Page 82 - A Call for a Turkish-Islamic Union

A CALL FOR A TURKISH-ISLAMIC UNION

rated with stunning examples of Islamic esthetics and art. Every

detail reflected the same fine taste of Islam's higher spirit. Its gar-
dens were full of fountains powered by a system based on gravity.
The Muslims who built it were inspired by the Qur'anic depictions
of Paradise.
Here are some verses about Paradise:
They will have preordained provision: sweet fruits and high
honor in Gardens of Delight on couches face to face; a cup
from a flowing spring passing round among them, as white as
driven snow, delicious to those who drink, which has no
headache in it and does not leave them stupefied. (Surat as-
Saffat: 41-47)

[They will be] shaded by spreading branches. (Surat ar-Rah-
man: 48)
They will be reclining on couches lined with rich brocade, the
fruits of the Gardens hanging close to hand. (Surat ar-Rah-
man: 54)

[Gardens of Paradise are] of deep viridian green. (Surat ar-
Rahman: 64)
[They are] on sumptuous woven couches, reclining on them
face to face. (Surat al-Waqi'a: 15-16)

[They are] Amid thornless lote-treesand fruit-laden acacias.
(Surat al-Waqi'a: 28-29)
And wide-spreading shade and outpouring water
and fruits in abundance never failing, unre-
stricted. And [they are] on elevated couches.
(Surat al-Waqi'a: 30-34)