27 June 2026 / 11. Muharram 1448
The journey was Alhamdulillah an amazing experience. In the first three days we, we the mentors, were told what was expected from us as well as guidelines on how to fulfil those expectations. Once the participants arrived the course started in full swing with classes in the morning, outings in the evening and prayers in the Haram at night, the time flew by. The classes were conducted by Brother Amin, Brother Ali and Sister Batool in the Bab Girls and Shaykh Nadir, Sister Naajiya and Sister Sajida in the Madina Girls.
Alhamdulillah we benefited from these classes, so much so, that the girls are still (2 months later) quoting what the teachers said to each other and reminding each other of how to behave and improve, etc. We had a wonderful and eventful trip to Hamadan where we saw a portion of the beautiful city of Iran; from the man-made museums, to the natural magnificence of the mountains, to the incredible journey through the caves. Our day long adventure in Tehran was also one to remember, in particular the visit to Savak – a memorial, a museum, dedicated to a number of the revolution heroes.
Our last 3-4 days were spent in Mashhad. The Haram was the highlight of the journey and was the perfect end to a perfect trip.
Written by: Sabira Rizwan Manji from Tanzania
Summary of question
How can one become sure which of the ulema giving advice and lectures are worthy and qualified to so?
Question
We live in a community of hundreds of thousands of Muslims and have many ulema--many of whom we do not believe are qualified. How can a person obtain assurance (or certification) that the ulema that are giving advice and lectures are supported and qualified according to the rules of the Shia faith?
Updated on 23/12/2013
It is estimated that over 20 million people will converge on the holy city of Karbala this year. They travel there to gain closeness to Allah through mourning and grieving for Imam Husayn (as) and his followers, and by renewing their pledges of loyalty to him and his cause of truth over falsehood.
