By Khadijahmah Bte Abdul Barik

My journey to learning the Qur’an has been a long and winding one, with many teachers whom I’ve had the chance to learn from throughout the years.

When I say “many teachers,” it was not because I was steadily upgrading my knowledge, but rather because I had signed up for many classes, each of which I struggled to keep up with until I started attending Ustaz Sameer’s Iqra class.

Since joining Ustaz Sameer’s class, I have finally found a pace that suits me. 

Unlike my earlier attempts, I have been consistent in attending, learning not only tafsir (interpretation) and ‘Ulumal-Qur’an (sciences of the Qur’an) but also refining myrecitation through structured drills. 

The class is filled with fellow brothers and sisters who share the same goal, to fulfill the fardhu ‘ain (obligation) of reciting the Qur’an correctly. 

Their dedication and sincerity remind me of the Prophet ﷺ’s parable of good and bad company: the seller of musk and the blacksmith. 

In the company of the seller of musk, you either receive perfume, purchase some, or at the very least, smell its pleasant fragrance.

The tafsir sessions in particular have deepened my understanding of the Qur’an. They bring meaning to the verses I recite, prompting me to reflect on my life and strive to align my actions with what pleases Allah.

I have come to realise that when Allah SWT puts you through tests, it is not because He does not love you  rather, it is because He loves you.

In His infinite wisdom, these trials are a means to draw you closer to Him. If you are patient, the reward is immense, for you do not know what He has planned for you.

As the Qur’an reminds us,

“It may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you”

Quran 2:216

Alhamdulillah, at my age, I am still able to pursue this blessed journey.

And in reflecting on the lessons from the Qur’an and the wisdom shared in class, I am reminded that these teachings extend beyond recitation, they touch every part of life, including our relationships, families, and daily interactions.

My advice to everyone, whether married or unmarried, is to always remember Ustaz Sameer’s words:

“In marriage, put Allah in between, and life will be so wonderful.”

I always look forward to attending Ustaz Sameer’s classes, not only because I enjoy his teaching, but also because of the warmth of the students.

They bring me joy and happiness, always ready to lend a helping hand and going out of their way to care for one another. They are like my own family,  truly, I love them to the moon and back.

And to parents, remember that our children are an amanah (responsibility) from Allah. We must lead by example, for they will learn more from what we do than from what we say.

Alhamdulillah for this journey, these friendships, and the gift of Qur’an learning,  a gift that continues to enrich my life in ways words can barely describe.

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