After attempting to learn Arabic for a month in a Darul Uloom many years ago, I gave up on Arabic, as it was simply too hard. Last year I attended my first unveiling and that was where my niyyah was made to enrol at DNSI [now called Mizan]. From the word go, I was taken impressed by the quality of the classes. The administration is exceptionally efficient. Having all the multi media resources and other resources like tutors creates enough outlets for learners to acquire additional support. The highlight is the moral lessons and the application that Arabic has to our everyday lives. Teachers are unique in this way. They challenge us to think, to find balance and to CONNECT to our Creator! What I find most inspiring is that we are taught about Allah’s mercy and bounty which gives us hope and gratitude for being Muslim. My experiences before this was that fear was used as a medium to get us to “practice” Islam. I was a mechanical Muslim. I am now experiencing Islam with my heart!
Challenges for me has been that there were very little breaks. As a mother of three children under 8 and with a full time job, juggling became tricky.Despite this I encouraged my husband to go for short periods of itikaaf to experience DNSI. He has registered for first year next year. The spiritual benefits outweigh the family logistical challenges.
Prospective students need to know that it is intensive and thus a certain amount of commitment is needed. Homework has to be done in order to practice concepts and get help as soon as you start struggling. Leaving it for too long will make it too overwhelming. Encourage some friends to join with you so that you have moral and practical support.
Kaashifa – First Year Student – Registered Counsellor