👀 Usrah 2 (7th week) : Stories Behind Word Search and Closing of Usrah 2

 

Assalamu Alaikum and Hello everyone!!👋

As we come to the final week of our Usrah journey this semester, I can’t help but reflect on how meaningful and insightful every session has been.

 For our closing class, we had a fun yet thoughtful activity: a word search! After finding several words, each group was asked to choose four of them and connect each word with a relevant story or lesson from our Islamic tradition. 

The words my group chose were Ishaq, Sara, Sheep, and Hajar each carrying powerful stories and timeless wisdom.

1. Ishaq – A Promise Fulfilled by Allah

The name Ishaq brings us back to the story of Prophet Ibrahim عليه السلام and his wife, Sara, who were given the glad tidings of a righteous son in their old age. Despite their age and years of longing, Allah fulfilled His promise, teaching us the value of patience and unwavering faith.

“And We gave him good tidings of Ishaq, a prophet from among the righteous.”

— Surah As-Saffat (37:112)

This verse beautifully captures how Allah’s timing is perfect, and how He blesses His servants in ways beyond our imagination when we remain steadfast.

2. Sara – A Woman of Strength and Grace

Sayyidatina Sara, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, holds a special place as a woman of incredible faith. She remained by her husband’s side through countless tests. When the angels brought news of Ishaq’s birth, she was initially shocked, but eventually recognized Allah’s mercy and favor upon her.

“They said, ‘Do not be afraid. We bring you good news of a knowledgeable boy.’ She said, ‘Woe to me! Shall I bear a child while I am an old woman and this, my husband, is an old man? This is truly an amazing thing!’”

— Surah Hud (11:71–72)

Sara reminds us that trust in Allah’s plans can turn even the most unexpected moments into miracles.

3. Sheep – A Symbol of Ultimate Submission

The word Sheep points us to one of the most significant events in Islamic history the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son as commanded by Allah, only to have Allah replace his son with a sheep at the last moment.

“And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.”

— Surah As-Saffat (37:107)

This sacrifice became the foundation of Eid al-Adha and teaches us about submission, faith, and the reward of obeying Allah sincerely.

4. Hajar – The Determination of Hajar

The word Hajat reminds us of Sayyidatina Hajar’s story—how her need and du‘a (supplication) for water while alone with her son Isma‘il in the barren desert led her to run between Safa and Marwah. Her struggle was answered with the miraculous Zamzam water, and her action became part of the Hajj ritual until today.

“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah…”

— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:158)

This story is a testimony to how sincerity and perseverance, even in times of deep desperation, can lead to blessings that benefit generations.

After presenting these meaningful stories, we were also asked to prepare an Eid al-Adha greeting, a chance to reflect on the lessons of sacrifice and unity. Our group’s chosen message was:

“Through sacrifice, we grow. Through faith, we unite. Happy Eid al-Adha!”

It was simple, but it truly captured the spirit of the occasion and the values we learned through the stories.

Closing of Usrah 2💓

Before we ended the session, we shared a lovely moment together with food, laughter, and appreciation for one another. A heartfelt thanks to our instructor, Sr Ummu, who guided us with warmth and wisdom throughout the weeks.

May this journey we shared not end here, but continue to inspire us beyond the classroom.

Let’s carry the spirit of every lesson, intention,  and gratitude with us in our daily lives.

Jazakum Allahu khairan for being a part of this memorable Usrah. May Allah grant us beneficial knowledge, good companionship, and steadfastness in our faith. Ameen.