Studying the ʿālim class has been a transformative experience for me. The course proceeds at a deceptively gentle pace, starting with basic Arabic and continuing with topics ranging from fiqh to adab (Arabic literature). I say ‘deceptively’, because along with the methodical and thorough introduction to each subject, comes the opportunity to connect oneself to a chain of learning that stretches back to The Prophet ﷺ. Learning from teachers thus steeped in traditional knowledges creates an awareness of the ultimate purpose of study and thereby initiates an inner transformation that belies the actual pace of the teaching. The course has provided me with an understanding of the breadth of ʿilm and, I hope, instilled a sense of humility in approaching this ocean.

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