Istanbul, A Muslim City
Several years ago, I spent two weeks in Istanbul, Turkey. It was the result of a recurring dream, but that is for another post. I stayed in a Muslim-owned guest home in the historic Saltanahmet District instead of a hotel. I can’t imagine doing a trip like this any other way. More than 90% of Istanbul’s population are Sunni Muslims. I wanted to immerse myself in their culture. I wanted to experience it for myself.
Historic Istanbul
Stepping into the ancient and medieval streets of Istanbul is an overwhelming experience. The city was formerly known as Constantinople (330AD) and before that, Byzantium (657 BC). The culture shock is bewildering.
Various occupiers have influenced the city’s history for thousands of years. The Greeks, the Roman Empire, and the Ottoman Turks have all left behind a rich cultural heritage. A significant architectural legacy also remains. It bridges Europe and Asia. It is one of the most fascinating cities in the world to visit.
The Hooded Crow
One of the habits I have when traveling is to take pictures of birds. Especially three kinds of birds: Gulls, Pigeons, and Crows or Ravens.
It was in Istanbul that I first experienced the Hooded Crow. The featured image documents our initial encounter. I didn’t even know it was a Crow until I did some research. Black wings on a white body and the morbid black hood with piercing eyes sitting on a headstone in an ancient graveyard staring straight into my soul.
I quickly focused the camera and took the photo. Then a chill ran through my body as the Crow’s gaze never wandered. Is this an omen? And if so, what kind of omen? Hooded crows are significant in Istanbul myths.
Throughout the history, the Crow is deeply linked to myths, folklore, and omens. In Arabian and Islamic mythology, the crows are thought to be spies for the Djinns* living in the deserts. In some cultures, the crow’s presence is considered a bad omen, in others it’s a sign of good fortune. Crows have been linked to death and disease, but also symbolized protection, insight, and divine guides. I was hoping for the latter.
- Djinns are often described as spirits created from smokeless fires (usually built in the desert). Djinns exist in parallel worlds to humans and have free will, meaning they can be good, evil, or neutral.
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