The 99

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The 99 is a team of superheroes, published by Teshkeel Comics and based on Islamic culture. The series is a creation of Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa, founder and C.E.O. of Teshkeel Media Group. The creative team for The 99 is composed of comic book industry veterans such as Fabian Nicieza, Dan Panosian, John McCrea and James Hodgkins – all of whom have worked at both Marvel and DC Comics.

The concept of The 99 is based on the 99 names of God in Islam. Many of these names refer to characteristics that can be possessed by human individuals. For example – generosity, strength, faithfulness, wisdom are all virtues encouraged by a number of faiths.

Members of The 99 are ordinary teenagers and adults from across the globe, who each come into possession of one of the 99 mystical Noor Stones (Ahjar Al Noor) and find themselves empowered in a specific manner. For instance, Jabbar (meaning ‘The Powerful’ in Arabic) is endowed with superhuman strength. Noora (translated as’The Light’) is able to discern light from darkness in any situation. All dilemmas faced by The 99 will be overcome through the combined powers of three or more members. Through this, The 99 series aims to promote values such as cooperation and unity throughout the Islamic world. Although the series is not religious, it aims to communicate Islamic virtues which are, as viewed by Dr. Al-Mutawa, universal in nature.

Teshkeel is currently debuting The 99 on their website http://www.teshkeelcomics.com. Plans call for The 99 to debut with an issue in May of 2006. This will be followed by an ongoing, monthly series in September 2006.