"Roots & Routes" Programme

Overview

What's R&R (Roots & Routes)?

"Roots & Routes” is a newly launched community learning programme designed for both Muslim and non-Muslim members of the Scottish community in Edinburgh and beyond. This programme features a series of "pop-up" Arabic-Islamic study circles delivered by Mourad Diouri, author and teaching fellow at the University of Edinburgh, with guest appearances from learned members of the community. These study circles focus on fundamental Arabic rootwords related to various themes, while also exploring the deeper meanings of everyday Islamic practices and concepts such as Salah (Prayer), Du’aa (Supplications), Dhikr (Remembering Allah), Divine names of Allah, Hajj (Pilgrimage), spirituality, and much more. 


Themes we will explore include:

1. Understanding Allah

2. Embracing Remembrance (Duaa’ & Dhikr)

3. Pursuing Knowledge in Islam

4. Exploring the Quran & Hadith

5. Engaging in Acts of Worship (Prayer)

6. Observing Acts of Worship (Fasting & Charity)

7. The Purification of the Soul

8. Unveiling the Unseen World in Islam


The sessions are interactive and engaging, building on participants' existing knowledge and practice of Islam. Geared towards total beginners and newcomers to Arabic, this course provides an inclusive space for everyone to explore Arabic and Islam.


The sessions also include: 


Each study session is a discussion rather than a lecture. This circle isn't designed to teach you spoken Arabic but to deepen your understanding of the Arabic you already know. It's not just about listening; it's about engaging, contributing, and socialising. The sessions aren't solely for non-Arabic speakers; it's for everyone to share knowledge and enrich the group. In short, everyone is welcome. 


There is a heavy emphasis on the social aspect and building strong bonds within the community.


To register for the next session, book your place at R&R Booking Form (or check the section below "Forthcoming & Past Events"

To receive updates on forthcoming sessions & announcements, join our WhatsApp Community & Groups

 Themes of Discussion

(1) Understanding Allah

Allah (God), ‘Ilāh (god), Rabb (Lord, Sustainer), Allahumma (O Allah), Rabbi (My Lord), Rabbanā (Our Lord), etc…

(2) Believing in Allah

Islam, Muslim, Salām (peace), ʿibādah (worship), Tawhid (Monotheism), Imān (Faith or belief), Shahada (Declaration of faith), Ihsan (Excellence in worship), Aqidah (Islamic creed), Taqwa (Consciousness and piety towards Allah), Kufr (Disbelief or denial of Allah), Shirk (Associating partners with Allah), Qadar (Divine Decree), etc…

(3) Praying to Allah

Salāh (prayer), Wudu (Ablution), Niyyah (Intention), Takbiratul Ihram (Opening Takbir), Qiyām (Standing), Rukūʿ (Bowing), Sujūd (Prostration), Jalsa (Sitting), Sitting for Tashahhud, Tasleem (Salutations), Azān (Call to prayer), Iqaāmah (second call to prayer), etc…

(4) Remembering Allah

Duʿā (Prayers, Supplications), Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah), Taḥmid (Saying "Alhamdulillah"), Tasbīḥ (Saying “Subhanallah”), Tahleel (Saying “lā ʾilāha ʾillā llāh”,  Takbeer (Saying “Allāhu ʾakbar”), Basmalah (Saying “Bismillah”), Istighfar (seeking forgiveness), etc…

(5) Understanding the Words of Allah

Qur’an, Qāri’ (reader), Tarteel (Reciting the Qur’an) Tajwīd (art of reciting the Quran with proper pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm), Tafsīr (Interpreting the Qur’an), Hifz (Memorisation of the Qur’an), Waḥy (Revelation of the Qur’an), etc…

(6) Showing Gratitude Towards Allah

ḥamd (gratitude), Tahmid (Saying "Alhamdulillah"), Shukr (thankfulness), etc…

(7) Delving into the Beautiful Names of Allah

Names of Allah, Asma' wa Sifat (Names and attributes of Allah), Tawḥīd (Oneness of Allah), Rahḥma (Mercy & compassion), Maghfirah (Forgiveness), ʿadl (Fairness and Justice), ʿilm (knowledge), Rizq (Provision), ḥubb (love), etc…

(8) Giving for the Sake of Allah

Infāq (Spending for the sake of Allah), Nifāq (hypocrisy), Zakat (Obligatory almsgiving), Sadaqah (Voluntary charity), Sadaqah Jariyah (Continuous charity), Fuqaraa’ (The poor), Masaakin (The needy), Fi Sabilillah (In the way of Allah), etc…

(9) Fasting for the Sake of Allah

Sawm (Fasting), Ramadān (رمضان), Suhūr (Pre-dawn meal), Iftār (Breaking the fast), Tarāwiḥ (Night prayers), Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Decree), Iʿtikāf (Spiritual retreat), Eid ul-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast), etc…

(10) Making the Sacred Journey to Allah

Hajj (Pilgrimage), Umrah (Lesser pilgrimage), Ihram (Sacred state), Tawaf (Circumambulation), Kaaba (The Kaaba), Qurbani (Sacrifice), Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice), Hajj Mabrur (Accepted Hajj), etc…

(11) Returning Back to Allah

Tawbah (Repentance), Rujūʿ (return), ʿawdah (return), Akhirah (The Hereafter), Mawt (Death), Janazah (Funeral), Qabr (Grave), Qiyamah (Resurrection/Day of Judgment), Jannah (Paradise), Jahannam (Hell), Rūh (Soul/Spirit), ʿIzra'il (Angel of Death), etc…

Recommended Reading

Forthcoming & Past Events 

Forthcoming Events

Past Events

R&R#07: Roots & Routes to ... Alif Bāʾ Tāʾ: Interactive Webinar on Arabic & Qur’anic Phonetics

🗓 Date: 8th Jan 2025

⏰ Time: 6-8PM (UK Time)

🌐 Format: Online (Google Meet)

Master the correct pronunciation of Qur’anic Arabic in this intensive, hands-on training session. The workshop will focus on mastering Qur'anic Arabic script and sounds, distinguishing similar-sounding letters, and perfecting the points of articulation (مَخَارِجُ الحُرُوف), ensuring precise and confident recitation.

The interactive learning includes:

🎉 Small group & individual practice (via breakout rooms)

🎉 Live guidance and correction

Open to: Brothers, sisters & families (ages 12+)

Delivered by: Mourad Diouri (Author & Teaching Fellow, University of Edinburgh)

💥 Don’t miss this opportunity to perfect your reading and pronunciation skills. 

Registration is essential. To book your place, sign up below

R&R#06: Roots & Routes to ...   Al-Fātiḥah A Deep Dive into the Linguistic, Spiritual & Practical Meanings of Al-Fātiḥah

3-Part Interactive Workshop: "Roots & Routes to Al-Fātiḥah”

Join us for an inspiring 3-part interactive workshop and study circle led by Mourad Diouri (Author & Teaching Fellow, University of Edinburgh).  

The workshop offers a comprehensive journey into Sūrat Al-Fātiḥah, focusing on its linguistic, spiritual, and practical dimensions. Additionally, the workshop aims to enhance Qur'anic literacy, equipping participants with skills for lifelong study of Qur'anicual insights of each verse, and learn to apply its teachings in daily life, prayers, and mindset.

Looking forward to seeing you soon. 

R&R#05: Roots & Routes to ...  Inshā’Allāh: Deep Dive into the Linguistic, Spiritual & Practical Meanings of Inshallah, Mashallah & the Concept of the Will of Allah (Webinar)

Please join our next Roots & Routes to "Inshā’ Allāh": A Deep Dive into the Linguistic, Spiritual & Practical Meanings of "Inshā’ Allāh", "Māshā’ Allāh" & the Concept of the Will of Allah (مشيئة الله)

Delve into the profound wisdom embedded in the phrases (Inshallah & Mashallah), uncovering their spiritual depth and practical relevance. Gain a deeper understanding of how the divine will (Mashīʾatullāh) shapes and guides our actions, decisions, and perspectives in our day to day lives.

Don’t miss this enriching experience of knowledge and reflection.

R&R#04: Roots & Routes to ...   The  Divine Gates   Jannah: A Deep Dive into the Linguistic, Spiritual & Practical Meaning 

Did you know there are 8 unique Gates to Jannah, each representing a different path to paradise? Join us for an inspiring and engaging workshop as we delve into the profound meanings behind each sacred gate through Arabic vocabulary and Prophetic sayings. In this one-off Roots&Routes workshop led by Mourad Diouri, discover how these doors can transform into personal goals, enriching your spiritual journey and daily motivations. 

Looking forward to seeing you soon. 

R&R#02 & 03: Roots & Routes to ...   Al-Fātiḥah A Deep Dive into the Linguistic, Spiritual & Practical Meanings of Al-Fātiḥah (Part 1 & 2)

3-Part Interactive Workshop: "Roots & Routes to Al-Fātiḥah”

Join us for an inspiring 3-part interactive workshop and study circle led by Mourad Diouri (Author & Teaching Fellow, University of Edinburgh).  

The workshop offers a comprehensive journey into Sūrat Al-Fātiḥah, focusing on its linguistic, spiritual, and practical dimensions. Additionally, the workshop aims to enhance Qur'anic literacy, equipping participants with skills for lifelong study of Qur'anicual insights of each verse, and learn to apply its teachings in daily life, prayers, and mindset.

Looking forward to seeing you soon. 

R&R#01: Roots & Routes to ...  Allah: A Deep Dive into the Linguistic, Spiritual & Practical Meanings of Allah  


Join us for an enlightening study circle that offers a deep dive into the linguistic, spiritual, and practical meanings of the Arabic term "Allah" and related words and phrases that Muslims use in daily practice and prayers. Discover the profound significance and diverse usage of "Allah" within various cultural and religious contexts. As we unpack the Arabic meaning through the root-word system using a highly interactive and engaging teaching style, engage in insightful discussions and expand your understanding.


Looking forward to seeing you soon. 

R&R#00: “Roots & Routes” Programme Launch Study Circle & Social Gathering

Ever wanted to understand the true and hidden meanings of Islamic terminology/phrases we use every day as Muslims? Join us in our first study circle to launch "Roots & Routes" as we unpack the Arabic of Islam through the root-word system using a highly interactive and engaging teaching style.

Overview

Join Our Community 

Join our WhatsApp Community & Groups for forthcoming sessions & announcements