•    Surah An-Nisa (4:86) states:

    “When you are greeted with a greeting, respond with a better greeting or (at least) return it (in the same manner). Surely, Allah takes account of everything.”

    •    This verse teaches good manners (adab) in greetings, emphasizing the importance of responding to a salaam (Islamic greeting) with equal or better words to promote kindness, respect, and brotherhood among Muslims.

Importance of Adab (Good Manners)

    •    Adab reflects a person’s character and faith, making society more peaceful and respectful.

    •    The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized adab as part of Islamic teachings, saying, “The best among you are those who have the best manners.” (Bukhari & Muslim).

    •    Good manners strengthen relationships, prevent conflicts, and bring barakah (blessings) in life.

Al-Qur’an as a Book of Guidance

    •    The Qur’an is the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims, providing laws, wisdom, and moral teachings to lead a righteous life.

    •    It is described as “a light, a mercy, and a reminder” (Surah Al-An’am 6:157) that helps believers distinguish between right and wrong.

    •    The Qur’an covers faith (aqidah), laws (shariah), history, and the purpose of life, ensuring guidance for every aspect of human existence.

Ways to Interact with the Qur’an

    1.    Recite Regularly – Read the Qur’an daily to strengthen faith and gain spiritual rewards.

    2.    Understand the Meaning – Study translations and tafsir (exegesis) to grasp its teachings.

    3.    Reflect on Verses – Think deeply about how Qur’anic teachings apply to daily life.

    4.    Implement Its Teachings – Follow the moral and ethical values taught in the Qur’an.

    5.    Teach Others – Share knowledge of the Qur’an with family, friends, and the community.

    6.    Listen with Respect – Pay attention when the Qur’an is recited, as commanded in Surah Al-A’raf (7:204).

    7.    Seek Guidance Through Du’a – Ask Allah for understanding and wisdom when reading the Qur’an.

• Hadith Jibril is one of the most important hadiths in Islam, narrated by Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA).

• One day, the Angel Jibril (Gabriel) appeared in the form of a man and asked the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) about Islam, Iman (faith), Ihsan (spiritual excellence), the signs of the Day of Judgment, and destiny (Qadar).

• The Prophet (ﷺ) answered:

1. Islam – The five pillars: Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), Hajj (pilgrimage).

2. Iman – Belief in Allah, angels, books, prophets, the Day of Judgment, and divine destiny (Qadar).

3. Ihsan – Worshiping Allah as if you see Him, knowing He sees you.

4. Signs of the Day of Judgment – The rise of immorality, social corruption, and major global changes.

• After Jibril left, the Prophet (ﷺ) told his companions, “That was Jibril; he came to teach you your religion.”

• This hadith defines the core beliefs and practices of Islam and is considered foundational in Islamic teachings.

What is Islam?

• Islam means submission to Allah by following His commands and avoiding what He forbids.

• It is based on Tawhid (oneness of God), obedience, and good character.

• Islam is guided by the Qur’an and Sunnah, shaping a believer’s life in worship, morality, and social responsibilities.

• A Muslim must believe in the six articles of faith and practice the five pillars of Islam.

Understanding Surah Al-Baqarah (2:284-286)

Verse 284 – Allah’s Sovereignty

“To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and the earth. Whether you show what is in your hearts or hide it, Allah will call you to account for it. Then He will forgive whom He wills and punish whom He wills. And Allah has power over all things.”

• Lesson: Allah knows everything, including our thoughts and intentions, so we must strive for sincerity and righteousness.

Verse 285 – The Believers’ Faith

“The Messenger believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, as do the believers. They all believe in Allah, His angels, His books, and His messengers, saying, ‘We make no distinction between any of His messengers.’ And they say, ‘We hear and we obey. (Grant us) Your forgiveness, our Lord. To You is the final return.’”

• Lesson: True believers accept all of Allah’s revelations and prophets, and they seek forgiveness while submitting fully to His commands.

Verse 286 – A Prayer for Ease

“Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear. It will have whatever (good) it has gained, and it will bear (the consequence of) what it has earned. (The believers pray): ‘Our Lord, do not take us to account if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord, do not place a burden on us as You placed on those before us. Our Lord, do not make us bear what we cannot. Pardon us, forgive us, and have mercy on us. You are our Protector, so help us against the disbelieving people.’”

• Lesson: Allah is merciful and does not give anyone hardships they cannot handle. This verse is a powerful supplication asking for Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and strength to face challenges.

Iman (faith) is the foundation of a Muslim’s belief. It consists of six pillars, which every Muslim must believe in wholeheartedly.

1. Belief in Allah (Tawhid) ☝️

• Muslims believe that Allah is the One and Only God, without partners or equals.

• He is the Creator, Sustainer, and Controller of everything in the universe.

• Allah has 99 beautiful names (Asma’ul Husna) that describe His perfect attributes, like Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) and Al-Wadud (The Most Loving).

2. Belief in Angels (Mala’ikah) 👼

• Angels are created from light and serve Allah by carrying out His commands.

• They do not eat, drink, sleep, or disobey Allah.

• Some important angels include:

• Jibril (Gabriel) – Brings Allah’s revelations to prophets. 📜

• Mikail (Michael) – Controls weather and sustenance. ☁️

• Israfil – Blows the trumpet on the Day of Judgment. 🎺

• Malik & Ridwan – Guardians of Hell and Paradise. 🔥🌿

• Munkar & Nakir – Question the dead in the grave. ⚰️

3. Belief in Divine Books 📖

• Allah sent holy books to guide people towards righteousness.

• The four main books revealed to the prophets are:

• Tawrat (Torah) – Given to Prophet Musa (Moses).

• Zabur (Psalms) – Given to Prophet Dawud (David).

• Injil (Gospel) – Given to Prophet Isa (Jesus).

• Qur’an – The final and unchanged book, given to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

• The Qur’an is the ultimate guidance, as previous scriptures were altered over time.

• Allah sent prophets to guide people and spread His message.

• There are 25 prophets mentioned in the Qur’an, but 124,000 were sent throughout history.

• All prophets preached Tawhid (oneness of Allah) and taught people how to live righteously.

• Some major prophets include:

• Adam – The first human and prophet. 🏡

• Nuh (Noah) – Built the ark during the great flood. ⛵

• Ibrahim (Abraham) – Known for his strong faith and building the Kaaba. 🕋

• Musa (Moses) – Led the Israelites and received the Torah. 🌊

• Isa (Jesus) – Performed miracles and was given the Gospel. ✨

• Muhammad (ﷺ) – The final prophet and the “Seal of the Prophets.” 🌟

5. Belief in the Day of Judgment (Qiyamah) ⚖️

• One day, the world will end, and everyone will be resurrected for judgment.

• Every person’s deeds (good and bad) will be weighed on the Mizan (Scale of Justice). ⚖️

• People will either go to:

• Jannah (Paradise) 🌿 – Eternal happiness for the righteous.

• Jahannam (Hell) 🔥 – Punishment for the disbelievers and wrongdoers.

• This belief encourages Muslims to do good, seek forgiveness, and prepare for the afterlife.

6. Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree) ✨

• Everything happens according to Allah’s divine plan (Qadar).

• There are four aspects of Qadar:

1. Allah’s Knowledge – He knows everything past, present, and future.

2. Allah’s Writing – Everything is recorded in Al-Lawh Al-Mahfuz (Preserved Tablet). 📜

3. Allah’s Will – Nothing happens unless Allah wills it.

4. Allah’s Creation – He created everything, including human actions.

• This belief teaches Muslims to trust Allah, be patient, and accept life’s ups and downs.

Conclusion 🌟

The Six Pillars of Iman define a Muslim’s faith and connection with Allah. Believing in them strengthens Tawhid (oneness of God), good character, and the understanding of life’s purpose.

Islamic eschatology is the study of future events in Islam, such as the Day of Judgment and the destruction of the universe. It's based on the Quran and Sunnah.

What does Islamic eschatology include?

• Signs of the end times
The emergence of the Dajjal (Anti-Christ), the descent of Jesus, and the rising of the sun from the west 






• The Mahdi
The Mahdi will rid the world of injustice and tyranny, and eventually kill the Dajjal 






• The 12th Imam
A hidden Imam will emerge to lead Muslims in a final conflict against Israel 






• The return of Jesus
Jesus will come again, defeat the Anti-Christ, and then die and be raised up 

Ihsan is an Arabic word that means "to do good", "to do something in the best possible way", or "to do beautiful things". In Islam, it's a concept that refers to the highest level of faith, after Islam and Iman (faith). 

How is ihsan practiced?

• Ihsan is a way of showing one's faith through actions and deeds. 


• It involves performing one's duties and responsibilities to the best of one's ability. 


• It involves a deep sense of sincerity and mindfulness in one's actions. 


• It involves striving for excellence in worship and in all of one's deeds. 


What does ihsan look like in practice? 

• Ihsan is manifested in treating people with good character.

• It involves fulfilling one's obligations to Allah and His creatures.

• It involves adding extra good works.

• It involves picking one good habit and sticking with it until it becomes routine. 




What are the differences between Islamic and biblical eschatology? 

• Islamic eschatology envisions a global caliphate where Western civilization is used to establish dominance and submission to Allah

• Western and Islamic eschatological beliefs clash, which can hinder peace in the Middle East

What is eschatology in general?

Eschatology is the doctrine of the last things, including the end of history, the resurrection of the dead, and the Last Judgment. 

Adab in Islam

• Adab refers to good manners, respect, and discipline in daily life, which Islam emphasizes as a way to build strong relationships and earn blessings (barakah) from Allah.

General Adab (Good Manners)

• We should always speak politely, act kindly, and be honest, as good manners reflect our character and earn the respect of others while creating a positive environment around us.

Adab Towards Parents

• We must respect, obey, and care for our parents because they have sacrificed for us, raised us with love, and guided us through life, so speaking gently, helping them in old age, and praying for them are ways to show gratitude.

Adab Towards Neighbours

• We should treat our neighbours with kindness and consideration, by greeting them, helping in times of need, and avoiding actions that cause disturbance, as Islam teaches us that a good neighbour brings peace and harmony to the community.

Adab Towards Society

• We must be responsible, honest, and helpful in our community, by following laws, keeping public places clean, and assisting those in need, as a well-mannered society ensures safety, fairness, and mutual respect among people.

Adab as a Student

• A student should respect teachers, seek knowledge sincerely, and be disciplined, because learning is a lifelong journey, and being humble, attentive, and hardworking will help in gaining wisdom and success in both this life and the hereafter.

Nature in General

• Nature refers to everything in the physical world, including plants, animals, water, air, and landscapes, which support life and maintain ecological balance.

• It provides food, air, water, and shelter, making it essential for human survival and well-being.

What Are Natural Disasters?

• Natural disasters are catastrophic events caused by natural forces that can lead to loss of life, destruction of property, and environmental damage.

• Examples include earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, hurricanes, landslides, and wildfires.

Impacts of Natural Disasters

1. Loss of Lives and Property – Many people lose their homes, belongings, and even their lives.

2. Economic Damage – Businesses, agriculture, and infrastructure are severely affected, leading to financial crises.

3. Environmental Destruction – Forests, water sources, and wildlife are harmed, leading to long-term ecological imbalance.

4. Health Issues – Spread of diseases due to polluted water, lack of clean food, and injuries from disasters.

5. Psychological Effects – Survivors often suffer from trauma, stress, and emotional distress.

Ways to Sustain the Environment and Nature

1. Reduce Pollution – Minimize waste, avoid plastic, and use eco-friendly products to keep air, water, and land clean.

2. Plant More Trees – Trees produce oxygen, improve air quality, and prevent soil erosion.

3. Save Water and Energy – Use water wisely, turn off lights when not needed, and rely on renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

4. Protect Wildlife – Avoid deforestation, hunting, and harming animals, as they are part of the ecosystem.

5. Recycle and Reuse – Reduce waste by recycling paper, plastic, and other materials to conserve natural resources.

6. Practice Sustainable Farming – Use natural fertilizers, avoid excessive pesticide use, and maintain soil fertility for future generations.

7. Raise Awareness – Educate others about the importance of nature conservation through schools, social media, and community programs.

Hikmah & Ibadah 🌟

• Hikmah means wisdom, understanding, and knowing how to follow Allah’s commands properly.

• Different scholars explain Hikmah in different ways:

• Ibn Abbas defines Hikmah as understanding and practicing knowledge.

• Imam Al-Ghazali describes Hikmah as the ability to make the right decisions according to Islamic teachings.

• All scholars agree that Hikmah is essential in Islam because it helps us apply knowledge correctly and live according to Allah’s guidance.

• When performing ibadah (worship), one can acquire Hikmah because ibadah involves inner qualities like humility, sincerity, and devotion.

• Ibadah is not just about physical actions but also about developing the heart and soul, which helps us grow wiser and closer to Allah

Objective of Hikmah 🎯

• To help one understand religion deeply and live life according to its teachings.

• To develop inner qualities such as patience, humility, and sincerity, which strengthen our character.

What I Learned This Week 📚

I learned that Hikmah means wisdom and knowing how to follow Allah’s commands. Different scholars explain it in different ways, but they all agree Hikmah is crucial in Islam. I also learned that we can gain Hikmah by doing ibadah with sincerity, patience, and humility.

My Personal Reflection 💭

I feel that I need to improve by being more focused in my worship and not rushing through it. I want to grow in Hikmah, so I can live a better and more meaningful life as a Muslim. I also hope we can talk more in Usrah sessions about how to use Hikmah practically in real life.

Definition of Niyyah 🎯

• Niyyah means the intention or motive behind an act, aiming to attain Allah’s reward and draw closer to Him (SWT).

• It is important because it helps us understand why we are doing something — whether it’s for Allah or other reasons.

• Without a proper niyyah, our actions may not be accepted by Allah (SWT).

Tips to Make Your Niyyah Right ✔️

• Be sincere — do it only for Allah (SWT), not to impress others.

• Keep your heart clean — avoid hidden reasons or selfish goals.

• Know what you’re doing — be clear about the act and its purpose.

• Stay focused — don’t let your mind wander while performing the act.

• Be steady — maintain the same good intention from start to finish.

Amal (Good Deeds) 🤲

• Amal means doing good actions like praying, giving charity, helping others, and following Islam.

• These actions show your love for Allah (SWT) and benefit your community.

How to Do Amal the Right Way 🌟

• Be sincere — do good deeds for Allah (SWT), not for praise.

• Be regular — try to do good deeds consistently, not just once in a while.

• Do your best — perform each good deed carefully and properly.

• Think before acting — make sure your action is truly good and helpful.

Ehsan (Excellence in Character) 💖

• Ehsan means having good qualities like kindness, honesty, humility, and patience.

• It’s about being a better person in all areas of life.

How to Grow Ehsan in Your Life 🌱

1. Learn about it. understand what good qualities Islam teaches.

2. Understand it. know how these qualities look in real life.

3. Practice it. try to act with kindness, honesty, patience, and humility every day.

4. Check yourself. reflect on whether your actions are full of good character.

5. Make it a habit. keep practicing until these qualities become natural to you.

Personal Reflection 💭

I learned that Niyyah means doing things with the right intention for Allah, not for praise. Amal is about performing good deeds like praying, helping others, and showing kindness. Ehsan means having excellent character, such as being honest, patient, and humble. I realized that it’s not enough just to do good actions; I must also check my intentions and always try my best in everything I do. Moving forward, I want to improve by remembering my niyyah before every action and by being more patient and sincere. I hope to build good habits, increase my acts of kindness, and become a better person, in shaa Allah.

Solat (Prayer) 🕌

Who Must Pray (Syarat Wajib Solat):

• A Muslim

• Sane (mentally sound)

• Reached puberty

Valid Conditions (Syarat Sah Solat):

• Clean from big and small impurities (hadas)

• Clean clothes, body, and place of prayer

• Cover aurat (private parts)

• Prayer time has started

• Face the Qiblah

• Know how to pray

What Cancels Prayer (Perkara Membatalkan Solat):

• Talking

• Too much movement

• Dirty clothes or body

Sunnah Acts in Prayer:

• Look at the place of sujud (prostration)

• Read opening dua (Doa Iftitah)

• Read aloud or softly at the right times

Sunat Ab’adh (Important Sunnah):

• Tasyahud awal (first sitting)

• Selawat during tasyahud awal

• Sit during tasyahud awal

• If missed, do sujud sahwi (prostration of forgetfulness)

Makruh (Not Encouraged):

• Looking around

• Feeling very sleepy

• Praying near tasty food

Wuduk (Ablution) 💧

Main Parts (Rukun Wuduk):

• Intention

• Wash face

• Wash both arms up to elbows

• Wipe part of the head

• Wash both feet up to ankles

• Follow the right order

Valid Conditions (Syarat Sah Wuduk):

• Must be Muslim and mumaiyiz (able to distinguish right and wrong)

• Not menstruating or in nifas (postnatal bleeding)

• Use clean water

• Nothing blocks water from touching the skin

• Water must not be changed by dirt

Breaks Wuduk:

• Anything coming from front or back private parts

• Touching opposite gender skin

• Touching own private parts with palm

Number of Washes:

• Once = wajib (must)

• Twice or thrice = sunnah

• More than three = makruh

Sunnah in Wuduk:

• Say Bismillah before starting

• Wash hands first

• Rinse mouth and nose

Khushu’ (Focus in Prayer) 🧘‍♂️

Meaning:

• Not obligatory (not rukun) but highly recommended

• Being calm, humble, understanding what’s read, and feeling close to Allah during prayer

What Distracts Khushu’:

• Doubts (was-was)

• Thinking about other things like love, hate, or daily worries

How to Gain Khushu’:

• Prepare before prayer

• Pray on time

• Clean yourself and use miswak

• Avoid praying when hungry or needing the toilet

• Wear clean clothes

Personal Reflection 💭

This week, I learned more about Solat, Wuduk, and Khushu’. I now understand that Solat is wajib only for Muslims who are sane and have reached puberty, and it must be performed properly—clean, facing the Qiblah, and covering our aurat. I also learned about actions that break prayer and the importance of sunnah acts like reading the Doa Iftitah and looking at the sujud spot. Wuduk has its own steps and rules, and doing it correctly is essential before praying. What I found most meaningful was learning about Khushu’, which means praying with full focus, humility, and feeling close to Allah. I want to improve by avoiding distractions during prayer and paying closer attention to both wajib and sunnah actions. I hope I can make my prayers more meaningful and also help others to do the same, in shaa Allah.

Salah (Prayer) 🕌

Qur’anic Reference: Surah Al-Ankabut, Ayah 45

• Ikhlas (Sincerity) for Allah

• Remembrance of Allah

• Attributes of Salah:

• Instills awareness of Allah

• Restrains from immoral behaviour

• Encourages obedience

• Develops fear of Allah

Sawm (Fasting) 🌙

Qur’anic Reference: Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 183

• Weakens Satan’s influence

• Recognises Allah’s constant observation

• Develops taqwa (God-consciousness), empathy, and discipline

• Helps believers draw closer to Allah

• Fosters other acts of worship

Zakah (Almsgiving) 💰

Qur’anic Reference: Surah At-Tawbah, Ayah 103

• Supports the needy

• Cleanses sins and bad traits

• Purifies wealth and self

• Fosters generosity

• Reduces greed

Hajj (Pilgrimage) 🕋

Qur’anic Reference: Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 197

• Encourages staying devoted to worship and good deeds

• Helps avoid indecent acts, disobedience, and disputes

• Disciplines believers to follow Allah’s commandments

• Encourages abstention from prohibited acts

⸻

Personal Reflection 💭

This week, I learned that the pillars of Islam — Salah, Sawm, Zakah, and Hajj — all guide us to become better Muslims. Salah reminds us of Allah and keeps us away from bad actions. Sawm teaches self-control, patience, and empathy for others. Zakah helps cleanse our hearts from greed and encourages caring for the poor. Hajj trains us to be disciplined and avoid bad behaviour. I realise that I still need to improve my focus during prayer and become more generous in giving. In shaa Allah, I hope to perform these acts sincerely, with a full heart and effort, and draw closer to Allah through them.

1. Al-Ta’ah (Obedience) 🤲

• A sign of loyalty to Allah

• Perform salah on time

• Follow the steps taught by Rasulullah ﷺ

• Why we must obey?

• To appreciate Rasulullah’s effort in reducing the number of rakaat until he felt ashamed

• To show loyalty and appreciation for Allah’s command

2. Al-Jihad (Struggle) ⚔️

• Jihad against the Nafs (self):

• Struggle to wake up for Fajr prayer

• Jihad to attain Khushu’ (focus):

• Problem: Getting distracted

• Solution: Understand the meanings of the prayer to improve focus

• Jihad to stay consistent (Istiqamah):

• Problem: Getting too busy and neglecting salah

• Solution: Set reminders or download a prayer time app

3. Muhasabah (Self-reflection) 🪞

• Check and improve our actions — daily, weekly, monthly

• Salah is the best time for muhasabah, especially during sujud

• Muhasabah helps improve our salah and our relationship with Allah

• 5 prayers a day = 5 chances to become a better person

• Muhasabah + Salah = Strong connection with Allah

4. Iffah (Modesty) 🧕

• Try to cover aurah properly to ensure salah is accepted

• Remember: Allah sees us all the time, not just during prayer

• Modesty in dress and action shows that salah is changing us for the better

5. Tawadhu (Humility) 🧎‍♂️

• Acknowledge our dependence on Allah

• Foster gratitude and submission

• Humility is shown through the movements of salah:

• Ruku’ (bowing) and Sujud (prostration)

• Shows heartfelt devotion and sincerity

Personal Reflection 💭

This week, I learned that Salah has many deep virtues — like obedience (al-Ta’ah), inner struggle (al-Jihad), self-reflection (muhasabah), modesty (iffah), and humility (tawadhu). It’s not just about completing the prayer, but about how it shapes our character and helps us grow closer to Allah. I realised that the struggle to wake up for Fajr, to focus during prayer, and to stay consistent are all forms of Jihad that help me grow spiritually. Salah also teaches me to be modest in how I dress and behave, and to reflect on myself, especially during sujud. I know I need to improve my focus and avoid rushing. In shaa Allah, I hope to make my salah more meaningful and use it to become a better person every single day.

Qur’anic Reference 📖

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183–187):

• Focuses on the obligation and purpose of fasting

• Emphasizes taqwa (God-consciousness), gratitude, and self-restraint

1. Sabr (Patience & Forbearance) 🧘‍♂️

• Enduring hunger and thirst builds self-control

• Helps manage anger and emotional reactions

• Trains us to be strong during tough situations

2. Takrim (Respect & Deference) 🤝

• Encourages respect for others

• Makes us more mindful of our words and actions

• Helps improve manners and interactions during the fasting month

3. Rahmah (Empathy, Cooperation & Compassion) ❤️

• Fasting helps us feel what the poor feel

• Promotes generosity and kindness

• Inspires more acts of charity and care for others

Fasting & Natural Resources 🌍

• Encourages consuming less food and water — reducing waste

• Teaches us to be grateful for everyday blessings

• Reminds us to be mindful of how we use water, electricity, and food

• Builds a deeper respect for the blessings Allah has given

Summary 💡

• Fasting encourages self-awareness and spiritual growth

• Sawm nurtures inner values: patience, compassion, and discipline

• Builds respect toward people and blessings — including natural resources

⸻

Personal Reflection 💭

This week, I learned that fasting (sawm) is not just about avoiding food and drink, but also about building strong values like patience (sabr), respect (takrim), and compassion (rahmah). It helps us connect with those in need, be more grateful, and avoid wasting resources like food and water. I realised that sometimes I get caught up in the excitement of breaking fast, instead of focusing on the spiritual meaning behind it. I want to be more mindful of my behaviour and speech during fasting. In shaa Allah, I hope that my fasting can help me grow into a more patient, kind, and thankful person in everyday life.