of speech and defend liberties. This was done under pressure and directives from sectarian entities known for their history of oppression and persecution of brave and sincere intellectuals thinkers. This was their modus operandi even before the martyrdom of Asaad Shidiyak, and the discrimination of Amine Al-Rihani, Gibran Khalil Gibran, Mikhail Mashaqa, Anton Saadeh, and Dr. Dahesh, who had their literary works banned from their curricula.  They initiated a frenzied and embarked on a fervent rumor campaign to divert attention from the noble ideologies that promoted faith in all religions and rejected sectarian fanaticism. 

Once again, their tunnel vision and lack of tolerance to new ideas and original thinking prevented them from allowing a few pages presenting the daheshist ideas through a Q&A section between readers and Dr. Dahesh.

At the end, the authoritarian religious entities got what they wanted and “Burouk Wa Ruoud” ceased publication on July of 1968.

The days pass and the years go by, 27 long years, yet the spark of “lightning and thunder” still burns, and its light did shine once again in the “Dahesh Voice” magazine (1995-2008) published in Manhattan, New York, the city of intellectual freedom par excellence.

Dr. Ghazi Brax served as its editor, just as he practically worked for “Burouk Wa Ruoud” and it continued to be published in New York in both Arabic and English for years.

“Dahesh Voice” as “Burrouk Wa Ruoud “ was a rich cultural, intellectual, and artistic magazine with diverse topics and writers from various backgrounds. 

It relied on high-quality printing, sought no profit,

did not publish advertisements, and had a symbolic price. Its sustainability depended on silent donors and many volunteer writers who only sought to spread culture. However, since these donors were few, and with minimal revenue from distribution, it failed to sustain itself after 13 years and ceased publication.

    Fifteen years have passed , but the fire of lightning and thunder never fades. Yet, the spark of “Burouk Wa Ruoud” still flickers and its light glows once again through the electronic platform called “Al-Nar Wal-Nur” (Fire and Light). We hope for the completion of its mission and success in spreading culture and values, upholding the word of truth that Dr. Dahesh laid its foundations. He dedicated his life and legacy to the dissemination of faith and virtue with a delicate artistic style, unwavering determination, and a transcendent courage that surpasses borders

.

Based on sincerity, innovation, and mastery, Dr. Dahesh emphasized designing and producing his books in-line with his comprehensive culture and refined artistic sensibility. Any comparison between the development of Arabic book printing before and after the emergence of Dr. Dahesh’s books will reveal the revolutionary impact of this remarkable man and unique personality.

Thus, I wish the organizers of this electronic platform success in their unwavering determination to uphold the word of truth. The effort they chose to embark on is noble, their responsibility is heavy, and in this choice, they stand between fire and light. Therefore, I hope for their steadfastness and sincere dedication.

14-1-2024