“During Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world reflect on Abraham’s unwavering faith and his trust in God when asked to sacrifice his son…The kindness, generosity, and goodwill displayed by American Muslims during this special occasion and throughout the year have contributed to the strength and vitality of our Nation. May all those observing Eid al-Adha find love and warmth during this joyous holiday. Laura and I send our best wishes for a memorable celebration.”
Eid al-Adha, which lasts through Saturday…commemorates the Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael to Allah. The festival begins the day after the millions of foreign pilgrims making the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia descend from Mount Arafat.
When did the sacrifice of Isaac become the sacrifice of Ishmael? Notice that Bush refrains from naming which son it was; he simply uses the word “son”. Because apparently, Muslims decided it was Ishmael whom Abraham was told to sacrifice.
If only!
However, I’m inclined to agree that it was Ishmael whom God commanded Abraham to sacrifice, and the whole reason God stopped Abraham is that he brought the wrong son. To fix the mistake, the Muslims have been sacrificing their sons ever since.
In honor of the last day of Hajj, I’d like to introduce readers to an artist named Jean Blique, whose 2003 painting titled “Mecca Fantasy” represents the Last Day of Hajj (reference point: “The Last Day of Pompeii”). Readers, make sure the volume is turned down when clicking on the site, as there is musical accompaniment.
From the reader who introduced me to the work:
The numbered and signed reproductions came from a strong-minded gallery owner in Milan, Italy, who co-hosted the Carlsberg beer party in support of the Danes a few years ago. Nonetheless, he wouldn’t put the painting on display. I remain hopeful that this talented artist will get the audience he deserves. It has been in 4 countries, but not one gallery has had the “pair” (your term) to display it.
As a fan of fine art, I feel compelled to keep up the fight for the publicity I think Blique deserves. Once the muslims start patting themselves on their heads en masse and condemning Blique, doesn’t it seem that American Liberals might have to take a stand between freedom of expression, or for not offending Islam? When Serrano pissed on the cross, the lefties were there for him. Will Blique get HIS chance to find out who’s with him? If Serrano could piss on a cross and live, why can’t Blique, who’s only trying to share Ukrainian pork with Muslims?
That fear element, of not wanting to offend Muslims, is exactly what I think should motivate more Westerners to support Jean Blique. I had a friend in Moscow who customized a Dagestani prayer rug to fit around his toilet, which is not bad decorating, but I prefer classic oil-on-canvas paintings.
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