BARAKAT

Sacred Reversal

At the heart of this piece is a five-pointed star — the pentagram — a symbol of elemental balance: fire, water, earth, air, and spirit. But here, it is inverted, evoking ancient paths of rebellion, mystery, and the embrace of shadow.

In the center sits a hybrid form: part Aries, part serpent, part Baphomet, part Buddha. A figure of paradox — long misunderstood — now resting in meditation. One hand reaches down toward a lotus on the earth, the other rises toward the crescent moon above. A bridge between what is below and what is beyond.

The star is formed through the repetition of the Arabic word حب — love.
Around it, a circle of calligraphy inspired by a song of Om Kalthoum (alf laila w laila) :
“The night and its sky, and its stars and its moon,
Its moon and the late nights,
We are all, all of us in love together.”

Within this image, what is often labeled “dark” holds its place beside the light.
Each opposite dances with its pair —
life and death, male and female, sacred and profane —
not in conflict, but in harmony.

This work is not meant to be explained.
It is meant to be felt.
To invite reflection, emotion, and personal meaning.

A quiet act of integration.
A gesture of love —
total, inclusive, and whole.

Barakat