Semerkand İngilizce Dergi Sayı: 29 - Mayıs 2024
Semerkand English Magazine May issue greets its readers with the lead article titled, "Which Wisdom?" which explores the perennial battle between truth and falsehood as humans traverse towards eternal horizons. The piece beautifully delves into the two types of knowledge that steer humanity's path—divinely revealed truths and deceptive falsehoods. Highlighting the Quranic analogy of life's transient nature, likened to rain that nourishes then fades, it underlines the ephemeral allurements of the world. The article recounts tales of nations led astray by arrogance, contrasting these historical examples with the wisdom of the prophets who guide towards righteousness and prosperity. It emphasizes the importance of fearing Allah and prioritizing divine wisdom over worldly temptations, presenting a compelling narrative of prudence as the ultimate virtue.
Within the pages of the feature article "Dua” authored by Ali Kaya, we are reminded of the profound role prayer plays within the Islamic way of life. The narrative underscores that supplication (dua) is not merely a ritual but the essence of worship, an expression of absolute dependence on Allah the Almighty. The article elaborates on how dua serves as a direct conversation with Allah, where one lays bare their needs, hopes, and fears. It stresses that Allah promises to respond to prayers, transforming them into acts of divine communion. The article passionately advocates for integrating dua into every aspect of life, citing examples from the life of Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) and his companions who turned every moment into an opportunity for supplication, thereby continually fortifying their connection with the Creator.
Furthermore, the discussion on dua expands to elucidate its significance beyond ritualistic practice—it is described as a transformative exercise that aligns the believer's will with divine will, purifying intentions and deepening faith. The feature article enriches our understanding by explaining that supplications performed in accordance with divine command are invariably accepted, instilling a comforting assurance that Allah is always listening, always responding, and always guiding His servants towards what is best for them in their journey towards eternal salvation. Through compelling Qur’anic ayahs and hadiths, the article beautifully encapsulates how dua embodies the core of a believer’s spiritual life, ensuring continual guidance and growth.
Semerkand English Magazine May 2024 issue also features articles and sections such as “Lisanu’l-Hal” by Abdullah Suat Demirtaş, “After the Month of the Qur’an” by Selim Uğur, a translated excerpt containing precious advice from “Al-Burhan Al-Muayyad” by Ahmad ar-Rfiai (quddisa sirruhu), “Reflections from the Age of Bliss” by Burak Derin, “The Treasure of the Wise” by Cihat Ceylan, “Our Duty to Bear His Message” by Ali Yurtgezen, and “My Word Is My Bond” by Leyla Semiz.