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Assalammualaikum W.B.T

Aren't you curious about this Sarawakian ? So let's get into the details !!!!!!!

Name given is Muhammad Shahrul bin Razali , and I preferred to be called as Shahrul

Born and raised in Limbang Sarawak , the one and only region in Malaysia that's fully surrounded by Brunei country

I'm born in 26th June 2007

Graduated from an unknown and ordinary school named SMK KUBONG Limbang , I'm currently pursuing Medicine field in IIUM

I'd say engaging in public speaking event is my hobby , as rather than joining science related competition , I joined lots of public speaking competitions back then in High school.

Intrigued to know more about me ?

You can follow these social media of mine !!!!! : )

Instagram : muhdshahhhh_

Tiktok : shrl264

I guess that's all you have to know .

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This week consists of two session, in which are the introduction session and obviously, the lecture session.

Introduction session was started with Usrah assistant introducing himself, as well es other members of the Usrah. Via this session, we got to know each other on surface, as a kick off to get along with each other. Alhamdulillah, fellow surah members are all welcoming and friendly towards each other, despite different courses taken and of course, wit different personal background. This session aligns with Islamic teaching which is to get along within Muslim brothers, and everyone are treated equally regardless of skin colour and race.

Besides the introduction session, Our naqib also explained about adab in seeking knowledge. From my point of view, this topic and session is relevant as we need to know the Adab beforehand, in order to ease our journey in acquiring knowledge. The highlight of this session was two way interaction was done throughout the lecture, so we would be able to acquire and comprehend with others' opinions. From this session, the surah members explained about lots of manners in seeking knowledge that are encouraged in Islamic teaching, such as Respecting the teachers, respecting the knowledge acquired, seeking teachers instead of teachers seek for students, etc.

To sum up, the first sessions allows me to feel more welcomed in this university and encourage my sense of belonging here while the second session allows me to reflect on myself.

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This week, we're introduced to Hadith Jibril. Before divingdeeper into the topic, I think the naqib did his part well especially where he told the story behind the hadith. As a person that doesn't have Islamic school background, I'm so touched and grateful that I'm gradually learning new things every week. This week, the naqib touches a part of the Hadith Jibril, where Prophet Muhammad S.A.W answered to Jibril A.S, that Islam consist of 5 things, which refers to the 5 pillars of Islam. In this session, although it's teaching us the common knowledge as a muslim, we still have two-way interaction between the naqib and the Usrah throughout the session

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As continuation of the Hadith Jibril, usrah session of this week explores another perspective told in the hadith Jibril, whics is related to Beliefs as a muslim. Basically, we delves deeper into 3 part of 6 Beliefs in Islam, got to know about the details, as well as the story behind it. As usual, we had a two way interactions. For example, as for bellief in kitab and prophets, the naqib will ask us one by one, any knowledge we know regarding these matters. Specifically, this week we learnt about every kitab and the messenger ; Injil is received by Isa A.s, Torah received by Musa A.S, Zabur received by Daud A.S, And Al Quran that is revealed to Muhammad S.A.W .

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This week, we explored the last part of Hadith Jibril, which is related to Ihsan. Basically, this part mentioned that we as human should do and promotes virtues not only within us, but also other creatures and the environment. This session also allowed us to reflect on people behaviour nowayas, that are aligning with the Prphet's reminder about the minor sign of The end day. Apart learning about ihsan, we also touched on minor and major signs of the end day, which is also referred as " The Last Hour ". As usual, the Usrah assistant did also told stories mentioned in Al-quran regarding this topic.

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Continuation of the beliefs in Islam, this week naqib explained about the last 3 beliefs in Islam.

Not to mention that, if one is lost and have no idea, the Usrah members will help. The highlight part of this week would be the part where the naqib didn't just solely explaining about the 6 beliefs, but he also told prophets' stories that's related to the topic, which I think was a clever move as it intrigued the Usrah members to stay focused.

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Through this asignment, we foster our bond even more as we're assigned to a group to make a video assignment.

In this video, we talked about Adab in Students, as learnt and explained during the first week .

We weren't solely just explain the adab that should be implemented, but we also discuss about current issues and the factors.

In order to complete this assignment smoothly, our team allocate tasks to each member respectively. There's a person who's in charge of finding information, finding proof, editing and scriptwriting.

I took part in this assignment as the scriptwriter. We chose to make a form video so the message conveyed will be much clearer.

That's all, hope you enjoy the video !!!

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In the first week of Usrah 2, we learned about the Acquisition of Hikmah in life. Hikmah in Islam refers to wisdom that is developed through sincere acts of worship (‘ibadah), which involve not only physical actions but also intention, humility, and devotion. It includes understanding Allah’s commands, having consciousness of Him, and balancing knowledge with action.

The purpose of hikmah is to guide Muslims towards a deeper understanding of Islam and to help them live according to its teachings. This concept is closely related to niyyah, which refers to the intention behind an action. Correct niyyah is essential, as deeds done without sincere intention for Allah will not be accepted.

In addition, ‘amal refers to good deeds and acts of worship that reflect one’s faith and benefit both the individual and the community. Ihsan encourages Muslims to practice noble values consistently in daily life. From this lesson, I aim to improve my worship, purify my intentions, and practice righteous deeds and ihsan to become a better Muslim

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From this week usrah, I realized that ʿibādah isn’t just about doing religious duties. It actually has its own ḥikmah (wisdom) that shapes your character, teaches discipline, and brings you closer to Allah.

From Ṣalāh, I learned that prayer isn’t just a ritual. It helps control my behaviour, keeps me away from sin, and strengthens my connection with Allah. I also understood that every act of worship has its own purpose and wisdom, helping Muslims live a balanced life spiritually, morally, and socially.

As Allah says in the Qur’an:

“Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing…”

(Surah Al-ʿAnkabūt 29:45)

Meaning, if we pray sincerely, it keeps us away from bad deeds and constantly reminds us of Allah. Prayer also teaches discipline, punctuality, humility, and focus since it has to be performed at set times every day.

From Ṣawm (fasting), I learned that fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food and drink. It’s training the soul to develop taqwa, patience, and self-control.

Overall, this usrah helped me realize that ʿibādah develops a complete Muslim personality—strengthening faith (īmān), improving character (akhlaq), and guiding how we behave in daily life.

The Prophet ﷺ also said:

“Actions are judged by intentions.”

(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī & Muslim)

This reminds me that sincerity matters most, and Allah rewards every act of worship based on our intention.

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Preparation of Ṣalāh with Khusyūʿ

This usrah focuses on helping Muslims understand how to prepare for ṣalāh properly so that it can be performed calmly, correctly, and with khusyūʿ. It teaches that ṣalāh is not only about physical movements, but also about having the right knowledge, maintaining cleanliness through wuḍūʾ or tayammum, and being fully present with the heart and mind.

The usrah emphasizes that when a person understands the fiqh of ṣalāh and prepares both physically and spiritually, their prayer becomes more meaningful and strengthens their connection with Allah. It also highlights that khusyūʿ comes from proper preparation, understanding the recitations, and minimizing distractions before praying.

This is supported by the Qur’an:

“Successful indeed are the believers, those who are humble (khāshiʿūn) in their prayers.”

(Surah Al-Mu’minūn 23:1–2)

What I Learned

From this usrah, I learned that performing sunnah acts in ṣalāh helps improve the quality of my prayer and makes it easier to achieve khusyūʿ. I also learned the correct way to perform wuḍūʾ, including its pillars (rukun), sunnah acts, and the actions that invalidate it, so that my ṣalāh is valid and accepted.

In addition, I understood when and how tayammum can be performed as a replacement for wuḍūʾ when water cannot be used. I learned that khusyūʿ is not just about being physically still, but about focusing the heart, understanding what is being recited, and realizing that I am standing in front of Allah.

I also learned about the factors that disturb khusyūʿ and the practical steps I can take to prepare myself mentally and physically before ṣalāh.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this usrah helped me realize that proper preparation leads to better ṣalāh. By understanding the fiqh of ṣalāh, wuḍūʾ, and khusyūʿ, I can improve my focus, sincerity, and overall connection with Allah in every prayer.

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Virtues Found in Salah with Khushu’

Khushu’ can be briefly defined as having full presence of the heart and mind before Allah SWT, marked by calmness, humility, and deep attentiveness

Impacts of Khushu’ in Salah

Strengthens our relationship with Allah SWT

Helps prevent sinful behaviour 🚫⚖️

Increases and strengthens faith (iman) 🌱

Builds a strong and balanced Islamic personality

Ways to Attain Khushu’ in Salah

Perform prayer in a calm and quiet place, away from distractions

Understand the meaning of the recitations in salah

Perform prayers at the earliest time

Fully focus on the prayer and leave worldly matters aside 🕌

Keep the eyes focused on the place of prostration

As Muslims, we should continuously strive to practice and attain khushu’ in our salah so that our worship becomes more meaningful and sincere. Through this, we can draw closer to Allah SWT and fulfil the divine purpose of our creation in this universe

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Fasting & Its Virtues

Meaning of the Topic

Fasting (ṣawm) is an act of worship prescribed by Allah SWT in which Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink, and desires from dawn until sunset. However, fasting is not limited to physical abstinence alone. Its true purpose is to develop taqwa, which means being mindful, cautious, and conscious of Allah in all aspects of life. As Allah says:

“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful of Allah.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)

What I Learned from the Usrah

From this usrah, I learned that fasting is an obligation for those who truly believe in Allah. Fasting was also practiced by previous nations, such as the Jews and Christians. Allah mentions these earlier communities to ease our burden and motivate us to carry out fasting with sincerity. Most importantly, the main goal of fasting is to achieve taqwa, not merely to endure hunger and thirst.

Understanding Taqwa Through Fasting

The word taqwa comes from the Arabic word وقاية, which means protection or prevention. It refers to protecting oneself from sin and from Allah’s punishment.

Fasting helps to build taqwa by:

Training self-control over desires

Teaching honesty and sincerity even when no one is watching

Encouraging us to avoid lying, bad behaviour, and sinful actions

Virtues of Fasting

1. Ṣabr (Patience) and Self-Restraint

Fasting trains Muslims to practise patience in three main ways:

Patience in obeying Allah SWT

Patience in avoiding what Allah has prohibited

Patience in facing trials and difficulties

2. Levels of Fasting According to Imam Al-Ghazali

Imam Al-Ghazali explained that fasting has different levels:

Minimum level – Refraining from eating, drinking, and sexual relations

Intermediate level – Guarding the tongue, eyes, ears, hands, and the rest of the body from sin

Highest level – Protecting the heart from worldly distractions and focusing entirely on Allah

This shows that true fasting involves both the body and the soul.

3. Raḥmah (Mercy and Empathy)

Fasting nurtures mercy and empathy among Muslims by:

Allowing us to feel the hunger and hardship faced by the poor

Encouraging generosity and the act of feeding others who are fasting

Conclusion

In conclusion, fasting is a means of developing taqwa. It trains patience, self-restraint, and sincerity. True fasting includes controlling one’s behaviour and purifying the heart. Through fasting, Muslims develop mercy, empathy, and a sense of social responsibility. Fasting is not only about hunger, but about transforming character. True fasting is not only observed—it is reflected in our actions.

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Before this Usrah, I often looked at Zakah as a simple calculation—a financial duty we just have to get done. But looking deeper, I realized that Zakah is actually an act of purification. It cleanses not just our wealth, but our hearts.

One of the most profound things I learned was how Zakah is a test of Tawakkul (reliance on Allah). It forces us to let go of our attachment to money and trust that Allah is the true Provider. As the Quran beautifully reminds us: “And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him.” (65:3).

It also made me think about Ukhuwwah (brotherhood). Zakah isn't just a transaction; it’s the heartbeat of our community. By giving, we fight our own selfishness and replace it with empathy. We are telling our struggling brothers and sisters, "I see you, and I am with you." This is the essence of the verse: “The believers are but brothers.” (49:10).

In the end, I’ve come to see that Zakah is where our obedience to Allah meets our responsibility to each other. It brings justice and harmony to society, but more importantly, it softens our hearts.

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In this video, everyone take role

on presenting information they gained on Wudhu

We talked about

Rukun

Sunnah in Wudhu

Explaination of Tertib

Briefly details on its Importance

From this assignment, we also got to know each other better and strengthen our ukhuwah