By Nagiyd Ewell
This Ramadan reflection piece, titled “Feed Thyself,” is inspired by Juz’ 10 of the Qur’an (8:41–9:92). Although most of this juz’ focuses on war, specific battles in history and the rules surrounding the gains of war, a verse in Surah Al Anfaal (8:53) resonated with me: “That is because Allah would not change a favor bestowed upon a people until they change what is within themselves. And indeed, Allah is all hearing all knowing.”
After reading this verse, I had one thought, “In order for good to come in, good must also be released.” True self care occurs when you check in with yourself and make sure you are in the best state to receive the Allah’s blessings. And, the first place to start is to work on your heart.
I painted a hand holding a heart that is being nourished with food for the soul. The heart represents the true core of a person or their soul. The “food” is the gold dots or pearls, and they represent all knowledge that is useful and beneficial. The food spills onto the hand that is holding the heart and the hand now also have gold on them. Behind the heart is a loose rib cage that opens up to a blue background. The light blue signifies openness, calm and liberation, all which can be achieved by going inward to nourish the heart.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Nagiyd Ewell is a painter, a writer and a seeker of beauty. She has lived a nomadic life, nationally and internationally, and incorporates her many experiences into her art. She is currently based in Trenton, N.J., where she lives, works, gathers inspiration and drinks lots of coffee.
No comments