June 2021 Edition

Happy Juneteenth, June 19th, 2021!

Culture & News

When the Moors Ruled in Europe

The Moors invaded Spain in 711 C.E. and established a powerful religious empire in the Al Andalus region, which includes the cities of Granada, Corboda, and Toledo. Their rule lasted for over 500 years. The documentary: When the Moors Ruled in Europe (2005), provides historical analysis of the Western Empire of Islam. The film has beautiful cinematography of the royal palaces and explains the role of mathematics used in the architecture.

The documentary describes Spain as being ruled by the Visigoths, a Germanic tribe, prior to the Arab invasion. These Visigoth ruled cities were already in crisis and although there were some invasion battles, the Arabs took the cities fairly easily. The film asserts this is a controversial stance, which counters the traditional view of the Arab invasion as the cause of the cities collapse. The Moors rule brought irrigation technology, crops such as avocados and pomegranates, paper making factories, and religious conversion to Islam. This is in contrast to Europe’s wooden houses and serfdom issues.¹

The long-standing Western Empire of the Moors was now being challenged by the Christian (Catholic) kings. In 1085 C.E., they took control of the city Toledo away from the Moors. These Christian kings had gained significant power of the Al Andalus region and the city of Granada was the last to fall. When the city finally surrendered, its ruler was told by his Moorish mother: “Do not weep like a woman, for what you can’t defend like a man.” ^²

There is some debate over the race and/or ethnicity of the Moors. According to Derek Bridges, of the Home Team History Channel: “The Moorish Empire had different factions and periods, that are layered in complexity…they were separated and ruled by different caliphates…sometimes they didn’t get along with each other…Some say the Moors are Black, some say they were Arabs. But the overwhelming truth is, it really depends on which caliphate you’re talking about.” ^³

Learn more about this interesting empire by watching the videos included at the end of this newsletter.

Bibliography:

(1,2) When the Moors Ruled in Europe, directed by Timothy Copestake (2005; United Kingdom: Acorn Media), DVD.

(3) “African Conquers of Spain: The Moors.” YouTube video, 9:44. “Home Team History Channel,” June 23, 2014. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hISBst26ZGE

196 Flavors.com: Moros y Cristianos (Moors & Christians)

https://www.196flavors.com/cuba-moros-y-cristianos-congri/

Art/Film/Literature News

The Art of Photography

Frank Relle is a Louisiana native and a talented photographer with seventeen years of experience. His images of architecture and natural landscapes hang in private collections and the Smithsonian Museum. His current focus is on swamps, bayous, and cypress trees. This requires him to brave twenty-five feet of water and alligators to capture breathtaking works of art. He states: “Lighting is the language, it’s the music of photography.” See the interview of him at the end of this newsletter.

Frank Relle Website

https://frankrelle.com/

Business/Non-Profit News

Bed & Breakfast Inn

Captain Farris House is a beautiful Bed & Breakfast Inn located in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts. They offer unique packages, such as: Girls Trip, Romantic Getaways, and Baby Moon. There are nearby attractions that offer whale watching, lighthouse tours, and restaurant dining. As some pandemic restrictions are being lifted, many people are ready for summertime travel. Why not include Captain Farris House in your plans. See below an article by Blogger Lisa ala Mode’s Girls Trip to the inn that has great photographs and a travel vlog!

Lisa ala Mode: What To Expect When You Stay At This 5-Star Black Owned Bed & Breakfast (2017)

https://lisaalamode.com/2017/11/03/black-owned-bed-breakfast-2-2/

Captain Farris House Website

https://captainfarris.com/

Book Review

The Little Book of Biblical Justice

The theme of justice is found throughout the Bible. There are cultural and religious worldviews that may appear odd in contemporary society. But the historical context must be taken into account. Dr. Chris Marshall, PhD provides a general overview of biblical justice in his book: The Little Book of Biblical Justice (2005, 82 pages, kindle edition). He explains different aspects of justice that includes: shalom (peace), vulnerability to exploitation, punishment, and restoration. He writes: “God’s coming justice is the culmination of, not a substitute for, human striving for greater justice here and now” (kindle p. 29). He adds: “We often think of mercy and justice as opposites…Mercy helps to bring about, rather than to interfere with, justice (kindle p. 37). The book has a scripture index, end of the chapter summaries, and an appendix summary of key points. This is a good short-length read that provides a broad overview of biblical justice.

*Notice: This book was first mentioned in the November 2020 Edition, to view click here

Purchase/Read Book Synopsis here