On The 99 by Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa. Posted by Bhoomika.
A few days ago a friend mentioned the comic series ‘The 99’ to me. And though I can’t say that I have read it, what I can say is that I have read up on it and found the idea to be quite unique and inspiring which is why I decided to share it here with you guys.
‘The 99’ is a Superhero comic series and is the creation of Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa. A clinical psychologist by training, Dr. Mutawa is the founder of the Theksheel Media Group and also the Writer and Editor-in-Chief for the 99. Joining him on the creative front are comic world hot shots like Fabian Nicieza as writer, Ron Wagner, John McCrea, June Brigman, and others all of whom have worked with both Marvel and DC Comics.
Of course like every comic the 99 has the good against evil thing going on, although it is much subdued. Won’t be much a superhero comic if it didn’t. But what is different about this comic and what caught my interest is that all of the 99 superheroes of ‘the 99’ are ordinary Muslims from all over the world. These 99 heroes come across what are called ‘Noor stones’ (Noor meaning Light), thus coming into their powers. Noor stones are gemstones that were crafted to absorb ‘the light of reason’. Ages ago when Hugalu Khan invaded and took over Baghdad, the Caliph and the Librarians of the Library Dar Al-Hikma, to save the entire knowledge of the world culture from being destroyed absorbed all of this knowledge into these gemstones with the help of a special chemical. And today they are spread in different parts of the world. Now each of these stones is infused with one of the 99 attributes of Allah and when one of our superheroes comes across a Noor stone they acquire this particular quality. These qualities and values however are not unique to Islam, but transcend religion and culture. These are qualities, like strength, wisdom, generosity etc, which as Dr. Mutawa says “no two individuals would dispute about.” The comic thus appeals to universal virtues.
Of course like every comic the 99 has the good against evil thing going on, although it is much subdued. Won’t be much a superhero comic if it didn’t. But what is different about this comic and what caught my interest is that all of the 99 superheroes of ‘the 99’ are ordinary Muslims from all over the world. These 99 heroes come across what are called ‘Noor stones’ (Noor meaning Light), thus coming into their powers. Noor stones are gemstones that were crafted to absorb ‘the light of reason’. Ages ago when Hugalu Khan invaded and took over Baghdad, the Caliph and the Librarians of the Library Dar Al-Hikma, to save the entire knowledge of the world culture from being destroyed absorbed all of this knowledge into these gemstones with the help of a special chemical. And today they are spread in different parts of the world. Now each of these stones is infused with one of the 99 attributes of Allah and when one of our superheroes comes across a Noor stone they acquire this particular quality. These qualities and values however are not unique to Islam, but transcend religion and culture. These are qualities, like strength, wisdom, generosity etc, which as Dr. Mutawa says “no two individuals would dispute about.” The comic thus appeals to universal virtues.
By showing how these individuals face dilemmas and challenges and overcome them by working together, the comic is trying to promote unity and co-operation in the world. It is indeed a creative way to spread the message of peace and tolerance.
The 99, launched in 2006 is now moving towards great popularity. In October, 2010, The Hub, a US based channel launched an animated series based on the 99. In the same year DC Comics also announced its intention of doing a cross-over series with the Justice League and the 99.
I hope the readers appreciate the idea and concept behind this comic series and are keen on reading it. And even if you don’t, well you can read it just for entertainment’s sake. Those who are interested in reading or knowing more about the 99 you can visit their website www.the99.org or listen to a great talk given by Dr. Mutawa herehttp://www.ted.com/talks/naif_al_mutawa_superheroes_inspired_by_islam.html
