Limited Edition, Framed Galelry Print of Original Islamic painting.

The word Maktoub literally translates from Arabic to English as “It Is Written”. It is the notion that the good we receive in our lives and the hardships we experience are all part of the life Allah swt composed for us.

The calligraphy encircled with red acrylic paint and gel mediums is a duafrom The Holy Quran reading:

“Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
~ Surah Baqrah 2:201

Within the draping of gold thread that “weaves” the details of the tops of this painting is the dua:

“Our Lord, grant us from among our wives and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us an example for the righteous.
Those will be awarded the Chamber for what they patiently endured, and they will be received therein with greetings and [words of] peace.
Abiding eternally therein. Good is the settlement and residence.”
-Surah Al Furqaan
Verse 74-76

This dua encompasses the beautiful concept of praying for heaven and heaven on earth through mercy from Allah swt. While the word Maktoub means “it is written”; Islam teaches us of the profound blessings given to us through our ability to make dua. We are taught to have humility through our blessings and patience in times of hardship but “Dua, according to a Hadith, has the unique ability to change destiny (Tirmidhi)”

This piece is my expression of the everlasting reminder that is the promise of Allah. Islam teaches us to be confident and unafraid of losing that which we have been given for whatever is written for us was written by the best of planners. But Islam teaches us hope through hardship and loss. That even someone destined to be alone can change their fate through prayer, and the most beautiful blessings to receive from Allah are children who are the coolness of our eyes and a righteous spouse.
___________________________________________