We visited Islamic Cairo for a day. The first mosque we saw was built by a Sultan over a thousand years ago. Our prof described the detailed architecture and the features we might not notice on our own. There was a unique minaret, windows that did not line up so it forced motion. It was a wonderful place. He said that the mosque can hold 1000s but less than 100 come each week for prayer. Egyptians never accepted the building as a place for prayer. A beautiful, empty sacred space. I wondered about his leadership - why he never got the buy in of his people? Seems like there is more to the story.
We saw a second mosque - where young boys are trained. Boys only it sounds like. Another beautiful building. Our prof asked the Imam to show us the holy room behind the prayer screen. He sang a call to prayer for us. The room was dark and cool. The song was in Arabic, so I am not sure of the words. His voice was so perfect as he sang. People were video-ing and pic-ing the moment. I could not move, just closed my eyes and listened. Next thing I knew, tears were coming out of my eyes and down my face. I kept thinking how much this man must love God. That his singing was bringing me closer to God - the role of any minister. I was so moved. That I could be a person that inspires deeper, more real love for God. Truly a moving moment in Egypt.
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