An Insight into Tahajjud

how to pray tahajjud

“Nafl” is an Arabic word, which means “to get something extra”. Tahajjud is one of these Nafl prayers, which has even been emphasized in the Quran:

“And from [part of] the night, pray with it as additional [worship] for you; it is expected that your Lord will resurrect you to a praised station.” [Quran, 17: 79]

tahajjud meaning

what is the meaning of tahajjud, Tahajjud comes from hujood, which is doing one thing and the opposite, it so the word hajada may mean he slept or it may mean he stayed up at night, which are opposites. Tahajjud means specifically praying at night, and some scholars limited it to prayers that are offered at night after sleeping in the latter portion on the night.tahujjud copy

read also:30 Good Deeds in Ramadan

Timing:

Tahajjud prayer is implemented in the final third of a night after waking up from sleep. It cannot be offered straight away after Isha, but only following one`s sleep.

Conditions:

how to pray tahajjud

  • Make a clear intention of performing Tahajjud and arrange to wake up at last part of the night, this does not need to be verbalised.
  • Be in state of cleanliness and perform Wudu.
  • Be in a clean and quiet place in the house, away from distractions
  • Remove all kinds of worldly matters to better concentrate on the prayer and gain the benefits.
  • Offer at least 2 – 12 rakahs depending on your will and energy.
  • Aisha (R) narrated:
    “Allah’s Apostle used to offer eleven Rakahs and that was his prayer. He used to prolong the prostration to such an extent that one could recite fifty verses (of the Quran) before he would lift his head. He used to pray two Rakahs before the Fajr prayer and then used to lie down on his right side till the call-maker came and informed him about the prayer.” (Bukhari)
  • Make excessive Duaa to gain the benefits of this prayer.

Benefits:

Because it is difficult to wake up in the middle of sleep, this prayer offers the greatest amount of rewards and a great status from Allah:

Salah-Of-Tahajjud

read also:This Poster Shows The Imam Schedule Of Masjid Al Haram For This Ramadan

The Prophet (PBUH) used to offer Tahajjud frequently, which increases its importance a Muslim’s routine, as he stated:

“The best of prayers after the prescribed prayers is prayer in the depths of the night, and the best of fasting after the month of Ramadan is fasting the month of Allah, Muharram.”  (Muslim)

Tahajjud is a great way of getting Allah`s closest attention, which is the key towards piety and faithfulness. The Messenger (PBUH) has regarded this Salah as a source of getting rid of negative influence and being able to attain almost all kinds of desires and aspirations.

“Every night when it is the last third of the night, Our Lord, the Superior, the Blessed, descends to the nearest heaven and says, ‘Is there anyone to invoke Me that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone asking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?” (Collected by Bukhari and Muslim)

The benefits of Tahajjud begin with Wudu itself because of the pure intention the believer makes in performing the prayer, all the while eradicating any influence of Shaytaan. It is one of the ultimate ways of getting closer to Allah as He likes this act of worship and speaks to His Angels about it. He tells them that He will grant His believers with whatever they wish for.

read also:Taraweeh – Why and How to At home

Read More...

Top Islamic Bookstores in Jeddah

Islamic Bookstores


If you’re looking for options for Islamic bookstores around town, here is a list of some places you might want to consider:

Islamic Bookstores in Jeddah

1. Jarir Bookstore

Photo Credit: gulfbusiness.com

Photo Credit: gulfbusiness.com

Tel: +966-920000089
Locations:
Jarir Mall, Tahliya St., Al Rehab Dist.
Jamea Plaza, Al Jamiah Dist.
Jarir Mall, Prince Sultan Rd.
Palestine St., Bani Malik
Prince Majed Rd., Al Safa Dist.
Sari St., Al Salamah
worldwideweb

 

2. Obeikanobekan

Tel: +966-12-6123542
Location: Mall of Arabia, Madinah Rd

3. Mirza LibraryMirza

Tel:+966-12-6701958
Location: Sabaeen St., before the crossing of Falasteen Rd.

worldwideweb

4. Konooz Al Maarefa

Tel: +966-12-6514222
Location: King Fahd Rd., Al Sharafeyyah Dist.

5. Tihama Bookstore

Locations:
Andalus St., Al Hamra Dist.
Jamjoom Center, Falasteen St.
Al Khalidiyah Dist.

6. Islamic Education Foundation

Location: Al Zahra Dist.

worldwideweb facebook

7. Mawakeb Al AjerCIMG1346

Location: Behind Al Badriyah building, Al Rawdah St., Al Khalediyah Dist.
Tel: +966-12-6062433/+966-12-6062430
Email: mawakebalajer@hotmail.com
Opening hours:
Saturday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday: 4 – 8 p.m.
facebook instagram twitter

read also :5 Islamic Places in Spain every Muslim must visit

8. Islamic International Publishing House

Location: Bakhashab Street, behind Bank Al Ahli,
Tel: +966-12-6873752
Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. – Dhuhr Prayer
5 – 11:30 p.m.

9. Jeddah Dawah Center

Location: Muhammed Abdu Reda St.
Tel: +966-12-6828888
worldwideweb

10. Dar Abul Qasim (DAQ)/Sahih International

Location: Bakhashab Rd., next to Amir Muta’b Mosque and next to Darussalam.
Tel: +966-12-6714793
Mob: +966-504331535
Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. – 1: 30 p.m., 4:30 – 10:30 p.m. daily except Friday, just afternoon shift.

read also : The Best Islamic Websites For Learning Authentic Islamic Knowledge

11. Jado PadoJado

Website to order Islamic books.
worldwideweb

Note: Most of these bookstores are located opposite Masjid Al Shoaibi in Al Salamah Dist., in a compound encompassing all the bookstores.

Read More...

Saudi Poets Through the Ages

Saudi Poets

Poetry was the mother form of language in Saudi society. It paved the way for Arabic literature and has been an important part of Saudi culture. A lot of these Saudi Arabian Poets are referred to as game changers in modern Saudi literature.


 Some major Saudi poets are

  • Ibrahim Al Askoubi (1848 – 1913):

He was one of the Imams of Masjid Al Nabawi, known for his links to writers and leaders of the Arab Renaissance. He gained popularity with his poem, which was a criticism of the Ottoman rulings of the time that were drifting away from Islamic teachings.


  • Sulaiman ibn Sahman (1853 – 1930):

He contributed to the revival of Najd poetry; encouraging the promotion of religious content. He is considered to be one the most famous da’wa poets.


  • Ahmad ibn Ali ibn Mashrif (Unknown – 1868):

His poetry was usually followed the fables genre, where the characters were animals that would aim to encourage honorable conduct and high morals.

read also:History of Hijazi Music


  • Ali Al Jashi (1886 – 1957):

He retained the traditional attributes of epic poetry, focusing on the Prophet’s family and religious occasions.


  • Ghazi Abdul Rahman Al Gosaibi (1940 – 2010):

He was a liberal politician, diplomat, technocrat, poet and novelist. He was also one of the best-selling writers in the Arab world. He published nearly 40 books, most of which were collections of his poems, depicting the simple desert culture.

‘When the brave poet is afraid to die His best poem is silence’ – Silence

Photo Credit: Gosaibiovguide.com

Photo Credit: Gosaibiovguide.com


  • Hamza Shehata (1910 – 1971):

He was a Hijazi philosopher, poet and civic leader. Shehata is regarded as a Saudi pioneer, a leading poet and thinker and an influential figure in the cultural modernism movement that occurred in the Hejaz (20th century). He was among the first to compose and publish Arabic poems in modern format, starting in the 1920s. He is also well known for his writings on ethical issues and social philosophy.


  • Mutlaq Hamid Al Otaibi (1937 – 1995):

A writer, poet and a member of the faculty of Shariah at the University of Umm Al Qura. He is considered as one of the greatest Saudi poets of all times.


  • Mohammed Suroor Sabban (1898 – 1971):

A prominent civil and state leader, politician, economist, publisher and poet from Hijaz; he was the owner and publisher of a significant Hijazi newspaper called Sout Al Hijaz. He was also known as the father of modern Saudi economy. He established the Hijazi Library, which was among the first local publisher houses in the Arabian Peninsula. He published a famous book supporting the modern young Hijazi poets in Al Ma’aradd’, which is a collection of their works.

Photo Credit: alriyadh.com

Photo Credit: alriyadh.com


  • Abdul Muhsin bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (1925 – 1985):

He was the governor of Medina and a member of the House of Saud. He was one of the leading poets in Saudi Arabia and a lover of literature, saudi poetry and historical books.

read also: Books To Read To Explore Different Cultures


  • Husain Sirhan (1916 – 1993):

He was born in Makkah and had limited schooling and was largely self-taught. His writing was full of innovative ideas and his works questioned the concept of death. His poetry was translated into English and appeared in two anthologies of Arabian literature.

Photo Credit: mazen-sarhan.net

Photo Credit: mazen-sarhan.net


  • Abdullah Thabit (1973 – present):

He is a poet, novelist and journalist. He studied Arabic literature at King Khaled University and works as a journalist at the Saudi daily newspaper; Al Watan. Thabit has published several volumes of saudi poetry . In 2009-10, he was recognized by the Beirut39 project as one of the best writers in the Arab world under the age of 40. His work has appeared in English translation in the Beirut39.

Photo Credit: alriyadh.com

Photo Credit: alriyadh.com


  • Abu Abd Al Rahman Ibn Aqil Al Zahiri (1942 – present):

He is a polymath and has also been referred to as a theologian, jurist, historian, ethnographer, geographer, poet, critic and author.

Photo Credit: al-jazirahonline.com

Photo Credit: al-jazirahonline.com


  • Rashid Al Zlami (1926 – 2014):

He was known as the Bedouin poet. On 15TH March 2008, the Saudi committee for the popular poetry honored him as the most popular poet in Saudi Arabia.


Sources:

Book: Beyond The Dunes: An Anthology of Modern Saudi Literature
Web: en.wikipedia.org

Read More...

Where To Game In Jeddah: Arcades and Games In Town.

arcade jeddah

Here’s a list of awesome arcades in jeddah  and gaming places  in J-town:

arcade jeddah

  • Magha Net:

One of the biggest internet cafes and arcades in the Kingdom. It includes 200 machines and LCD screens, online games with a smoking and non-smoking section. Magha Net also has a library of movies ranging from Western, Arabic and even Anime. (johnsonstring)

Location: Palestine St.
Sawary Mall, Al Zahraa Dist.
Tel: +966-12-6199280
Web: magha.net
Facebook: Magha.Net

Photo Credit: facebook.com/Magha.Net

Photo Credit: facebook.com/Magha.Net

read also:Jeddah Summer Jam


  • In10So:

In addition to the go carts and bowling zones, In10So has an amazing arcade section for some good gaming.

Location: Red Sea Mall and Serafi Mall
Timings: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Web: in10so.com
Tel: +966-12-2844991 Ext. 106,107
Mob: +966-596147730
Email: info@in10so.com

Photo Credit: twitter.com/IN10SO

Photo Credit: twitter.com/IN10SO

read also:Top Summer Do’s on the West Coast


  • Shallal Theme Park:

The indoor section of Shallal has a huge virtual gaming zone.

Location: Middle Corniche
Timings: 5 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Web: alshallal.com
Tel: +966-12-6093993

Photo Credit: the10tenthhour.deviantart.com

Photo Credit: the10tenthhour.deviantart.com


  • Chuck E. Cheese’s:

Though primarily for kids, Chuck E. Cheese’s also has an awesome arcade section for an older age group to enjoy.

Location: Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz St.
Corniche Rd., Al Shatee Dist.
Web: chuckecheeses-sa.com
Email: info@chuckecheese-sa.com

Photo Credit: panoramio.com

Photo Credit: panoramio.com


  • Voxel Gaming:

Gaming café with high speed internet.

Location: Bowling City, Al Tahliya
Tel: +966-599996712
Facebook: voxelgaming1

Photo Credit: facebook.com/voxelgaming1

Photo Credit: facebook.com/voxelgaming1


  • Toys Village:

An arcade in Al Rawdah Dist.

Location: Al Tahliah St., Al Tahliah Center – Second Floor
Facebook: Toys-Village
Tel: +966-12-2634662


  • Vortex Entertainment Center

A brilliant gaming zone in Mall of Arabia

Location: Mall of Arabia, King Fahad Rd.
Timings: 9:30 – 12:30 a.m.
Tel: +966-12-6123100
Web: mallofarabia.com.sa

Photo Credit: almrsal.com

Photo Credit: almrsal.com


  • Iceland:

In addition to ice skating and bowling arenas, Iceland has gaming sections for arcade lovers.

Location: Corner of Batterjee St. and Prince Sultan Rd.
Tel: +966-12-6626666
Web: iceland-sa.com

Photo Credit: iceland-sa.com

Photo Credit: iceland-sa.com


  • GameNet

Online, computer and video gaming arcade.

Location: Al Rawdah Dist.
Tel: +966-12-6910625
Tel: +966-581189955
Facebook: GameNet

Photo Credit: facebook.com/GameNet

Photo Credit: facebook.com/GameNet

Read More...

Top Mutabag/Foul/Tamees/Masoub Hotspots in Jeddah

Ramadan is around the corner and in addition to our spiritual preparations, our stomachs are just in line. There’s a certain taste to ramadan, and knowing the importance of classics in this month, we introduce some of the most loved foul places in Jeddah broken down to their staples:


  1. Tayibat Hijaz: 6/10

Location: Al Wamdah, Al-Khalidiyah Dist.
Price range: SR 7 – 15

They have a great takeout menu, and they take orders on the phone with excellent packaging and timing. Recommended for takeout orders, and mutabag available throughout working hours.

Ratings:

Foul: 6/10

Classic flavor, not much added, with the bean taste overly prominent.

Tamees 7/10

Great texture, dough flavor is well balanced, and perfect to accompany fool.

Mutabag meat 8/10

pefect texture, not too oily, the filling to dough ratio was perfect. The seasoning needs a little more oomph, but it remains flavorful even when eaten cold.

Mutabag vegetables 6.5/10

The taste of egg overpowered the vegetables that they were unnoticeable, but regardless the texture and overall flavor was impressive.

Masoub 7/10

Great prominent banana flavor, without being too sickly sweet, lacked texture as it became soggy quickly.

read also :Jeddah Bucket List

  1. Malik Al Falafel: 7.3/10

Falafel-al-malikLocation: Nur Al Yusr, Al-Khalidiyah Dist.
Price range: SR 5 – 10

A town favorite, with a tiny shop that always has a queue around it. May be a greasy choice, but EXTREMELY worth it.

Ratings:

Falafel 10/10

Consistently good, each morsel is filled with flavorful ground vegetables and chickpeas. You can taste a sharp flavor of coriander that lifts up the chickpeas to a whole new level. Even though it is heavy and oily, it does not overpower the green taste. Extremely recommended to eat fresh, otherwise oil will become overpowering and they’ll get soggy.

Falafel sandwiches 8/10

Filled with greens, I recommend you have it with chili in as the tang compliments the flavor of falafel. Very well balanced with the sour tahini against the salty falafel and fries. Extremely filling!

French fries 4/10

Extremely oily, but somehow the mushy saltines is satisfying within the sandwich.

  1. Foul Al Ghamdi: 7.7/10

Location: Hilmi Kutbi, Al Zahra Dist.
Price Range: SR 3 – 9

This place is great value for money, especially in terms of its amazing flavor. Mutabag is served only after Maghreb prayer.

Ratings:

Foul 9/10

Full of flavor, with added tomatoes and a perfect dash of cumin, perfect for one’s who don’t enjoy an overpowering black eyed beans flavor.

Tamees 9/10

Perfect texture, flavorful dough and isn’t too sweet. Tastes best when piping hot.

Masoub 5/10

Overpoweringly sweet with a barely there banana flavorful, it’s not worth the calories.

  1. Foul Fattah: 8.5/10

fool-fatah-2Location: Al Dahab, Al Balad Dist.
Price Range: SR 5 – 15

A favorite around town, considered a historical monument in old Jeddah. Highly recommend eating there after walking around old town. Most dishes there are recommended, so enjoy spreading a feast without burning a hole in your wallet.

Ratings:

Foul 8/10

The flavor is well balanced with its classic flavor, perfectly seasoned.

Tamees 9/10

Recommend having it straight out of the oven, delicious dough, with a perfect texture.

Masoub 8/10

Not too sweet, perfect ratio of ingredients.

Mutabag Meat 9/10

Perfect filling to dough ratio, perfectly seasoned, and the texture is just right.

  1. Foul Abbas: 9.5/10

fool-abbas-1

Photo Credit: Jeddah Food

Location: Bani Malik St.
Price Range: SR 6 – 10

One of the most famous foul places in Jeddah, it is part of its heritage. It has been run by the same family since its opening 40 years ago, and has been consistent ever since. It is a tiny space, that’s always crowded, with a very small menu that is done very well.

Ratings:

Foul 9.5/10

Mixture of tomato cumin and lemon perfectly balanced, with an extremely luxurious olive oil drizzled on top.

Tamees 9.5/10

It has the right texture, the dough itself is flavorful, which compliments the fool just perfectly.

  1. Foul Al Ameer: 9.5/10

Photo Credit: sa.jeeran.com

Photo Credit: sa.jeeran.com

Location: Zahrat Al Aysun, Al-Hindaweyyah Dist.
Price Range: SR 6

One of the oldest monuments of town, this place has been within the family for 70 years since it opened in its initial location. The style of making the foul has been so consistent that a maximum of three pots are made each day. They open from Fajur prayer and close after the foul runs out.

reas also:Get a Good Start With a Good Breakfast

Ratings:

Foul 9.5/10

One of the few places that still maintain to import their beans from Egypt, the flavor is classic and perfectly seasoned and well balanced, with not much additives.

  1. Masoub Al Qadri: 7/10

Location: Al Ruwais Dist., in front of IMC
Price Range: SR 1 – 5

A mainstream favorite, Masoub Al Qadri is a popular spot with different branches around Jeddah, offering some of the best Muttabag in town.

Ratings:

Masoub 4/10

Disappointing given that the place is named after it, it could use a lot more flavor.

Foul 6/10

A fulfilling amount of black-eyed peas with great texture. However, the salt levels are a bit on the higher side, almost overpowering the rest of the flavors.

Tamees 8/10

A fresh out-of-the-oven bread that has one of the best textures. It’s impeccable for some cheat bites before reaching home.

Mutabag 9/10

Contains the perfect vegetable to bread ratio with unforgettable taste. One of the best choices out there in terms of taste and packaging. Available after Maghreb Prayer.

  1. Thamarat: 8/10

Location: Tahliya Dist., next to Danube Market
Price Range: SR 10 – 15

More on the luxury pricing side, Thamarat makes its food worth the increased prices.

Ratings:

Masoub 8/10

Very light on the stomach and full of flavor, you can easily devour many unnoticeably.

Tamees 7/10

A bit tasteless in terms of the dough, but the addition of sesame seeds makes up for it.

Foul 8/10

You will NOT be disappointed with its flavor, especially with its array of additives and seasonings.

Mutabag available after Maghrib Prayer.

  1. Al Ayoubi: 10/10

Location: Obhur Al Shamaliya Dist.
Price Range: 5 – 15

A completely different take on traditional breakfasts, Al Ayoubi is the go-to place for some traditional family dining. It has both a single and family section, in addition to a huge variety of Futoor eats that are bound to make you return. The interior design and decorations are the cherry on top.

Ratings:

Tamees 9/10

Cheese fool tameez  is the best thing that has happened since the first rip of tamees fell into the pot of foul of our ancestors.

Foul 10/10
Top dish of the place, Foul consists of two options, one with chili and cheese, and the other with a smoked flavor – both a must-try from the menu.

Mutabag 10/10

There is no need to squeeze lemon on top because of how flavorful the entire Mutabag experience is.

  1. Nakhat Zaman: 8/10

Nakhat-ZamanLocation: Off Falasteen Rd., Al Hamra Dist.
Price Range: SR 5 – 7

Only offers food options after or for Maghreb. Nakhat Zaman is another great choice for some traditional eats.

Ratings:

Masoub 8/10

Light on the stomach, with just the right amount of mushy sweetness.

Tamees 7.5/10

Very soft with the right texture of dough. Could just use a little bit more flavor.

Foul 8/10

Great flavor and combination of tomatoes in the mix, giving the foul an edge.

Mutabag 8.5/10

Both the meat and vegetarian options make sure that the bread doesn’t overpower the filling or vice versa.

  1. Bane’ma: 8/10

Location: Prince Sultan Rd.
Price Range: SR 1 – 6

Their open kitchen is what motivates everyone to stop by, so you can witness the freshly baked goods in the making.

Ratings:

Masoub 8/10

Light on the stomach and just the right amount of soft sweetness.

Tamees 7.5/10

Very soft with the right texture of dough. Could just use a little bit more flavor.

Foul 8/10

Great flavor and combination of tomatoes in the mix, giving the foul an edge.

Mutabag 8.5/10

Both the meat and vegetarian options make sure that the bread doesn’t overpower the filling or vice versa.

  1. Falafel Shamia: 7.5/10

falafel-shamiaLocation: Obhur Al Shamaliya Dist.
Price Range: SR 10

Everything and anything with falafel, Falafel Shamia is the place to go when you’re hanging out in the Northern districts. You can even combine this with a meal from Al Ayoubi, which happens to be right across.

Ratings:

Falafel Sandwich 7.5/10

Fresh, juicy and flavorful falafel wrapped in fresh khubz. Could use more additions of other vegetables and fries.

  1. Abu Zaid: 7.5/10

Photo Credit: Susie of Arabia

Photo Credit: Susie of Arabia

Location: Al Tawbah St., Hera St. / Corniche Rd.
Price Range: 15-30

Downright the city’s favorite, Abu Zaid is pretty much everyone’s go to place when anyone asks for Foul or Mutabag. You shall not be disappointed, may it be the taste, the variety or even the myriad of branches.

Ratings:

Masoub 9/10

Considered the best Masoub in town. Soft, sweet and well blended.

Tamees 7/10

It is one of those tamees’s that do not become chewy when cold. It is almost like a thick naan, making it a fulfilling experience.

Foul 6/10

Heavy in black eyed peas, the foul’s texture can become too thick sometimes, making the tamees and foul combination a bit too much.

Mutabbag 6/10

The vegetarian Mutabag was better than the meat one. The meat one can be overpowering, almost taking away from the bread’s flavor.

Let us know about some of your top Iftar/futoor hotspots for traditional foul/tamees eats.

Read More...

Best places To Study in Jeddah

study cafe jeddah, It’s almost exam time, and with all the submission deadlines and countless projects due every other day, stress is on infinite levels at the moment, so we thought we’d give you some alternatives to cramming information into your brain at home.


best study cafe jeddah

The following place to study can be a nice change, and a great option for group studying.

  1. Voila

Photo Credit: sauditour.info

Photo Credit: sauditour.info

Primarily a chocolate place, Voila’s restaurant space is the perfect setting for some quiet studying time with your peers.

Location: Millenium Centre, Tahlia St.
Web: voilachocolate.com

  1. Ikea

Photo Credit: mamasejagat.files.wordpress.com

Photo Credit: mamasejagat.files.wordpress.com

This may sound like a weird one, but believe it or not, Ikea’s food court is a popular study place for many in the mornings.

Web: ikea.com/sa/en/store/Jeddah
Location: Prince Mohamed Bin Abdul Aziz St. (Tahlia)

  1. Tabateek (For Ladies)

Photo Credit:

Photo Credit:

A private lounge at Bougainvillea Center, Tabateek is a great spot for meetings, study sessions, and some good snacking.

Location: Bougainvillea, Malik Rd.
Instagram: tabateek
Facebook: tabateek.concepstore.cafe
Email: tabateek@yahoo.com
Tel: +966-12-2064555

  1. Starbucks

Photo Credit: static.panoramio.com

Photo Credit: static.panoramio.com

This is a no brainer. With its coffee, snacks and WiFi, Starbucks is a favorite project and study location for many.

Location: Corniche Rd., Atallah Center
Corniche Rd., next to Pizza Hut
Le Mall, Tahlia St.
Palestine St., Al Hamra

  1. Joffrey’s

Photo Credit: facebook.com/Joffrey's Cafe

Photo Credit: facebook.com/Joffrey’s Cafe

With a more lounge interior, Joffrey’s is a relaxing alternative to get those creative juices working.

Location: Palestine St., Al Hamra

  1. Sara’s Corner (For Ladies)

Photo Credit: twitter.com/Sarascornercafe

Photo Credit: twitter.com/Sarascornercafe

read also : Work, Study, Socialize: You Can Have It All At These Places In Jeddah

The combination of freshly baked cakes and snacks, and a refreshing atmosphere causes for a motivating place to study.

Facebook: sarascorner
Instagram: saraladiescafe
Twitter: sarascornercafe
Location: Al Batarjee Rd., Al Zahra.

  1. King Fahad Public Library

Photo Credit: facebook.com/King Fahad Public Library

Photo Credit: facebook.com/King Fahad Public Library

Public library with several resources and spaces to study and research.

Location: Prince Majed Bin Abdulaziz Rd.
Facebook: King Fahad Public Library
Instagram: king_fahd_public_library

  1. King Abdulaziz University’s Public Library

Photo Credit: twitter.com/KAULibrary

Photo Credit: twitter.com/KAULibrary

read also : New Beginnings at the American International School of Jeddah

Though on King Abdulaziz University’s campus, this library is open to all.

Location: King Abdulaziz University, Abdullah Sulayman
Web: library.kau.edu.sa
Twitter: KAULibrary
Instagram: LibraryKAU
Facebook: KAULibrary

P.S. If incase the above places don’t fit well with your requirements, be sure to check out the following link for some more choices.

Read More...

A List of Bookstores Jeddah

Bookstores in jeddah are our guilty pleasures, may it be for stationery, bags, or actual books. Here’s a list of some good book stores around town that you can consider for your book and stationery frenzies.


Bookstores in Jeddah

Jarir Bookstore

Whether you’re in school, university, home or simply working, Jarir Bookstore is loved by everyone in Jeddah. They not only have all sorts of books, but also products that range from electronics, art supplies, games to backpacks, office supplies and so much more.

Instagram: jarirbookstore

Web: jarir.com

Tel: +966-920000089

Locations:
Jarir Mall, Tahliya St., Al Rehab Dist.

Jamea Plaza, Al Jamiah Dist.

Jarir Mall, Prince Sultan Rd.

Virgin Megastore:

Looking for the perfect gift or something cool and trendy? Virgin Megastore is your next destination. Being a people’s favorite, Virgin is a place that have all sorts of items such as, novels, educational books, video games, electronics, and vintage items that are produced locally.

Instagram: virginmegaksa

Web: virginmegastore.com.sa

Tel: +966-920008582

Locations:
Red Sea Mall, King Abdulaziz Rd., Al Shatea Dist.

Mall of Arabia, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah Rd.

Avenue Mall, King Abdulaziz Rd.

Little Book

Specializing in specifically books for children, Little Book is a charming bookstore with colorful interiors, showcased mainly for visitors of the ages 1 – 14 years old. The bookstore has a marvelous blend of educational books and entertaining stories suitable for all.

Instagram: littlebookjeddah

Web: littlebookarabia.com

Tel: +966-543200517

Location: Red Sea Mall, King Abdulaziz Rd.

Maktaba Al Fanoos:

Al Fanoos is one for the books, being one of the well known bookstores in Jeddah, and favored for all that it has to offer. Whether you need books, gadgets or any necessary office supplies, it’s all there.

Instagram: alfanoosbookstore

Web: al-fanoos.com

Tel: +966-126922903

Location: Souq Al Shatea., King Abdulaziz Rd.

Afnan Bookstore:

Afnan Bookstore is one of the first bookstores of Jeddah that not only has novels and children’s books, but educational books as well, alongside many necessary stationary supplies. Bags, art and crafts supplies, stickers and so much more, Afnan has it all.

Tel: +966-126717521

Location: Odaba St., Al Aziziyah Dist.

The Monochrome Bookstore:

Keep a lookout for Monochrome! A bookstore that sells used book and is mainly online but often takes part in different events that take place in Jeddah. Monochrome is also loved for different events they do such as the Mystery Box, a box with mystery books ready to be bought.

Instagram: themonochromebookstore

Web: monochromebook.store

Paper Trails

Also an online bookstore, Paper Trails has taken a step forward and created somewhat of a club for book lovers especially, offering a great variety of novels and indie books. With monthly staff picks of their own, it’s  community definitely worth becoming a part of.

Instagram: papertrails.club

Web: papertrails.club

Read More...

Top Dawah Centers Around Saudi Arabia

here’s a list of dawah centers, usually used for Dawah and helping out with any questions you might have about Islam and its teachings.

The main concern for many reverts is that they want to a feel a part of the community and want to be accepted and experience Islam for what it really is. It may be difficult sometimes in the beginning because they might not know the right people, or haven’t found the right place. So, here’s a list of dawah centers, usually used for Dawah and helping out with any questions you might have about Islam and its teachings.


1. Jeddah Dawah Center

JDC is a dawah center for teaching Islam to non-Muslims and to teach Islam /Arabic to Muslims who do not speak Arabic in different languages such as; English, French, Tagalog, Urdu, Malayalam, Indonesian, Tamil, Amhari, Napoli, Sinhala, Bengali and many more.

Location: Madinah Rd., Al Salamah Dist. (Near Hiraa’ St., Behind Habitat (Manzil) Hotel), Jeddah
Tel: +966-12-6828888 Ext. 100
Email: mytasneem@gmail.com
Web: jdci.org

2. Islamic Education Foundation Centre

Non-profit organization dedicated to lessons on different topics under the umbrella of Islam, in addition to organizing of Hajj trips.

Location: Ladies Branch – Behind Sabb Bank, Al Zahraa Dist., Jeddah.
Men Branch – Arafat St., Al Andalus Dist.
Tel: 966-12-6656994
Email: info@islamic-ef.org
Web: islamic-ef.org

3. Dar Ul Dhikr | Dawah Center

A non-profit private school in Riyadh devoted to teach students Arabic, Quran and the basic teachings of Islam.

Location: Al Hamami St., Al Sulemania Dist., Riyadh.
Tel: +966-1-4163012 / +966-1-4624366
Mob: +966-553764598
Email: darudhikr@yahoo.com
Web: darudhikr.wix.com/daar

Read More 10 Secrets Of Dawah

4. Al Rabwa Office for Islamic Call and Guidance

Classes about Tawheed, Fiqh and Hadith in several languages.

Location: An Nasim , Ash Sharqi
Tel: +966 (1) 4916065, +966 (1) 4454900
Email: en@islamhouse.com
Web: islamhouse.com

5. Islamic Cultural Center

Islamic Cultural Center is a Dawah center in multi languages. They have multiple resources such as books and Sheikhs from different countries to make Dawah to Muslims and non-Muslims. Classes are for both adults and children.

Location: King Saud Street, besides SEIKO building, Dammam.
Tel: +966-13-8320004
Email: muhalhsm@icc.org.sa
Web: islamic-ef.org

Read more Teachers, Tips, and Dawah Tricks

6. Hedayh Center | dawah center

Cooperative office for call to, guidance and education of communities in Al Khobar.

Location: Southern Corniche, Al Rajhi Towers, Al Khobar
Tel: +966-13-865555
Web: hedayh.org

Read More...

What Does Your Doodle Say About You

National doodle Day is on February 5, an annual fundraising event organized by Epilepsy Action where friends, family and famous faces come together to draw a line through epilepsy. Naturally, we thought it would be important to talk about the science behind doodling and how it can actually help with stress.

doodling meaning?

Doodling is basically “a habit of unfocused or unconscious drawing while the person’s attention is actually occupied by something else”. Although doodling meaning psychology usually seems like senseless drawings, they have meanings behind them.

Benefits of Doodling

Doodling is usually frowned upon because it assumes that the person isn’t paying attention. However, studies show that doodling is not counterproductive and actually has many benefits such as:

Increases Creativity

The reason behind this is that doodling uses three additional learning modalities in our brains.

Visual: we are seeing what we are drawing.

Kinesthetic: we are using our hands to draw.

Auditory: we are processing information by listening to what is being said.

Using multiple learning modalities enhances the way we think about the information by ‘connecting unconnected neural pathways in the brain’.

Enhances Memory

A study conducted by Professor Jackie Andrade in 2009 found that doodlers recalled facts 30% better than non-doodlers. The process of doodling helps us remember things better because it brings the information currently being absorbed into a more ‘saturated and sensory experience’, storing a clearer picture of the facts in our memory bank.

Improves Focus and Concentration

Doodling meaning actually reinforces the brain to pay attention instead of daydreaming. The act of doodling itself actually forces the mind to slow down and focus on the present.

Helps in Seeing the Bigger Picture

ِAccording to a philosopher called Jesse Prinz, doodling helps you hit the sweet spot in your brain where you are paying close attention but you are not overthinking things. By doodling, we don’t pay as much attention to the small details of the information we absorb. Instead, we tend to focus on central ideas, which are fundamental in seeing the bigger picture.

Read More : Creative Doodle Talks with Salwa Ali

Analyzing Doodles

Since doodling meaning is unconscious, the drawings reflect the doodler’s state of mind. We collected some of the doodles made by people at the Destination office and here were the most common picks:

Shapes and Swirls – These are mostly abstract doodles and usually consist of the following descriptions:

Boxes and Cubes: Practical, hardworking, methodical, efficient and a bit cautious.

doodling meaning

 

Pyramids: Spiritual

doodling meaning

Cylinders: Practical and calm

doodling meaning

Triangles: Upward-pointing triangle-drawing people are masculine, inquisitive, risk-takers, and have strong personalities. Downward-pointing triangle-drawing people are more feminine, calm, serene, and not very ambitious. They are also mentally perceptive, intellectually active and self-deprecating. Triangles within triangles mean they feel threatened and defensive.

Triangle1

Squares: Solid, stable, practical, constant and a need for security in relationships. Squares within squares means defensive, feeling trapped and claustrophobic. A collection of squares means frustration.

Squares

Diamonds and Hexagons: Extremely efficient and goal-oriented.

unnamed

Swirls: Lack of direction and restlessness.2

drawing spirals meaning: Dwelling on problems, withdrawn, need for security, possessive. Spirals that start in the center mean tension and angst. Spirals that start from the outside means target oriented.

Spirals

Lines: Horizontal lines mean good concentration and calm under pressure. Diagonal lines mean need for domination. Lines with spaces mean balance and a bit controlling.

Photo Credit: ketchbookchallenge.blogspot.com

Photo Credit: ketchbookchallenge.blogspot.com

Crosses: Negative outlook and prone to self-destruction.

Crosses

Loops: The wider the loop, the greater the imagination and empathy. Narrow loops mean repressed anxiety.

Photo Credit: news.com.au

Photo Credit: news.com.au

Zigzags: Pent up anger and frustration, unresponsive to being directed and hardworking. Sharp zigzag peaks means more aggression and need for comfort.

Photo Credit: brantwig.deviantart.com

Photo Credit: brantwig.deviantart.com

Arches: Tough, loyal, private and have self-control. Upside-down arches mean a strong sense of self, sociable, need for acceptance, kind, helpful, generous, humorous, open and honest.

Photo Credit: fineartamerica.com

Photo Credit: fineartamerica.com

Flowers: Happy-go-lucky, warm-hearted, helpful, sentimental, romantic, faithful, energetic and cheerful. Blooming flowers mean pleasure. Withered flowers mean gloominess and disappointment.

Flower1

Faces: Different expressions mean different things. Face-on faces mean being gregarious and extrovert. Huge faces mean over-confidence and even arrogance. Tiny faces mean vulnerability and insecurity. Unhappy faces mean stress while happy faces mean humorous and fun loving. Angry faces mean lack of passion. Surprised faces mean need for control. Beautiful faces mean love, care and optimism.

Faces

Eyes: Huge eyes mean big personality and sensitive nature. Small eyes mean introversion and hesitance to look in oneself. Expressions of the eyes represent the doodler’s thoughts/feelings.

Eyes

Cats: Deep psychological secret, generous, warm, caring and loyal; an urge to care (for females) and in tune with feminine side (for males).

Cats

Skulls: Concentration on death, wanting to make more of life, adventurous and living on the edge.

Skull

These were just some examples of doodles and their analysis. If you haven’t found your example above, we urge you to send in your doodling meaning so we can tell you what it means.

Read More : Oodles of Doodles With The Urban Gypsea

Read More...

A Fusion of Arabic and Jazz

Composing and singing with Mothana Anbar.


Could you tell us a little about yourself?

I was born and raised in Jeddah. I traveled at the age of 19 to finish my undergraduate studies at the University of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA and have been practicing music since the year 2000.

How did your musical journey begin?

I started learning about music from my uncle who studied music at an Egyptian institute; I’ve been experimenting with music ever since. When I was in college, I used music for class projects to express ideas and tell stories incorporating Arabic poetry in the process.

Your compositions are usually jazz, Arabic or oriental. How do you work with such diverse genres?

Living in New Orleans, also known as the birthplace and capital of jazz, was a major influence on my music taste. Even though I accept all genres with an open mind, I consider jazz my comfort zone. Then of course comes the oriental and Arabic poetry part, which is tied to my heritage and culture. It’s deeply rooted in my existence and I am simply trying to fuse both worlds to come up with new means of expression.

What would be one of your favorite moments on stage?

The moment I lose sense of place and time and all that’s left is the overall journey and emotions carried by the music and its meaning.

What is your dream project?

“Musical projection” is something I’ve been trying to develop for a while. Basically, it’s using the technology of “projection mapping” to create an interactive short play using music and poetry. Hopefully, it’ll become a reality one day.

What do you think needs to be done to enhance the music scene in the Kingdom?

  • Showing people that music can be beneficial.

  • Creating venues with easy access for musicians to openly perform.

  • Reintroducing music in schools and opening institutions that teach music and all kinds of arts is also an option.

What piece of advice would you give to upcoming musicians?

Be persistent in achieving your goals and dreams. Always work on improving yourself and remember that there will always be obstacles. Most importantly, have fun with the art you’re creating.

Twitter: mothannaanbar
Soundcloud: mothanna-anbar

Read More...