How does this name for a setting sound to you?

[vgunn]

Okay, I am (re)writing a series of novels that are Arabian Nights style fantasy. I think I've decided on a name for the world/setting.

Mir'aj (sounds like mirage)

Now, in Islam the word miraj is the second part of a journey taken by the Prophet Muhammad and his ascent into Paradise.

My books, rooted in Arabic tradition, however do not take place on Earth and the people of this world are not Islamic.

Most readers will think of an exotic desert setting (which is what I want). At the same time I do not it to be offensive to Muslims. I do not believe this to be the case, but I am running it by as many people as possible for feedback.

So I would like to hear your opinions.

Thanks in advance!

[NeonKnight]

Sounds cool, and definitely a place I would expect to have an Arabian Feel to it.

[icosahedron]

Sounds good to me.

Of course, Muslims are as individual as Christians - what will offend one person will not offend another. You can't please everyone, and your concerns do you credit.

We have a guy here called Ascension (hi ) and he hasn't been lynched yet. I don't see the difference.

[Steel General]

I think it sounds good, and like NK it brings to mind the desert-y type setting you seem to be aiming for.

[vgunn]

Thanks for the feedback!

[Ascension]

I like Mir'aj better than the other, original, name anyways...just didn't want to tell ya Your game = your rules, I just draw it.

[ExMachina]

That's an excellent title for what you're doing as it evokes everything you're aiming for; the desert, an exotic culture, etc.

Not to mention it's a nice play on words with its pronunciation.

[voidgere]

As an artist, you should be concerned with how your audience will appreciate your work but you should not be as concerned with the way individuals will interpret your work.

I say this because no two people will see the work the same (keeping with the religious undertones expressed in this thread I will draw your attention to the bible - so many interpretations there).

[rdanhenry]

The only thing I think you're likely to be lynched for is the use of the arbitrary apostrophe. Mir-aj looks a bit less "faux exotic" than using the apostrophe. The only reason not to just write it "Miraj" is because you probably don't want it to actually duplicate the (Romanized spelling of the) Arabic word.