January 4 marks World Braille Day, a global event observed every year to honor the contributions made by Louis Braille, inventor of the Braille system. Undoubtedly, his innovative new creation delivered equity to a large community long before equity was a hot topic in the world. This day highlights the significant impact of Braille on the daily lives of the visually impaired. It also serves as a crucial reminder for sighted individuals to come together to advocate for more accessible resources, compassion, and understanding, promoting inclusion for everyone.
Did you know that Louis Braille lost his vision as a child? Despite having lost his vision at a young age due to a tragic accident, Braille was not deterred from his passion to learn and grow in academics. At the tender age of just 15, Braille was inspired to create the Braille system, heavily inspired by the “night writing” method used in the military where soldiers were able to read/decode messages in the dark with raised dots. This quickly became a global sensation where people with any type of visual impairment were now able to read literature, have more access to education, and become independent to a degree that previously seemed unimaginable.
Reflecting on the impact of Braille, we are reminded of the real power held in the sense of touch. Simply stated, Braille bridges gaps by allowing for intimate, meaningful connection between a reader and the words on a page.
In the context of Muslims and non-Muslims who are visually impaired, fully connecting with The Quran may pose a challenge. Although they can hear it, they feel a yearning to touch its pages and feel more connected with the Book of Allah (SWT). Unsurprisingly, having a personal connection with The Quran makes a Muslim’s journey all the more moving.
Did you know that being inclusive to the blind community is something that has been taught to us by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) himself? One day, the Prophet (SAW) was sitting with a group of elders from the tribe of Quraysh when one of his companions, Abdullah ibn Umm Maktoom, approached the Prophet (SAW) and requested that he teach him something. Ibn Umm Maktoom was a blind companion and was unaware that the Prophet (SAW) was already in an engagement. At first, the Prophet (SAW) ignored him and focused on converting the elders of the Quraysh to Islam when the companion insisted again that he be taught something of The Quran. At this point, signs of frustration began to show on the Prophet (SAW)’s face, and he once again ignored the companion. It is here when Allah (SWT) revealed the verse which gently reminded the Prophet (SAW), “You never know O Prophet, perhaps he may be purified, or he may be mindful, benefiting from the reminder. As for the one who was indifferent, you gave him your undivided attention, even though you are not to blame if he would not be purified. But as for the one who came to you, eager to learn, being in awe of Allah, you were inattentive to him. But no! This revelation is truly a reminder. So let whoever wills be mindful of it (The Clear Quran®, 80:3-12).”
Acknowledging the urgent need for inclusive Dawah efforts and enabling Muslims with visual impairments to connect meaningfully with The Quran, Al-Furqaan Foundation, with the guidance of Allah (SWT), has launched a new project at its newly-established Furqaan Dawah Center: Dawah in Braille. Under this project, as the first of many projects Al-Furqaan Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of a groundbreaking product in The Clear Quran® Series known as The Clear Quran® in Braille. Our intention with this much-needed product is to empower those who are unable to see while creating a sense of unity within the Ummah.
On this day, let us remember the millions of people who rely on the incredible system of Braille to access knowledge and navigate the world. The launch of The Clear Quran® in Braille is a milestone that highlights how innovation, compassion, and determination can come together to break barriers. It reminds us that accessibility is not a need, it is a right. For the world, this is a reminder on what can be achieved when communities unite to ensure no one is left behind. For more information on how to get involved in our ongoing efforts, and to sponsor a set of The Clear Quran® in Braille, please visit dawahinbraille.org.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to engage with the words of Allah (SWT), regardless of what their conditions may be. We pray that Allah (SWT) is pleased with our efforts and request your support to ensure we succeed in spreading the Divine Message to as many people as possible!