Abstract In this paper, the comparison and contrasting artistic designs involved in both Roman and Umayyad fresco paintings are analyzed. It explains that the earlier Roman designs played a great part in influencing the Islamic peoples to use figural drawing and various decorative natural or organic themes. Much of this is seen within the context of the examples used in the paper, which conveys a large-scale influence of Roman Villa-styled fresco application and artistic design on various Umayyad palaces.
From the Paper "This art study will examine how the Roman Fresco had influenced the Umayyad perspective on murals and fresco work in their mosaic design and symbolic meanings within these works. By providing examples from the various Umayyad frescoes that now exist in various levels of decay, one can realize how Roman frescoes had a major impact on how these latter works of art were achieved. In essence, this paper is to describe the influences that Roman frescos/wall painting had on Islamic fresco/ mosaic & wall-paintings in art history. The Umayyad choice of Syria as their power base had enormous effects on later Islamic art, as craftsmen from all over gathered together to learn compete and work on Islamic projects. The Umayyad art design was enhanced by the ideas and traditions of imperial Rome, incorporating ..."
Abstract The paper looks at the extensive use of geometric and symmetrical patterns in Islamicart. The paper provides a definition of geometry and looks at translations, rotations and reflections in Islamicart. The paper then examines the mathematics of symmetry and how symmetry, as manifested in Islamicart, can be utilized to teach geometry in the contemporary classroom.
Outline:
Introduction
Symmetry in Islamicart, Part I
Symmetry in IslamicArt, Part II
Symmetry in IslamicArt, Part III
From the Paper "Many civilizations have long used artistic designs for a variety of purposes. For instance, some civilizations have used artistic designs for emblematic purposes, while some have used artistic designs for ornamental and/or architectural purposes; still others, perhaps unsurprisingly, have used artistic designs for spiritual symbolism. Another thing that is not at all a surprise is that artistic designs almost invariably utilize mathematical concepts. Specifically, within the Islamic art tradition, there has long been the extensive use of geometric and symmetrical patterns - so much so that it may be put forward that one of the defining features of Islamic art is its ability to incorporate mathematical concepts and ideas in ways that are rich, vibrant and aesthetically pleasing."
Abstract This paper discusses Islamicart, music and dance. It presents these three aspects of Islamicart in the form of an exhibition and details the history and practices of each art form. It begins by discussing five Islamic musical instruments, then goes on to discuss Islamic views on dance and finally looks at the different cultural influences that contribute to Islamicart.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Music
Dance
Art
From the Paper "Muslims have had different views about dancing. Throughout Islam history, there have been times of greater acceptance or rejection of dance. Some believed there should be no dancing. To others, folk dancing between the same sex is acceptable, but not between mixed couples. Also, some see dancing as a way to become closer to Allah. Sa'adi, a Persian poet wrote about a band of travelers who came upon a boy who danced beautifully. Everyone was amazed by his talents, except a man who complained that dancing was wrong. However, his camel lifted his feet in dance and threw the rider to the ground. Those around said that even God's creatures could enjoy the dance, so why not he?"
Abstract This paper examines how, by avoiding the depiction of zoomorphic images, Islamic artists were pressed to develop nonfigurative art which could still represent the beauty of Allah, the Koran, and their religion. In particular, the paper looks at how these artists accomplished this through intricate and seemingly infinite designs and through the art of calligraphy. The paper also examines how the formation of these techniques was so successful in conveying the religion of Islam that they have changed very little to this day, and many modern manuscripts, textiles, and wares can be found that resemble if not perfectly match those made during the medieval era. The paper also contains pictures of pieces of art.
From the Paper "Although some Islamic wares were made with metal or other materials, clay was used most often due to a Muslim prohibition on the use of precious metals . An exquisite wooden box made to house a copy of the Koran also has inscriptions of the Koran on the outside . Ceramics were in high demand, as clay was a much more abundant source than wood or other humble materials. Ceramic tiles used to decorate buildings often included passages from the Koran in their designs, as do the star shaped tiles from the workshops of Kashan . Many bowls and cups included the text of the Koran painted on them in slip, but most often they were inscribed with single words like "happiness," or "comprehension." They were also painted with blessings for the owner or user of the item. Another common use of text in ceramics came to be the painting of proverbs. A 10th century bowl from Iran is painted with the wise words "He who talks much, errs much"."
Abstract The paper explains that all four of these articles were chosen to reflect the major points of Islamicart and to illustrate why this cultural topic was chosen in regards to the country of Turkey. By understanding Allen's perspectives on figural drawing and iconography in Turkish Islamicart, the paper explains that one can realize why Muslim artists chose not to depict human forms, since it disgraced the more cosmic power of Allah across the universe. The paper relates that this cultural idiom was forged though the intensive military victories led by Muhammad and successive Islamic governments that followed after AD 600.
From the Paper "In this cultural study, one can analyze the varying forms of Turkish art that rely on a great quantity of religious and localized beliefs in this region of the world. This evaluation will summarize four articles related to the religious background of Turkish culture through an artistic focus."
Examines the basic tenets of religion, based on the Quran and the impact on Islamicart and craft. Discusses the Quran as art and the view of Muslims toward art, architecture and calligraphy.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 7 sources, 1999, $ 95.95
Abstract Art is influenced by a number of forces in society, in the environment, in the psychology of the people who produce and consume it, and in different institutions. Art is an expression of inner feel
From the Paper "INTRODUCTION
Art is influenced by a number of forces in society, in the environment, in the psychology of the people who produce and consume it, and in different institutions. Art is an expression of inner feelings and beliefs and so naturally is influenced by religion in many societies. Some religious systems speak of art directly or have tenets which influence what can and cannot be depicted in art. The Quran is the theological basis for Islam and shapes the way people in Islamic societies express themselves, and this includes how they express themselves through art and architecture. The "rules" are not always followed and may not always be clear, and Islamic art has changed through the centuries, showing that the precepts in the Koran are flexible enough to allow for aesthetic development. Islamic society, however ..."
Abstract This paper relates that Islamic ceramics and pottery have been traced to the 8th century, developing in key Middle Eastern civilization centers such as Iraq, Persia and Syria. The paper specifically looks at how the innovations of that period mark not only the development of the craft but give insights to how cultural and scientific development impact society together.
Outline:
Introduction
Islamic Ceramics and Pottery Traditions
Innovations
Conclusion
From the Paper "One of the key innovations in Islamic ceramics and pottery is in their glazing methods which allowed for greater utility for incorporation in architecture as well as amalgamation of other raw materials. This was also in part a reaction to the difficulties and variances in kilning requirements due to the more arid climate in Islamic centers of civilization. Innovations in glazing included methods which utilized tin to create opaque finishes and painting with metallic luster. This trend also reached Europe through Spain via the Moors. Islamic ceramists and potters are also credited for the development of stone-paste ceramics which were made from non-refactory fired clay which produced finer texture in earthenware that were in popular use (Fehervari, 2000). "
Abstract This paper examines the distinct styles of textiles, folk arts, architecture and music developed in Central Asia, which reflect the diverse values of the different cultures. These art forms have changed over time through cultural syncretism, innovation and revivalism of earlier forms, the author relates. Today textiles and music are the two most common art forms; whereas, in the past, the two most popular were architecture and folk music.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Textiles and Embroidery
Paintings
Architecture
Music
Conclusion
From the Paper "The music of Turkmenistan is similar to that of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. It too consists primarily of singing a capella, accompanied by a lute; another instrument called the gijak, similar to the cello, is sometimes used. The performers are called bakshy, and are traditionally traveling performers who also function as shamans or traditional healers. The bekshy often perform at special ceremonies such as weddings and babies baptisms. However, the importance of their healing practices has diminished because of the emergence of the Islamic sheikhs' prominence."
Tags: syncretism traditional, tush kyiz, islamic lyricists
This well-researched paper provides a comprehensive overview of early Islamic mysticism as well as a detailed analysis of its continued impact on today's Muslim society.
Abstract The writer of this in-depth paper examines the culture of Islam and Islamic mysticism, which has been shaped by centuries of religious strife and controversy over the teachings of the prophet Mohammed. This paper proves through extensive research that Islamic mysticism has represented a conscious attempt to transcend the dogmatic facade of legal Islam by seeking to expand and maneuver in the relationship between God and man and by incorporating spiritual elements into Islam. This well-researched paper defines and explains the significance of Sufism in Islamic mysticism. Sufism, which is detailed at length in this paper, teaches that God can only be truly experienced by those who wait upon his call with a loving heart. Some of the works that were devoted to Sufism prove that it was actually not in conflict with the Islamic religious sciences, but rather served to complement and perfect them. This paper cites numerous experts on Islam, such as Cheslyn Jones, Geoffrey Wainwright and Edward Yarnold who contend that the spirituality of classical Islam is clearly found in Sufism. This paper also examines why a large number of Sufis around the world still continue to seek deeper spiritual experiences through the tenets first set down by Mohammed.
Table of Contents:
Review and Analysis
Background and Overview
Sources of Knowledge of Early Islamic Mysticism
Early Islam and Mysticism
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper "The nature of the soul in this pre-physical state is a fundamental tenet of al-Junayd's early works. Prior to entering the body, the soul had already established a covenant with God; at this point, when God asked the true believer, "Am I your Lord?," the soul naturally answered, "Yes." As a direct result of this covenant, there was a mystical union established between the soul and God. It is this reestablishment of the mystical union, then, that is the primary goal of Islamic mysticism. According to Von Dehsen, "Al-Junayd classified adherents of tawhid into three categories, representing degrees of truth and knowledge. First, there are ordinary Muslims, who affirm God's oneness by reciting the traditional confession, 'There is no god, but Allah.' Next, there are theologians who apply reason to faith. Finally, there are Sufis who not only intellectually affirm God's oneness, but also experience it through mystical union." Al-Junayd sought to break down the barriers that separated mainstream Muslims from the Sufis, who often abandoned tradition and law in favor of their private experiences."
Tags: religion, theology, muslim, islam, sufism, history
Abstract This paper is a detailed discussion of Islamic criminal law, its sources, its application, and its conflict with international law and human rights. The author examines both primary and secondary sources of Islamic law, and describes Hudud, Tazir and Qesas crime and punishment. The paper also focuses on the historical background of Muslim law.
From the paper:
?Islam means "submission" or "surrender" to the will of Allah. For the more than one billion Muslims of the world, this means submission to a comprehensive code of law governing every arena of life: social, political, economic, and religious. In Islam there is no separation of church and state, no distinction between religion and politics; Government, law, and religion are unified. Some would argue that Islamic law is not fully practiced in any part of the Islamic world. While this may be true, twenty-three nations have either declared Islam to be the state religion or declared the religious writings of Islam to be the principal source of law.?
Examines the historical development of Islamic economics, especially the prohibition on the payment of interest (riba) and the mandatory tax on assets (zakat) that aided the poor.
2,005 words (approx. 8 pages), 6 sources, 2001, $ 63.95
Abstract This paper demonstrates that Islamic economics, like alternative economic systems, reflects a unique historical experience, and is dependent upon that historical experience for its success. Islamic economics, in particular, the paper argues, has historically produced successful outcomes, but those successful outcomes are dependent upon the historical Islamic context. The shift away from this Islamic context inherent in modernization, however, nullifies the historical conditions that an effective Islamic economic system requires. The paper's main points include but are not limited to: the historical origin of the Islamic economic system is rooted in the caravan trade routes, the mercantile wealth that began to define the culture, and that Islamic economics replaces the free-market imperative of maximization of individual utility with a social justice imperative of cooperation and equality.
From the Paper "Disputes among various schools about whether nominal interest that accounts for the time value of money is prohibited are not important to the question of interest in the economy, because real interest is prohibited as riba in any case, and it is the real interest rate that determines key macroeconomic variables in classical economic models, such as the level of investment and supply of loanable funds."
Abstract Female genital mutilation has been an institution in Islam for centuries, still exists today, and is practiced in at least twenty countries throughout the Islamic world, from Africa to Indonesia. This hideous practice emerged in Arabia, the original Muslim homeland, from where it spread to the regions conquered by Muslim armies. Quranic injunctions, Islamic conquests and Muslim administrative institutions have given it a continuity and legitimacy which have perpetuated it into modern times. This paper discusses female genital mutilation in the Islamic world. The paper discusses its history, origins, where it is practiced, how it is still practiced today and what the position of Islamic authorities of today is on female genital mutilation.
Abstract This paper focuses on the impact that the Islamic religion and the Muslim society have had on its followers. The paper uses Gellner's works to show that in Islamic society the term law has a wider significance than it does in the modern secular West, because Islamic law includes both legal and moral imperatives. The paper also proves Islam can be considered the religion which has succeeded most in integrating the power of government with the power of religion. The paper also looks at another author, Peters, who shows that any social structures that can be perceived in Islam are based on tribal rather than state institutions and that lineal descent is of paramount importance in Muslim society. Finally, secularization in Muslim societies and countries is touched upon.
From the Paper "In his ethnography of a village in southern Lebanon, Peters says that there are ranked differences between people. Although he says that the difference between the dominant rich group and the others is ephemeral, he notes that it has existed for three generations. The population is divided into four categories: The learned Families, the Shopkeepers, the Peasants and the Christians."
Abstract This paper examines the Nation of Islam as a social movement and tests whether its traditions and roots are really found in traditional Islam.
From the Paper "The presence of God (Allah) is another and maybe the most critical difference between the Nation of Islam and traditional Muslims. The Nation of Islam was founded in the 1930's by a man named W. Fard Muhammad. Fard Muhammad believed he was sent to wake ?the black nation to the full range of the black man's possibilities in a world temporarily dominated by the blue eyed devils.?(5) It is the Nation of Islam who has since said, ? We Believe that Allah appeared in the Person of Master W. Fard Muhammad, July, 1930; the long awaited "Messiah" of the Christians and the "Mahdi" of the Muslims.?(6) Fard Muhammad taught that the African American culture was unique and separate from that of ?the Caucasian devils.?(7)
Abstract This paper compares Frederick Denny's Islam and the Muslim Community and John Alden Williams' edited The Word of Islam . Denny provides an interpretation of Islam, while Williams presents translated Islamic literature to allow the religion to speak for itself.
Tags: BOOK REPORTS - BOOK REVIEWS, book review islam
