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“Truly, in some poetry, there is wisdom.” - the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him (Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud).  Zawiya Perspective is excited to present Qalam: a Sacred Poetry Workshop with Baraka Blue.

From great Sahaba such as Abdullah ibn Rawaha and Hassan ibn Thabit (May God be well pleased with them), to the Troubadours of Muslim Spain, poetry has always been an integral part of Muslim culture. Islam has a rich history of great poems such as the Diwans of Imam Shafi’i, the famous Budrah of Imam Busiri, and great works like the Masnavi of Rumi. Muslims have used prose to express and encourage love for God and his Messenger.

This workshop is for anyone who would like to develop their practice of creative expression. Whether you are an aspiring poet or artist; an established writer already; an individual who would like to connect with other like-minded artistic people; or someone who would simply like to develop their creativity, receptivity to inspiration, and capacities for meditation and reflection, then, this workshop is for you.

Baraka Blue is a highly acclaimed rapper and poet hailing from Seattle and based in Oakland, California. He has performed all over North America as well as the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe. He is highly decorated within the global artist community for his original synthesis of spoken word poetry with the tradition of mystical poets such as Rumi and Hafiz. His most recent book of poetry is entitled ‘Empty & The Ocean’. In addition to performances, he has taught classes and led creative writing workshops internationally. His sophomore album, ‘Majnun’s Lost Memoirs’ can be heard in cafes and concert halls all around the globe.

As the anniversary of the September 11th attacks approach I thought it would be fitting to write about my understandings of Islamic Spirtuality  and Islam.  The countless examples of violence from Islamic extremism in the past decade, it has forced both Muslims and non-Muslims to deeply question what Islam is and what it teaches.   I think that this has actually created a positive benefit for those willing to deeply study the subject from people who truly understand the religion.  But more importantly it requires going beyond one's preconceived notions about Islam in order to find the truth.   I have decided to share this essay with my family and friends and in attempt to convey my understanding of Islam and Tassuwuf.