Recently, I left a job. One of the responses I got to my "goodbye" email was a beautiful and touching message I received from one long-time colleague, an American-born Muslim. In his email, he said "May Allah (swt) bless you and your family. I will keep you guys in my prayers." In this context, what does the (swt) stand for? And, what would be a culturally-appropriate response? [more inside]
posted by deadmessenger on Jul 18, 2008 - 10 answers

As a student of international relations, I'm trying to acquire a broad understanding of Islam and Middle-Eastern culture. I'm looking for a few books to read in my spare time that touch on these subjects. [more inside]
posted by aheckler on Apr 2, 2008 - 14 answers

Help me convince the man I love that he doesn't have to marry someone else. [more inside]
posted by xanthippe on Jan 18, 2008 - 61 answers

Is it considered a breach of protocol or courtesy to wear a thobe if you're not an Arab?
posted by arimathea on Jul 18, 2006 - 9 answers