِصْبَاحُ فِى زُجَاجَةٍ ۖ ٱلزُّجَاجَةُ كَأَنَّهَا كَوْكَبٌۭ دُرِّىٌّۭ يُوقَدُ مِن شَجَرَةٍۢ مُّبَـٰرَكَةٍۢ زَيْتُونَةٍۢ لَّا شَرْقِيَّةٍۢ وَلَا غَرْبِيَّةٍۢ يَكَادُ زَيْتُهَا يُضِىٓءُ وَلَوْ لَمْ تَمْسَسْهُ نَارٌۭ ۚ نُّورٌ عَلَىٰ نُورٍۢ ۗ يَهْدِى ٱللَّهُ لِنُورِهِۦ مَن يَشَآءُ ۚ وَيَضْرِبُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلْأَمْثَـٰلَ لِلنَّاسِ ۗ وَٱللَّهُ بِكُلِّ شَىْءٍ عَلِيمٌۭ
Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. His light is like a niche in which there is a lamp, the lamp is in a crystal, the crystal is like a shining star, lit from ˹the oil of˺ a blessed olive tree, ˹located˺ neither to the east nor the west, whose oil would almost glow, even without being touched by fire. Light upon light! Allah guides whoever He wills to His light. And Allah sets forth parables for humanity. For Allah has ˹perfect˺ knowledge of all things.
This ayah beautifully reflects the concept of light, energy, and guidance, reminding us that Allah' swt’s Light illuminates everything, just as women, through their faith and actions, illuminate the world around them. The blessed olive tree, representing purity and blessings, can be seen as an analogy for the inner strength, goodness, and radiance of women. Their light, rooted in faith and kindness, is powerful and far-reaching, touching those around them even without direct effort.
Surah An-Nur encourages us to embrace our inner light, to reflect Allah swt’s guidance, and to be a source of goodness and wisdom in our communities.
Written By and Photography Credit: Kashmir Maryam
The Muslim Woman’s Manifesto
The Muslim Woman’s Manifesto by Kashmir Maryam is a powerful work that aligns with the themes of Surah An-Nur, Ayah 35, especially when we consider the ways in which light, strength, and resilience are central to the narrative of Muslim women. Kashmir Maryam’s manifesto speaks to the empowerment of Muslim women, advocating for their rights, voices, and contributions to society in a world that often marginalizes them.
