Assalamualaikum WBT,

I'm Nur Jannatul Alya , you can call me 'Jan'. I'm from Pendang, Kedah. I born on 06/01/2006 in Alor Setar. So I'm originally 'budak utagha' hihi. My previous school is Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Sik.

Now, I'm studying in CFS IIUM as medic student. Actually, I change my programme from biosc to medic. At first, becoming a doctor was my ambition, but lately I feel unable to become a doctor. So guys pray for me yerrr. I really want to make my parents proud of me.

I'm an introverted person but if you get to know me in deep level I can become an extrovert. I'm not shy person but i don't like bothering others. I love to see moon and stars like the photo above (not my picture but i really love it). When i see the scenery, i feel like it can calm myself. I think you guys should try it, sit under the moon and stars then tell yourself why you choose this pathway. you all can feel the calmness especially when you're alone in the midnight.

In addition, I'm a spicy lover but I also love desserts (not picky eater). Fun fact is i can't eat milk but i love milk. So every time I eat or drink something based on milk I get a stomach ache. Interestingly, this is my first time writing life story in my life. Yessza I will get my self reward after this haha.

At the first usrah, I met all my new friends and learned some interesting facts about them. Our usrah continues with learning adab. at first I thought "ouhh we still need to learn adab" but then I realized the older we growth the more adab we need to learn.

This adab is related to a person's personality. Our adab reflect the true attitude of us and our family. For some people, they think it is not necessary to associate our adab with our family. For me this matter needs to be linked so that we are more polite and protect the good name of the family.

Every action we do has their own adab. I'm sure not all of us see those things, but I'm sure we can show the best attitude. With adab, people can described you as good person or bad person.

At the end of the usrah, I can conclude that adab need to be learned and practiced. Without adab, knowledge as high as a mountain does not show that a person is knowledgeable.

In this week's usrah, I learned about three concepts namely 'Islam', 'Iman' and 'Ihsan'.

ISLAM

I relive the five pillars of Islam which are:

1. Declaration of faith

2. Obligatory prayer

3. Compulsory giving

4. Fasting in the month of Ramadhan

5. Pilgrimage to Mecca

IMAN

I learned about the pillars of faith which are:

1. Belief in the Oneness of Allah SWT

2. Belief in the Existence of Angels

3. Belief in The Books of Allah SWT

4. Belief in All of Allah's SWT Messengers

5. Belief in the Day of Judgment & Hereafter

6. Belief in the Qadhaa' & Qadr

   
   

At the end of the usrah, I learned the lesson that every human being needs a firm and strong pillar of Islam. if we don't implement one of them, it might mean that we haven't understood the pillars of Islam more deeply and are more likely to commit minor sins.

While the pillars of faith have taught us the importance of strengthening the relationship between man and God, man and man, and man and the environment.

The lesson from the hadith i learned is don't be afraid to say 'i don't know. To conclude, we all need to learn these three concepts and dare to say 'I don't know' to increase our knowledge so that we can be successful in this world and the hereafter.

Alhamdulillah, we still have the opportunity to attend the usrah, even though it has to be held online. Nevertheless, we are very happy because we can fill our holiday time with beneficial knowledge.

1. Believe in Allah

~There is no god but Allah SWT, and Allah has no partners. Allah is the One and Only.

2. Believe in Angels

~Angels are beings created by Allah from light. Each angels have their own specific roles.

3. Believe in Kitab

~Muslim believe that Allah has sent down Al-quran to guide human in their life. it provides spiritual guidance, moral direction, and a sense of community.

We have discussed the six pillars of faith and emphasized the fifth pillar, which is belief in the Day of Judgment.

The state of humans on the Day of Judgment.

>Firstly, they will be naked and barefoot. On the Day of Judgment, humans will have no clothes at all and will be without footwear. At that time, people will be preoccupied with their own matters, so they won't have the chance to look at the condition of others.

>Next, humans will feel the intense heat of the sun because it will be very close. On the Day of Judgment, the sun will be so near that people will sweat heavily, soaking parts or even all of their bodies. This will reflect their actions in the world.

>Finally, people will feel that time is passing very slowly. This waiting is very painful for disbelievers, but not for those chosen by Allah. Everyone will wait for their turn to be called and judged. One day in the Hereafter is like 1,000 years in this world.

Minor signs of The Judgement Day.

1. Tribulations will emerge.

2. Sexual intercourse will be widespread.

3. People compete to build taller buildings.

4. Ignorant people are praised, while wise people are looked down upon.

   
   

Major signs of The Judgement Day.

1. Appearance of Ya'juj and Ma'juj.

2. Appearance of Al-Maseeh Al-Dajjal.

3. The rising of the Sun from the West.

4. Prophet Isa’s return.

This week, we learned about Ihsan and the characteristics of Al-muhsin.

The word 'Ihsan' is mentioned 211 times in the Quran. Here are three characteristics of Al-muhsin :

1. Giving kindness to others.

2. Giving goodness to others at the highest level possible, to the best of one’s ability.

3. Do above 1 and 2 point for the sake of Allah SWT.

We had the opportunity to participate in a gallery walk activity. We presented stories about Prophet Nuh, Prophet Ibrahim, and Prophet Yusuf.

1. Prophet Nuh AS

• Prophet Nuh shows a high level of patience and perseverance in his dakwah for 950 years, despite having only 70-80 followers.

• Allah SWT commanded Prophet Nuh and his followers to build a large ark.

• Prophet Nuh showed that even in the most difficult situations, we must continue to place our hope and trust in Allah.

• Prophet Nuh made careful preparations by constructing the ark and getting ready to face the great flood.

2. Prophet Ibrahim AS

• Prophet Ibrahim AS was the son of a sculptor named Azar.

• He was set on destroying the idols in the worship center of his people.

• He carried out his mission when King Namrud and his followers were away.

• King Namrud got angry with Prophet Ibrahim. After gathering firewood, a big fire was lit. Ibrahim stayed calm and trusted that Allah would help him.

• So, Prophet Ibrahim was saved from the fire and came out unharmed.

3. Prophet Yusuf AS

• Prophet Yusuf AS lived in the house of Al-Aziz with his wife, Zulaikha.

• Zulaikha tempted Yusuf to commit adultery, drawn to his charm and good looks.

• Yusuf sought protection from Allah SWT and tried to refuse. He ran toward the door to escape, but Zulaikha chased him, tearing his shirt from behind.

• At that moment, Al-Aziz returned home and witnessed the scene. Zulaikha accused Yusuf of trying to seduce her.

• Someone pointed out, 'If the shirt were torn in the front, it would mean Yusuf was the one seducing Zulaikha. However, the shirt was torn in the back.

• Additionally, Prophet Yusuf had the ability to interpret dreams. He once interpreted the king's dream, predicting a period of abundance followed by seven years of drought.

In our recent lessons, we have focused on the importance of etiquette and good manners in our interactions with family, neighbors, and friends.

1. Adab with family

• Showing deep respect to family. This includes, listening to their advice, honoring their wishes, and treating them with kindness.

• We must be honest in communication with our family. Good communication fosters understanding and strengthens relationships.

• Spending your quality time and create lasting memories with your family.

• Practicing good manners and behavior serves as a role model for your siblings like demonstrate kindness and responsibilty.

2. Adab with neighbours

• Showing respect to our neighbours. As example, greeting them when passing by, using polite language, and acknowledging their presence.

• Involve incelebrations, such as festivals, holidays, or even personal milestones like birthdays and housewarmings.

• Speak clearly and respectful can prevent escalation and maintain a peaceful coexistence.

3. Adab with friends

• Being honest in your words, action keeping confidences, and being reliable.

• Respect their backgrounds, opinions and lifestyles.

• Support you friends like celebrating their achievement and being there when your friends need you. Inspire each other to improve and grow healthy.

• Practicing forgiveness is essential for moving past conflict and misunderstandings.

By practicing good manners, open communication, and mutual support, families , neighbours and friends can build enduring relationships that last a lifetime.

The key points for the topic being discussed are:

1. Sincerity in Seeking Knowledge (Ikhlas)

2. Respect for Teachers and Peers (Adab with Others)

3. Humility in Learning

4. Patience and Perseverance (Sabr)

5. Acting upon Knowledge (Amal)

"Nature and Environment"

In Islam, nature and the environment are seen as creations of God. Here are some points :

1. Signs of God's Existence

   • Nature is a sign that shows God's greatness. We are encouraged to reflect on its wonders.

     
     

2. Stewards of the Earth

   • Humans are responsible for caring for the Earth. We must protect and preserve the environment.

     
     

3. Balance

   • Everything in nature has its role. We should maintain ecological balance.

     
     

4. Respect for Living Beings

   • All living things, like animals and plants, deserve respect and protection.

     
     

5. Spiritual Connection

   • Nature can bring us closer to God through reflection and worship.

Welcome to our Usrah Group 22! 🤲✨

Usrah is more than just a study circle—it is a family where we support each other in our journey towards becoming better Muslims.

Together, we will seek beneficial knowledge, strengthen our iman, and build meaningful connections for the sake of Allah.

Let’s strive to remind, inspire, and uplift one another with sincerity and love. May Allah bless our journey and make this Usrah a means of increasing our taqwa.

Niat refers to the intention or purpose in one’s heart before performing an action, especially in worship. In Islam, intention is crucial because it determines whether an act is accepted by Allah SWT or not.

• The Prophet ﷺ said:
  "Indeed, actions are judged by their intentions..." (Hadith narrated by Bukhari & Muslim)

• Niat must be sincere for the sake of Allah SWT alone, not for showing off (riya’) or seeking worldly gains.

• Intention also determines the reward of an action, whether it becomes an act of worship or just a routine activity.

  
  

2. Deeds (Amal)

Deeds encompass all actions performed by an individual, whether specific acts of worship such as prayer, fasting, and charity, or general good deeds like working, seeking knowledge, and helping others.

• Islam teaches that every deed must be in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ and follow the Shariah.

• Good deeds bring rewards and draw one closer to Allah, while bad deeds lead to sins and His displeasure.

• Besides having a sincere intention, deeds must also be carried out correctly for them to be accepted by Allah SWT.

  
  

3. Ihsan (Excellence in Worship and Conduct)

Ihsan means performing actions with excellence and sincerity as if one sees Allah, or at least being aware that Allah is always watching. Ihsan represents the highest level of faith and devotion.

• The Prophet ﷺ said:
  "Ihsan is to worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you do not see Him, then (know that) He sees you." (Hadith narrated by Muslim)

• Ihsan encourages a person to worship with utmost devotion, sincerity, and excellence.

• Ihsan is not limited to acts of worship but extends to all aspects of life, such as working with honesty, treating others with kindness, and being just in all dealings.

Ibadah in Islam is not just about fulfilling obligations but also carries profound wisdom (hikmah) that benefits individuals and society. Each act of worship has reasons and wisdom behind it, guiding Muslims toward spiritual, moral, and social excellence.

1. Salah (Prayer)

Reason

Salah is a direct connection between a servant and Allah SWT. It serves as a means of remembrance, discipline, and submission to the Creator.

Wisdom (Hikmah)

• Spiritual Purification: Cleanses the heart from sins and strengthens faith.

• Self-Discipline: Teaches punctuality, focus, and devotion.

• Unity and Brotherhood: Congregational prayers foster unity among Muslims.

• Inner Peace: Helps reduce stress and anxiety by bringing the soul closer to Allah.

  
  

2. Sawm (Fasting in Ramadan)

Reason

Fasting is an act of devotion that teaches self-control, patience, and gratitude. It is a means of spiritual and physical purification.

Wisdom (Hikmah)

• Self-Control and Patience: Trains Muslims to resist temptations and develop discipline.

• Empathy for the Needy: Helps one understand the struggles of the poor, encouraging generosity.

• Health Benefits: Detoxifies the body and promotes a healthier lifestyle.

• Strengthening Taqwa: Increases awareness of Allah and improves spiritual connection.

  
  

3. Zakat (Charity)

Reason

Zakat is a financial obligation that ensures wealth is purified and distributed fairly among the less fortunate.

Wisdom (Hikmah)

• Wealth Purification: Removes greed and materialism from the heart.

• Social Justice: Reduces poverty and creates a balanced society.

• Increases Barakah (Blessings): Giving in charity brings divine blessings and sustenance.

• Fosters Generosity: Encourages care and responsibility towards the needy.

  
  

4. Hajj (Pilgrimage)

Reason

Hajj is an obligation for those who can afford it, symbolizing complete submission to Allah. It is a journey of faith, sacrifice, and renewal.

Wisdom (Hikmah)

• Equality and Brotherhood: Removes social status differences as all pilgrims wear the same ihram.

• Spiritual Renewal: Strengthens faith and wipes away past sins.

• Lessons of Sacrifice: Teaches patience, endurance, and devotion.

• Global Unity: Brings Muslims from different backgrounds together, fostering unity.

Importance of Solat

• The first deed to be accounted for on Yaumul Qiyamah is Solat.

If Solat is performed well, other deeds will follow suit; otherwise, it leads to failure.

Purity (Taharah) Before Solat

• Body: Must be free from impurities (najis).

• Clothing: Clean from filth, especially menstruation stains.

• Place of Prayer: Should be pure and clean.

Meaning of Khusyu’

• Literally In Arabic : calmness, humility, fear, and humbleness

• Terminologically : khusyu' refers to a state of the heart characterized by humility, submission, and attentiveness to Allah during acts of worship, particularly in solat (prayer).

Why Khusyu’ Matters in Solat

• Solat is the second pillar of Islam and a direct connection with Allah.

• Khusyu' ensures focus, humility, and sincerity in prayer.

• Aim of this talk : Equip you to achieve khusyu' in solat.

Why is Khusyu' important ?

• Khusyu' makes solat meaningful and spiritually fulfilling.

• Demonstrates complete submission and devotion to Allah.

• "Certainly will the believers have succeeded: They who are during their prayer humbly submissive." (Al-Mu'minun: 1-2)

  
  

How to Achieve Khusyu’

• Mental & Physical Preparation: Pure intentions, proper wudu’, clean attire.

• Understanding Recitations: Know the meanings of Surah and dhikr.

• Avoid Distractions: Find a quiet place and keep gadgets away.

• Visualize Standing Before Allah: Develop humility and sincerity.

Effects of Khusyu’ in Life & Hereafter

• Increases mindfulness, discipline, and spiritual connection.

• Reduces stress and promotes tranquility.

• Leads to acceptance of prayers and nearness to Allah.

  
  

Obstacles to Khusyu’

• Waswas (Whispers of Shaytan): Distracts the mind during prayer.

• Desires & Worldly Attachments: Excessive focus on worldly matters hinders concentration.

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

Khusyu' : A state of humility and focus in prayer essential for spiritual success.

Steps to attain khusyu' in prayer

• remembering death.

• does not perform the prayer hurriedly or hastily.

• understanding the meaning of the verses recited during prayer.

Maintaining khusyu' in all parts of prayer is sunnah for the completion and perfectness of the prayer

Salah with khusyu' = Virtues

1. Al-Ta'ah

   
   

• Total obedience to Allah's commands

• In salah : -> Bowing and prostration signify submission

  -> Builds unwavering loyalty to Allah

• Reflection : Salah reminds us of our purpose and servitude to Allah

2. Al-Jihad (struggle in the path of Allah)

• Striving for Allah's cause, spiritually and morally.

• In salah : ->Overcoming distractions to maintain focus.

  ->Battling the self to achieve Khusyu'

• Reflection : Daily prayers strengthen our resolve to face life's struggles with patience.

3. Muhasabah (Reflection)

• Self-accountability and self-contemplation

• In Salah : ->Time for self-reflection and seeking forgiveness

  ->Evaluating actions and intentions before Allah

• Reflection : Encourages a purified heart and a clear conscience.

4. Tawaddu' (humility / humbleness)

• Acknowledgement of one's position as a servant of Allah.

• In Salah : -> Physical acts like bowing and prostration demonstrate humility

• Removes arrogance and instills gratitude.

• Reflection : Develops a humble attitude in daily interactions

5. Iffah (modesty / self-restraint from sinful behaviour)

• Avoidance of sinful behaviour and desires.

• In Salah : ->Reminder of Allah's presence fosters modesty in thoughts and actions.

  ->Nurtures self-discipline and moral integrity

• Reflection : A barrier against sins and worldly distractions

Conclusion

Salah with khusyu' shapes a believer's character and strengthens the bond with Allah. The virtues cultivated through Salah permeate every aspect of life, leading to spiritual growth and success.

Fasting Wisdom

• Fasting helps individuals control their lust because this worship cleans the body and narrows the path of the devil.

• Fasting also educates a person to avoid sinful acts such as swearing, dirty talk, and lying.

Relaxation in Fasting

• Those who are sick or travelling are allowed not to fast and replace it in another day.

• For those who are unable to fast at all, such as due to chronic illness or severe hardship, they can pay fidyah.

• However, Allah SWT mentioned that fasting is still better if you are able to do it.

Priorities found in Fasting

1. Sabr (Patience)

   
   

   • Patience in obedience to Allah SWT, such as facing hunger, thirst, and fatigue due to fasting.

   • Patience in avoiding the prohibitions of Allah SWT, such as abstaining from eating, drinking, and prohibited things during fasting.

   • Patience in enduring pain and enjoying joy, such as hunger during the day and joy when breaking the fast.

     
     

Practicing sabr throughout Ramadhan will train a person to continue doing good even after Ramadhan.

2. Takrim (Honor and Glory)

   
   

   ->The concept of "takrim" in fasting involves:

   • obedience to the command of Allah SWT

   • Seeking closeness to Allah SWT

   • Develop self-discipline

   • Encourage empathy and love

     
     

   ->Takrim's priorities in human relations:

   • Cultivate unity

   • Encourage forgiveness and reconciliation

   • Develop noble character

   • Promote social responsibility

3. Rahmah (Love and Tenderness)

   
   

   • Asking for the Mercy of Allah SWT

   • Contemplating the Mercy of Allah SWT

   • Cultivate empathy and compassion

   • Forgive and make peace

   • Cultivating grace in personality

Introduction to Zakāh

• One of the Five Pillars of Islam.

• Obligatory for Muslims.

• Means to grow closer to Allah SWT.

• Impacts individual and social life positively.

• Mentioned in the Quran: "Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds and establish prayer and give zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve." (2:277)

  
  

Definition of Zakāh

• Literal meaning: Growth, increase, cleanliness, and betterment.

• Technical meaning: A determined share of wealth prescribed by God to be distributed among deserving categories.

• Difference from tax systems: Promotes spiritual purification and social responsibility.

  
  

Significance of Zakāh

• Mentioned alongside Ṣalāh in the Quran over 30 times.

• Example: "Take, [O Muḥammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase." (Al-Tawbah, 9:103)

  
  

Virtues of Zakāh

1. Tawakkul (Reliance on Allah)

   • Trains Muslims to rely on Allah rather than material wealth.

   • Assurance that Allah will replace what is given for His sake.

2. Ukhuwwah (Brotherhood)

   • Fosters love, empathy, and unity among Muslims.

   • Purifies society from envy and hatred.

   • Hadith: "A Muslim is a brother of another Muslim, so he should not oppress him..." (Al-Bukhari)

     
     

Zakāh: Bridging Relationships

• Vertical Correlation: Relationship with Allah SWT.

• Horizontal Correlation: Relationship with fellow humans.

• Combines spiritual and social dimensions.

  
  

Conclusion

• Zakāh is both a financial obligation and a spiritual act of worship.

• Strengthens reliance on Allah (Tawakkul) and brotherhood (Ukhuwwah).

• Essential for a harmonious and righteous Muslim community.

1. Definition of Fasting:

   
   

   • Refrain from eating, drinking, marital relationships, or anything that breaks the fast, from dawn to sunset with the intention of Allah SWT.

   • Quran Reference: "O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful of Allah!" (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 183)

     
     

2. Spiritual Benefits:

   
   

   • Deepens Connection with the Divine:

     • Fasting encourages prayer and reflection, enabling individuals to feel closer to their faith and gain spiritual clarity.

   • RAHMAH / Affection (Grace and Mercy):

     • A way to purify the soul, seek forgiveness for past sins, and receive Allah’s mercy.

     • Cultivates empathy and compassion for the less fortunate.

   • Abundant Forgiveness:

     • For people who fast, their prayers are heard and answered by Allah, especially in the holy month of Ramadan.

     • The gates of forgiveness are open until the gates of paradise are closed.

       
       

3. Virtues in Fasting:

   
   

   • SABR (Patience & Perseverance):

     • To bind or hold. Teaches self-restraint and control over desires like anger, focusing on Allah SWT.

   • TAKRIM (Honor & Glory):

     • Considered a noble practice that builds self-discipline and strengthens the bond with Allah SWT.

       
       

4. Allah SWT’s Promise:

   
   

   • "When My servants ask you about Me, I am truly near. I respond to one’s prayer when they call upon Me. So let them respond with obedience to Me and believe in Me, perhaps they will be guided to the Right Way." (Al-Baqarah, Verse 186)