Thank you, King Tochi, for such enlightening writings on the transformative power of reading. Your perspective resonates deep within me because it goes in tandem with Islamic teachings that stress the importance of knowledge and education.

In Islam, seeking knowledge is considered one of the most noble acts; the first revelation given to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was "Read" (Iqra), Quran 96:1. So, knowledge and enlightenment form a core basis of our faith.

From the Islamic point of view, your insistence upon reading for enlightenment makes one ponder upon the following words of Allah: "And say, 'My Lord, increase me in knowledge'" (Quran 20:114). The pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong process, and every book that one reads is one more step toward not only the enrichment of the mind but also in understanding one's purpose in life.

Let us act by promoting a reading culture in our communities; let us inspire the love of books and share the acquired knowledge in the aim of helping each other. As the great Prophet Muhammad, peace be upin him, said, "The seeking of knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim" (Sunan Ibn Majah, 224).

Let's spark a movement to promote more literacy and learning, a shared effort that will strengthen the ties that bind us together and expand our universe. What is the book that most inspired you to learn something new? And are you willing to pass that inspiration on?

Grateful,

Mohamed, Ph.D.