by :  Palango7 and Bard

Six months have passed, yet Istanbul’s vibrant tapestry remains woven into my memory. My initial perception, of a modern European city with Islam veiled in the shadows, was shattered upon arrival. The city pulsed with the rhythmic call to prayer, echoing through ancient streets and modern avenues alike.

My first Fajr at the Hagia Sophia, nestled amidst the faithful, was a revelation. Tears welled up as the immensity of the space, adorned with celestial calligraphy, resonated with a profound sense of belonging. Here, in this sacred space, differences faded, replaced by a shared connection to the divine.

Istanbul, despite its cosmopolitan facade, surprised me with its deep-rooted conservatism. Over 3,000 mosques, each a testament to faith, punctuated the urban landscape. Witnessing shopkeepers transform cardboard boxes into prayer rugs during Friday prayers was a poignant reminder that devotion transcends earthly limitations.

However, Istanbul’s tolerance shone brightly too. Cats, ubiquitous and cherished companions, were welcomed with open arms. This love and respect extended beyond humans, embracing all living beings.

Then came the stark contrast. A planned LGBTQ+ parade met with a show of force, highlighting the dichotomy that exists beneath the city’s glittering surface. While men and women served together in uniform, a reminder of Turkey’s progressive streak, this incident exposed the tensions that simmer beneath the surface.

My Istanbul experience challenged my preconceived notions. It unveiled a multifaceted Islam, one that embraces tradition and modernity, exudes compassion and tolerance, yet grapples with internal complexities.

This is not the Islam often portrayed by the media, a narrative dominated by fear and judgment. My Istanbul revealed a religion of peace, love, and acceptance, a “cool” Islam that resonates with kindness rather than intimidation.

In a world yearning for harmony, Istanbul’s story offers a glimmer of hope. It whispers of a future where differences are celebrated, and faith serves as a bridge, not a barrier. This is the Istanbul that touched my soul, and the one I hope to share with the world.