MAGAZINE REVIEW

the need for transformation of the individual, and rebut, using solid Islamic arguments, the notion, so forcefully championed by advocates of ‘Islamism’, of a ‘total Islamic system’ that they insist Muslims must establish at any cost if they are to be able to practice their faith. You can’t judge a book by its cover, they say—and the same, one supposes, applies to a magazine, too. But the cover of Spirit of Islam conveys a vital message, reflecting the magazine’s understanding of Islam that transcends cultural forms and readily appeals to just about everyone, including people of other faiths. In place of Arabic calligraphy or pictures of mosques or Muslim shrines or people in stereotypical ‘Muslim’ attire—as is the case with many Muslim magazines—its cover page sports a painting of a scene from nature, each issue bearing a different image—of a lotus-filled pond, a cloud-filled sky, or a field festooned with poppies by Vincent Van Gough. Islam is not limited to any particular language or cultural tradition, and nor is it for Muslims alone—that’s what the magazine possibly seeks to convey through its cover. The magazine is available in digital format, and it can also be freely downloaded from its website www.spiritofislam.co.in. The publishers offer a free email delivery of the digital copies. Once you start reading one issue, you might well be determined not to miss a single issue in the future! o The only formula to attain peace is: Take your share without usurping that of others. Fulfill your needs without depriving others of theirs. Solve your problems without creating problems for your fellow creatures. Peaceful coexistence is the only way of existence in this world.