I initially signed up for Hikma Academy’s Tafseer class hoping to gain more closeness to Allah through understanding His book. There was a void within me that desired a more personal and intimate relationship with that Qur’an, one that would act as the foundation to which I nurture my faith. I also knew I needed to cultivate that relationship on a more consistent and structured basis, something a weekly class would perfectly offer. What I truly value most about this experience is being surrounded by a phenomenal group of sisters who all are seeking that same closeness to the Qur’an. Throughout this journey of reflecting on the words of Allah, it is through their individual wisdom that I am also able to learn from. Whether it’s through our collective discussions, random tangents, or heartfelt class reflections, these sisters have become some of my most cherished friends and acquaintances. Ustadha Kaltun’s tafseer class has allowed me to gain better insight into my own character by assessing the values and principles Allah calls us to through His book. Each week I am challenged to apply the teachings of that particular surah and use its wisdom to refine the relationship I have with Allah, with myself, and with the loved ones in my life. Each week I am challenged through the Qur’an to be the best version of myself, the version my Rabb ultimately wants for me. It continues to be a journey of growth, self-realization and transformation – alhamdulillah thumma alhamdulillah. I am forever indebted to our teacher Kaltun Karani who is the vessel Allah has chosen to teach us through. May Allah continue to bless and expand her efforts and the mission of Hikma Academy.
