#halaqa

[ey3bags]

Daily life in Gaza.

[notetaeker]

I prepared a discussion for the younger girls last week abt jealousy and comparing yourself to others and like. Guess what I’m struggling with this week (jealousy and comparing myself to others 🤡) like Allah knew this would happen this week and made me do a presentation on it last week to keep all the strategies fresh in my mind ig lmao

[suhyla]

halaqas in the park & coffee 🍂☕️

[lam-ila]

i love my middle sister for being proud of me for going to halaqa and making Muslim friends

[ardentpoop]

omg just remembered this picture. it’s giving sheikh ackles it’s giving what time is the halaqa brother I will be seated right next to the minbar inshallah

[inqilabi]

I’m kind of surprised you started dating a lot more and are open to Islam recently, you’re one of the reasons I stopped entirely, which neither is a wrong thing to do. It’s kind of hard to do it alone but I just prioritized friendships in the time I’ve been following you. Which actually is closer to 10 years now I think, definitely since way before the pandemic. Anyway it’s just been on my mind to send this ask for a while now, you seem so successful that when I get to be where you are I know I’ll be even less interested in marriage and dating, but I guess that’s also a plus for you since you said you want kids. Good luck with it all, It’s great you were able to reconcile yourself and Islam, I’ve never felt like religion could be fulfilling, especially when you have views on gender and politics that go again the core tenants of a patriarchal religion. But I can see how the immediate community has its appeal and people are judged overly harshly when they don’t conform to societal and gender expectations of be a woman/man then have a partner/kids, and it’s not like there aren’t other good things too. Anyway I’m glad I followed you when I did because I got a new perspective and it made me more of a brave, accountable person, I’m not really afraid of being lonely and I can take accountability for my wrongs too, knowing that socialization is so deep I need to think about why and what I’m doing. You a few other people impacted me so deeply when I was 16 and trying to leave my parents home

wow this is a very sweet message. But almost makes feel scared that i had an impact on impressionable young teens I dont think my views on Islam have changed, certainly not as much as my view on dating. I still have the same criticisms of sunni jurisprudence. I think i just have less of exposure to that community now as i did back in the day, and it just use to rile me up. I was just angry, justifiably so, and wanting to dismiss everything - and it showed up in the tone of my writing.

I mean i still can't go around muslim events saying the things i actually believe. Sunni jurisprudence is undeniably patriarchal. But so long as they aren't like getting very preachy, doing halaqas and sermons on how to oppress women, im okay. In my uni days, MSAs were actually doing exactly that. That's why i was so critical. But i see now this type of thing seems to be dying down, atleast in my area. i dont find religion fulfilling but i do find likeminded people fulfilling. I still associate more with like academic type folks who either research religion, anthropology, write critiques. I went to a party full of marxists the other day. I didnt agree with everyone there. But i suppose, its discussion that's fulfilling. And sometimes muslim community and gathering can be very dismissive and not receptive to discussion. Which is a shame because in the islamic golden age, that's all they were doing.

i was honestly planning to be alone, and my plan was to solo adopt a kid if i wanted a child. I felt this way all the way up until like summer of 2022. then something did change. and i didn't want to be alone. if you had asked the 2013-2022 version of me, i would have balked at the thought of me wanting a partner. I was almost proud of it. Proud of being a single unattached woman with no men in her life. I suppose the only thing I can say now is that it's very hard to predict how and what you will feel and want at some point in the future. I was certain that I wouldn't want companionship and kids. Half my blog was dedicated to it. And that is kind of scary. I actually wrote about this on my blog back in the fall of 2022. It scared me how much something had shifted so suddenly, something that was a such long held state. If that could change, what else could change?

At your age, i would say prioritize career first ofc/financial freedom etc. If you dont have that, you wont feel ready for anything else. And ofc keep expanding your friend circle and forming connections through local activities or travel.

[tasmiq]

Jumu'ah Sohbet: 19 January 2024

Subhana'Allah (glory to the Divine) for another providential week at the macro-and-micro level of our worldly existence! Without further adieu, bismillah ...

#1. During our monthly Halaqa (spiritual gathering), where we murids get to practice Rabita (heartfelt connection) and share our insights. Our newly appointed Wakil (Senior trustee) is your Abbu, who was wisely enstated by Shaykha Muzeyyen, who convened this Halaqa. She has equally astutely identified fitting leaders as Khalifa. Shukran Ya Allah (Divine gratitude) for her apt and soulful leadership acumen.

Our Wakil, your Abbu, inadvertently answered my query at its onset, needing clarification as to why we, as Sufis, ought to avoid politics. He referred to how we ought to accept that a plurality of experiences and perspectives exists in the rope and light to Allah. Especially within a Tariqa! We ought to be like As-Shahid (the Witness) and look for the Manifestor in the manifested. Instead of wanting others to comply with our worldview, we must simply get our nafs out of the way so that our focus is automatically on Allah.

He powerfully added an undeniable truth that politics perpetuates power and greed of the nafs, where we are trying to be Allah! Similarly, we have to be wary whether we are trying to be Allah in our responses! Or are we submitting, without taking away the human experience, but where we keep seeking Allah's haq. So whatever is being done incorrectly, we will respond, because there is a Hadith (Prophetic saying) which says we must try to stop a bad action, but if we can't stop it then we should speak out about it and in the least, we must feel the pain in our hearts for its occurrence! That is the Prophetic injunction, but this must not be done in a way where it is hurting the soul of another human being because their essence is also purity and haq!

#2. After Inna's powerful testimony as to how she wrestles her conscience as an original Jewess, but later metamorphosised into a Muslim Sufi. She was led to delete Facebook like me but for different reasons, her out of dismay of the extreme and unapologetic reactions of her cousins, and me out of dismay of my ignorant pre-accident life that unwittingly only celebrated nafs! Your Wakil Abbu beautifully reflected that we continue holding onto the rope of Allah as a community and family. Despite our different perspectives, we choose to be a spiritual family of love, peace, and unity in goodness.

Thereafter, Iliona added a thought-provoking idea that this whole situation with Israel and Palestine has brought her to an existential realisation where every single one of us has in our genetics, the experience of genocide! Every single human is carrying that, and irrespective of the team that are identified as the culprits. The way it can be seen is that it can either inflame one's own genetic pain or it can be treated as a signal to meditate and get over it, if possible. That is because all of our ancestors have done something destructive, and the question becomes about how we put an end to this in our own energy field. That is why we are amongst a family of unity above all else!

Your Wakil Abbu finally reflected that this is a really difficult time for the world, but Shaykh Taner taught us that we are always after the truth. With what is happening around us, are we acting with nafs, or are we acting for truth? What we see around us is human beings' nafs (egos) multipled exponentially, and we're all reacting to the hurt and the pain! We can not shy away from either the pain inflicted by others or responding responsibly, but at the same time, we must constantly search for the Truth, as crafted in my recent poem about the current situation. Shukran Ya Allah, for the blessing of our marriage as a "good cheam," pronounced early on by our late and beloved Shaykh Taner.

#3. After attempting to counsel a distressed and dear Sudanese friend in the depth of worsening national uncertainty, with the following message:

I just want you to know that I observe the Monday and Thursday fast for Sudan and Palestine. I am confident that Allah will relieve the collective suffering at its divinely ordained time.

My father was a freedom fighter who won Bangladesh's liberation from Pakistan. We have lived in war-torn Iran vs. Iraq, we managed to escape economically declining Zimbabwe, and we have lived through numerous upheavals in South Africa!

Please hang in there!

I realised that the reason that I am naturally attuned to political happenings is because my family has been led to overcome numerous political turmoils! Subhana'Allah for the Divine merit of retrospection, where I learned the following:

- Facing political turmoil is taxing, yes, but they can also shape us into resilient beings.

- My respect for my developing country parents mushroomed for enduring the uncertainties of numerous contexts, Alhamdulillah! Even the inherent racism of Denmark where your Nana was after Iran and the racism that we contended with in post-apartheid South Africa.

- Especially that despite the personally arduous passage of time that we each embarked, we have been blessed to realise what we pray for in:

Ya Wadud Ya Salaam Ya Jami Ya Nafi (Allah's loving and peaceful unity in goodness)

#4. 16 January 2024 marked the third year of our worldly separation with the sweet soul of our spiritual brother Fazeel. I was inspired by Mevlana Rumi to reframe my sadness into something more apt and emancipatory. You see, he was a constant feature of my rehabilitation from our accident.

Just as our beloved Shaykh Taner was unexpectedly taken from us, brother Fazeel was equally unexpectedly taken a short time before that. Immediately after both their passings, I reflected with their other halves that I had wished Allah had taken me instead. However, they both compassionately urged me to trust Allah's hikmah (wisdom / rationale) in spite of their sorrow. This was my inspired ode to him:

Above: A beautiful family photo at their eldest's wedding.

Urs of our Fazeel

In Sufic terms, an urs literally refers to a wedding

A union of the lover with the Beloved

Even though our humble Fazeel is not a Sufi Saint

With his deeply caring heart and his family's subsequent resilience

They attest to our worldly parting with him being his Divine urs

Urs is a death anniversary that is commemorated at a dergah

It's not an occasion to lament but to rejoice

An idea taken from the Hadith:

“Sleep just like the bride.”

And the Angels say to the Pious in the grave, “Sleep with restfulness and comfort just like a bride.”

Beyond Fazeel's incredible heart that was thirsty and ever-ready to serve

Is his equally incredible wife who continued and continues growing

All their children were even inspired to take Divine allegiance

Maintaining a connection to their beloved Daddy

Above all to Al-Hay, as the undying, ever-living, and eternal

#5. Shaykh Anjum reflected on the definition of being considerate, which is "putting others first before ourselves." It was identified as a key requirement for all Sufis as we wrestle with several questions ...

- Will this action bring people together or be divisive?

- Will it be a source of gaining humility or a source of boastfulness?

- Will it clear any assumptions or perpetuate them?

- Will it make people aware or further their ignorance?

- Will it make people appreciative of their bounties or nurture selfishness?

I marvel that when I am least able-bodied and thus less able to be distracted, it is when I can be the most considerate of other's perspectives and experiences of life. Subhana'Allah to reaping the rewards of refining ourselves as Sufis and hence becoming considerate. Anything contrary to this indicates a lack of consideration, being self-centered, ignorant, and caught up in Nafs-al Ammara (at the mercy of one's commanding / impulsive / prompting lower-self).

In conclusion, deep gratitude that your Wakil Abbu reached the cyclone affected shores of Mauritius safely. Insha'Allah, our Mauritian spiritual family, remain safe there, and your Abbu returns to our hearts:

Ya Muhaymin Ya Hafiz

Ya Wadud Ya Salaam Ya Jami Ya Nafi

[gazelleeyes50]

Ramadan day 1

My focus this Ramadan is duaa. Incessant, fervent, obsessive, under my breath at any opportunity. Lengthy sujood in every prayer. Extra prayers for extra sujoods…Sometimes all I can muster in my duaa is: Allah help me. He is all knowing so it will suffice.

Taraweeh seems much more physically taxing than I remembered. Guess I’m getting old. The shiekh has a beautiful voice, the masjid is gorgeous. I’m going to these inspiring halaqas…but I’m doing it all alone. One frequent duaa I’m making is to experience sisterhood. I’ve never had a group of friends that remind me of Allah or motivate me to be a better Muslim in my daily life.

I ask Allah for a breakthrough and to ease this gnawing loneliness. I ask Allah to make me just as focused on my blessings as I am on my flaws and deficits.

[mashriqiyyah]

Assalamu'alaikum sister Zeenat you have not been giving halakas on gmw since zul hijjah...when do we hear you again? 🥺 is therr any ongoing course i can take part in?

Walaikumassalam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu, Yeah.. I've been caught up since a couple of months now...so haven't been really up for Halaqas. But Alhamdulillah...me n sister Rubya had had some discussion n we are working on in a few projects Alhamdulillah...but it's gonna take few more months. In Sha Allah. Till then my tafseer with QMZ is ongoing. You can attend to listen . And there have been few topic requests for me to take Halaqas on.. I'll see if I can manage some time for it. Keep us in your Dua' 🫶🌷

[sinabilaf]

A beautiful reminder from today’s thematic halaqa entitled “The Power of Forgiveness” with Teh Desi Ncim.

Allahumma baarik 🤲🏻

[mariammohamed21]

Aswan Governorate creates a tourist app for 'the best winter resort in the world'.

Attia asserted that Aswan is "one of the best governorates in the field of tourism and the best winter resort in the world" Book your tour now through EGYPT TOURS to visit Aswan.

The new software, he explained, allows guests to access "all necessary information, such as tourist places, hotels, and hospitals" If you want to try this new experience at Aswan book CAIRO SHORT BREAKS PACKAGE to enjoy your holiday at the best hotels.

The Egyptian Governorate of Aswan in Upper Egypt has launched a new app to assist tourists. If you are looking for an amazing tour at Aswan you should book 3 Days Cairo Alexandria Luxor Short Break Tour to enjoy your holiday at Aswan.

According to Aswan Governor Major General Ashraf Attia, the application has been well welcomed thus far. "It has significantly contributed to facilitating (tourists') trips, saving both time and effort. Don't miss the big offers by booking 4 Days Cairo short break packages to Alexandria, and white desert to enjoy the best prices. Governor Major General Ashraf Attia stated in a video released by the Council of Ministers' Information and Decision Support Center and shared on his official Facebook page. Make your honeymoon vacation unique by booking HONEYMOON TOUR PACKAGES to make unforgettable memories.

Aswan hotels,

According to Attia, Aswan is "one of the best governorates in the field of tourism and the best winter resort in the world." Visit Egypt by booking 3 Days Short Break to The White Desert, Baharyia Oasis, and Fayoum to see all the magnificent cities. The new software, he continued, provides tourists with "all necessary information, such as tourist places, hotels, and hospitals." Book 7 Days from Cairo short break to Alexandria and White Desert to explore more about Egyptian history.

He said, "We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from travelers who have downloaded the program, particularly during interactions with guests in floating or fixed hotels or during excursions. You can try this app when you come to Egypt by booking Tour of Bahariya Oasis and the White Desert from Cairo to enjoy this new adventures. The initiative has been a terrific success." Book your package to Egypt through EGYPT PACKAGES with the best offers and quality.

According to Halaqa, Russia is cold most of the year, hence Egypt acts as a "warm haven" for Russian tourists. Enjoy the Egyptian climate by booking Your break with us 4 days in Alexandria, Cairo to feel the magnificent weather in Egypt.

Halaqa stated that suggestions to convert closed residential structures into hotels are now being considered by the Ministry of Tourism. Explore more about Egyptian progress by booking 3 Days Cairo Stopover with your family. He stated that the effort will target not only luxury tourists but also two- and three-star accommodations. Make it a different vacation by booking 5 Days Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada Short Break Trip to visit the historical places at Luxor and enjoy the Red Sea at Hurghada.

[msareviews]

Review - Huda F are You? by Huda Fahmy

Huda F are You? is a graphic novel by Huda Fahmy that hilariously documents a young Muslim girl’s mission to discover her identity now that she’s in a new school where being “the hijabi girl” is no longer unique. It’s recommended for grades eight through eleven (NoveList, n.d.). I chose this book for the graphic novel prompt because it was on the TLA 2023 TAYSHAS reading list (Texas Library Association, 2023) and because I can’t remember having ever read a book with a Muslim lead. I’m always trying to diversify my reading and decided to rectify that gap in my reading. Huda F are You? was a delightful book for learning about Muslim American culture. It shows us Huda’s struggles in ways that are universally relatable but still highlight unique experiences hijabis face growing up in America. The relatable story and characters are highlighted through cute, expressive cartoon illustrations and the humor is delivered through expertly crafted page layout and plot pacing.

The central plot in the book is Huda figuring out her identity amidst the chaos of starting at a new high school where her role becomes unclear. In her previous community, she was the only hijabi in her community, and though she has a larger community in her new high school, there are also several people who make their disdain for Muslims known in big and small ways. The relatable teen moments (like telling a boy you like them only to realize you mostly just want their approval) and the moments of Islamophobia (such as a teacher repeatedly describing Muslims as inherently violent) are seamlessly intertwined. I don’t want to make it seem that diverse fiction’s value should be based on whether white people can relate to it or not, but as a white woman I really appreciated that this book acts as a wonderful window into Muslim American girls’ experiences.

The characters are my favorite part of this book. Huda, our lead, is hilariously self-deprecating but isn’t a clown. She is a fully realized character who demonstrates intelligence, kindness, and grows a lot throughout the story. A particularly strong moment is when Huda realizes that she doesn’t wear her hijab and go to halaqa because she must, but because she likes those parts of her Muslim culture. It’s an empowering moment that reveals Huda’s values and her growth into a more self-assured individual. The other characters in the book are just as well rounded, with Huda’s mother having a heartbreaking backstory told in an impressive three pages. With identity and belonging being central themes of the book, it’s important to have realistic characters for the audience to love and root for, and Fahmy’s character development is wildly successful.

Fahmy is a master at storytelling through comics. Her cartoony style allows for funny, heightened expressions that do a lot to communicate characters’ thoughts and deliver punchlines. The page layouts also carry much of the humor by guiding the book’s pacing. The book is a very quick read, in part because the illustrations are cartoony with minimal detail and frequently take up full two-page spreads. This layout establishes a quick, energetic pace that supports the book’s humor by delivering punchlines with perfect timing.

Huda F are You? is a delightful read. The humor and characters offer a witty, accessible look into Muslim American experiences. It’s also a perfect book for reluctant or struggling readers because of the casual language and heavy reliance on visual art to tell the story. It’s a short, highly enjoyable book that is sure to engage any reader.

References

Fahmy, H. (2021). Huda F are You? Dial Books.

NoveList. (n.d.). Huda F are you? https://web.p.ebscohost.com/novp/detail?vid=2&sid=135ee496-5f4c-447f-adaf-c46d86b4e6ac%40redis&bdata=JnNpdGU9bm92cC1saXZl#AN=11024940&db=neh.

Texas Library Association. (n.d.). 2023 TAYSHAS List announced. https://txla.org/news/2023-tayshas-list-announced/.

[notetaeker]

January 4, 2024 - Thursday

Wrote notes for a presentation (halaqa) later this week. I had so much more fun handwriting my notes instead of just typing them up quickly. Will I be able ctrl-f and find stuff in my notes? No, but I really do feel like the info sticks with me more when I physically write it!

📖: The Reign of Wolf 21

[kdgrammarschool]

Nurturing Young Minds: An Insight into Islamic Grammar Schools for Boys

Islamic education has become increasingly significant for Muslim families worldwide. Islamic grammar schools for boys, in particular, offer an environment where students receive not only academic education but also religious and moral guidance. These institutions aim to shape well-rounded individuals who are grounded in their faith while excelling in all aspects of life. This blog explores the unique attributes of Islamic grammar schools for boys, their benefits, and the impact they have on young learners.

1. Understanding Islamic Grammar Schools

Islamic grammar schools are institutions that integrate Islamic teachings with conventional academic subjects. These schools follow the national curriculum but supplement it with Islamic studies, Quranic teachings, and Arabic language instruction. For boys, these schools provide an environment where Islamic values, discipline, and moral upbringing are emphasized alongside their academic pursuits. The goal is to ensure that students develop both intellectually and spiritually, preparing them for future success in this life and the hereafter.

The structure of Islamic grammar schools is similar to mainstream schools, with students progressing through various academic stages, but with the added benefit of religious guidance being part of their daily routine.

2. The Curriculum: Balancing Secular and Religious Studies

One of the hallmarks of Islamic grammar schools for boys is their balanced curriculum, which incorporates both secular and religious subjects. This balance ensures that students receive a comprehensive education, allowing them to excel in subjects like mathematics, science, and literature while simultaneously deepening their knowledge of Islamic principles.

Religious studies often include subjects such as:

Quranic memorization and recitation (Hifz)

Tafsir (interpretation of the Quran)

Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence)

Seerah (the life of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him)

Hadith (Prophetic traditions)

At the same time, students are taught subjects from the national curriculum, ensuring they meet the academic standards required for higher education. This holistic approach provides students with the best of both worlds – strong academic qualifications and a firm grounding in their faith.

3. Spiritual and Moral Development

Islamic grammar schools place a heavy emphasis on the spiritual and moral development of their students. From a young age, boys are taught the importance of character (akhlaq), manners, and ethical conduct. Lessons often emphasize qualities like kindness, honesty, humility, and respect for others, which are core Islamic values.

Regular prayers (Salah) are also part of the daily routine, helping students form a strong connection with Allah (SWT). By encouraging students to pray together, schools foster a sense of community and brotherhood among the boys. Additionally, Islamic grammar schools often organize spiritual retreats, Halaqas (study circles), and special events during Ramadan and other significant Islamic occasions to reinforce the importance of spirituality in their lives.

4. Developing Strong Role Models

For young boys, having strong role models is crucial for their personal development. Islamic grammar schools strive to provide male teachers and mentors who are not only experts in their academic fields but also individuals who embody the principles of Islam in their daily lives. Teachers play a dual role – they are educators and role models, guiding students in both their academic and personal growth.

In addition, Islamic grammar schools often invite scholars, community leaders, and successful professionals to give talks and workshops. These individuals share their experiences, offer advice, and inspire students to strive for excellence in all areas of life while maintaining their Islamic identity.

5. Extracurricular Activities and Personal Growth

While academic and religious studies are the primary focus, Islamic grammar schools also recognize the importance of extracurricular activities in fostering well-rounded individuals. Sports, clubs, and creative arts are encouraged, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills. Participation in extracurricular activities helps boys learn teamwork, leadership, discipline, and time management.

Many Islamic grammar schools for boys also offer leadership programs and community service projects, encouraging students to become active and responsible members of society. These activities promote a sense of social responsibility and encourage boys to contribute positively to their communities.

6. Fostering a Sense of Identity and Belonging

One of the key benefits of attending an Islamic grammar school is the strong sense of identity it fosters in students. For many Muslim boys growing up in Western societies, navigating their dual identity can be challenging. Islamic grammar schools provide a safe space where students can comfortably embrace both their religious and cultural identities.

By surrounding students with peers who share similar values and beliefs, these schools help boys develop a sense of pride in their Muslim identity. The school environment promotes mutual respect, understanding, and support, allowing students to grow up confident in who they are.

7. Preparing for Future Success

Islamic grammar schools aim to equip students with the tools they need for success in both this world and the hereafter. Academic excellence is a priority, with many Islamic grammar schools boasting high rates of students progressing to top universities. By combining rigorous academic training with moral and religious education, these schools prepare students to excel in their future careers while staying true to their faith.

Many schools also offer career guidance programs, helping students explore different professions and understand how they can integrate their Islamic values into their chosen fields. Whether students pursue careers in medicine, law, business, or other fields, they are encouraged to see their work as a form of worship and service to humanity.

8. Challenges and Opportunities

Like any educational institution, Islamic grammar schools face their own set of challenges. Funding and resources can be limited, particularly for independent schools that rely on donations and community support. There is also the challenge of balancing the demands of both secular and religious education, ensuring that neither is compromised.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and development. Many Islamic grammar schools have formed partnerships with other educational institutions, local mosques, and community organizations to enhance their programs. These collaborations allow schools to offer a wider range of resources and opportunities for their students.

In addition, the increasing demand for Islamic education has led to the establishment of more Islamic grammar schools across the UK and other countries, providing parents with greater options for their children’s education.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Education

Islamic grammar schools for boys offer a unique and holistic approach to education, combining academic excellence with religious and moral development. These schools provide an environment where boys can grow into confident, knowledgeable, and spiritually grounded individuals. By balancing secular studies with Islamic teachings, fostering strong role models, and offering opportunities for personal growth, Islamic grammar schools prepare students for success in all aspects of life.

As the demand for Islamic education continues to grow, these institutions will play an increasingly important role in shaping the next generation of Muslim leaders and professionals. For parents seeking a school that nurtures both the mind and the soul, Islamic grammar schools for boys offer a path to achieving that goal.

[beautifulislam]

Few rules to follow for a beautiful life.

Drink sufficient water

Sleep well

Salah on time

Daily adkars and Qur'an

Away from toxic people

Away from negative people, thoughts and talks

Eat healthy stuff

Enjoy nature

Enjoy with ur loved ones

Spread love and smiles

Seek forgiveness

Know the value of time and work accordingly

Attend halaqas and classes

Keep learning new stuff

During free time do what u love to do..( painting, cooking, reading, knitting etc)

Add more if u wish. .

[masahat-edseed-vip]

Leading by disappearing.

Rule number one in leadership: your primary goal: to disappear. Yes.

As the Egyptians say: حطيها حلقة في ودانك Keep it in sight at at all times. Keep it as close as an earring huttiha halaqa fi wdanek.

From my exposure and experience, leaders tend to start with this attachment: I am on top of this, whatever this is. They never leave. We are training a generation of people who never want to leave. Attachment.

The greatest human, prophet Muhammad peace be upon him, lead through the knowledge of transitioning. He knew that once he had passed on the knowledge, his role was done, it was time for him to depart.

---

Surah Al-Ma'idah (The Table-Spread), Surah 3: Ayah 5 - The following is a part of the Ayah - it is always best to read the full Ayah and understand it within the context of the Surah, but for purposes of this text we are focused on the part of the Ayah.

الْيَوْمَ أَكْمَلْتُ لَكُمْ دِينَكُمْ وَأَتْمَمْتُ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعْمَتِي وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ الْإِسْلَامَ دِينًا [المائدة:3]

alyawma akmaltu lakum deenakum wa atmamtu ‘alaikum ni’matee wa radeetu lakumul Islaama deenaa

This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.

---

Now that is established: disappearance is the end reality. Now start strategically setting the steps of your leadership from that point in mind backward to this day. Now plan, and within your plan integrate, from day one: what to pass on, to whom, by when, and what may be if circumstances make it that you never actually get the time you planned, or that the "who" is not the who you had planned for. But perhaps those are too heavy possibilities to plan with and for.

Let's stick to the softer version: to set your mind to the what, the when and the to whom(s).

I can tell you this, there is no feeling more beautiful than to, in your lifetime, see something going forward that you founded and entirely pulled yourself out of. Savoured.

This is leadership.

This is leadership that embeds within it two matters: that one is never The Leader. That Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala, God Almighty, is The ultimate Leader. Second, that leading by having absence in mind is the strongest of all leadership forms. This is leadership within the premise of tawheed - the belief that God is above all - and with that following the sunnah of his prophet peace be upon him.

Let's look around,

Do we have samples of such leadership in our communities? From country leaders to parents to company directors to heads of schools, to doctors, to so many more roles. For each of us to think it through and see it in our lives and in us in how our leadership affects those within our circles.

Questions that can support this process are, have I in my role or has the person in the leadership role in my immediate circle ever stated explicitly or in the way actions are carried out: I will not always be here, take this from me so that you may stand steadily when I am no longer. Or another, let's build up your capabilities and that I witness how you are going about things in my lifetime, so that I support you and pass on my knowledge and life-experience in my lifetime before you are stranded suddenly, it may be this second, when I am no longer.

And too, when going through that process, as a leader, fine tuning what was not though of, bringing more and more of yourself so that that which is fed can do even better without you.

Without you is not equal to death only, though that is a truth. Without you can simply be that: without you.

If today a dish in a kitchen sink makes you think life cannot go on without you overseeing the washing of that dish, take a distance, and see what really, beyond that dish you have overdone with your presence never really giving space and thought to what it may look like if someone else took the sharp tool to perform a surgery in your place. In their place. The place is no one's and everyone's.

----------

Bake-A-Licious, Clifton, Bristol, UK. 7 August 2024. 3 Safar 1446.