Understanding Mazmuur Naafi: The Arabic Psalm of Nephi

Authors

Josh E. Probert

Keywords

Mormon studies, Arabic, calligraphy, Islamic art

Abstract

Arabic calligraphy is arguably the defining form of Islamic art. Jamal Qureshi has combined this centuries-old tradition and the geometric forms of Ottoman architecture with one of the richest passages from the Book of Mormon, the Psalm of Nephi (2 Nephi 4:16–35), to create an artwork rich in meaning. The artwork is visual praise; and it represents the way in which religious artforms are fluid, transgenerational, and adaptable to new meanings. This short essay explains the artwork by contextualizing it in both Islamic and Mormon traditions.

Recommended Citation

Probert, Josh E. (2006) "Understanding Mazmuur Naafi: The Arabic Psalm of Nephi," BYU Studies Quarterly: Vol. 45: Iss. 4, Article 20.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/byusq/vol45/iss4/20