Three years ago, I experienced my first magical moments in Madinah. It was the opening destination on my first and only Hajj, and I was awe-struck and honoured to be in so blessed and peaceful a place…a little piece of Jannah. As the days passed, Madinah’s glow wore off, and I moved on to Makkah, … More Beyond Hajj: Reflections 3 years later
Sometimes, we live moments that feel unreal. Emotional. Out of normal reality. This evening was like that. To put this into context: by the time I got to high school, I felt like I’d seen more than my fair share of death. In junior school, I lost 3 grandparents, a young uncle, and – hardest … More When death speaks to you
One of the most important objectives of this blog is to share beneficial knowledge and advice – whether that comes from experts or just my own (or other people’s) experience. For prospective hujjaaj who are going this year, it can be hectic getting your logistical stuff sorted out, making the social arrangements for your departure … More Leaving for Hajj soon? Download these tipsheets
Three years ago, I was preparing for the journey that would take me to the most serene place I’ve ever been. May Allah bless, guide and protect those who have been honoured with the invitation this year. Madinah beckons…
Day 25, and the month is almost up. What usually is a time of abundant inspiration – especially in terms of writing – has been quite the opposite for me this year. This is the first I’ve written, publically, in the whole month. Privately, it’s not been much better. Spiritually, it’s also been pretty … More The Ramadan that never was (…or was it?)
With each Ramadan, you (hopefully) feel a sense of hope. A renewal of imaan. Another chance to reset and delve deep into your inner being – your soul, your heart, and your relationship with your Creator. The culmination, for many, is Laylatul Qadr, wherein you have the ultimate opportunity to beg for anything your heart desires. But all … More Setting the bar
A little reminder from Mufti Ismail Menk: Download Ramadan around the corner (48:50 | 22.36 MB) Image source
All of these were taken minutes ago. Can you guess where this is?
“Just as the most beautiful rainbows are born from rain, the most beautiful lessons are born from trials and pain.” (Quote source unknown, but posted here. Image is a painting which can be purchased here.)
In the Islamic calendar, two major events stand out: Ramadan and Hajj. Both of them are seasons of barakah, wherein the sense of community is high, and on a personal level, our good deeds can be multiplied exponentially. In terms of timing, these seasons are close together – occurring in the 9th and 12th months … More Guess who’s coming?
slip-sliding away..... 