Arabic vs Farsi: Are They Similar?
Some people tend to think these languages are somewhat similar, with speakers of one being able to understand speakers of the other. But how similar are they, really? Answer: not much. Differences between Arabic and Persian Arabic and Persian differ in several aspects beyond their shared script. Here, we outline the differences between these two […]
From Footwear to Insult: The Power of Arab Shoes
Hold onto your turbans, because we’re about to dive into a fascinating journey where shoes transform from mere footwear to powerful symbols of social standing, protest, insult, and even respect. In the Arab world, shoes aren’t just for walking; they carry deep cultural significance and emotional weight. Imagine a world in which the condition of […]
Political Discourse and Slogans of Palestine
Palestinian political discourse centers on themes of national identity, resistance, and the quest for statehood. Key issues include the rights to self-determination, the return of refugees, the status of Jerusalem, and opposition to Israeli occupation and settlement activities. The discourse frequently addresses the hardships of displacement and the significance of martyrdom in the struggle for […]
Eid al-Adha 2024: A Whirlwind of Fun, Faith, and Feasting!
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims around the world. It’s a time of reflection, tradition, and coming together with loved ones. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what Eid al-Adha is all about – its significance, rituals, and the festive […]
Choosing an Arabic Dialect: Which Should You Learn?
Learning Arabic is full of challenges, whether it’s due to its complex grammar or the uncommon sounds not found in other languages. But there’s another challenge that every Arabic learner faces: choosing which Arabic dialect to learn. Playaling is here to help you decide! Arabic is divided into Classical Arabic, the language of the Quran, […]
Are Arabs and Muslims the Same?
Many people confuse the distinction between Arabs and Muslims and believe that they’re synonymous terms. However, there are major differences. In this blog, we’ll clarify what they are. What’s the difference between Arabs and Muslims? Arabs are an ethnic and linguistic group. The term “Arabs” refers to a group of people mainly found in the […]
Ramadan in the Arab World: A Month of Faith, Food, and Festivities
The holy month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a cherished time for Muslims worldwide, including in the Arab world. As Ramadan approaches, the streets of come alive with the melodious tunes of iconic songs like “رَمَضَان جَانَا”- (Here comes Ramadan), وَحَوِي يَا وَحَوِي إيّاحَة – which originated from old […]
Eid al-Fitr: What Is It and When Is It Celebrated?
Within the Muslim calendar, there are two standout festivals: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These celebrations follow the lunar Islamic calendar, meaning their dates shift within the Gregorian calendar each year. Today, let’s explore Eid al-Fitr. What is it exactly, and when does it happen? Join us as we uncover the essence and joy of […]
Historical Perspectives on Arabic: From Early Forms to Modern Usage
The Arabic language features a dynamic interplay between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and various regional dialects. MSA, derived from Classical Arabic, is generally favored in formal settings; in contrast, dialects are favored in daily life. From its inception, Arabic was shaped by foreign influences. The pre-Islamic Arabian Peninsula was a crossroads of trade and cultural […]