May 19, 2003 "The Perennial Philosophy & The Eternal Wisdom of the Arabs" The Embassy of Jordan hosted a lecture by Dr. Suheil Badi Bushrui, a distinguished author, poet, critic, translator and media personality on 19th May 2003. Dr. Bushrui is widely recognized for his seminal studies in English of the works of W.B. Yeats and for his translation of Yeat's poetry into Arabic. He is also the foremost authority in Modern Arabic Literature on the works of Khalil Gibran. Presently, Dr. Bushrui is a professor at the Center for International Development and Conflict Management at the University of Maryland with a special interest in peace and interfaith studies as well as religious and cultural dialogue. Dr. Bushrui spoke to the crowd about his newly published book, "The Wisdom of the Arabs." Dr. Bushrui believes that the wisdom of the Arabs is a "living tradition" that resides in the hearts and minds of all Arabs, a cultural treasure that brings people together and weaves societies into one Global web. This "living tradition" carries a message of peace and love passing it on from one generation to another, and from one civilization to another defining the quintessential nature of the Arabs and their rich and insightful philosophy. Understanding the philosophy and culture of the Arabs, he believes, is the key to addressing today's global trends by paving the way for a cultural dialogue that treats man as a human spirit, regardless of his faith, his race and his convictions. Without addressing the cultural and humane aspect of man, "there will be no peace," he said. The means through which we can understand the wisdom of the Arabs, this "living tradition, he believes, is education. Learning the philosophy and culture of the Arabs, and its leading role in shaping history as well as the philosophy and culture of the Western world, creates an environment of mutual respect where people of all faiths and races can unite under the banner of humanity and peace. Dr. Bushrui's recitals of poetry, verses from the Quran and the Holy Bible in both English and Arabic stirred a spiritual and cultural discussion that tied the past with the present and the present with the future in the pursuit of human tolerance, peace and harmony. Dr. Bushrui truly inspired a cultural dialogue that envisioned a hopeful and more fruitful future, which is often tainted by today's regretful events worldwide.