_{Date of Birth: 06 September 2007}

_{Hometown: Shah Alam, Selangor}

_{Secondary School: SMK Seksyen 18}

_{Hobby: Drawing and painting, journaling, and reading novels}

_{Matric Number: 257458}

_{Course: NUS}

_{Contact Number: 011-55578242}

_{Gmail: nurinumaira@gmail.com}

_{Instagram Account: rara_rynn/cherryy_bl0ss0mm}

_{Facilitator: Sr. Zahra}

_{Usrah Group: 38}

"Hi, Just sharing my profile with you. It has some basic information about me, including my background and hobbies. Let me know if you'd like to know anything more! Thanks!"

When the usrah began, the atmosphere felt calm and welcoming. Sr. Zahra started with a short recitation of the Qur’an, which immediately set a peaceful mood.

In our usrah, we learned that seeking knowledge is not just about collecting facts, but about cultivating adab (manners) and engaging in intellectual discourse with humility. Adab ensures that knowledge becomes a blessing, both outward like taking notes, asking politely, and preparing for classes and inwardly, through sincerity, respect for teachers, and consistency.

We also discussed the value of intellectual discourse. As seekers of knowledge, we should share ideas, ask questions, and exchange perspectives, but always with respect and without arrogance. This helps us grow in wisdom and reminds us that learning is a shared journey, not a competition.

Finally, we were reminded that learning is not only for grades or careers, but to become balanced human beings who benefit ourselves and the community. When knowledge is combined with adab and respectful discourse, it becomes a light that guides us closer to Allah.

Listening to everyone share their thoughts made me realize how much we can learn from one another. It wasn’t just about listening, but also reflecting on our own lives.

One thing that touched me deeply was when Sr. Zahra said, “Usrah is not only a circle of learning, but a family that supports each other towards Jannah.” That really made me feel grateful to be part of this gathering.

After the session, I felt spiritually uplifted and motivated. I also made a few new friends who were very kind and supportive. I realized that usrah is not just about gaining knowledge, but also about building connections and reminding each other to stay strong in our faith.

My hope for the future is to continue attending usrah consistently and to apply what I learn in my daily life. I make du‘a that Allah keeps my heart firm on this path and allows me to grow together with this group. Alhamdulillah for this beautiful beginning.

Sr. Zahra began by narrating how a mysterious man with very white clothes and very black hair (who was actually Jibril a.s.) came to the Prophet ﷺ and asked him questions in front of the companions.

Through this, Rasulullah ﷺ explained the essence of our religion.

-Islam: The five pillars which is shahadah, solat, zakat, fasting in Ramadan, and hajj. These are the outward actions that build discipline and obedience.

-Iman: to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Day of Judgement, and Qada’ & Qadar. This focuses on the inner belief and conviction in the heart.

Ihsan: to worship Allah as though we see Him, and even if we cannot see Him, to know that He sees us.

This really touched my heart because it reminds me that Allah is always watching, and it inspires me to improve the sincerity and quality of my ibadah. I realized that Islam, Iman, and Ihsan are not separate, but connected. Islam is the foundation of practice, Iman is the foundation of belief, and Ihsan is the foundation of excellence. Together, they make a complete way of life for a Muslim.

This usrah made me reflect on my own journey. Am I only practicing Islam on the surface, or am I truly strengthening my Iman and striving for Ihsan in my worship? It’s a big reminder for me to improve both inwardly and outwardly.

I ended the session with a du‘a that Allah strengthens my Islam, deepens my Iman, and allows me to strive for Ihsan in everything I do. May He make me among those who live by this hadith until my last breath.

Sr. Zahra explained each pillar with its importance:

1. Shahadah – declaring faith sincerely from the heart, not just by words.

2. Solat – the daily connection with Allah that keeps us grounded.

3. Zakat – a reminder to share our blessings and purify our wealth.

4. Sawm (Fasting in Ramadan) – training our patience and self-control.

5. Hajj – the ultimate act of submission for those able to go.

What I found meaningful was the reminder that the Rukun Islam is not just a checklist, but a guide to live a balanced, disciplined, and purposeful life. For example, solat should not be routine, but a chance to pause and realign ourselves five times a day.

This usrah made me reflect on my own practice. Am I only “performing” the pillars, or am I living them with sincerity? I felt inspired to improve especially in solat, to pray more mindfully and on time.

I’m grateful for this session because it reminded me that these pillars are not just rituals, but a pathway to Jannah. I pray to Allah to strengthen me to hold firmly to all five pillars and live by them wholeheartedly.

-Subḥānallāh 33x (Glory be to Allah)

-Alḥamdulillāh 33x (All praise is due to Allah)

-Allāhu Akbar 34 (Allah is the Greatest)

👉This set is often recited after every prayer and before sleeping.

🌸 Dhikr of Forgiveness

-Astaghfirullāh (I seek Allah’s forgiveness)

👉Anytime, especially after salah or when remembering sins.

🌙 Dhikr of Tawḥīd

-Lā ilāha illallāh (There is no god but Allah)

👉Strengthens faith and purifies the heart.

🌟 Dhikr of Praise

-Subḥānallāhi wa biḥamdih (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him)

👉Whoever says this 100 times a day will have sins forgiven (Hadith Bukhari & Muslim).

🌺 Comprehensive Dhikr

-Lā ḥawla wa lā quwwata illā billāh (There is no power nor strength except with Allah)

👉Brings peace, reliance, and relief in hardship.

I learned that Adab comes from the Arabic root word أدب, which means to refine, educate, and discipline. In Islam, Adab refers to good manners, etiquette, and proper conduct. It is not something we are automatically born with, but something that must be nurtured, practiced, and improved over time.

I reflected on the difference between these two concepts:

-Akhlaq is about moral philosophy the reason behind why we do good.

-Adab is the practical side the way we actually behave in daily life.

This reminded me that knowing what is right is not enough; I must train myself to put that knowledge into practice with proper manners.

From Surah Maryam (19:41–50), I learned how Prophet Ibrahim A.S. treated his father with utmost Adab, even when his father rejected the truth:

-He spoke with respect and gentleness, never with insults.

-He invited his father to reflect with wisdom and patience.

-He remained humble, recognizing knowledge as a gift from Allah.

-He warned about shirk with care and sincerity.

-Even when threatened, he responded with peace, patience, and du‘a.

Though he had to leave, Allah replaced it with greater blessings Prophets Ishaq and Ya‘qub as his descendants.

Adab is about refinement of speech, actions, and attitude. It shows humility, respect, and wisdom, especially towards our parents. Practicing Adab not only strengthens relationships but also invites Allah’s blessings.

In my own life, I realize that showing Adab to my parents is a form of ibadah. It requires patience, wisdom, and self-control. I pray that Allah grants me consistency in practicing true Adab and beautifies my character with it.

I also have a few ideas on how our Usrah can be improved. It would be nice if the sessions were more interactive, maybe with small group activities, games, or outdoor programs. We could also have mini projects like volunteering together, so we can practise what we have learned. It might be helpful to include short motivational videos or reflection time at the end of each session. This would help us think deeply about the topic and relate it to our own lives. Overall, I really enjoyed being part of Usrah, and I hope it will continue to grow and bring more positive changes to everyone.

It felt calm and safe. Sr. Aqilah explained everything so gently, like she wasn’t just teaching, but reminding us too. The topic was “Acquisition of Hikmah” and honestly, it made me see ibadah in a whole new light.

1. What is Hikmah?

Hikmah means wisdom, intellect, knowledge. But it’s more than just knowing stuff. It’s the ability to understand the true nature of things and act accordingly. I liked how Ibn Qutaiba said it’s a blend of knowledge and deed. Knowledge alone isn’t enough if it doesn’t change how I act.

2. Hikmah & Ibadah

Ibadah isn’t just physical movement. When I pray, fast, or give zakah with humility, sincerity, and devotion, that’s when I start to gain hikmah. It’s the inner qualities that matter just as much as the actions.

3. Niyyah Matters So Much

“Actions are only by intentions.” I realized my deeds might not be accepted if my niyyah is off. Setting the right intention means doing things purely for Allah, with clarity, focus, and consistency. No showing off, no mixed motives. That made me pause and think about why I do what I do.

4. Amal & Ihsan

Amal is putting good deeds into action - salah, zakat, fasting, hajj, kindness. But the highest level is ihsan: worshipping Allah as if I see Him, or knowing He sees me. It’s about doing things with excellence, compassion, honesty, patience. Internalizing ihsan means making these virtues part of who I am, not just something I do sometimes.

Sr. Aqilah reminded us that usrah is not just a learning circle, but a family supporting each other toward Jannah. That line made me feel less alone. We’re all learning and growing together.

I think I often do things without checking my intention. I rush through amal, and sometimes I do things just out of habit. I need to work on sincerity and consistency, not just when I feel motivated.

Before I start any act of worship or good deed, I’ll pause for a few seconds and renew my niyyah: “Ya Allah, this is for You.”

Ya Allah, purify my intention in everything I do. Make me someone who seeks hikmah, practices it with sincerity, and lives with ihsan. Keep my heart firm and let me grow with this group. Ameen.

Sr. Aqilah started by reminding us that everything in Islam has purpose. Nothing is random. The slides were soft and colorful, which made it easy to reflect while listening. It felt peaceful but also made me feel a bit responsible for improving my ibadah.

1. The Purpose of Creation

“And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” [Adh-Dhariyat 51:56]. This ayah grounded everything. All ibadah traces back to this one purpose. It made me feel like my life actually has direction, not just random tasks to tick off.

2. Salah

Salah isn’t just movement and words. It keeps me aware of Allah, stops me from immorality, and reminds me who I belong to.“Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater.” [Al-Ankabut 29:45]. The attributes that stood out were ikhlas, fear of Allah, and dhikr. I realized my salah feels empty when I rush through it without presence.

3. Sawm

Fasting teaches taqwa, empathy, and discipline. Knowing that Allah sees me even when no one else does made fasting feel more meaningful. “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting… that you may become righteous.” [Al-Baqarah 2:183]. It’s not just about hunger. It weakens Shaytan’s influence and makes me more conscious of my actions.

4. Zakah

Zakah isn’t just giving money. It cleanses my wealth and my heart from greed. It reminds me that my rizq is a trust. “Take, [O Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them…” [At-Tawbah 9:103]. The benefits are cleansing sins, supporting the needy - made me want to be more generous, even in small ways.

5. Hajj

Hajj is full submission. No indecent acts, no arguments, just worship and good deeds. It trains you to follow Allah’s commands completely.“The best provision is fear Allah.” [Al-Baqarah 2:197]. It made me realize that discipline in worship spills over into discipline in life.

I noticed I often do ibadah out of habit, not presence. My salah lacks khusyu’, and I don’t always remember the wisdom behind what I’m doing. I need to slow down and be intentional.

I’ll try to take 2 minutes before salah to remind myself: “I’m standing in front of Allah.” And I’ll read the meaning of Surah Al-Fatihah slowly during prayer.

Ya Allah, make my worship sincere for You. Teach me to understand the hikmah behind it, and make it a means for me to gain taqwa and Your pleasure. Ameen.

Sr. Aqilah went step by step, super clear and practical. The slides were organized - Salah, Wudu, Tayammum, Khusyu’ - and it felt like she was helping us rebuild our prayer from the basics up. Calm, structured, but still personal.

1. Salah: The Foundation

We revisited the basics:

-Conditions for obligation: Muslim, sane, reached puberty.

-Conditions for validity: Free from hadas, body & clothes pure, cover awrah, time has entered, face the qiblah, know how to pray.

-Pillars of salah: 13 things, from intention to doing them in order.

-Things that invalidate salah: talking, excessive movement, eating/drinking, changing intention, etc.

It reminded me that even small details matter. Prayer isn’t valid just because I “did it”.

2. Sunnah & Adab in Salah

There’s so much beauty in the sunnah parts - opening du’a, saying ‘Amin’, tasbih in ruku’ & sujud, prostration of forgetfulness if I forget something. Even the disliked things made sense: don’t pray while holding in the bathroom, don’t look around, don’t pray when food is served. It’s all about presence.

3. Wudu & Tayammum

Wudu isn’t just washing. It has 6 pillars, and if one’s missing, it’s invalid. The sunnah parts like rinsing the mouth, washing the ears, doing things in order, make the wudu more complete. And tayammum - such a mercy when water isn’t available or would harm me. Islam really makes ibadah possible in any situation.

4. Khusyu’: The Heart of Salah

This was the part that hit me.

Khusyu’ is sunnah, not a pillar, but it’s what makes prayer alive. It means focus, humility, calmness, understanding what I’m saying, and feeling like I’m speaking to Allah.

What blocks khusyu’? Whispers of shaytan, and my heart being too attached to the dunya. How to get it? Prepare well, pray on time, make wudu properly, understand the meaning, pray in a quiet place, don’t rush, and actually feel the words.

The point that khusyu’ is what transforms salah from a ritual into a conversation with Allah. Without it, I’m just moving. With it, even 2 rakaat feels different.

I realized my salah often lacks khusyu’ because I rush and don’t prepare. I scroll my phone right before adhan, then run to pray with a distracted mind. No wonder it feels empty.

I’ll prepare 5 minutes before adhan: stop what I’m doing, make wudu calmly, and remind myself “I’m about to stand before Allah.” I’ll also try to understand the meaning of Surah Al-Fatihah while reciting.

Ya Allah, teach me to prepare for salah properly. Grant me khusyu’ in my prayer, so that my heart is present with You. Make my prayer a source of peace, not just a task. Ameen.

The slides were so aesthetic and calm, alhamdulillah. Sr. Aqilah spoke softly and kept reminding us that khushū‘ isn’t just about being quiet - it’s about the heart being present with Allah. It felt like a personal check-in.

1. What is Khushū‘?

Khushū‘ means presence of heart and mind before Allah. It’s calmness, humility, and attentiveness. Not just moving through the motions. That made me realize why my salah sometimes feels empty - my body is there but my mind is somewhere else.

2. Why Khushū‘ Matters

Salah with khushū‘ strengthens my relationship with Allah, shapes my inner character akhlāq, and prevents sinful behavior. The ayah “Seek help through patience and Ṣalāh…” [Al-Baqarah 2:45]. Salah is actually my help, not a burden.

3. The Virtues Gained Through Khushū‘

We went through 5 beautiful virtues that grow when salah is done with khushū‘:

=Al-Ṭāah (Submission & Loyalty) – Obedience to Allah with sincerity. It trains discipline and reminds me that the closest I am to Allah is in sujud.

=Al-Jihād (Striving in the Path of Allah) – The inner struggle against laziness and distractions. Consistency in salah builds real strength.

=Muḥāsabah (Self-Reflection) – Salah becomes a moment to evaluate my actions and intentions. It’s like a weekly self-check with Allah.

='Iffah (Modesty & Self-Restraint) – True salah influences my behavior outside prayer. It guards me from sinful acts and keeps my character in check.

Tawaḍu‘ (Humility) – Sujud reminds me of my dependence on Allah. It removes pride and arrogance.

I realized I often rush through salah just to finish it. My mind wanders, and I don’t really feel the meaning of what I’m reciting. I need to work on being present, even if it’s just for a few moments.

Before starting salah, I’ll pause, take a deep breath, and remind myself: “I am standing before Allah right now.” I’ll also try to understand the meaning of Surah Al-Fatihah while reciting.

Ya Allah, grant me khushū‘ in my salah. Make my prayer a means to purify my heart, strengthen my faith, and improve my character. Ameen.

The slides were simple but deep. Sr. Aqilah broke down the ayah on fasting slowly, and it felt like she was talking directly to me. The mood was reflective, like a reminder to check my niyyah and my character.

1. The Purpose of Fasting

“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—so perhaps you will become mindful of Allah.” [Al-Baqarah 183]. Fasting isn’t just about hunger and thirst. The whole point is taqwa - being mindful, cautious, and aware of Allah in everything I do. It’s like training my heart to say “no” to what displeases Allah.

2. Fasting is for People of Faith

The ayah starts with “O you who believe”. That made me think - fasting is only truly meaningful if my iman is there. It’s a chance to prove my belief through action, not just words.

3. Taqwa in Action

We discussed the story of Umar asking Ka’ab about taqwa. Ka’ab said it’s like walking on a thorny path carefully. That’s fasting - learning to avoid sins, even the small ones, because I know Allah is watching.

4. Fasting is More Than Food

“If one does not leave lies and false conduct, Allah does not need him to abstain from his food and drink.” [Al-Bukhari]. Fasting means nothing if my tongue, eyes, and heart are still sinning. It’s not just about the body.

5. Levels of Fasting According to Al-Ghazali

-Minimum: Refraining from food, drink, and intimacy.

-Intermediary: Guarding my body parts from sin.

-Optimal: Guarding my heart from worldly distractions.

I realized I’ve mostly been at level 1. I want to work toward level 2 and 3, inshaAllah.

6. Virtues of Fasting

-Sabr & Self-Restraint: Fasting trains me to be patient in obeying Allah, avoiding His prohibitions, and facing trials.

-Rahmah & Empathy: Feeling hunger makes me remember those who are less fortunate. It also encourages me to feed others and share reward.

I’ve been treating fasting as a physical challenge, not a spiritual one. I need to guard my tongue, my gaze, and my thoughts better. Otherwise, I’m missing the whole point.

Even though it’s not Ramadhan, I’ll try to fast one Monday or Thursday. More importantly, I’ll guard my tongue and avoid gossip that day, as part of practicing the intermediary level of fasting.

Ya Allah, make my fasting a means to attain taqwa. Purify my heart, my tongue, and my actions. Make me someone who feels the hunger of others and responds with mercy. Ameen.

The slides were soft blue with gentle illustrations, and Sr. Aqilah explained everything in a way that made zakah feel less like a burden and more like a mercy. It felt like a reminder that Islam cares about both my heart and my community.

1. Zakah is a Pillar, Not an Option

Zakah is obligatory for Muslims who meet the conditions. It’s the 3rd pillar after shahadah and salah. Allah even mentions zakah together with salah 32 times in the Quran. That made me realize how serious it is.

2. What Zakah Actually Means

Literally, zakah means to grow, increase, and purify. Technically, it’s a set share of wealth given to specific groups. What I loved: Zakah isn’t just a “tax.” Tax is for profit or income. Zakah is for spiritual purification and social responsibility. It cleanses my wealth and my heart from greed.

3. Zakah vs Sadaqah

- Zakah: Compulsory, structured, specific recipients, specific amount/time.

- Sadaqah: Recommended, flexible, any amount, any time, any act of giving.

But both are known as sadaqah in the Quran. The ayah in Surah At-Tawbah 60 listed 8 groups who deserve zakah. It’s so organized - not random giving.

4. The Two Big Virtues: Tawakkul & Ukhuwwah

Tawakkul - Trust in Allah

Giving zakah shows I don’t depend on my wealth. I trust that Allah is Ar-Razzaq, the Provider. Whatever I give for His sake, He will replace, increase, and multiply it. “Whatever you spend in charity, He will compensate you.” [Saba’ 39]. It made me reflect: do I hold onto money because I’m scared of not having enough? Zakah trains me to let go and trust Allah more.

Ukhuwwah - Brotherhood

Zakah builds bonds between Muslims. It reduces selfishness and reminds me that my wealth isn’t just for me. “The believers are but one brotherhood.” [Al-Hujurat 10]. When I give, I’m caring for my brother/sister who’s struggling. It creates harmony, empathy, and unity in the community.

The idea that zakah connects vertical and horizontal relationships.

-Vertical: Between me and Allah. I obey His command and feel peace.

-Horizontal: Between me and people. I care for the needy and strengthen the ummah.

So zakah is both worship and social action. That’s beautiful.

I’ve never really thought about zakah as training my tawakkul. I give when I remember, but I don’t always do it with the intention of trusting Allah more. I also need to be more aware of people around me who might need help.

I’ll check if I’m due for zakah this year, and if not, I’ll make it a habit to give small sadaqah weekly. Even RM5, with the intention of building trust in Allah and caring for others.

Ya Allah, purify my wealth and my heart. Make me generous, make me trust You fully, and make me someone who strengthens the bond of brotherhood in the ummah. Ameen.

Sr. Aqilah kept it simple but meaningful. She focused on two main virtues: Tadhiyyah and Taqwa, and linked them back to the stories of Prophet Ibrahim AS and the Quran. It felt reflective, like she wanted us to see the heart behind the actions.

1. Tadhiyyah

This is tied to the animal sacrifice in Hajj Tamattu’ and Hajj Qiran. The verse reminds us that sacrifice becomes mandatory when we combine Hajj and Umrah.

What hit me was the origin: it comes from Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son solely for Allah’s command.

It’s not about the meat or blood — it’s about submission and obedience. Sometimes I hold back from sacrificing my time, comfort, or desires for Allah. This reminded me that true sacrifice is done with sincerity.

2. Taqwa

Provision for Hajj/Umrah is important, but the greatest provision is taqwa.

Allah says in Surah Al-Hajj 22:37: “Neither their meat nor blood reaches Allah. Rather, it is your piety that reaches Him.”

So the goal isn’t the ritual itself, but whether my heart is conscious of Allah, sincere, and righteous in intention.

This made me realize that even outside Hajj, every act of worship should be checked for sincerity.

The line: “Allah does not count the amount of meat or blood, but He looks at your piety and sincerity.”

It reminded me that Allah doesn’t need my deeds — I need them. What matters is the state of my heart when I do them.

I often focus on doing things outwardly — completing tasks, attending programs, praying on time. But I don’t always check if my intention is purely for Allah. I also realized I’m sometimes stingy with sacrifice, even when it comes to small things like waking up for Fajr or spending time helping others.

Before doing any act of worship or good deed, I’ll pause and renew my intention: “Ya Allah, this is for You alone.”

I’ll also try to give up one small comfort this week as a practice of sacrifice, even if it’s just limiting phone time.

Ya Allah, grant me a sincere heart in every act I do. Make me among those who have taqwa, and give me the strength to sacrifice for Your sake without hesitation. Ameen.

Alhamdulillah, that’s exactly what I got.

Week 1 – Hikmah: I learned that knowledge without action is empty. It made me check my niyyah in everything I do.

Week 2 – Hikmah of Ibadah: I saw that every ibadah has wisdom behind it. Salah, sawm, zakah, hajj - all of it is training for my heart and character.

Week 3 – Khusyu’ & Preparation: I realized my salah feels empty because I rush. Preparing well and understanding what I say changes everything.

Week 4 – Virtues in Salah with Khushu’: Salah isn’t just movement. It builds submission, jihad against my nafs, muhasabah, ‘iffah, and tawadu’.

Week 5 – Fasting & Its Virtues: Fasting isn’t just about hunger. It trains taqwa, sabr, and empathy. I need to guard more than just my stomach.

Week 6 – Zakah & Sadaqah: Zakah taught me tawakkul and ukhuwwah. It’s not losing money, it’s purifying my heart and strengthening the ummah.

Each week felt like a layer being peeled off. I came for knowledge, but I left with reminders that hit my heart. The atmosphere Sr. Aqilah created. It never felt like a lecture. It felt like a safe space where we could learn, reflect, and grow together. The way you reminded us that usrah is a family walking to Jannah together really stuck with me. For the first time, I felt like I wasn’t doing this journey alone.

I wish this usrah could go on longer, honestly. 7 weeks feels too short when you finally start to feel comfortable and connected. I wish we could have more time for sharing and muhasabah together, not just notes and slides. Maybe even a small offline gathering if possible, so we can strengthen the ukhuwwah we keep talking about.

First of all, thank you. Your gentleness and sincerity made it easy to listen and reflect. If I could suggest one thing: maybe add a 5-10 min slot for us to share one personal reflection or struggle related to the topic each week. Even if it’s just 1-2 people. I think it’ll make the lessons feel more alive and help us support each other better. Also, maybe share small daily reminders or du’a in the group between sessions. Sometimes the motivation fades during the week, and a simple message would help keep us connected.

Ya Allah, accept our usrah and make it a means for us to get closer to You. Keep our hearts firm, purify our intentions, and let us meet again in Jannah. Ameen.

And Ya Allah, reward Sr. Aqilah immensely for her effort, sincerity, and patience with us. Make her a means of guidance for many more.