Nearing the elevator, we were asked if we were there to visit the garden or visit the large prayer hall upstairs? Could we do both, we responded. Of course, came the reply. And with that we were ushered upstairs into the prayer hall, the focal point of the building, where we were greeted by an individual who was most generous in explaining the history and interior of the room. Through his guidance, we learned of how the service was conducted, who sat where and why, and what meanings were transmitted through sayings inscribed into the décor of the walls. We also learned about the Aga Khan, the general beliefs underpinning his faith and role, and many of the other organizations and institutes in London and around the world that served to realize his mission.
What particularly piqued our interest was the comment that human dignity was a concept that the Aga Khan not only fully embraced but spoke about consistently across time. We started to press for specifics, and the
gentleman was most kind about offering up some examples and directing us to some scholars; but, as others were waiting for their tour, we thanked him for his time and headed up to the rooftop garden.
The first thing we noticed when entering the garden was beauty and symmetry. And again, being greeted this time by a very pleasant woman who was most knowledgeable, we learned so much more. The garden draws inspiration from the Qur’anic Garden of Paradise. A fountain serves as a central and focal point for channels of waters, which in turn produce four interconnected parts to the space. Greenery produced by multiple trees and plants surrounds the fountain and softens the white marble of the fountain and floor. Collectively, the space provides a shelter above the city – one which also teaches through its embedded geometry, symbols, and water.
With the open air above us, we were also able to see the Edwardian façade of the Victoria and
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