On this first day in North America of Ramadan 2009, it seems fitting to recognize the relationship which the Muslim world has always had with felines.
Respect for all animals is a fundamental tenet of the Islamic Faith, and this is underscored by the Prophet Mohammad's deep love for cats. One legend widely circulated describes an incident where a deadly snake had crawled into the Prophet's robes but was quickly killed by his tabby cat, Muezza. Ever grateful, one day when Mohammad awoke for prayers, he noticed Muezza sleeping on his sleeve. Rather than disturb the cat, he cut the sleeve from his robe and allowed him to remain while he attended prayers. Upon the Prophet's return, Muezza woke and bowed to him, whereupon Mohammad stroked the cat's head four times. This conferred upon the cat seven lives and the ability to right himself when falling (recall, cats always land on their feet). The mark of the Prophet's stroking can still be seen to this day in tabby cats as an "M" on the forehead as a reminder to all that cats are always to be loved and respected.
Respect for all animals is a fundamental tenet of the Islamic Faith, and this is underscored by the Prophet Mohammad's deep love for cats. One legend widely circulated describes an incident where a deadly snake had crawled into the Prophet's robes but was quickly killed by his tabby cat, Muezza. Ever grateful, one day when Mohammad awoke for prayers, he noticed Muezza sleeping on his sleeve. Rather than disturb the cat, he cut the sleeve from his robe and allowed him to remain while he attended prayers. Upon the Prophet's return, Muezza woke and bowed to him, whereupon Mohammad stroked the cat's head four times. This conferred upon the cat seven lives and the ability to right himself when falling (recall, cats always land on their feet). The mark of the Prophet's stroking can still be seen to this day in tabby cats as an "M" on the forehead as a reminder to all that cats are always to be loved and respected.
The history of my ancestors has not always been a happy one in regard to their treatment by humans. Certainly, we in feline rescue continue to see this vestigial cruelty to cats that some people still display, and it saddens my heart to think of it. All creatures - humans included - are entitled to fundamental respect. And regardless of your personal beliefs, this is an inherent value in people and cats everywhere.
One may think of it as bearing the sign, whether that is of an "M" in the case of us cats, or a mark less visible carried in the soul of man. It is our felinity and their humanity to bear such marks and live a life true to its meaning.
Indeed, if you look closely, you will see that I, too, carry this mark, even though I am a tortoiseshell cat. This picture which Cat-Dad recently took while I was sleeping illustrates that half of the "M" is permanently visible on my forehead in orange. This can be seen in additional pictures posted of me as well. While the other half of this mark cannot be seen, as truly may be the case for countless types of cats other than tabby, in my heart I know it is there.
In this sacred time of purification, empathy for others, and encouragement of charity and generosity, may we strive to renew our pledge to respect and care for all those whom life has placed in our path.
With purrs to all,
Sasha
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Past the seeker as he prayed came the crippled and the beggar and the beaten. And seeing them he cried... "Great God, how is it that a loving creator can see such things and yet do nothing about them?" God said, "I did do something, I made you."
- Author Unknown
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