In 2006, the IslamicText Institute was founded by Allie Khalfe. Its inception was deeply influenced by the Al-Zawiya Institute in Walmer Estate, Cape Town, and the IslamicText Society in Cambridge, UK. The esteemed leaders of these institutions, Shaykh Seraj Hendricks and Prof. Abdul Hakim Murad, have been recognized among the world’s most influential Muslim figures.
Central to the pedagogy of these institutions is the “Ihya ‘Ulum ul-Din” or “The Revitalization of the Religious Sciences” by Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali. This traditional approach involves the Shaykh reading and interpreting classical texts, ensuring students grasp the depth, context, and certainty of the teachings. This methodology mirrors that of scholars from the venerable Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, a globally renowned center of Islamic learning.
Vision
The IslamicText Institute adopts a holistic view of education, emphasizing both spiritual nourishment (tarbiya) and academic instruction (ta’lim). These twin pillars form the sacred bond between teacher and student.
Islam provides comprehensive nourishment for the mind, body, and soul. The Institute’s curriculum emphasizes three primary disciplines: Jurisprudence (Al-Fiqh), Theology (Al-Tawhid), and Spirituality (Al-Ihsan). Rooted in both classical and traditional texts that span over a millennium, the Institute’s teachings offer a profound spiritual journey.
From its inception, the Institute has anchored its teachings in classical texts such as the “Ihya ‘Ulum al-Din” and “The Beginning of Guidance” by Imam al-Ghazali for Spirituality. For Jurisprudence, primary sources include commentaries on the “Matn of Abu Shuja”, and for Theology, the “Jawhara al-Tawhid” by Imam Laqqani.
IslamicText Youth Madrasah
The Institute’s approach aims to reveal the deeper wisdom behind Islamic practices and rituals. This ensures the cultivation of scholars and students who think critically and confidently. Catering to the youth, the Institute endeavors to provide them with a holistic education that transcends mere recitation, a foundational pillar of Islamic education.
Our youth represent the future of Islam. It’s imperative to equip them with the confidence and tools they need to interact harmoniously with all of humanity. The Institute’s teachings emphasize the Prophetic values of mercy, tolerance, and compassion towards all beings.
IslamicText Objectives
Seeking knowledge in Islam is a transformative spiritual journey aimed at the heart. One of its primary goals is the refinement of one’s character (al-akhlaq). Scholars concur that the divine revelation (wahi) holds the potential for complete human purification. Thus, Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) purifies the body, spiritual teachings (ihsān) cleanse the heart, and the laws of belief (tawhid) refine the intellect. The Institute’s mission is to share this holistic approach, nurturing learners to become luminous beacons in their homes and communities.
IslamicText Courses
The Institute offers a diverse range of courses, from foundational Arabic to intricate jurisprudence. Learners can choose their subjects based on their capacity and interest.
Free Education
All courses at the Institute are complimentary. While there’s no mandatory fee, the community’s generous support has been invaluable. The youth Madrasah operates on a minimal fee structure per family, ensuring the sustenance of dedicated educators. With the community’s backing, the IslamicText Institute remains committed to offering top-tier education without financial barriers.
Online Education
Six years ago, the Institute unveiled its website, which has since garnered over 700,000 visitors worldwide, including from countries like Saudi Arabia, USA, Malaysia, and India. In 2017, an online education system was introduced, allowing global learners to receive weekly summaries on subjects like Tafsir, Tasawwuf, and Arabic via WhatsApp.
Conclusion
The IslamicText Institute stands as a testament to the timeless wisdom and spiritual depth of Islam. By grounding its teachings in classical texts and emphasizing the holistic development of students, the Institute ensures that the rich tapestry of Islamic knowledge is passed on to future generations. As the world evolves, institutions like the IslamicText Institute play a pivotal role in preserving the essence of Islam and guiding the Ummah towards a brighter future.
Contact Details
Email: islamictext@gmail.com or info@islamictextinstitute.co.za
