Blossom

At the same time, women and girls are effective and powerful leaders and change-makers for climate adaptation and mitigation. They are involved in sustainability initiatives around the world, and their participation and leadership results in more effective climate action. Continuing to examine the opportunities, as well as the constraints, to empower women and girls to have a voice and be equal players in decision-making related to climate change and sustainability is essential for sustainable development and greater gender equality. Without gender equality today, a sustainable future, and an equal future, remains beyond our reach.

This International Women’s Day, let’s claim “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”.

WOMEN IN ISLAM PERSPECTIVE

In Islam there is absolutely no difference between men and women as far as their relationship to Allah is concerned, as both are promised the same reward for good conduct and the same punishment for evil conduct. The Qur’an says:

And for women are rights over men similar to those of men over women. (2:226)

The Qur’an, in addressing the believers, often uses the expression,’believing men and women’ to emphasize the equality of men and women in regard to their respective duties, rights, virtues and merits. 

Allah mentioned in the Quran;

Human beings, We created you all from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another. Verily the noblest of you in the sight of Allah is the most God-fearing of you.Surely Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware.(49:13)

This verse, the whole of mankind has been addressed to reform it of the great evil that has always been causing universal disruption in the world, that is, the prejudices due to race, color, language, country, nationality, and ways of living among the people.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was full of praise for virtuous and chaste women. He said:

“The world and all things in the world are precious but the most precious thing in the world is a virtuous woman”. 

He once told the future khalif, ‘Umar: 

“Shall I not inform you about the best treasure a man can hoard? It is a virtuous wife who pleases him whenever he looks towards her, and who guards herself when he is absent from her.”

On other occasions the Prophet said:

“The best property a man can have is a remembering tongue (about Allah), a grateful heart and a believing wife who helps him in his faith.” And again: “The world, the whole of it, is a commodity and the best of the commodities of the world is a virtuous wife.”

Before the advent of Islam women were often treated worse than animals. The Prophet wanted to put a stop to all cruelties to women. He preached kindness towards them. He told the Muslims: “Fear Allah in respect of women.” And: “The best of you are those who behave best to their wives.” And: “A Muslim must not hate his wife, and if he be displeased with one bad quality in her, let him be pleased with one that is good.” And:“The more civil and kind a Muslim is to his wife, the more perfect in faith he is.”

BLOSSOM MEANING

The flowering part of a plant or tree that will form the seeds or fruit is called a blossom and synonyms include bloom and flower. The noun can also refer to the state of such flowering. Spiritual meanings and symbolism of blossoms represent pleasantness, goodness, sweetness of life and with that a powerful fortune that can be worth living. If we want our flower garden to be colorful from early spring through fall, we need plants that bloom at different times during the growing season. So do we. If we want to bloom the best version of ourselves, we must take the opportunity with a peaceful and grateful heart. Learn to accept the things we can, and love ourselves no matter how difficult to comprehend.

DESIGN MOTIF AND ELEMENTS

IXORA : 

In some countries Ixora is associated with valor, great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle.  It is said that ancient Tamil literature mentions soldiers wearing the flowers and leaves of this plant around their necks while going into battle. 

The 400 odd species of Ixora coccinea (Rubiaceae) grow mainly in India, Sri Lanka, South East Asia and Africa. It belongs to the coffee family. The leaves and flowers differ in size from one variety to another. The plant blooms throughout the year and most of the types are easy to grow. Propagation of Ixora is done mostly through cuttings. They are good as garden plants, for hedges and the small type as potted indoor plants. Ixora is said to be good for bonsai too.

Ixora flowers come in several colors and shades. Red ones are commonly found. Then there are different shades of pink, flame orange and so on. The yellow flowers are equally beautiful. White ones are supposed to be a good sight (first sight in the morning). But unlike the other varieties of Ixora the white one appears to be more difficult to grow. At home we have different shades, but not white.

IRIS :

The iris commonly means wisdom, hope, trust, and valor. It can be found in a variety of temperate zones around the world, as such, its meanings have been adapted to fit various cultures.

During the 16th century BC, irises were introduced to Egypt from Syria, and stylized versions of these flowers began to decorate the scepters of pharaohs as representations of victory and power.

The iris inspired the fleur-de-lis, a decorative symbol used by French royalty. It originated in the Middle Ages. During this time the fleur-de-lis became tied to the French Monarchy, and appeared on their coat of arms, coins, and shields. Some believe that the three petals represented the three social orders: nobility, clergy, and peasants.

Around the nineteenth century, especially in Italy, orris roots, the roots of germanica and pallida species, became an integral part of the perfume industry. These roots, when left out to dry, develop a violet-like scent, which improves over time. Because of its pleasant smell, orris roots were used in many cosmetics until people noticed that it caused allergic reactions. Today, the roots are often used in potpourris and sachets.

Orris roots were also used for medicinal purposes as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and for teeth and skin health.

With its great diversity of colors and meanings, irises are great gifts for all types of people in your life. You can give purple irises to a parent or mentor, yellow irises to a significant other, and blue irises to someone who needs a little extra encouragement.

RELATION OF BLOSSOM WITH INTERNATIONAL WOMEN DAY

Blossom can refer both to flowers and human creatures. The meaning both signifies grow and develop in a good way. When a tree or plant blossoms, it produces flowers before producing fruit that can be eaten. When people blossom, they become more attractive, successful, or confident, and when good feelings or relationships blossom, they develop and become stronger. 

Allow Yourself To Bloom, Even While You Are Still Growing

Hence, OMERA released this new collection categorized under Zahra Edition to encourage women to rebuild herself  and blossom in her own way, in conjunction with the Women International Day. Life is a crazy, yet daring ride. You ought to challenge yourself and blossom towards new experiences. While any day is a great opportunity to celebrate the women in your life, International Women’s Day gives you one more reason to do it. International Women’s Day is  March 8 and is a global holiday that recognizes the incredible achievements of women, raises awareness and encourages others to stand up for gender equality. Let’s Be Better Together, InshaAllah.