!أهلا وسهلا ومرحبا بكم

They say, a tree is known by its fruit and a group by its usrah. To know a tree, you must know it's roots. Allow me, to share a little of the soil which I've grown

• NAME: AFIAH NABILA

• AGE: 19

• COURSE: BAR

• MATRIC NUMBER: 250236

• MAHALLAH: FATIMAH AZ-ZAHRA

• CONTACT NO: 01111786598

• HOMETOWN: PASIR GUDANG, JOHOR

• SECONDARY SCHOOL: SMK DESA CEMPAKA

• E-MAIL: afiah.nn@student.iium.edu.my

• INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT: @http.blurh

• USRAH GROUP: 69

• NAQIBAH: SR. FATIHAH

• HOBBIES:

#READING COMICS AND NOVELS

#DRAWING / SKETCHING

#ANIMATING

#CROCHETING

#LEARNING FOREIGN LANGUAGES

#STREAMING
FOREIGN DRAMAS / MOVIES 
CHINESE
TURKISH
KOREAN
THAILAND
INDONESIAN

#MY FAV MOVIES GENRE
*ACTION
*ANIMATION
*ROM-COM
*THRILLER
*HORROR
*FANTASY

بسم الله

السلام عليكم يا ايها الناس! بارك الله فيكم جامعا

For our first usrah task, our naqibah, the wonderful Sr. Fatihah gave our group Aisyah, Siti, Adlina and myself a task that felt less like an assignment and more like an invitation to reflect.

We were asked to explore a beautiful topic: “Why do we need to study to improve our ‘amal (deeds)?” We decided to create a poster, hoping to visually plant this idea in our hearts.

MY TASK:

As I look back on it now, I wanted to share my task for this role play. I was assigned to search for hadith that related to this topic. On week 5th, my team and I presented the poster we edited together to our usrah members and naqibah.

so for usrah this week, each of us were distributed into five groups and we were asked to choose random colour which will be our topic for presentation.

I was given the chance to pick between green and yellow, luckily I chose yellow and we got fasting as our topic over other pillars of Islam.

Firstly, we discussed among us about the contents related to fasting. Then, we begin researching some references on google scholar. My task was searching for dalil that stated Allah's command to humankind about fasting.

the presentation begin with sr. Siti giving brief introduction for the real meaning behind fasting also adding in some terms and regulation we need to follow during fasting. Then, continued with Sr. Aisyah explaining types of fasting in Islam. Next, I recite Surah Al-Baqarah, juz 1, verse 183 and explaining it's tafseer to the usrah members. Lastly, Sr. Adlina closed our presentation by highlighting a story about the hardship that The previous Sahabah R.A went through during the early days of Islam just to fulfil Allah's command wholeheartedly.

As being shown in the poster above these, are my brief summaries regarding today's topic:

Reflection on the Adab of Seeking Knowledge
In my studies, I aim to embody the holistic concept of adab (etiquette) in seeking knowledge. This means combining practical discipline like preparation, note-taking, and consistent review with a purified inner intention (niyyah).

The core principle that guides me is a hadith stating that "whoever travels a path for knowledge, Allah will ease their path to Paradise". Therefore, my ultimate goal is not just academic success, but to use knowledge as a means to draw closer to my Creator.

INTRO; Adab is a barakah, which means everything that we do there're blessing in it.

• OUTWARD MANNERS

1. REPEAT AND REVIEW :

   we need to normalise this adab in our life as it will increase our understanding regarding the topic that we had learned and avoid us from having a hard time to recall it in the future.

2. TAKE NOTES :

   by taking notes, we could actually see how much we understand and where else should we focus more to fully grab the topic in our hands. moreover, there are several useful ways to make our notes memorable and eye luring. for instance, mind mapping, higlighting, comics, acronyms and ring-notes.

3. ASK :

   normalising asking questions, would actually shown to the lecturers and those around us that we are passionate in that topic and we're eager to learn more. the lecturers will know that we concentrate in their lectures.

4. EXTRA READING :

   as we grow older, we shouldn't solely relly on textbooks. we should grab the chance living in advance era, where refrences and knowledges could be access anywhere and anytime without hindrance, by using the right sources such as Google Scholar, Thurath, Maktabah Syamilah and Maktabah Nur to become a wise and knowledgable ummah.

5. PREPARE FOR CLASS :

   preparing for class would save much time for us later since we had read,learned and revised the topics before others. we could also go straight to the points that're still blurry to us. this is totally such an advantage that students usually take easy about.

• INWARD MANNERS

1. INTENTION :

   For us student, niyyah is the spiritual engine behind our education. It means consciously dedicating the effort of seeking knowledge to Allah. Attending lectures, studying for exams, and completing assignments become acts of worship (ibadah), earning divine reward, when done with the intention to learn and better oneself in a way that pleases Allah. Also, when studies become difficult, remembering that the struggle is for Allah's pleasure provides spiritual strength and perseverance that goes beyond mere academic pressure.

2. DEFIENED GOAL :

   defined goal is the compass that guides their educational journey, ensuring it remains aligned with Islamic principles. Without a clear goal, it's easy to get lost in the sheer volume of information or choose courses based on ease rather than benefit. A defined goal helps us select subjects and specializations that are truly beneficial. Moreover, the ultimate defined goal for a Muslim student is to seek knowledge as a form of worship that leads to Allah's pleasure and Paradise. This overarching intention frames all smaller academic goals, ensuring their education is an investment in both this world and the next.

3. VENERATION :

   as students, veneration is the inner attitude that shapes how we approach every aspect of our education. It transforms our conduct from mere compliance to heartfelt respect. Veneration for the lecturers means showing exemplary classroom manners like listening attentively, not interrupting, speaking to instructors with respect, and being grateful for their effort and time. It is recognizing the teacher as a conduit of knowledge and a means of Allah's blessing. In essence, veneration ensures that a student's pursuit of knowledge is carried out with excellence (ihsan) and dignity.

4. MANNERS :

   manners are the respectful conduct that accompanies the seeker of knowledge. For students, this means showing utmost respect for lecturers by listening attentively and speaking politely. It extends to caring for learning materials and treating classmates with kindness and cooperation. Ultimately, these outward actions reflect an inner reverence for the sacredness of knowledge itself. Practicing good manners transforms the entire educational experience into an act of worship.

5. CONSISTENCY :

Consistency is known as the disciplined commitment to regular, steady effort in seeking knowledge. This means, establishing a sustainable study routine rather than relying on last-minute cramming. This steady pace is a more effective way to deeply understand and retain complex information. The Prophet (pbuh) loved deeds that were done consistently, even if they were small. Therefore, in a our life, consistency transforms the pursuit of knowledge into a continuous, rewarded act of worship.

this week's topic would be none other than pillars of iman.

• THE PILLARS OF IMAN (Faith)

  provide the foundational beliefs that shape my worldview as a student.

1. BELIEF IN ALLAH:

   grounds me, reminding me that my pursuit of knowledge is ultimately to understand His creation and fulfill my purpose.

2. BELIEF IN MALAIKAH (Angels) :

   including those who record our deeds, inspires academic integrity and mindfulness in all my actions, knowing that nothing goes unseen.

3. BELIEF IN KUTUB (Divine Books) :

   especially the Quran, establishes it as my ultimate guide and source of truth, encouraging me to seek knowledge that aligns with divine principles.

   
   

This holistic belief system fosters a balanced life where my academic pursuits are continuously connected to my faith, ensuring I remain ethical, purposeful, and conscious of the greater reality beyond my studies.

we're going to continue where we left last week by finishing the rest of pillars in the Pillars of Iman.

Here are the final three Pillars of Iman complete a Muslim student's spiritual and intellectual framework.

• THE PILLARS OF IMAN

1. BELIEF IN RUSUL (Messengers) :

   provides us with perfect role models of perseverance, patience, and the pursuit of knowledge, inspiring us to overcome academic challenges.

   
   

2. BELIEF IN YAWM AL-QIYAMAH (the Last Day) :

   instills a profound sense of accountability, transforming every academic effort into an investment for the hereafter and motivating us to use our knowledge responsibly.

   
   

3. BELIEF IN AL-QADAR (Divine Decree) :

   teaches acceptance and resilience; it means trusting Allah's plan when facing a difficult exam or an unexpected grade, while still putting in our very best effort. Together, these beliefs provide a lens of eternity, purpose, and trust in divine wisdom that guides every step of the educational journey.

The Quran is the ultimate book of guidance, providing direction for every aspect of life, including my journey as a student. My approach to engaging with it is rooted in deep respect, known as Adab.

This begins with physical and spiritual preparation, such as being in a state of wudhu (ablution) and choosing a clean, respectful place to sit. I handle the Quran with care, ensuring it is placed on a raised surface with nothing on top of it.

When reciting, I focus on pronouncing each letter correctly, reading at a calm pace, and with a melodious tone to reflect its beauty.

The ultimate goal is to seek guidance and understand my position as a creation of Allah with responsibilities. I use reliable translations and resources to aid my understanding. Most importantly, I strive to make connecting with the Quran a consistent daily practice, ensuring no day passes without reflecting upon its pages, as it is my source of spiritual and intellectual nourishment.

KHalifah . Amanah . Iqra . Rahmatan lil alamin

AMANAH

The story of the meeting between Prophet Musa AS and Prophet Khidir AS, rebuked by Allah SWT for feeling the most pious

Surah Al-Kahf (verse 61-82)

Moral of the story:

1. Never assume you are the most knowledgeable person. Prophet Musa (AS), a great Prophet and recipient of divine law, was corrected by Allah for this. This teaches us that knowledge is an vast ocean, and our understanding is merely a drop. As a student, we are surrounded by brilliant professors and peers from diverse backgrounds. This story teaches us to:

   • Approach every class and person with humility.

   • Be open to learning from others, regardless of their age, status, or field of study.

   • Remember that true knowledge makes a person more humble, not arrogant.

2. Appearances can be deceptive. What seems like a bad action (damaging a boat, killing a child, helping ungrateful people) had a profound, hidden wisdom known only to Allah and revealed to Khidir through divine inspiration (Ilm Ladunni). We will face situations that are confusing or seem unfair such as a difficult grade, a challenging group member, a personal setback. This story teaches us to:

   • Trust in Allah's plan (Tawakkul).

   • Understand that there is a Hikmah (wisdom) behind every event that you may not comprehend immediately.

   • Be patient and avoid making rash judgments about people or situations.

3. True learning requires patience and trust in the teacher's methodology. Musa (AS) failed because he judged the actions based on his immediate, surface level understanding rather than trusting the process. Our academic journey is similar. We must:

• Trust the curriculum and the wisdom of your teachers, even when you don't see the immediate relevance of a subject.

• Be patient with yourself when you struggle to understand a complex topic. Knowledge is acquired gradually.

  4. Prophet Musa (AS) applied the general divine law (Shari'ah) he knew to judge specific, exceptional situations. Khidir's actions were based on a specific, direct command from Allah for that particular context. This shows that while we follow the general rules, we must accept that Allah's wisdom can decree exceptions beyond our human understanding.

This is crucial for developing intellectual maturity. It teaches you to:

• Hold your religious convictions firmly, but also acknowledge the depth and complexity of Islamic jurisprudence.

• Be cautious in judging others, as you may not know the full story or the divine wisdom behind their circumstances.

• Engage in inter-faith and intra-faith dialogues with wisdom and respect, understanding that knowledge has many layers.

  5. Prophet Musa (AS) undertook a long, arduous journey to seek knowledge, demonstrating that valuable knowledge requires effort, sacrifice, and a sincere intention. We are on our own knowledge-seeking journey. This story inspires us to:

Value the opportunity to study at IIUM as a blessing and a form of worship (ibadah).

• Be proactive in seeking knowledge beyond the classroom,in libraries, from scholars, and through discussions.

Even though the duration for usrah in semester one just 6 weeks, I've learned a lot by participating in usrah meeting.

I can't wait to join another usrah soon!

• movies streaming related to the topic for weekly usrah.

• quiz sessions, games or interactive activities to keep usrah members stay focus while enjoying the usrah.

I belief that by doing those exciting activities surely would make usrah much more memorable and students always enlightened to attend usrah weekly.

I hope that my suggestion would be considered.

This pursuit is intrinsically linked to Eschatology the belief in the Hereafter. Our faith in the Day of Judgment, Paradise, and Hell provides the ultimate purpose for this excellence, as our deeds in this temporary world are recorded for eternal compensation. Therefore, embodying Ihsan is not just self-improvement but it is the active preparation for your final destination, ensuring that our student life becomes a means to attain Allah's pleasure and the ultimate success in the Hereafter.

• Trust

• Resilience

• Unexpected obstacles

• Seeking genuine guidance/knowledge

• Thoughtful engagement

• Leading

• Empathy

• Accountability

• Dedication

• Ethics

• Respect

• Sustainability

1. We are a Khalifah : Our primary identity is as Allah's representative on earth. Our education is not just for a career, but a trust (amanah) to gain the knowledge and skills to serve and improve the world responsibly.

2. Knowledge is our Core Mission: The angels' question, "Will You place therein one who will cause corruption...?" highlights the potential for harm. Allah's response, "I know that which you do not know," establishes that humans were created with unique capacities for knowledge and wisdom that even angels were unaware of. As a student, our pursuit of knowledge is a divine mission to fulfill this potential.

3. Carry Your Trust with Responsibility: The title of Khalifah is a heavy responsibility, not a privilege. This means acting with integrity in our studies, avoiding plagiarism, and using our knowledge ethically, not for corruption or arrogance.

4. Integrate Revelation and Knowledge: IIUM's motto of "The Garden of Knowledge and Virtue" reflects this verse. True knowledge combines revealed knowledge (from the Quran and Sunnah) and acquired worldly sciences, guiding us to use both for righteous purposes.

5. Strive to be a Mercy: Our goal as a student and future graduate is to be a source of good (Rahmatan lil 'Alamin), using our expertise to solve problems, promote justice, and benefit humanity, countering the corruption the angels feared.

By internalizing this, our academic journey at IIUM becomes an act of worship, fulfilling our role as a knowledgeable and responsible Khalifah on Earth.

May we always be under Allah's blessing and protection, amin.

Alhamdulillah, thanks to Allah S.W.T we get to meet again in usrah two with new spirits and energy better than before!

for those who don't know me before, allow me to do a brief intro about myself.

• NAME: AFIAH NABILA

• COURSE: BAR

• MATRIC NUMBER: 250236

• MAHALLAH: FATIMAH AZ-ZAHRA

• CONTACT NO: 01111786598

• HOMETOWN: PASIR GUDANG, JOHOR

• SECONDARY SCHOOL: SMK DESA CEMPAKA

• E-MAIL: afiah.nn@student.iium.edu.my

• INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT: @http.blurh

• USRAH GROUP: 55

• NAQIBAH: SR. BAITI

• HOBBIES:

  #READING COMICS AND NOVELS

  #DRAWING / SKETCHING

  #ANIMATING

  #CROCHETING
  
  #LEARNING FOREIGN LANGUAGES
  
  #STREAMING
  FOREIGN DRAMAS / MOVIES 
  CHINESE
  TURKISH
  KOREAN
  THAILAND
  INDONESIAN
  
  #MY FAV MOVIES GENRE
  *ACTION
  *ANIMATION
  *ROM-COM
  *THRILLER
  *HORROR
  *FANTASY

Moving on, our naqibah broke the ice between us with a thrilled game well known as "two truths one lie"

In this game, usrah members were divided into groups randomly. Each groups had four members from different courses. We were asked to jot down two truths and a lie related to ourselves. What makes this game more fascinating was we need to guess which was the truth statement out of the three that was given from the members. (since the truth need to be concealed and kept from other members)

Unexpectedly, my friend and I won the 1st round faster than other groups that still playing at that time. Therefore, we decided to chit chat while waiting for others to finish playing. During that time, we got to exchange more interests and gain new knowledges among us.

Next, we were called for the 2nd round but this time the group consists four members including me and my friends and the other two members were the winner of the 1st round from other group.

This round was hilarious since it had unexpected twists and tricks from each of us. (We need to make the statement much more challenging). Even though I lose in this round, I was delighted to see the competitive sides from each members. This game truly created a cherished moment in my usrah journey, one that brought lasting joy and meaning.

Hopefully, there will be more exciting games conducted in the future!

Even though Pahang was hit with heavy rains and flood, it doesn't wash away our spirits to have usrah as always.

Through online meeting, we started the usrah by reciting Al Fatihah and prayer.

Sr Baiti presented this music video to give a brief intro about Pillars of Islam. Then, we had an open sharing session with us about our view regarding Pillars of Islam. This are some views shared from our usrah members:

Pillars of Islam (Syahadah, Prayer, Fasting, Zakat, Haji)

1. Syahadah

2. Prayer

When life feels like it's not going right, anxious. We have to reflect on our prayers

In the time of the Prophet, there was a friend who always prayed at night but during the day he still stole

-prayer prevents evil but also takes time.

Prayer must be done properly, if there is something incomplete (not khusyu) then evil cannot be prevented

-prayer is the totality of worship

3. Fasting - not allowed to eat and drink

4. Zakat - purify wealth

5. Hajj - circumambulate the Kaaba

Even prayer

not allowed to eat and drink

Purify yourself

Sharing session

• Fasting in the month of Ramadan

• 29/30 days

• Not just refraining from eating and drinking

• Allah tells us to be patient with calamities

• Hungry times are more testing. Obey Allah, resist lust, remember Allah more

Fasting

• Gives the stomach a break

• Deactivates cancer cells

• Prayer

• Prayer

• Zakat

• Cleanses the heart from greed and stinginess

• Maybe wealth becomes more of a blessing

• Can help people in need

• Help people eat, daily assistance

• Feel satisfied because you can help others

• Hajj

• We do it to manifest ourselves to Allah

• We do it because Allah tells us to

The pillars of Islam are our guide to becoming true Muslims

Usrah member were divided into four groups and each group need to choose one member to guess the word on her head. My group consist of four members which were me, Aquilla, Fatin and Alesha. We chose Sr Fatin to guess the word meanwhile, the rest of us would do the charades.

Our words were "Preparation" and "Makruh". It was hard for her to guess the word "Preparation" but she nailed the next word which was "Makruh". For me, this session was filled with burst of laughters and knowledge at the same time. Without hesitation, this is truly a great way to have fun between members.

Later on, each group had to revealed their words and guessed this week topic. After trials of guessing, a Sr managed to guessed "Khushu'" which match with the main topic of this week, "PREPARATION OF SALAH WITH KHUSHU'".

As usual, for the closure of the day, our Naqibah Sr Baiti asked a representative from each group to give conclusion and ibrah related with our given words.

Sr Aquilla represented us by saying this:

PREPARATION: We must prepare ourselves physically,mantally and spiritually before prayer. It's better for us to finish trivial affairs such as eating, showering or sleeping to not distract our mind later in our prayer.

MAKRUH: Based on an article published by Mufti Of Federal Territory's Office, they are inclined towards the opinion presented by Imam al-Nawawi and the majority of scholars stating that prayer without khusyu’ is valid.

However, it is makruh if someone commits actions that could prevent him from attaining khusyu’, such as moving too much, thinking about other things and others. Furthermore, praying without khusyu’ decreases the rewards of the prayer performed.

They are not denying the opinion that obligates khusyu’ in prayer for it has a strong basis. Imam Ibn al-Qayyim said:

صَلَاةُ المُنَافِقِينَ صَلَاةُ أَبْدَان، لَا صَلَاة قُلُوب

“The prayer of the hypocrites (munafiq) is just in their actions, not in their hearts.” See Madaarij Al-Saalikin, Ibn al-Qayyim (1/354).

Let us establish our prayer with khusyu’ and reflect on the meanings of the recitations, so that our prayer will not only be in our actions and movements but an act from the focus, humility, humbleness and submission of Allah SWT in front of Him. We pray that Allah SWT gives us all the ability to attain khusyu’ in prayer and may He accept all our worships.

Virtues found in Salah with Khushu' for 30 minutes by our naqibah, Sr Baiti.

Virtues Found In Prayer:

1. OBEDIENCE

• Muslim must follow what Allah has commanded in surah Al-Mukminun, verse 2 (khusyu in prayer).

2. IFFAH (PURITY)

• To purify yourself meaningfully, focus on both physical cleanliness and spiritual purity. Such as the inner transformation of your thoughts, intentions, and actions.

• Ultimately, true purification is not about appearance, but becoming a continuous, intentional effort to align your inner being with divine truth and love

  
  

3. TAWADHU' (HUMILITY)

• Tawadhu’ is the essence of true worship by recognizing your complete dependence on Allah and surrendering your ego during prayer.

• Visualize yourself as nothing compared to Allah. When you ruku’ and sujud, let your body and soul express this reality: you are not here to show off, but to submit.

4. JIHAD (FIGHTING LUST)

Jihad al-Nafs (the struggle against the self) is a core Islamic concept that involves actively resisting desires that distract from spiritual growth.

• Focus on higher purpose by redirecting your thoughts from trivial or worldly distractions by reminding yourself that this life is a temporary test and the hereafter is the true goal.

• Avoid engaging with the thought by not dwelling on or analyze the thought since this gives it power. Instead, ignore it completely.

5. MUHASABAH (SELF-REFLECTION)

Learning about your shortcomings, to improve yourself so that you can reach the level of khusyu like the prophets.

Then, we were assigned to act out a skit related to people who are khusyu in prayer

Also, the skit must contain effects, lessons and values ​​based on what was briefed at the beginning of the usrah.

Hereby, I attach my group skit regading the task for this week.

1. The main objective for this 30 minutes session was to motivate others by exchanging advices, motivations, stories and hopes between us.

2. Not to worry, after we return the memo pads it will be spread out randomly between us so that the motivation session could be done without revealing oursleves since we didn't write our names there.

3. We took this as a chance to learn new things and open our perspectives form others point of views in life.

For me, this session healed my disoriented mind & gave me strength to keep going on in my life and endure my hardship with patience and rationality.

Then, Sr Baiti continued our usrah with this week topic which is FASTING AND IT'S VIRTUES.

These were the summary I made from her brief explanation:

• Fasting is a shape of worship to gain Allah's pleasure.

• Furthermore, fasting during the holy month of Ramadan would multiply the reward on our daily Ibadah practice.

• Moreover, there are some fun facts related with fasting I'm sure we had heard of such as letting our stomach rests from digesting food, cleanses the intestines and kills cancer cells.

Usrah member were divided based on Role-play group that were given previously. To make this explorace more appealing, we must record videos of us solving the missions at every checkpoints.

Each checkpoints contains the virtues found in Sadaqah and Zakah which was Adil, Ikhlas, Amanah, Ukhuwah, Redho' and Trust.

The missions at each checkpoints always relate with the virtues paste near it.

1. ADIL: We must divide the snack provided fairly & justly between our group members.

2. IKHLAS: Based on the money we had at that time, we must be sincere in giving out Friday Sadaqah to two persons without being petty about it.

3. AMANAH: This time we played "Radio Rosak" to guess the word charades by the first person.

4. UKHUWAH: We must used 10 pink papers provided to build a solid bridge that could hold two thick books. (We were allowed to used our own stationaries as aditions)

5. REDHO': Each group were given three chances to throw the pens in the cup. If the mission failed, we have to Redho' and move onn.

6. TRUST: Two members from each group were blindfolded and the rest have to guide them without any sound or voices until they reached the finishing point.

We ended our usrah with Reflection and Ibrah session gave by the usrah members.

Here were some of the Ibrah mentioned by them:

• By giving Zakah, it could help other muslims that in need of aids and supports which would strengthen the ukhuwah among the muslims.

• Zakah also teached us that the property we had is an amanah from Allah towards us. Therefore, we must to spend it wisely with honesty and giving Zakah is one of the way to do it.

Usrah Assistant Review: Sr Baiti is someone who filled with creativity and suprises. As I stated before, her fascinating gameplays and activities made me eager and high-spirited to come for usrah every week.

Usrah Members Review: Everyone were friendly, supportive and easy going which had make it easier for us to be closer in a short time. In my opininion, the distribution of Usrah Members was done really well because I could get to know others from different courses in a very nice way.

What had I gained & my feelings from this usrah?:

First and foremost, this usrah had unlock new knowledges even though the topics seem basic and simple in our daily life. Not to forget, I don't feel lazy or demotivated at all after every Usrah Session. Yet, it left me with happiness, reminders and motivation to go through my study journey in CFS.

We were asked to explore a beautiful topic: “Why do we need to Khushu' in our Salah?” We decided to create a poster, hoping to visually plant this idea in our hearts.

MY TASK:

As I look back on it now, I wanted to share my task for this role play. I was assigned to search for Quran verses that related to this topic. On week 5th, my team and I presented the poster we edited together to our usrah members and naqibah.