During the first usrah session, it's important to discuss intentions, especially in connection with the new year. Intentions are the core of any action. However, it's important to remember that intentions must be accompanied by proper actions because intentions don't justify the means. It's also important for us to embody Ihsan in our daily lives. If everyone practices Ihsan, the world will become a safer place. Hopefully, we all belong to the group that practices Ihsan in life, Insya Allah.

Next, there's Zakat. Zakat is crucial to ensure that those less fortunate receive assistance and relief from it. It's also a way for us to purify our wealth. It reminds us that within our sustenance lies the sustenance of others. Lastly, there's Hajj, which is obligatory for those who are able. It's one of the greatest and most important acts of worship in completing the pillars of Islam. The act of Hajj has a profound impact on both our spiritual and physical lives, as we engage in worship for over a month alongside Muslims from all over the world, gathered in one place.

Therefore, I hope that we all can attain every wisdom in performing the worship prescribed by Allah.

Then, we delved into the pillars of prayer and the meanings of each recitation in prayer. There are 13 pillars of prayer. One discussion that stuck with me was the meaning of the recitation between the two prostrations, where it serves as a prayer for forgiveness, mercy, concealment of faults, elevation in status, provision, guidance, health, and pardon. Understanding the meanings of the prayer recitations can enhance our devotion.

Speaking of devotion, concentration in prayer should be sought after, such as praying in a quiet place or in the mosque, wearing clean and comfortable clothing, and understanding each recitation. A prayer filled with devotion is crucial in making us servants who are blessed by Allah.

A prayer filled with khushu' increases our obedience to Allah because we understand the purpose of our prayer and the recitations within it. It also shows our struggle in the path of Allah by leaving behind worldly distractions and focusing on the Hereafter. Furthermore, a prayer with khushu' allows for reflection on past sins and a determination not to repeat them. It reflects on our daily actions, whether in conversation, deeds, or even thoughts. Praying with khushu' also serves as a barrier to prevent us from engaging in prohibited actions out of fear of His punishment. Lastly, a prayer with khushu' makes us humble because we understand that we are merely fallible humans with no power; only Allah is Almighty.

When we fast, patience is often tested the most. We need to control our feelings and emotions when facing life's challenges. For example, if we're at a Ramadan bazaar and someone cuts in line, we must remain patient because that's the true essence of fasting. Fasting trains us to control our desires and remain patient. Additionally, based on the concept of mercy, fasting greatly strengthens family ties and community bonds. For instance, when many people gather at the mosque for Tarawih prayers or cook together at the mosque for iftar, it fosters unity and camaraderie. Moreover, non-Muslims can also learn about and understand the fasting practices of Muslims. Therefore, there are numerous benefits to fasting. May we all attain these blessings.

Paying zakah and sadaqah tests our faith and obedience to Allah. We need to believe that all our sustenance comes from the Almighty and nothing is permanent in this world. Therefore, we should give a portion of our wealth because wealth will also be questioned by Allah on the Day of Judgment. Furthermore, zakah fosters brotherhood among Muslims. This is because the needy and deserving recipients feel valued and are able to sustain their lives. Thus, there are many benefits to be gained from zakah, both for the recipients and the givers. May we all be generous and willing to give zakah and sadaqah.

Hajj or Umrah requires significant sacrifice. We need to temporarily leave our work and commitments. We also have to part from our family members for a while to embark on this journey of worship. Moreover, we need to sacrifice money and wealth because the costs of going there are quite high nowadays. All these sacrifices are made to seek Allah's mercy, which is our ultimate goal in life. It also tests our God-consciousness. Are we willing to sacrifice these things for His sake? During a week or 40 days, we will worship and be tested to see our obedience to the Almighty. May we be among those who receive His mercy.