Welcome to my board for Usrah Semester 2.

Name : Nourien Shazana binti Abdul Karim

Age :19 years old

Origin : Batu Pahat, Johor

Programme : Foundation in English For International Communication

Contact number : 01157073210

Birthdate : 16 February 2006

Usrah : Group 7 (Faci : Sr. Dalilah)

Hobby : Cooking, reading and listening to music!

Ambition : Corporate officer or english lecturer

Setting the right niyyah (intention) means approaching actions with sincerity, focusing on pleasing Allah, and aligning one’s heart and mind with a purpose that fulfills religious obligations.

How to apply it in daily life? :

• Start with mindfulness: Before every task, remind ourselves of why we do it. Whether it's work, study, or helping others, ensure our intention aligns with seeking Allah's pleasure.

• Make du’a: Ask Allah to guide our intentions and help us stay focused on doing things for His sake.

2. AMAL : Applying the right practices involves consistently performing righteous deeds according to Islamic teachings, ensuring they are done with correctness and dedication, while following the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

How to apply it in daily life? :

• Consistency in acts of worship: Perform regular prayers, recite the Qur’an, and engage in dhikr. Make these habits a part of our routine.

• Good deeds: Actively participate in charitable actions, helping others with kindness, even in small ways.

3. IHSAN : Cultivating inner excellence, striving to perfect one’s character, and embodying qualities like kindness, patience, and gratitude, ensuring that actions are not only outwardly righteous but also reflect the purity of one’s heart and relationship with Allah.

How to apply it in daily life? :

• Develop good character: Work on qualities like patience, humility, gratitude, and sincerity. When faced with challenges, strive to maintain a positive attitude.

• Treat others well: Practice empathy, kindness, and respect, recognizing that every interaction is an opportunity to live by Islamic virtues.

CONCLUSION :

By combining these three aspects—setting sincere intentions, practicing righteous deeds, and cultivating virtuous character—we can enhance our spiritual journey and live a life that reflects Islamic principles in a real and impactful way.

It was such a great opportunity to meet everyone and connect on a deeper level. I got to know each of them better, and we shared our stories, hobbies, and experiences.

It was amazing to build new friendships and feel so welcomed by the group. I'm really happy and excited to have met so many new people, and I’m looking forward to the journey ahead with them!

IBADAH AL-KHASSAH (KHUSUS) : Rukun Islam

1. Salat (Prayer)

Reason: Prayer connects Muslims directly with Allah, offering a chance to ask for guidance and forgiveness.

Wisdom:

• Teaches discipline and keeps you mindful of Allah throughout the day.

• Purifies the heart and soul.

• Strengthens gratitude and humility.

  
  

2. Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)

Reason: Fasting builds self-control and helps Muslims grow spiritually by focusing on Allah.

Wisdom:

• Cleanses the heart and strengthens faith.

• Fosters empathy for the less fortunate.

• Teaches patience and self-restraint.

  
  

3. Zakah (Charity)

Reason: Zakah purifies wealth and helps those in need by giving a portion of one’s savings.

Wisdom:

• Removes greed and promotes generosity.

• Ensures fairness and reduces poverty.

• Brings spiritual rewards and closeness to Allah

  
  

4. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)

Reason: Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Mecca for those able to, symbolizing unity and submission to Allah.

Wisdom:

• Unites Muslims from all over the world.

• Provides a chance for spiritual renewal.

• Reminds us of life’s purpose and the Day of Judgment.

Let's see the aspect that we must to adhere to gain khusyuk:

• TAHARAH : There should not be any najasah impurity on our body.

• IKHLAS : Ensure that your worship is solely for the sake of Allah, free from any distractions or seeking praise from others.

• UNDERSTAND RECITATION : Understanding the meanings of the words you recite in prayer, such as Surah Al-Fatihah and other supplications. Knowing what you are saying makes you more engaged and reflective in your prayer, deepening your connection with Allah.

• CLOTHING : Wear the attires that cover our aurah properly and of course the fabrics must clean from any impurity.

• PLACE : Choose a clean and quiet location to pray.

• ELIMINATE DISTRACTION : Before starting prayer, remove distractions like phone notifications, noisy environments, or any worries.

WHY KHUSYUK IS IMPORTANT?

• Khusyuk makes solat meaningful and spiritually fulfilling.

• Demonstrate complete submission and devotion to Allah SWT

• Deepens our connection with Allah.

• Khusyuk helps purify the heart from distractions, arrogance, and pride.

• Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Whoever performs a prayer with khusyuk and humility will have his past sins forgiven." (Sahih Muslim). Khusyuk leads to greater spiritual rewards and Allah’s mercy.

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ ٱلصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ ١٨٣

"O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous." (Surah al-Baqarah, 2:183)

HIKMAH OF FASTING :

1. Fasting helps an individual control their desires because this act of worship purifies the body and narrows the path for Satan. When the body and sexual desires are controlled, it becomes easier for the soul to attain taqwa (God-consciousness).

2. Fasting also teaches a person to avoid sinful actions such as gossiping, foul language, and lying. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:

"If someone does not abandon false speech and actions, then Allah has no need for him to abandon his food and drink." (Sahih Bukhari)

FLEXIBILITY IN FASTING :

Islam provides flexibility for individuals who face difficulties while fasting, recognizing that not everyone has the same capacity to fast.

1. Sick Individuals: Those who are ill or have a condition that makes fasting harmful can skip their fasts and make them up later, when they are able to do so.

2. Travelers: People who are traveling are allowed to break their fast and make up the missed days later. This is a concession to make fasting easier while away from home.

3. Pregnant or Nursing Women: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and may be at risk for their health or the health of their child are allowed to skip fasting. They can make up for the fasts later or provide charity (fidyah) for the missed fasts.

4. Young Children and the Elderly: Children who have not yet reached puberty and elderly individuals who are unable to fast due to physical weakness are exempt from fasting.

There are many virtues and rewards that one can obtain from Allah SWT through the act of fasting during the month of Ramadan. In this month, the doors of mercy, forgiveness, and goodness are widely opened, while the doors of punishment are closed. Therefore, anyone seeking blessings will seize the opportunity to fast during the early part of this month.

1. SABR (Patience and Perseverance)
   Meaning : To bind, endure, or restrain. It refers to the act of controlling one's desires, such as restraining anger or remembering Allah SWT to maintain self-control.

• Sabr in obedience to Allah SWT, like enduring hunger, thirst, and fatigue from fasting.

• Sabr in avoiding Allah SWT’s prohibitions, such as abstaining from eating, drinking, and other forbidden actions during fasting.

• Sabr in enduring pain and enjoying joy, such as feeling hungry during the day and the joy of breaking the fast at sunset.

  
  

2. TAKRIM (Honor and Dignity)

The concept of Takrim (dignity) in fasting involves:

• Obedience to the command of Allah SWT: Fasting is an expression of loyalty to Allah's command.

• Seeking closeness to Allah SWT: Fasting is a way to strengthen one’s faith and spirituality, achieved through acts such as reading the Quran, performing Tarawih prayers, and engaging in I'tikaf (spiritual retreat).

  
  

Takrim in Human Relations:

• Fostering unity: Encourages a sense of togetherness among Muslims.

• Encouraging forgiveness and reconciliation: Encourages Muslims to forgive others, improve relationships, and restore harmony.

• Building noble character: Teaches patience, humility, and goodness, thus improving social relationships.

• Promoting social responsibility: Rreminds one of the importance of charity, like giving to the poor and helping those in need.

3. RAHMAH / MERCY (Grace, Elegance, and Compassion)

1. Seeking Allah's Mercy: Fasting is seen as a way to seek Allah’s compassion and forgiveness. By refraining from food, drink, and worldly desires during the day, Muslims show their commitment to worship and dependence on Allah’s mercy.

2. Reflecting on Allah's Mercy: Opportunity to reflect on Allah's generosity and blessings in life. Experiencing hunger and thirst allows one to appreciate Allah’s provision and fosters gratitude.

3. Fostering Empathy and Compassion: Fasting enables one to cultivate empathy and compassion for the less fortunate. By experiencing hunger, Muslims are reminded of the suffering of those in need.

4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Ramadan is a time for seeking forgiveness and mending relationships. The month emphasizes values like forgiveness, patience, and understanding, leading to more harmonious relationships.

5. Cultivating Mercy in Personality: Fasting is a way to build self-discipline, patience, and control over desires, which are essential traits for developing a loving and merciful personality.

Salah : The cornerstone of a Muslim's daily life, a connection with Allah.

Khusyuk : A state of humility and focus in prayer, essential for spiritual success.

1. AL-TAAH (submission) : Total obedience to Allah’s commands.

• Bowing and prostration signify submission.

• Builds unwavering loyalty to Allah.

• Ṣalāh reminds us of our purpose and servitude to Allah.

2. AL-JIHAD (struggle in the path of Allah) :

• Overcoming distractions to maintain focus.

• Battling the self to achieve Khushūʿ.

• Daily prayers strengthen our resolve to face life’s struggles with patience.

3. MUHASABAH (reflection) :

• Time for self-reflection and seeking forgiveness.

• Evaluating actions and intentions before Allah.

• Encourages a purified heart and a clear conscience.

4. TAWADDU' (humility/humbleness) :

• Physical acts like bowing and prostration demonstrate humility.

• Removes arrogance and instills gratitude.

• Develops a humble attitude in daily interactions.

5. IFFAH (modesty) :

• Avoidance of sinful behavior and desires.

• Reminder of Allah’s presence fosters modesty in thoughts and actions.

• Nurtures self-discipline and moral integrity.

• A barrier against sins and worldly distractions.

My collaboration in the presentation is to explain on Respecting the Sanctity of the Haram & Adab Focus on Worship and Supplication. Here is the summarize of my part :

Respecting the Sanctity of the Haram

Those who perform hajj or umrah, must

• Avoid and restrain themselves from harming people, animals, or plants within the sacred precincts of Makkah and Madinah.

• Pilgrims should have a sense of respect for the land. This includes treating the buildings, the Kaaba, and other sacred sites with the utmost respect. For example, climbing or touching the Kaaba inappropriately.

Focus on Worship

The essence of Hajj and Umrah is worship, and maintaining a strong focus on this during the pilgrimage is vital for the sincerity and acceptance of the journey.

• Avoiding Distractions: The pilgrimage is not a time for sightseeing, shopping, or engaging in worldly affairs and another one excessive socializing, using mobile phones.

• Devoting ourselves in performing prayer, recite the Quran, make a lot of dua and dhikr.

  
  

Here is my group mates :

• Nourien Shazana (244504)

• Che Wan Ain Najihah (241410)

• Sabriena Fitri (247878)

• Balqis Amani (241350)

• Nurul Amalia (247352)

I love working with all of them as they are very creative, responsive and easy to work with.

So, I will share my notes here for our reflection together.

Meaning : A determined share of wealth prescribed by God to be distributed among deserving

categories.

The Virtues Of Zakāh

1. Tawakkul :

• Training Muslims to rely on Allah SWT rather than material wealth

• Assurancebthat Allah will replace what is given for His sake

2. Ukhuwah :

• Foster love, empathy and unity among Muslims

• Purifies society from envy and hatred

3. Bridging relationships :

• Strengthening relationshio with Allah and with fellow humans

• Combines spiritual and social dimensions

CONCLUSION

• Zakat is a financial obligations and spiritual also social act of worships

• Foster reliance on Allah and strenghthen ukhuwah

• Maintaining harmonious and righteous Muslim community

So my suggestions for improvement ;

1. Breakout Sessions: After sharing some thoughts, we could break into smaller groups to discuss and share ideas. It’s a nice way to get everyone involved and hear different perspectives.

2. Creative Activities: How about incorporating something creative, like a quick activity and GAMES where we reflect on our goals or even create something visual to help us connect with the lesson?

   
   

These small changes could make the sessions even more interactive and fun, while still keeping the focus on the lessons.

💌 P/s :

All the sessions led by Sr. Dalilah, our naqeebah, were very fun, as she is an outgoing and friendly person. Thank you so much for your dedication, Sr. Dalilah! 🌟🎀

New friends! : The sense of community I feel in my usrah group is something I really value. I'm so eager to build stronger relationships with everyone, as it's such a great source of support and inspiration for me.

Guidance for Everyday Life : The practical advice I got from the session is something I'm really excited to incorporate into my daily routine. I feel more equipped with knowledge.

Therefore, when we are feeling low or struggling, don’t forget to place our trust in Allah. Know that hardship can bring growth and that Allah’s plan is always better than what we might perceive.