Noor Ala Noor | Light Upon Light
Inspired by the famous and most intricate verse of the Quran
"Allah is the light of the heavens and the earth." 24:35
This is a print of an Islamic painting by Saleha
Calligraphy: "Allah is the light of the heavens and the earth." 24:35
The Story
The verse of light is known for its remarkable beauty. It's famous for being one of the most intricate verses of the Quran.
The art symbolizes the complete verse of Noor "The example of His light is like a niche within which is a lamp, the lamp is within the glass, the glass as if it were a pearly [white] star lit from [the oil of] a blessed olive tree..."
Now visualize this. The mishkat (niche) represents the chest of the believer. The glass symbolizes the heart (clear and pure in intention), and the light is the Quran, guidance, and iman from Allah.
The glistening gold arch represents the wall niche that protects the lamp.
The two circles closing in symbolize the double light. The Quran is noor. When it reaches our hearts, it becomes Noor ala Noor. The light of the Quran and the purity of the believer. We have a light within that needs to be lit.
To gain this noor, we must do what pleases Allah and ask Allah to put noor in our hearts. Notice the calligraphy racing? When believers see their light on the Day of Judgment, they will race behind their light to get to Jannah.
Everything we do should be to purify this light within to enlighten others and help guide them to the straight path. In the end, Allah guides to His noor whom he wills.