Tag Archives: islam

The Kind Stranger

Posted on by
Reply

I was exploring Burmah Road in Georgetown when I noticed a quaint little mosque. Outside it and behind a table was a man collecting tithes. Started a conversation with the man and found out that the mosque is over a 100 years old. Sensing my fascination with vintage architecture, he took me for a guided tour of the premise that he is rightly proud of.

As it turns out, this kind stranger is Haji Yasin and he is the Imam of Masjid Tengah. I found out later, from others, that he is also a beloved Indian-Muslim community leader. I am humbled by such friendliness and hospitality shown by a complete stranger. He even offered to take me to a nearby mamak shop so he could buy me a drink and chat, even though he is fasting. I told him his thought is already a big treat for me.

Olympus OM-D, ISO 500, f8, 1/30 sec.

The Kind Stranger

Talking About Great Religions Under The Rain

Posted on by
Reply

When I saw this guy near a Ramadan market, I asked him if he is from Central Asia. With a broad smile, the young man said he is from the Middle of Asia. Turns out, he is from Afghanistan and is studying Geology at a university here in Kuala Lumpur.

We discovered we have a mutual interest in Comparative Religion. Under the rain, we discussed the similarities and differences between Islam and Christianity. How did this fascinating but complex topic even get started in a chance encounter between two perfect  strangers? Furthermore, the rain was getting heavier.

Behind him is the very old Chow Kit Sikh Temple or Gurdwara Tatt Khalsa Diwan. It is the largest Sikh temple in Southeast Asia. Sikhism is another monotheistic religion but it is not Abrahamic. It was founded during the 15th century by Guru Nanak in India. At one point in history, the Sikh army conquered parts of Afghanistan as it expanded the borders of the vast Sikh Empire.

Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f4.5, 1/50 sec.

Talking About Great Religions Under The Rain