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Hi, my name is Nur Balqis Sofea from the course HS, and I am someone who finds meaning in both creativity and connection. I love expressing myself through poetry, writing helps me make sense of my thoughts and emotions, and I often use it as a personal outlet to reflect on experiences, whether joyful or challenging.

Music is another part of who I am. I enjoy playing the piano, especially when I need peace or want to unwind after a long day. It’s one of the ways I reconnect with myself and the world around me.

Beyond hobbies, I’m also passionate about understanding people on a deeper level. That’s why I aspire to become a psychologist in the future. I’ve always been curious about how the human mind works, and I find it meaningful to listen to others, support them emotionally, and help them grow through their struggles. I believe mental health matters just as much as physical health, and I want to be someone who helps others feel seen, heard, and supported.

At the heart of everything I do, I value empathy, sincerity, and personal growth. I try to be someone who uplifts others, whether it’s through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply being present. I’m also someone who enjoys learning whether it’s discovering new topics, reflecting on my faith, or improving my skills, I believe that growth is a lifelong journey. I’m always open to new experiences and meeting people from different walks of life, because I believe everyone has something valuable to teach us.

In short, I’m a creative soul with a compassionate heart, driven by the desire to make a positive impact — even if it’s in small, quiet ways. <3 :D

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Assalammualaikum dear readers,

My name is Nur Balqis Sofea. Matric no: 245140.

You can address me as Sof or Sofie for short. I am from Gombak, Selangor. I am a Human Sciences student and I have a dream to pursue psychology. I'd like to get to know myself better through studying psychology and of course to help others understand themselves better. My hobby currently is singing and playing the piano. I started playing the piano since i was in primary school. Now, I am only a self-taught pianist. I find poetry very beautiful and peaceful. Whenever I feel inspired, I start writing poetry (in my iphone's notes).

Contact me on +01135647875.

You also are free to check out my instagram account, @sofeanugraha

Thank you for reading!

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Adab with the Qur'an is crucial because it reflects our reverence for the Word of Allah and ensures we engage with it in a manner befitting its divine origin.

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ADAB IN DEALING WITH QURAN (KNOWLEDGE)

Hi! So during our first week, we learned about the adab in dealing with the Quran. The session served as a meaningful reminder of how we should engage with the Quran not just as a book of recitation, but as a source of guidance in our daily lives. We reflected on the importance of approaching the Quran with sincerity and respect, ensuring that our interactions with it are done with the right intentions.

One of the key takeaways from the discussion was that respecting the Quran goes beyond just handling it properly; it also includes making an effort to understand and implement its teachings. Often, we may focus on reading the Quran without truly reflecting on its meanings or applying its lessons in our daily actions.

This session encouraged us to be more mindful of how we engage with the Quran not just in recitation, but in our character and behavior. Overall, this session was a great reminder that the Quran is not just meant to be read, but to be lived. Developing a deep love and respect for the Quran requires both outward etiquette and inner sincerity. :)

Thank you.

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Members: Zarith Sofea binti Zalmi (248724), Rose Leena binti Mohd Diah (247868) & Nur Balqis Sofea binti Yoga (245140)

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For our Usrah roleplay assignment, my group which consisted of three members was assigned the topic of ʿamal (righteous action) and iḥsān (excellence in worship). From the beginning, we worked collaboratively to understand and explore the meaning of these two concepts so we could present them in a way that was clear, engaging, and reflective of Islamic values.

As part of our preparation, we designed a poster to visually support our presentation. My specific contribution to the poster was focusing on the content related to amal + ihsan (complete Muslim) I was responsible for writing the key points, ensuring they were accurate, well-explained, and linked to everyday examples that our audience could relate to.

Preparing and presenting this roleplay was a meaningful experience, and it allowed me to reflect on how these two values are essential in shaping a purposeful and spiritually grounded life as a Muslim.

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PILLARS OF ISLAM (HADITH JIBRIL)

One day, a man dressed in extremely white clothes with black hair came to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) while he was sitting with his companions. The man asked:

1. “What is Islam?”

The Prophet (PBUH) replied:
"Islam is to bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; to establish prayer; to give zakat; to fast in Ramadan; and to perform Hajj if you are able to do so."

This answer refers to the Five Pillars of Islam, we discussed the five pillars in detail: Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage). The session emphasized the importance of each pillar in a Muslim's daily life and how they contribute to spiritual growth and social responsibility. We also had an engaging discussion on practical ways to strengthen our faith through these pillars and shared personal reflections on their significance in our lives.

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During Week 3, we reflected on the belief in Allah, His angels, and divine scriptures. The discussion allowed us to deepen our understanding of these fundamental aspects of faith and how they shape our relationship with Allah and our daily lives.

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BELIEF IN ALLAH, ANGELS AND DIVINE SCRIPTURE

Belief in Allah

Belief in Allah is the foundation of Islam and the core of our faith. We discussed how truly believing in Allah means not only acknowledging His existence but also understanding His attributes and living in accordance with His guidance. Allah is Al-Khaliq (The Creator), Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful), Al-‘Alim (The All-Knowing), and so much more.

Belief in Angels

The belief in angels is an important aspect of our iman, even though we cannot see them. The discussion helped us appreciate their roles in the unseen world, as they carry out Allah’s commands with absolute obedience. Angels have various responsibilities, such as delivering revelation, recording our deeds, protecting us, and taking our souls at the time of death.

Belief in Divine Scriptures

Believing in divine scriptures means acknowledging that Allah has sent guidance to humanity through revelation. We reflected on the importance of the previous scriptures, the Taurah (Torah), Zabur (Psalms), Injil (Gospel), and the Quran as messages from Allah to different prophets. The discussion highlighted that while the previous scriptures were true revelations, they were either altered over time or meant only for specific nations. The Quran, however, is the final and complete revelation, preserved by Allah for all of humanity.

Thanks!

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During Week 4, we reflected on the belief in prophets, resurrection, and divine decree. This session deepened our understanding of these beliefs and how they shape our mindset and actions. It reminded us that following the prophets, preparing for the afterlife, and trusting in Allah’s decree are essential in living a meaningful and guided life.

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BELIEF IN PROPHETS, RESURRECTION, AND DIVINE DECREE

Belief in Prophets

Prophets were chosen by Allah to guide humanity with His message, serving as role models for righteousness.

The lives of prophets teach patience, perseverance, and trust in Allah, especially during hardships.

Belief in Resurrection

The belief in the Day of Judgment serves as a reminder that this world is temporary and that we will be held accountable for our actions.

We reflected on the concept of the rewards of Jannah and punishments of Jahannam.

The discussion encouraged us to be more mindful of our deeds, knowing that even the smallest act of kindness can have a great impact in the hereafter.

Belief in Divine Decree (Qada’ and Qadar)

Everything happens according to Allah’s divine plan, whether good or bad, and He knows what is best for us.

We reflected on how accepting Allah’s decree brings inner peace, reducing anxiety over things beyond our control.

The discussion encouraged us to balance reliance on Allah with effort, knowing that while we plan, ultimate control belongs to Him.

Thanks!!

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This session helped us realize that Ihsan is about living with excellence in both worship and character, while eschatology reminds us of the ultimate purpose of life. Striving for Ihsan and preparing for the afterlife go hand in hand, motivating us to live with greater mindfulness, sincerity, and devotion to Allah.

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IHSAN AND ESCHATOLOGY

Definition:

Ihsan means striving for excellence in worship and conduct, as defined in the hadith: “To worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you cannot see Him, then know that He sees you.”

Eschatology is the study of the end of times and the afterlife. In Islam, it refers to beliefs about what happens after death.

Day of Judgment: Everyone will be accountable for their deeds, and our actions in this world determine our final destination—Jannah (Paradise) or Jahannam (Hell).

--We were reminded that life is temporary, and true success lies in preparing for the eternal afterlife through sincere worship and good deeds.

Jannah (Paradise) and Jahannam (Hell): Emphasized the eternal rewards for those who strive for righteousness and the severe consequences for those who neglect their duties

--The discussion encouraged us to be more mindful of our actions, to develop sincerity in all that we do, and to always keep the afterlife in perspective.

These are gradual changes in society, morality, and the world that indicate the approach of the Last Day. Some include:

1. Moral and Social Corruption (MINOR)

✅ People will commit sins openly without shame.
✅ Lying, dishonesty, and falsehood will increase.
✅ Alcohol and fornication will become widespread.

2. The Appearance of Dajjal (The False Messiah) (MAJOR)

✅ A great deceiver who will claim to be divine and perform false miracles.
✅ He will spread corruption and mislead many, except true believers.

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Adab (manners and etiquette) is an essential part of a Muslim’s character. It reflects a person’s faith and determines how they interact with others, their surroundings, and even themselves. In today’s usrah session, Sr Aina talked about Nabi Ibrahim A.S and his manners towards his father that we all should look up to. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) set an example of adab when dealing with elders, even if they were wrong. He was respectful, patient, and never rude. This teaches us that in disagreements, especially with family, we should remain calm, use wisdom, and leave the rest to Allah.

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ADAB IN DAILY LIFE

1. Adab with Parents + Family

✅ Speak respectfully and avoid raising your voice, even in disagreement.
✅ Serve and care for parents, especially in their old age.
✅ Strengthen family ties (silaturrahim), even if conflicts arise.
✅ Be patient, understanding, and forgiving towards siblings and relatives.

2. Adab with Friends and Society

✅ Treat everyone with kindness, regardless of their background.
✅ Help those in need and be generous without expecting anything in return.
✅ Respect differences in opinions and avoid unnecessary arguments.

3. Adab with Neighbors

✅ Greet them warmly and maintain a friendly relationship.
✅ Offer help when they need assistance, especially in difficult times.
✅ Exchange gifts or food as a sign of goodwill.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the rights of neighbors so much that he said:

"Jibril kept advising me about the rights of the neighbor until I thought he would make him an heir." (Bukhari & Muslim)

4. Adab As A Student

✅ Seek knowledge for the sake of Allah, not for fame or status.

✅ Avoid arrogance and always remain humble.

✅ Use knowledge to benefit others, not to argue or show superiority.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

"Whoever follows a path in pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make his path to Jannah easy." (Muslim)

Thank you!

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Today (14 February 2025) marks the last day and week of our usrah with Sr Aina. For today’s discussion, we reflected on taking care of the nature and our environment. This session in my opinion is meaningful since people in today’s world lack of knowledge and understanding about their environment as well as they lack the tendency to take initiative. 

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TAKING CARE OF NATURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Islam emphasizes that the Earth and everything in it are blessings from Allah that must be preserved and protected. As khalifah (stewards) of the Earth, humans have a responsibility to maintain balance and avoid causing harm

1. The Earth as a Trust from Allah

Allah has entrusted humans with the Earth, and we will be held accountable for how we treat it.

🔹 “It is He who has made you successors (khalifah) upon the earth…” (Quran 35:39)

🔹 The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The world is sweet and green, and verily Allah is going to make you succeed one another in it to see how you act.” (Muslim)

2. Avoiding Waste and Overconsumption

Islam discourages wastefulness, whether in food, water, or natural resources.

🔹 “…and do not waste excessively. Indeed, He does not like the wasteful.” (Quran 7:31)

✅ Conserve water, even when making wudu.
✅ Avoid wasting food and resources.

3. Planting Trees and Caring for Greenery

Islam encourages planting trees and taking care of vegetation.

🔹 The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is considered charity for him." (Bukhari, Muslim)

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During our first week of Usrah session with Sr Amnie, we explored the meaningful concepts of ʿamal (righteous action) and iḥsān (excellence in worship), which became the central theme for my group’s roleplay and poster presentation. Our group consisted of three members, and we worked together to understand and creatively present how these two values shape a Muslim’s character and daily life. To improve this section, it would be beneficial to include a Quranic verse or hadith to support the concept, along with a real-life example such as giving charity with pure intention.

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Amal & Ihsan

We reflected on iḥsān, which was beautifully described by the Prophet ﷺ as “to worship Allah as though you see Him, and if you cannot see Him, know that He sees you.” This definition helped me understand that iḥsān is not just about doing good, but doing it with sincerity, excellence, and full consciousness of Allah’s presence. Sr. Amnie reminded us that striving for iḥsān transforms ordinary moments into meaningful worship and motivates us to be the best version of ourselves, not just in public, but especially in private. Working on this topic with my group made me realise how deeply ʿamal and iḥsān are connected, and how they can guide us to live a life filled with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness. This Usrah session, along with our group work, has left a lasting impression on me, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to reflect on these values in both discussion and creative expression.

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Through our Usrah session during week 2 with Sr Amnie, i have come to understand that ibadah is not just a religious duty, but a way to build a strong spiritual connection with Allah while also benefiting our physical well-being, showing that Islam truly cares for both the soul and the body. This section can be improved by organizing the hikmah of ibadah into categories such as spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits.

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The Reasons and Hikmah Behind Ibadah

Spiritually, ibadah is the means through which we connect with Allah and realign ourselves with our true purpose as His servants. Through consistent acts of ibadah, our hearts are softened, our souls are purified, and we develop taqwa (God-consciousness), which acts as an inner compass helping us make better choices and stay away from sin.

I also learned that worship nurtures essential virtues such as patience, discipline, and gratitude. For example, when we fast, we are not only abstaining from food and drink but training our souls to control desires, empathize with the less fortunate, and practice self-restraint. When we perform solat five times a day, we are reminded to pause, reflect, and return to Allah amidst the distractions of daily life. Ibadah becomes a means of spiritual detox, consistently clearing our hearts from arrogance and anger.

What struck me most was how ibadah is not limited to spiritual elevation alone, it also brings physical and psychological benefits, showcasing Allah’s mercy and perfect design. In solat, each movement from standing to sujud has been found to enhance blood circulation, improve joint flexibility, and even calm the nervous system.

Sr Amnie’s explanation reminded me that ibadah is a gift, not a burden. It is Allah’s way of bringing us back to Him while also allowing us to grow in every dimension of life :)

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🌙 The Reasons & Hikmah (Wisdom) Behind Ibadah 🌙

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In our Usrah discussion during week 3, we explored the topic of khusyu’ in solat and it made me reflect deeply on the quality of my own prayers. While i have always understood the importance of performing solat consistently, this session helped me realize that the value of solat lies not only in the act itself, but in the state of the heart while performing it. Without khusyu’, solat can become a mechanical routine, but with khusyu’, it transforms into a sacred moment of intimate connection with Allah. To enrich this section, consider adding a relatable scenario showing the difference between praying with khusyu’ and without it. Including tips on how to develop khusyu’, such as focusing on meanings of recitation or controlling distractions, would make it more practical. 

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Why Khusyu' Matters in Solat

Khusyu’ means praying with full focus, humility, and awareness, standing before Allah as if we truly see Him, or at the very least, knowing He sees us. It’s about silencing the noise of the world and allowing the heart to be present in every word and movement. This is not easy in today’s world of constant distractions, but it’s precisely why khusyu’ matters more than ever.

On a deeper level, solat with khusyu’ becomes a form of spiritual healing. It calms the anxious heart, redirects our attention to what truly matters, and renews our sense of hope. When we feel overwhelmed or lost, solat with khusyu’ becomes a lifeline, a way of pouring out our hearts in sujood and trusting that Allah hears every unspoken word.

Morally, khusyu’ enhances our character. A person who prays with sincerity is more likely to reflect those values in their daily life. When we take solat seriously, it becomes a compass that guides our behavior, reminds us of our purpose, and protects us from immoral actions.

Sr Amnie also reminded us that khusyu’ is something we must work on and nurture. It doesn’t come instantly, it grows with knowledge, reflection, and effort. Simple steps like understanding the meaning of what we recite, praying on time, making proper wudu’, and removing distractions can help bring more presence into our solat.

This session reminded me that the goal is not just to ‘pray’, but to ‘stand before Allah’. Every solat is an opportunity to reset the soul, to find peace, and to remind ourselves that no matter what we face in life, Allah is near.

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During this Usrah (week 4) session with Sr Amnie, we took part in a group presentation where each team explored different topics, and how they connect us to Allah in our daily lives. As each group presented, I began to notice a common thread, everything we discussed pointed back to the need for khusyu’ in our acts of worship, especially in solat. I realized that khusyu’ is not just about staying focused during prayer, but it is the foundation that gives our ibadah meaning and depth. One improvement can be done is toavoid repetition with the previous section, we could focus this part on the consequences of lacking khusyu’, such as feeling disconnected from prayer.

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Importance of Khusyu' in Solat

In Surah Al-Mu’minun, Allah says:

“Successful indeed are the believers, those who have khusyu’ in their solat.” (23:1-2)
This verse shows that khusyu’ is not just a bonus in prayer — it is a defining trait of true believers and a key to success in both this world and the Hereafter. The Prophet ﷺ also emphasized this by saying that the quality of one’s prayer is determined by how much of the heart was present in it. A person may perform the full solat, but only receive reward for a fraction of it, depending on how much khusyu’ they had.

Without focus and sincerity, even these benefits may not be fully realized. A solat done in a rush, with the mind distracted and the heart absent, doesn’t bring the same tranquility and inner peace as one performed with full awareness of Allah’s presence. Khusyu’ allows the healing power of solat to enter the heart and influence our daily character, making us more patient, calm, and mindful Muslims.

This session reminded me that khusyu’ is what gives solat its soul. It is the difference between praying out of habit and praying with love. It is the gateway to feeling connected with Allah in a deep and personal way. Most importantly, it is a form of sincerity that purifies the heart and draws us closer to the Creator, making solat not just an obligation — but a gift, a refuge, and a source of strength in every stage of life.

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During our recent online Usrah session with Sr. Amnie, we listened to an insightful audio/video she prepared about the virtues of sawm (fasting). The presentation helped us understand that fasting is much more than abstaining from food and drink, it teaches essential virtues like ṣabr (patience), takrīm (honour and dignity), and raḥmah (mercy). This part can be improved by listing the spiritual virtues of fasting, such as increased taqwa, forgiveness, and discipline. A hadith like “Fasting is for Me and I will reward it” can be added for authenticity.

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Virtues Found in Sawm

Firstly, fasting cultivates sabr, as we learn to control not only our hunger and thirst but also our emotions and reactions. Sr. Amnie emphasized how fasting trains us to be patient with ourselves and others, building inner strength and resilience.

Secondly, takrīm (honour and dignity) grows through fasting, as the act of submitting to Allah’s commands with discipline elevates our character and self-respect. Fasting reflects a commitment to a higher purpose, which also helps us treat others with humility and respect.

Finally, fasting develops raḥmah (mercy), by making us more empathetic towards those who face hunger daily and inspiring us to be more charitable and kind. The session reminded us that this mercy softens the heart and strengthens our connection with Allah and people around us.

Through this online Usrah, Sr. Amnie’s explanation deepened my appreciation of fasting as a spiritual journey that shapes patience, honour, and mercy, which are virtues that help us grow closer to Allah and become better individuals.

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During our week 6 Usrah session with our respected facilitator, Sr. Amnie, we were given the opportunity to explore and reflect on the virtues of Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam. The session was both insightful and spiritually uplifting, as Sr. Amnie guided us through the meaning of Hajj and how it reflects a deep journey of the soul, not just the body. Through her explanation and the reflective discussion that followed, I was able to understand that Hajj is more than just a religious obligation, it is a powerful form of surrender, humility, and purification. We can strengthen this section by linking each Hajj ritual to the virtues it teaches, such as patience through wuquf and perseverance through sa’i. Emphasize the unity of Muslims from around the world and how Hajj breaks down barriers of race, language, and status.

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Virtues Found in Hajj

One of the most meaningful aspects we discussed was how Hajj brings about complete submission to Allah. Pilgrims wear the simple white ihram garments, which remove all worldly distinctions of wealth, status, and race, emphasizing that in front of Allah, we are all equal. This act cultivates tawadhuʿ (humility) and reminds us that true honour lies not in our achievements, but in our sincerity and obedience to Allah. Sr. Amnie highlighted how this humility is at the core of Hajj, and that it is something we should carry in our everyday lives.

Another virtue we explored is unity and brotherhood. Seeing millions of Muslims from different backgrounds come together to worship with one heart reflects the beauty and strength of the ummah. Sr. Amnie reminded us that this unity should not only be felt during Hajj, but nurtured in our communities through compassion and collective responsibility.

This Usrah session left a strong impression on me. Even though I have not performed Hajj yet, I now understand its virtues more clearly and I feel inspired to embody its values in my daily life. I am truly grateful to Sr. Amnie for facilitating such a meaningful discussion that deepened both my understanding and my longing for this spiritual journey.