The years 2024 have been a transformative experience of documentaries and films and books that deepened my understanding of the world, my spiritual life and also expanded my intellectual horizons. Every piece of content that I interacted with made a strong impression on me and here’s what that looked like.
Documentaries
1. Why Me – Omar Suleiman
This soul-stirring documentary by Omar Suleiman dives deep into the human experience of pain and suffering. It raises poignant questions like "Why do bad things happen to good people?" and offers comforting answers rooted in faith and spirituality. Through powerful storytelling and reflections, Suleiman reminds us of the divine wisdom behind life's trials, urging us to trust in Allah's plan and find solace in patience and gratitude.
2. Jannah – Omar Suleiman
In this beautiful documentary, Omar Suleiman paints a vivid picture of Jannah (paradise) as described in Islamic teachings. It is not just a destination but an eternal reward that inspires believers to strive for righteousness and compassion. Through rich visuals and heartfelt narration, Suleiman explores the attributes of paradise, making it a source of hope and motivation for viewers.
3. Trust No One: The Hunt for the Crypto Boy
This gripping Netflix documentary unravels the dark underbelly of the cryptocurrency world. It follows the rise and mysterious disappearance of Gerald Cotten, the CEO of QuadrigaCX, one of the world’s largest crypto exchanges. The film highlights themes of greed, deceit, and the vulnerabilities of the unregulated crypto market, making it both thrilling and thought-provoking.
4. The Laundromat
Inspired by the explosive Panama Papers leak, The Laundromat is a sharp, satirical film that uncovers the shadowy world of global money laundering. Featuring a mix of drama and dark humor, the film connects the dots between financial corruption, tax evasion, and their devastating impact on ordinary lives. It’s an eye-opening reminder of how systemic greed shapes our world.
5. Umatu Iqra Laa Taqra’a
This documentary delves into the concept of literacy in a society deeply rooted in Islamic values. The title, which translates to "The Nation of ‘Read’ That Does Not Read," challenges the audience to reflect on the state of education, the importance of knowledge in Islam, and the societal factors that hinder literacy. It’s a call to action to revive the spirit of learning and intellectual curiosity.
Books
1. Maanafay – Maxamed Dahir Afrax
This Somali novel is a masterpiece that beautifully intertwines themes of love, resilience, and cultural identity. Set against the backdrop of societal upheaval, Maanafay vividly captures the struggles and triumphs of its characters, resonating deeply with Somali heritage. It’s a heartfelt celebration of tradition and a thoughtful critique of modern challenges, making it a must-read for anyone passionate about Somali literature. This book sparked my love for Somali novelists, inspiring me to explore more of their works. I am now delving into the writings of Nuradin Farah, the internationally acclaimed Somali author, as part of this literary journey.
2. The Law of Success – Napoleon Hill
A timeless classic, Napoleon Hill’s The Law of Success lays down a roadmap to achieving personal and professional goals. Packed with practical wisdom, it covers everything from building self-confidence to mastering the art of leadership. This book is not just about achieving material success but also about cultivating a mindset of perseverance, positivity, and service to others.
3. Ardu Ziikoolaa – Omar Abdelhamid
This literary gem tackles complex philosophical and societal questions through compelling storytelling. Omar Abdelhamid challenges readers to rethink their perspectives on morality, humanity, and the essence of existence. Ardu Ziikoolaa is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, making it a profound reading experience.
4. Jaceylkii Barni Seed – Ibrahim Yusuf Ahmed Hawd
A poignant Somali love story, this book captures the depth of human emotions and the trials of relationships. It beautifully portrays how love can be both a source of joy and a test of endurance. Through the journey of its characters, Jaceylkii Barni Seed highlights the intersections of personal desires, societal expectations, and cultural traditions.
5. The Quran, Women, and Modern Society – Almarah Baynal Quran wa Waaqicul Muslimiin
This thought-provoking book examines the role of women in Islam, juxtaposing Quranic teachings with contemporary societal practices. It critically explores issues like gender equality, women's rights, and the misinterpretation of religious texts. A must-read for those seeking to understand the true essence of Islamic teachings in the modern context.
6. Making Sense of Somali Women – Abdurahman Abdulahi Badiyow
This book provides a nuanced perspective on the challenges and contributions of Somali women in society. Drawing from history, culture, and personal stories, Badiyow sheds light on the resilience and resourcefulness of Somali women, while also addressing the structural barriers they face. It’s an empowering read that celebrates the strength and significance of women in Somali culture.
7. Feminist and Islamic Perspectives: New Horizons of Knowledge and Reform - Omaima Abou-Bakr
This insightful book bridges the gap between feminist ideologies and Islamic perspectives, offering a balanced view on gender equality. It delves into the intersections and differences between the two, providing readers with a deeper understanding of how Islamic teachings address women’s rights and societal roles.
Reflections
Here is 2024's view of the world through documentaries and books that shaped my understanding of spirituality, society and human nature. Whether it was Viewing the beauty of Jannah or questioning global corruption or Discovering Somali heritage or Considering women rights.
This year reinforced my belief in the transformative potential of stories—however they are shared, in the form of films, books or teachings—that it activates, instills change, stirs curiosity and fosters the soul. After 6 months, here’s to a journey of learning and growth!
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