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The first week of classes is especially unique because of the amount of energy that bounces around the walls of the Musallah and around campus. Sisters, often not having seen each other for over three months, cannot help but squeal and run for hugs at the sight of one another. And the excitement certainly doesn’t dwindle when it comes to meeting freshmen, for whom the MSA plans Welcome Week months in advance. The sisterhood within the MSA is a blessing, and to kick-off the start of another beneficial and successful year (inshaAllah), the sisters gathered for the annual Sisters’ Reunion Halaqah and Dinner.
Taking advantage of our beautiful campus and the last of the summer days, the sisters held their halaqah by the lake. MashaAllah, an incredible crowd of girls consisting of returning students, freshmen, and transfers was present for an ice breaker. That activity was followed by a reflection on the importance of sisterhood by the Sisters’ Advisor, Amal Ahmed. Upon sharing a story about two friends who made incredible sacrifices for one another in secret, she reminded the group of the importance of cherishing the bonds we share and showing affection by easing the burdens of one another. She also emphasized the importance of telling each other how much we care with words as well as actions. After all, it is advised by the Prophet, may peace and blessings be upon him: “If a person loves [her sister], [she] should inform [her] of this fact” (Abu Dawud, Tirmidi).
Sisters' Halaqah and Reunion Dinner
by Lyba Zia
As the semester progresses and the academic workload begins to pile up, it often seems difficult to the average college student to take on any other major commitments. However, it is often required for students to take part in extracurricular activities so that they are competitive applicants for future employment positions. Thus, the amount of time available for other activities or responsibilities is further limited. For students of various faiths on campus, however, making time for religion is an obligation. Balancing the academic workload with responsibilities towards religion is a difficult task, but it is also an unavoidable one for most.
For the Muslims on campus, certain events and gatherings planned by the Muslim Student Association (MSA) can help to ease this task. One such event is the weekly Halaqah that is planned for both brothers and sisters of the MSA. The Arabic word “halaqah” means ring, which represents the circular gatherings in which brothers and sisters alike form to discuss religious matters. These discussions are often led by an individual who volunteers to pick a topic for the week, and is responsible for briefly introducing the topic to those in attendance. After the introduction, the attendees are allowed to share whatever insight they may have related to the topic; this insight can range from personal anecdotes that highlight the topic to further discussion of other Islamic ideas to better understand and explain the topic at hand. A recent halaqah, led by the MSA’s Brothers’ Advisor, Toaha Hussain, involved an insightful discussion about balancing life at school with life at home. Toaha introduced the topic by stressing the importance of maintaining a conscious balance between matters at school and matters at home, explaining how academic performance is important, but should not stand between our familial relationships. The discussion continued to explain the importance of family from an Islamic perspective, with many people participating in the discussion and contributing to its effectiveness.
These halaqahs, with topics like the one mentioned above, benefit attendees in many ways. They provide an opportunity for both brothers and sisters to strengthen their bonds with those that they already know, and create bonds with those they have newly met. They allow for a comfortable space for discussion. Finally, but most importantly, they allow for Muslims to reconnect with Allah (SWT) and the Prophet (PBUH) during an otherwise hectic time of our lives. Through discussion of Islamic principles and ideas, references to Quranic verses and Hadith, and sharing of personal experiences, these halaqas are a source of spiritual rejuvenation that fit perfectly into the lives of students. They consistently remind students of their duties to their religion, and promote a sense of balance that takes into account academics and faith so that preparations can be made for this life, and ultimately, for the hereafter when we face our Lord.
Verily, In the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest. (13:28)
Brothers' Halaqah
by Basharath Khan
Maghrib Salah was performed by the lake upon the halaqah’s completion, after which the sisters caught a bus to Usmania Chinese. The sisters filled the entire restaurant and had a phenomenal time, Alhamdullilah! Whether one was an upperclassman or freshman, transfer or alumni, the Reunion Dinner was a time of merriment. After the dinner a quick stop was made to Tahoora to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth with faloodas, kulfis, and mango milkshakes. All in all, the night was a success, thanks to the will of Allah (SWT). The gathering acted as an excellent kick-off to the sisters’ weekly halaqahs and activities. May Allah (SWT) allow this community to continue to strengthen and build off of the bonds we’ve established and aid us in using our time here to become closer Him. Ameen.
importance of maintaining a conscious balance between matters at school and matters at home, explaining how academic performance is important, but should not stand between our familial relationships. The discussion continued to explain the importance of family from an Islamic perspective, with many people participating in the discussion and contributing to its effectiveness
These halaqahs, with topics like the one mentioned above, benefit attendees in many ways. They provide an opportunity for both brothers and sisters to strengthen their bonds with those that they already know, and create bonds with those they have newly met. They allow for a comfortable space for discussion. Finally, but most importantly, they allow for Muslims to reconnect with Allah (SWT) and the Prophet (PBUH) during an otherwise hectic time of our lives. Through discussion of Islamic principles and ideas, references to Quranic verses and Hadith, and sharing of personal experiences, these halaqas are a source of spiritual rejuvenation that fit perfectly into the lives of students. They consistently remind students of their duties to their religion, and promote a sense of balance that takes into account academics and faith so that preparations can be made for this life, and ultimately, for the hereafter when we face our Lord.
Verily, In the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest. (13:28)