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28 March 2024 / 18. Ramadhan 1445

A Quest for Knowledge, testimonial by Sakina Govani from Peterborough

In the name of Allah (SWT), the Compassionate, the Merciful.

Iran. How is it possible that one country could bring me such a sense of fulfilment and purpose? I did not anticipate that this trip alone would be spiritually uplifting from beginning to end and that now, forever in my heart, it holds a special place. From the first steps into the Haram of Lady Fatima Masuma (AS) till the last steps exiting the Haram of Imam Redha (AS), I experienced a feeling of enchantment come over me and it was an atmosphere that was undeniably overwhelming. This incredible journey that I undertook allowed me to expand my Islamic knowledge, build upon my spirituality and gave me opportunities to build wonderful relationships. Each day was filled with a memory unique to its own.

Qum is known as the City of Knowledge and I acknowledge that it really was where my comprehension of topics expanded. We did an array of activities from attending Aqaeed, Akhlaq and Fiqh classes that were taught by well-learned teachers to visiting the graveyards of the Shuhada such as the famous ‘Garden of the Martyrs’. The martyrs during the time of the revolution were buried here and this reminded me of the person whom they obtained their courage to fight in the way of Islam: Imam Hussain (as). 

I was able to visit Masjid-e-Jamkaran and this in itself, was an inspirational experience. The course provided me with a handbook that detailed the story regarding the construction of the Holy Mosque of Jamkaran, which helped enrich my experience. Feeling a stronger connection, I reflected about what extra preparation I could do for the Imam of our time and what changes I could make. 

Listening to the beautiful recitation of Dua-e-Kumayl in the Haram of Bibi Masuma in Qum (as) and seeing the devotees of the AhlulBayt (AS) weep, no words could justify the overpowering sensation that arose and nothing could hold in comparison. This course included a trip to Mount Kidhr, which offered a majestic view of Qum, whilst having the chance to listen Shaykh Nadir Jaffer speak about the stages of life, which was an eye opener and spiritually uplifting. I was able to carry the knowledge I had acquired from Qum with me, to the Holy city of Mashhad, which allowed me to fully perform my Ziyarat of this amazing Holy personality.

 

This incredible journey allowed us all to make wonderful friendships with other participants and mentors. We all shared a strong bond, which made the trip more enjoyable and comfortable. From the multiple twilight programmes to learning the philosophies behind the simplest of things such as swimming or even the health benefits of prophetic medicine were all extremely interesting. The course exceeded my expectations in providing me with ample knowledge and fun. Our weekend trip to Hamadan had us surrounded by nature which left us is awe of Allah SWT’s creation and magnificence. Our day trip to Tehran and visiting the Savak Prison, showed us the strength and courage of the people who were tortured in the way of the Islamic revolution, in order to achieve goals such as abolishing a tyrannical regime, restoring equality and Islamic values. The success of the revolution was seen when we met Ayatullah Saafi Golpaygaani and he commented on how proud he was with our Hijab. 

Coming onto this trip, I did not expect each experience to be unique in its own way. This course really allowed me to grow and self-develop. I have returned home with a quest and thirst for knowledge.

Written by: Sakina Govani from Peterborough


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