In the past I have researched several options at Islamic institutes in both, the UK and abroad, and have struggled to find any that appreciated the entire requirements of graduates born and educated in the west. I believe that this course is unique, in that it provides the fundamental platform for a life’s vocation that I have had aspirations for as far back as I can remember.
It is only now that I see a programme that has the right professional approach with a clear ethos and vision of what it is trying to achieve. The ethos being based on the essence of verses from the Quran:
“But why should not there go forth a group from each of their sections to become learned in religion, and to warn their people when they return to them so that they may beware?” (Surat Al-Tawbah, 9:122)
As a healthcare professional, I realise the importance and value of knowledge, and the effort required in saving and preserving human life. However, I cannot deny the obvious and final end of each and everyone that I am able to help and assist. As privileged and rewarding as a life spent in preserving the human body, it is ultimately an unachievable goal, as everyone is affected by decline, demise and decay. I have always found greatest satisfaction in evoking, regenerating, inspiring and preserving the real essence of mankind, which is the soul/spirit. This path I believe would be more fulfilling for me, if it were served in not only the optimum preservation of the shell, but also the essence/soul encased within it.
Furthermore, it is evident that as a minority community in the west, we have emphasised and secured within our own community members, professionals able to cater for many of our worldly requirements. For our physical needs we have doctors, pharmacists, dentists and optometrists. For our legal needs we have lawyers, and for our financial needs accountants. However, how many British born scholars have we inspired, nurtured and developed to provide for our most important need, which is the preservation and growth of our spiritual well-being. The answer no doubt is minimal if at all.
The aspirations that I have for this programme are too many to mention, however in general both short and long term there are some major ones I would like to highlight:
- A life spent in striving to achieve a complete existence in accordance with Allah’s (SWT) will and gaining his approval in my life’s conduct
- A life vocation whose benefits are not confined and related only to the gains in this world but continue into the hereafter
- A life spent serving mankind which is in essence the worship of the Almighty
- Positively contributing and aiding both, the inter and intra levels of the community
I have endeavoured upon choosing this programme to first and foremost undertake an oath of personal development and growth in my essence i.e. spiritually. Alongside this, the development of my spouse, future family, extended family, friends and community. I hope to use this course to get closer to my creator and help me achieve the only real goal worth achieving, which is to gain approval from my Lord and to share a realm with pious and noble souls, in close proximity to the grace of ALLAH (SWT).
Hassanainbhai Mir
MTP Student from Leeds Jamaat
7 September 2007