Sayyida Bilqis the Queen of Sheba: From Light to Illumination

We begin this class with an overview of historical and contemporary representations of Sayyida Bilqis in pre- and non-Muslim traditions, observing some examples of the decline in the way she is portrayed, particularly over the past century.

The second part of the class focuses on the Qur'anic verses of her story with Nabi Sulayman AS in surah al-Naml. We see the majesty and humbleness of Nabi Sulayman, the deep intelligence of Sayyida Bilqis and the sensitive dynamics between Prophet and creation. Most importantly, we see how light became transformed to illumination in the process of guidance and the discovery of true faith for this most blessed woman seeking the Straight Path.

Finally we ask ourselves: What are the blinding lights in our lives that prevent us from seeing the true nature of things and how they really are? What are we seeking that actually stops us from finding the truth? What is Sayyida Bilqis really leading us to in her role as one of the most revered Queens in human history?