Be human, be different, let go and let God lead the path

Fatimiyyah: Lady Fatimah Zahra (S.A.) – The Locus of God’s Light and Truth

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once said, “Whenever I yearn for Paradise, I breathe in the scent of Fatimah.” Imagine that—the person he turned to for comfort, peace, and a reminder of the divine was his daughter, Lady Fatimah Zahra (S.A.). But what does that mean for us today? If we’re being real, it’s hard to feel connected to someone who lived over 1,400 years ago, especially when we’re caught up in a world that often pulls us in the opposite direction. Life can feel overwhelming, and our spiritual lives often take a back seat. That’s why we need her timeless example more than ever.

Teacup’s Wisdom: Trusting & Manifesting Allah’s Divine Names and Walking in the Seerah of Sayyida Zaynab (AS)

Lantern of Light

Few years ago, I read a very profound message written by anonymous and I felt so deeply touched when I read it again with some soulful reflections to unpack. I hope you will enjoy reading this reflective piece as much as I did!

Winter Moments Of Pause and Reflection

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

In this world of constant change, I know it can be overwhelming to keep your heart anchored. Sometimes, it feels like we’re floating aimlessly, pulled in different directions, and trying to keep up with the rush of life. But I want to remind you—there is one constant in this ever-changing world: Allah (swt). He is the anchor that never wavers. When the noise of the world gets loud, when worries threaten to drown you, Allah’s presence is there, quietly offering peace, guidance, and strength. In moments like these, it's so important to remember that Allah is with us, even when we don't feel it.

Filling our spiritual cups with God’s Love

Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Reflecting on the constancy of God’s signs, one can find immense reassurance in the way they continuously manifest, much like the sun, which rises and sets each day without fail. Just as the sun lights up the world, providing warmth, growth, and guidance, God’s signs are ever-present, illuminating our spiritual paths even when we don’t always perceive them.

Navigating Challenges in Family Relationships (Sat 26th Oct 24)

Lantern of Light

Thanks to God, as the guests arrived at the Al-Abbas Islamic Centre, there was a quick exchange of greetings and soul exchange. As it was an early start, and as a community, love serving and are known for our warm hospitality, this meant that participants enjoyed the mosque chai and mandazi.

Emergency Relief For The Downtrodden & Displaced

Let us collectively share our blessings & save lives Thank you for entrusting us with your Amanat. With your support, our team on the ground will be providing emergency relief to bring some relief. Be rest assured that 100% of your donations will be utilised towards the deserving and displaced beneficiaries. We will also keep you posted on how your donations will be spent.

Miladun Nabi Summit

Lantern of Light

Noor Valley and Lantern of Light UK charity are hosting a meaningful summit to celebrate the greatest man who ever walked the earth.

Rabiul Awwal Nabawi Vibes

Ayatullah Nasir Makarim Shirazi

The Holy Prophet (s) was sent by the Almighty to fulfil the great task of being a Divine leader. To do this, he had to play different roles. Each role was important in attracting the people towards Islam and contributed towards the success of the Prophet (s). The verses above show us the variety of strategies he used to invite the people towards the path of God.

Rabi’ul Awwal Vibes Of Hope For The Hopeless

Lantern of Light

This September Give HOPE to the hopeless. Vulnerability is a muscle & WE CARE. We PROVIDE faith-based Mental Health Well-being Support with licensed therapists and relationship coaches. Today, 1 in 3 in the UK is suffering from anxiety and depression.

Muharram 2024: Sponsor Majlise Azaa & Reviving A’shura –  Remembrance Of Imam Husayn a.s 

“Indeed Imam Al-Husayn is the lantern of light and the ark for salvation.” Holy Prophet […]

Muharram 2024: Sponsor a Majlis for your marhumeen

Lantern of Light

Lantern of Light is hosting the orphan's and widows Malise Azaa in Zaynabiyah. The timeless legacy of Sayyida Zaynab and women of Karbala is an enduring feature.

Muharram 2024: Wisdom Behind Grief Through Karbala Summit Podcast Series 

Lantern of Light Family

Please do join us in this captivating series with professional licensed therapists and spiritual scholars on this burning topic as we unpack on our Lantern of Light YouTube Channel starting from 8th July 2024.

Muharram 2024: Join our ZAYNABIC Campaigns

INDEED AL-HUSAYN IS THE LANTERN OF GUIDANCE AND THE ARK OF SALVATION. Holy Prophet pbuh […]

Muharram 2024: Know Lady Zaynab pbuh Campaign through Khidmah

Imam Husayn's message in Karbala is timeless and evokes the hearts of all human beings. Let's together do Khidmah and give comfort to the most vulnerable population in the most remote areas in Nairobi Kenya.

Hajra, the Great Teacher of Mankind 

Reflections conceived by Sis Fauzieh Merchant

Walking between the mountains of Safa & Marwah, I ask Allah why He wants me to play the part of Bibi Hajra & re-trace her footsteps as she desperately searched for water for her dying baby on the desolate land of Makkah. But why must I do this re-enactment? I am not searching for water. I don't have a baby who is dying of thirst. I have a lot of questions as I perform Saee, walking 7 times between 2 mountains, which is incumbent upon every visitor to Makkah.

Echoes of Devotion: Volume 1 – Isha Sadiq Haider

"Echoes of Devotion: Volume 1," penned by Isha Sadiq Haider, is a poignant compilation of Nohas and Qasidas honoring the esteemed family of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. and the indelible legacy of the battle of Karbala.

Markaz Misbahul Huda Steering A Holistic Approach In Supporting Women’s Well-Being Through Their Caregiving & Training Services

Markaz Misbahul Huda was started in the years 2022 in Nairobi, Kenya. The core mission of our institution is to offer technical trainings, religious services and trainings, caregiver support and training as well as mental advocacy programs.

It’s Okay Not To Be Okay – End The Vicious Cycle Of Stigma Around Mental health

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Imagine a successful young soul in our community who is so popular, revered, and has a success story to share with the world outside! But when she goes home, she is suffocating due to anxiety,  plagued and sabotaged by her mind through self-doubts,  self-hate, and lack of self-worth. Henceforth, she cannot sleep peacefully.

Lantern of Light’s Giving With Grace Ramadan 2024 Appeal

By Lantern of Light

 Are you missing the blessed month of Ramadhan? Are you feeling post Ramadhan blues? I'm sure we are all craving being God's guests who gave each of us so much love, attention and Who made it possible for us all to witness the holy month with all it spiritual perks, Alhamdulilah!

“Forgive Yourself” by Sis Farzana Hirji Karawalli

By Lantern of Light

One of our Special Feature podcast shared on our LL's Ramadan Well-Being Podcast was on "Forgive Yourself" by Sis Farzana Hirji Karawalli.

A Spiritual Mosaic Woven Together From Al-Sahifatu-Sajjadiyyah Podcast Series During Shahr Ramadhan 2024

By Lantern of Light

This Shahr Ramadhan, we had the blessed opportunity to unravel the comprehensive marvels from Sahifatu-Sajjadiyyah in Lantern of Lights Series done with our special guest Sis Syeda Mehr Mustafa who is an academic and has been researching on spirituality and on the supplications and whispered prayers from our holy Imam Sajjad a.s.  for the last 7 years

As We Bid Adieu To Ramadan, Let us Keep The Ramadan Spirit Alive!

By Sakeena Habib

As we bid adieu to the barakah of Ramadan. Our hearts feel sad. Our cheeks are damp with tears. As we bid farewell to our beloved friend (Ramaḍān), we reflect on the shortness of its visit. Is this a metaphor for life? Will it pass by like the blink of an eye? I should have done more. I shouldn’t have wasted my time...

Healing Minds and Hearts: Sadaqa on Laylatul Qadr

By Lantern of Light

There was once a young soul in our community whose light captivated us all. She was successful, brilliant, respected, and had an inspirational life story. Yet when she was alone, anxiety suffocated her. Self-doubts plagued her mind, and self-hate sabotaged her life. A lack of self-worth led to many sleepless nights. If you looked at her, you would never know. Sometimes, people who give the world their best selves find it impossible to extend this kindness to themselves. With her destroyed sense of self, she had no peace in her relationship with her family or Allah.

How to be consistent in Salah

Syeda Mehr Mustafa

Every Muslim soul is different. Despite being prescribed the same obligations in worship, we all react differently to them. Some might find it easy to remain consistent in prayer, while others don’t. At times, the acts of worship that came easily before, seem impossible now, and what seemed impossible before, feels like a breeze now.

Tonight and Every Night

Syeda Mehr Mustafa

My Lord, I confess to You what You already know. Every Laytul Qadr before this year, I have sent you a never-ending list of wishes, desires, goals and accomplishments for wealth, health, prosperity and peace.

Building Bridges & Having Peaceful Conversations

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

On Thursday 29th Feb, an informal meeting was organised by the Clifton Road Mosque Interfaith at the Al-Abbas Islamic Centre in Birmingham which was very productive. Among the guests, we were honoured to welcome Father John from Dorridge Solihull, Father Pat who joined us all the way from Dublin, and Mariah who belongs to the Focolare from Birmingham.

“Nothing but beauty,” she said

Syeda Mehr Mustafa

Sha'ban – the month in which the jalal (splendour) and jamal (beauty) of Muhammad's household (S.A.W.) descended from the heavens. When Allah bestowed upon us, one of His greatest mercies - Husayn ibn Ali (A.S.). When the nur (light) of the Ahlul kissa (family of the cloak) intensified in its radiance to bring forth the unparalleled excellence, chivalry and valour of Abul Fazl Abbas (A.S.), Ali Akbar ibn Husayn (A.S.) and Qasim ibn Hasan (A.S.).

Sha’ban: The Month of the Messenger of Allah (S)

Anonymous

The scholars of Islamic spirituality rightfully state that this month is important for those seeking spiritual growth. With Sha’ban being placed in the middle of two other special months, namely Rajab and Ramadan, it has an added significance as four most important personalities in Islam were born within it. On the 3rd of the month we remember the glorious birth anniversary of Aba Abdillah al-Husayn ibn Ali (as), and in the middle of the month we celebrate the birth of the saviour of humanity and the one who will avenge the tragedy of Karbala, Imam al-Hujjat (ajtf) – our 12th and living Imam. Of course, we cannot forget the birth of Abul Fadhl al-Abbas on the 4th and the birth of our 4th Imam, Ali ibn al-Hussain Zaynal al-Abideen (as) on the 5th of the month who played key supportive roles in and after Karbala!

Unlocking the Power Of Sleep for Optimal Health and Wellbeing

Farzana Walji-Hooda

Sleep is the cornerstone of overall health and wellbeing, significantly influencing various aspects of our physical and mental health. Today, we'll delve into the crucial role of sleep and explore practical tips to enhance your sleep quality and the quality of your life mentally, physically and spiritually.

LL’s SUKOON campaigns 2024

Lantern of Light

Empower essential services with your generosity. Your donations directly fuel mental health and wellbeing support, making a tangible impact on individuals and families in our Muslim communities.

Reflections on why our prayers may not always be answered in the way we expect?

Basim Alansari

As we are in the middle of the special month of Rajab, preparing for Shabaan then celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadhan, it’s vital for us to reflect and prepare ourselves both physically and spiritually. Given the dire circumstances surrounding us these days and our deeply devoted prayers for relief, sometimes we wonder, why are we not seeing the answer to our prayers?

Upon his birth anniversary; Imam Ali: A Guiding Light in Challenging Times

Reflections By Basim Alansari

In these uncertain and challenging times, it is essential to seek inspiration and guidance from those who have left an indelible mark on history. One such luminary is Imam Ali, whose teachings and example continue to resonate with profound significance even today.

Poem: On the birthday anniversary of Bibi Fatima Zahra A.S.

by Mohammed Ejaz Dhala & Shakira Dhala (Cincinnati, OH)

In Makkah's sacred heart, I embraced the Kaaba's grace And in Jannatul Muallah, I whispered a sorrowful pace For Bibi Khadija, my soul yearned to draw near But from afar, I bid her farewell, with tears that sear

Celebrating a Model of Resistance

Written by Sis Tahera Kassamali

As we celebrate the birthday of the Lady of Light and remember the lessons taught to us by this blessed lady, we are reminded of the strength of her resistance. Her stance in supporting Wilayah can be seen in her refusal to acquiesce to the ruling authorities. Her open disapproval and declaration that she was angry with them was her fight against them, a resistance she pursued till the end.

Farewell 2023: Ending of the Year, Beginning of a new year

By Sakeena Habib

Letting go of 2023 with a renewed aim to be a better and a kinder human filled compassion, love and hope. To survive together and to learn together and persevere in the many beginnings that we are yet to expect to see. We pray that the coming new year will mark the birth of an all-powerful conscious era for us InshaAllah.

Women Making A Difference

Written By Nahid Roshanali

On the 13th of December, I was invited by Patricia Earle from Women’s Peace Group to attend an event celebrating Women Making a Difference. It featured testimonials of dedicated individuals helping others through difficult situations. The night included a diverse audience representing at least 25 nationalities and various faith backgrounds. Overall, the event was enlightening and powerful, fostering a sense of sisterhood and a shared commitment to positive change.

Thank you all for believing in us

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

It started off as a very humble  initiative run by a small group of like-minded souls sisters. And since July 2020, it has grown to be a safe space for hundreds of Muslims. This year has been an extremely difficult time for us as we witness the dire plight of the oppressed around the world. With faith in God, we have been able to pull through the hurdles of hopelessness and constantly seek God's help and support in feeling hopeful.

The World and Me

Poem written by Shellina Walji

I cannot bear the oppression and injustice that I see.
So, I try to look inward to change these traits within me.

I feel for my community between the river and the sea,
As if a sharp pain is stemming from inside of me.

Fatemiyyah Soulful Nuggets

Lantern of Light soul sisters

She is indeed the blueprint of Wilayah, Phenomenal du'a of Lady Of Light Fatimah Zahra S.A.

Insha-Allah’ is a hopeful prayer and a game changer

Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Let me share some of my humble reflections though it requires further research and esoteric dimensions to get to the depth of the beauty of Insha-Allah.

Interfaith Events

Lantern of Light

Lantern of Light was first launched during the Covid-19 pandemic. It was founded by Sister Nasim Walji Pirmohamed who is the face and patron of Lantern of Light who is unfortunately unable to be her today. However, through her dedication, we were able to receive support from prominent members of our community such as our very own Sheikh Nuru and Sister Nikhat Panjwani who is here in the crowd today.

Al-Sajjad, trauma and worship

Syeda Mehr Mustafa

The Sahifah al-Sajjadiyyah (The Book of Al-Sajjad) by Ali ibn Husayn has great significance in the Islamic intellectual and spiritual tradition as the first book ever written and compiled by a Twelver Imam. In fact, it is regarded as the "oldest" systematic "prayer handbook" in Islam[1]. A mystical treatise covering a remarkable depth and breadth of the human condition: whether psycho-spiritual, socio-political, legal or economical.

Bespoke Courses Available Online 2023

Lantern of Light

Thanks to God that we have been able to start our new courses online for our soul sisters who can register and participate in the 4-part series on Qur'anic Reflections and Decoding Surah Al Fatiha with Alimah Raziya Batul Najafi. 

The Unforgettable Parallels: Karbala’s Echo in the Palestinian Plight

By: Isha Sadiq Haider

In the vast tapestry of history, some stories etch themselves into our hearts, weaving together narratives of courage, resilience, and an unwavering fight against injustice. The heartrending tragedy of Karbala, where Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, stood alone against the forces of oppression, mirrors the ongoing struggle of the Palestinian people. This parallel narrative speaks of isolation, sorrow, and a longing for justice, compelling us to reflect on the shared essence of these stories

World Mental Health Awareness Day 2023

Lantern of Light

A Hearfelt Testimonial for the unique services we provide & a safe voice at Lantern of Light Charity Over the last 3 years, Lantern of Light has helped supported many beautiful souls who have been struggling financially, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. We have helped sisters who had actually given up on life.

MILADUN NABI: Prophet Muhammad A gift to Humanity

Reflections by Sheikh Jehad Ismail

Happy birthday to greatest man to walk the face of this earth. At a time when mankind and human civilisation were on the edge of destruction, the The Al-Mighty and Wise caused a man to be born in Arabia who was entrusted with the most difficult task! Not only to rescue mankind from imminent destruction but also to raise it to sublime heights! Heights  beyond the knowledge of historians and the imagination of poets

Finding Peace & Purpose in a Chaotic World

by Maryam Merchant

In a world where peace is scarcely found, my heart yearned for an escape from routine to reconnect with the divine. With an intent not only to seek spiritual fulfillment but to help those who need it most, I embarked on a pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Lady Zaynab (SA) during Arba’een.

A Journey Connecting Past and Present

By Fauzieh Merchant

As the plane took off, my soul soared and I was engulfed by a whirlwind of emotions. I still could not believe that in a few hours I would be at the shrine of one of the most powerful women in the history of Islam.  

Rabi’ul Awwal Soulful Nuggets  

Sis Tahera Kassamali

The month of Rabi al-awwal is the month to understand more of the Prophet(s)'s teachings and apply his sunnah in our lives. To ponder over his words, his supplications, and his habits. Perhaps some of it will inspire us to reach higher levels of Akhlaq and Adaab, a goal he had for his Ummah. With Tawfiq from the Almighty it is possible to use this month to transform our inner selves.

Empowering Women’s Workshop: Embracing Divine Feminine Agency

Article written and submitted to Lantern of Light by Sajjida Valli

In an inspiring convergence of spirituality and personal growth, the Dar-E-Zehra Islamic Center in Cincinnati played host to a transformative women's workshop on July 8th, 2023. The event, aptly titled "Embracing my Divine Feminine Agency," was a beacon of empowerment, led by the insightful Nasim Walji Pirmohamed and skillfully coordinated by Sajjida Valli.

How does grief act as a catapult to spiritual heights through the lens of the Tragedy of Karbala

Umay Zahra Hussain

‘Shaam e ghareeban’ also known as the evening of the strangers/lonely, is the night of 10th Muharram. On this evening, after 8 hours of the barbaric killing of Imam Hussain (a), members of the family of the Prophet Muhammad (s) & their companions, the women of His household, Imam Hussain’s (a) son, Imam Ali ibn Hussain (a), & children were taken as captives.

Arba’een Special Edition: Persevering On The Right Path

By Zakira Shyrose Jaffer Dhalla

I truly understood what it means to persevere on the Sirat e Mustaqeem when I walked, hobbled, staggered and limped on the legendary 90 km March of Arbaeen from Najaf to Kerbala towards the shrine of Imam Hussein (a.s). It was somewhere during those 5 days and 4 nights of constant walking through blazing sun and then bitter cold, over smooth, flat highway tarmac and then over suddenly uphill, rocky terrain that the similarity of this walk and the journey of life hit me in a moment of pure epiphany: This walk was not just a walk!!! This path was not just any path!!  This destination was not just any destination!!

Soulful Nuggets: Inner and outer peace stems from Trust in God 

Soulful Nuggets: Inner and outer peace stems from Trust in God. Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a) was asked regarding the utterance of God Almighty, 'And whoever puts his trust in God, then God suffices him' (65:3).

Arba‘een Of Imam Husayn a.s

By Shaykh Saleem Bhimji

What follows in this piece is a brief look at the “Arba‘een” [the commemoration of 40 days after the tragic events of Karbala] of Imam al-Husayn, peace be upon him. The article concludes with the Arabic text of Ziyarat Arba‘een with full English translation and a brief exposition on certain passages of this powerful and moving visitation. Insha-Allah, a more comprehensive understanding of this ziyarat will be presented in the future.

Today July 28 marks Ashura

Written by Hasnain Walji

Today July 28 marks Ashura, a day steeped in deep reverence and sorrow, recalling the noble stand of Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. He bravely confronted the oppressive ruler Yazid, for his unchecked corruption and tyranny. It was a pivotal moment that echoes through the corridors of time, a clarion call for the pursuit of justice and the will to rise against oppression, wherever it may take root.  

What the Muslim story of Husain and Ashura means to all of us in 2023

By Shelina Janmohamed

Today is an important but not widely known occasion in the Islamic calendar called Ashura.

A’shura: On the Path of Husayn (a.s)

A humble traveller I am on the path of Husayn which is the path of Ali which is the path of Muhammad which is the Light of God.

Ashura – Dawn of divine light

Reflections from Lantern of Light soul sisters

How can A'shura be an epitome what it means to be a true altruistic soul and become a pathway of timeless love and ultimate sacrifice? Not only that, A'shura has become a rhythm of attaining intrinsic faith through Aba Abdillahil Husayn a.s.'s  dhikr, an intrinsic prayer of tuning in?

Timeless Lessons Of Mourning Period- Muharram & Identifying The Strength Of Women Of Karbala

Reflections by Zahra Jawad

As we have now approached the Islamic new year, we as the followers of Ahlulbayt a.s. begin this new year in utter grief and mourning. Henceforth,  this period comes with much sorrow and sadness. We deeply feel and experience a time of mourning and remembrance for one of Islam's strongest and most revered personalities known to be Sayyidu Shuhada Aba AbdillahilHusayn a.s.

Lantern of Light’s Beautiful Milestones 

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Allah swt and the Imam of our time Al Imam Al Mahdi ajfs for creating this safe space and a beautiful platform for my global soul sisters to be part of this soul tribe.

Care Givers Event – Lantern of Light’s 1st Official Collaboration With Markaz Misbahul Huda

Sis Intifada Bashir Wangare

How to become caregivers to our elderly and sick family members is a skill that each one of us should have. As a trained caregiver myself, I had to constantly remind myself that in serving others I’m serving Allah.

21st Century Conversations: Reviving Genuine Dialogue

Written by Sis Intifada Bashir Wangare

I was recently invited to attend the most beautiful spiritual retreat and felt so enriched meeting new friends and bonding as sisters under the unity of God and unity in God. It was absolutely a safe space to discuss our faith and our human relations with one another under the banner of God centredness.

Sudan Needs Our Attention

Article contributed by Zahra Jawad

Most of us only empathize with the five-minute advert seen on television regarding such a vast issue, yet the 2023 refugee crisis is worse off than ever. Ukraine's ongoing war with Russia, A cost of living crisis, mass immigration, and so much more pins the refugee crisis as the byproduct of the geopolitical wars and proxy battles.

Celebrating the Birth Anniversary of Imam Ali Raza (a)

Written by Zahra Ali Syed

Today, we commemorate the birth anniversary of Imam Ali Raza (a), the 6th Imam in the lineage of Rasool Allah (s). He was born on the 11th of Zil-Qa'dah in 148 AH in Madina, shortly after the tragic murder of his grandfather, Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a), at the hands of the merciless and deceitful Abbasi emperor Mansour Dawaniqi. This act was driven by the emperor's fear of Imam al-Sadiq's (s) popularity among scientists.

Soul Cravings This Week 1st June 2023

Lantern of Light

On the auspicious month of Dhulqadah, my heartwarming greetings to you all on the Luminous birth anniversaries of Lady Fatimah Ma'sumah s.a. and Imam Ali ibn Musa Al-Ridha s.a. May Allah swt enlighten our hearts with the pristine teachings of these God-centred souls.

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Our 6th holy Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (as): ‘There is no group of 40 people who get together and pray to Allah – and He does not hear them/answer them’

Our Weekly Soulful Cravings

Lantern of Light Soul Sisters

Our Weekly Soulful Cravings: Have you ever tried out tree hugging? If not, please do and share your experiences with me

Unite For Nature

A short article written by 13-year-old Muna Hadi Alhilli from Birmingham UK

On the 22nd of April 2023 which was 'Earth Day', I was delighted to be part of a peaceful protest in which our goal as a collective community was to raise awareness on our environment.

The beautiful little orphans from Zaynabiyah wish you all a very joyous Eidul Fitr Mubarak!

On this most joyous day of Eidul Fitr, take a moment, be present, bask in God's infinite Mercy and feel His love and the tender care that you have been blessed from God's infinite treasures to share with the underprivileged and you were able to get Tawfeeq to be an extension in the lives of the vulnerable orphans and widows internally displaced next to the holy shrine of Sayyida Zaynab a.s.

Reflections on Eid al Fitr

By Sis Sakeena Habib

Eid al-Fitr is celebrated to mark the completion of Ramadan. Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of our Furoo-e-deen (branches of religion) and is one of the mandatory acts of devotion to Allah swt in order to attain God consciousness. Fasting takes a lot of patience and hard work to complete. Eid al-Fitr is an occasion to celebrate all the hard work of the whole month of our spiritual marathon and our mind, body and soul in engagement with God the All Merciful.

Dear invited guests of shahr Ramadhan, I will miss you so much!

Reflections by Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Our best friend- Holy Ramadhan, is departing from us v soon. Let us take one moment of feeling this loyal friend that has actually taught us to be .This month has made us feel so happy, so grounded and prepared for us to create our own spiritual lawn that is so lush, our heavenly garden filled roses to blossom. It has given us many opportunities to make the right choices and to feel more focused, determined in navigating ourselves to conscious decisions, with some profound bitesized soul Transformational journeys within.

The Ideological War

As it so happens - many of us are living in strange eras. The ideological war has begun, where the race between good and evil has become almost two sides of the same coin. A fine line that’s almost so difficult to distinguish. The ummah itself has been divided.

Fasting

Reflections shared by a beautiful soul sister

Fasting - a concept that often perplexes both the non-Muslim and Muslim community. The notion of abstaining from food and water may seem fickle and confusing to those who don't fully comprehend its meaning.

A Beautiful Banquet Birmingham Central Mosque Iftar 2023

Written by Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

On Thursday 13th April 2023, the Birmingham Central Mosque had cordially invited Clifton Road Mosque among other esteemed guests from Multi-Faith communities, and among them was Pakistan Embassy Councillor Ms Bakhtawar Ameer.

Shahadat Of Ameerul Mu’mineen (a.s.)

Written by Zahra Ali

The city of Kufa was draped in darkness, and cries echoed in the air as the news of the martyrdom of Ameer al Momineen (a) spread on 21 Ramadan. Companions, orphans of the city, poor, and loved ones encircled the house of Imam Ali (a), however, a cry of a man walking desperately towards the house caught everyone's attention. " Inna lillahe wa inna ilaihe rajeoon.

Our Beautiful Dream And My Story

Shahida Dharamshi

In January 2020, my husband, Muslim Dharamshi, and I, together with my sister and her travelled on a Heritage trip to India. After our trip we went to visit the beautiful place of deceased grandparents who are buried in Maliya; a small village in Gujarat, (India).  It is also the birthplace of my mum and my husband's parents.

Feeling the warmth of the month of Ramadan – Brief shifts in perspective on the holy month

Reflections from sis Tahera Kassamali

Feeling the warmth of the month of Ramadan - Brief shifts in perspective on the holy month. Self-struggle is an important part of the month of Ramadan. To struggle against the self is to counter its lowly tendencies. To identify some qualities in the self that pull one down and are obstacles in becoming a soul in synch with the Divine. Unless that is done, the soul will remain unable to experience the highs of spiritual connection.

Unity Iftar – Bringing Humanity Together Through Fasting

On 1st April 2033, The UKIM Sparkbrook Islamic Centre & Masjid was a Unity Iftar brought together people of all faiths to celebrate this glorious Month of Ramadan The event was blessed with prominent speakers from different faiths sharing their own experiences of fasting and its essence within their own faiths.

Interfaith Iftar at our Clifton Road Mosque

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

On Tuesday, 28th March 2023, we had a beautiful gathering by our Interfaith Clifton Road Mosque, in collaboration with Nisa Nashim, sharing some insightful conversations around fasting during the glorious month of Ramadhan to purify our souls and connect with our souls.

H.U.N.G.R.Y

Heartfelt lines of poetry by Sis Esther Gibbs

Hungry but yet Deliberately. Choosing. Not. To. Eat. What am I trying to prove But my seriousness to ALLAH To hunger strike As if I’m begging for an answer To my prayer

Feeling the warmth of the month of Ramadan –

Reflections with Sis Tahera Kassamali

It's a time for inner silence. Hard to achieve with all the distractions around us. Even just community socializing which is an important part of this month brings about incessant inner chatter. Stopping that is a daily challenge.

Al Riyaadha – Spiritual Exercises

Conceived Reflections by Sis Ruhina Kanani

Bismillah In my steps towards building some spiritual practices, I created something called the spiritual garden vision board to help myself with the stages of Al-Muhaasiba/ Al-Muraqabah, goal setting, and being self-vigilant.

Launch Of Ramadhan Noor Podcasts

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Ramadhan Noor Podcasts will be live sharing bitesize heart connect reflections every day. It is indeed a life changing du'a, a du'a that, in essence, speaks to the core of our fitrah and activatesspiritual hearts. It is a beautiful hymn of those traversing to Allah swt.

Can you feel the Shahr Ramadhan vibes already?

Salamun Alaykum beautiful souls, We are so excited to launch more soulful content online, and without your amazing support and donations towards our various humanitarian relief projects under the umbrella of our Lady Zaynab Helping Hands project in Zaynabiyah area, we would not be able to achieve these beautiful milestones together.❤️✨️

Shahr Ramadhan Cravings Through Du’a

Lantern of Light

One of the messages that can be observed even at a distance when surveying the supplications of Ramadhan is the utter dependency that the servant expresses to their Master, Allah, in all aspects of their life. Both in the supplications that are traceable in chain to the Imam's themselves, or those from their trusted companions and loyal followers.

Let’s Be Friends Through Shahr Ramadhan

Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Assalamu Alaykum wa rahmatullāhi wa barakātuh. How exciting that we are soon approaching the month of fasting and God's invitation to His Allah’s Divine Banquet. Out of all the Islamic months, It is this glorious month that allows us to explore the spiritual stages of Siyaam (fasting) from the fast of our physical bodies, to the fast of our negative chatters, and ultimately fast of reaching our closeness to Allah swt.

Spiritual Acumen

Let us maximise in a quality month of Sha'ban by observing the etiquette of our sickness and visiting sick people When the Prophet (SAWW) would see a pimple on his body he would seek refuge in and humble himself to Allah swt. He would be asked: ‘Does it matter, O Messenger of Allah?’ He would say that ‘If God wanted to turn a minor concern into a major one, He could; and if He wanted to turn a major concern into a minor one, He could’. [Reference: Makarim al-Akhlaq]

Creators Of Peace Circle In Birmingham

By Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Have you ever been to a Peace Circle? How do you feel about the word " Peace". How beautiful that Islam alludes to the phenomenon of “peace”. Our Muslim greetings begin with "Salam."

Sha’ban Soulful Cravings

By Sis Naveed Fatima

Our heartfelt felicitations to you all on the birth anniversary of Abu Fadhil Al-Abbas a.s. May we follow his path of obedience and love towards Allah swt and to the Imam of our time Al Imam Al Mahdi ajfs.

Spiritual Meals

By Sis Tahera Kassamali

With the month of Shaban already set in, many people are beginning to plan at home for the month of Ramadan. Meals are being planned and prepared so that a lot of time is not spent on cooking in the holy month.

25th Day Of Rajab Reflections

Lantern of Light sisters

On behalf of all our soul sisters from Lantern of Light we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Imam of our time Al Imam Al Mahdi ajfs a.s and to all lovers and followers on this pristine martyrdom of Imam Musa al-Kadhim (peace be upon him)

Our Weekly Soulful Cravings

With Sis Nasim Walji Pirmohamed

Dear Beautiful Souls, I hope you are basking in God's infinite grace and mercy during these last few days of Rajab Al Murajjab. Time just flies so quickly and without even realising we will be soon be embracing the glorious month of Ramadhan. Let me share some reflections for this week and I hope we can collectively grow and glow inwardly inshaAllah.

10 tips for having a happier life

By Tazmin Suleiman

What if I told you that you could be happier? Right now? Without buying anything, going anywhere, or anything changing. Would you be interested? Here are 10 tips, and the great thing is you can do them all yourself, you don’t need anyone’s help.

Lady Zaynab S.A. Nurses Humanity

An ardent lover of Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.)

What is the role of a nurse? What are the extraordinary qualities of a nurse? Nurse, a word full of meaning, a word that is a correct and accurate definition of friendship, generosity, sacrifice, and forgiveness. A nurse does not distinguish between night and day. As an angel, she appears at the bedside of the sick, stroking their head. A nurse spends her life on people. The moment of a patient's release from a hospital is the sweetest moment in a nurse's life.

The Spiritual Ethos of Hijab

Sis Tahera Kassamali

The obligation of Hijab has many reasons behind it. Most people focus on the physical and social reasons behind it. While those are true, there are also profound spiritual and metaphysical meanings behind the Hijab.

It Is Never Too Late

When an individual wants to start doing something and is hesitating, we never say that it is too late. That is because IT IS NEVER TOO LATE. If someone has been neglecting their daily prayers and wants to start committing to them, the first thing we do is to encourage them

Soulful Cravings For The Week

These are some of reflections that were shared by Sis Nikhat Panjwani at an interfaith event in Birmingham UK in the beginning of January 2023.

Rajab Inner Works – Spring Of Worship

Alhamdulillah we have entered this spiritual journey and I sincerely hope and pray that you are enjoying this blessed month which is packed with spiritual and divine gifts. May Allah swt enlighten your hearts in this beautiful month of Allah (swt) Here are some profound reflections from Sheikh Mohammad Khalfan for us all to contemplate and revive our spiritual hearts.

Book Of The Month: Stages Of Spiritual Growth

Lantern of Light

Stages of Spiritual Growth is an English translation of the original Arabic text of Kitāb al-Insān (published in Beirut in 1989), a mystico-theological treatment of the realm of command (i.e., the non-spatial and atemporal world of angels and human spirits, the life of man in this world, and the human existence after this world.

A Reality Check – Humbling experiences visiting patients in nursing homes

Dr Batool Albatat

As a general practitioner this year, one of the most challenging and poignant aspects of my job was visiting patients in nursing homes. These visits are a sobering reminder of the fragility and preciousness of life, and they make me question the meaning of it all.