In this work, which focuses on the Quran, Shaykh Abdulah Siraj al-Dīn (May Allah’s mercy be upon him) clearly integrates knowledge, understanding, and practice through presenting the virtues, manners, and distinctive merit associated with reciting certain verses, as outlined in Prophetic guidance and scholarly teachings.
In this course, we anticipate covering several key topics. These include prophetic advice on the rewards and metaphysical effects of reciting the Quran. We will also discuss the proper etiquette, both internal and external, for approaching and reciting the Quran, as well as the different levels of reciters. The manners one should have when handling the Mushaf. The course will emphasise the esteemed status of those who carry the Quran and highlight the importance of gathering to recite and study it collectively. When is the optimal time to complete the Quran? And what has been reported regarding the dua made upon its completion, as well as the merit in consistently reciting specific chapters and verses known for their distinctive qualities.
“The scholars are the inheritors of the prophets.” [Abu Dawud]
Shaykh Thaqib Mahmood
Shaykh Thaqib Mahmood’s educational journey in the Islamic disciplines comprises a rich tapestry of experiences from the late 90s to 2007. He sought knowledge in many locations, benefiting from and receiving licenses in general and specific areas from scholars in Yemen, Syria, Morocco, Turkey, Mauritania, Makkah and Madinah.~
All our Saturday classes are available both in person and online. As an institute, we strongly encourage students to attend in person, as the benefits of in-person learning far exceed those of online attendance. The Friday sessions are conducted online via Zoom.
Location
Inperson: Challney High School for Boys, Stoneygate Rd, Luton LU4 9TJ. Online Zoom: links will be provided via email
Date/Time
Starting – 3rd January 2026 for 10 weeks Saturdays – 10.30am to 11.30pm
Module Content
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The text Book to be used for this module is as follows:
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Knowledge
Knowledge is understanding that every choice and view one forms is framed in the guidance presented in the Quran and the Prophetic way as understood by Ahle Sunnah wa al-Jama’ah.
Practice
Practice seeks to implement that knowledge in all aspects of our lives. Sincerely applying knowledge facilitates the soul to acquire virtuous characteristics and move beyond its vices and capricious element
Realisation
The soul becomes receptive to realisations concerning God’s oneness, majesty, beauty, and how creation is an ongoing sign of Divine favour. This witnessing is highlighted in the Prophetic statement,‘Excellence is to worship Allah as though you see Him. If you do not see Him, He sees you.
Shaykh Abdulah Siraj al-Dīn (May Allah’s mercy be upon him) 1923-2002
The Shaykh Abdulah ibn Muhammad Najib Sirzāj al-Din al-Husayni al-Halabi was a
distinguished Islamic scholar, spiritual guide, and hafiz, renowned for his deep
knowledge, exceptional piety, and committed service to Islam. Born in 1923 CE into
a respected and devout family during the late Ottoman Caliphate, he was influenced
by an environment rich in Islamic ethos and scholarship.
Shaykh Abdulah shared a deep spiritual bond with Prophet Muhammad, demonstrated
through his dreams and visions, which showcase his elevated spiritual status. He had a
strong love for al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, where he taught and worshipped. His frequent
visits to the Prophet’s Mosque, along with his heartfelt prayers and reverence, highlighted
his steadfast devotion.
Despite his significant accomplishments, Shaykh Abdulah stayed notably humble. He
prioritised dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and good manners in his teachings,
demonstrating respect and kindness towards others, embodying Islamic principles.
His humility, scholarly accomplishments, and spiritual insight earned him widespread
respect both during his life and after.
During Shaykh Abdulah’s early education years, his father, the esteemed Shaykh
Muhammad Najib Siräj al-Din al-Husayni- a renowned scholar and spiritual guide- lovingly
guided his understanding. As a young man, he was fortunate to study under many
distinguished scholars of his era, including Imam Muhammad Ibrähim al-Salgini, Shaykh
‘Isã al-Bayanuni, Shaykh ‘Umar Mas’ud al-Hariri, Shaykh Faydulläh al-Ayyubi al-Kurdi,
Shaykh Ahmad al-Shamma, and the respected Aleppo historian Shaykh Muhammad Raghib
al-Tabbākh. The latter, recognising Shaykh ‘Abdullah’s bright intellect and strong devotion,
ultimately became his trusted mentor. As his knowledge and spiritual insight grew, Shaykh’
Abdullah’ became a significant and inspiring figure in the Islamic world, impacting many
future scholars.
In 2002, following a surgical procedure, Shaykh Abdulah’s health rapidly declined, leading
to his tragic death on March 4th. His passing was a profound loss for humanity, causing
widespread grief among his followers. He was buried in the Sha’baniyyah complex, next to
the graves of its Ottoman founders, symbolising the end of an era of spiritual leadership.
Shaykh Abdulah, as highlighted in Muhammad Najib Siraj al-Din al-Husayni al-Halabi’s
life and legacy, remains an inspiring figure for many. His profound expertise in Islamic
jurisprudence, exceptional Hadith scholarship, and insightful Qur’anic exegesis are as
relevant today as when they were written. His teachings still influence scholars and
spiritual students alike, establishing him as one of the great luminaries of Islam
Shaykh Thaqib Mahmood
Shaykh Thaqib Mahmood’s educational journey in the Islamic disciplines comprises a rich tapestry of experiences from the late 90s to 2007. He sought knowledge in many locations, benefiting from and receiving licenses in general and specific areas from scholars in Yemen, Syria, Morocco, Turkey, Mauritania, Makkah and Madinah.
The central place of studying abroad unfolded in Damascus, where Shaykh Thaqib Mahmood immersed himself in a traditional curriculum. He received one-on-one tutoring for particular subjects or was part of a small group of students. Over time, he studied various subjects to their advanced levels with various scholars. This led to a comprehensive study of the well-known and established scholarly works, showcasing the depth of arguments and positions representing the mainstream understandings of this Ummah.
Since his return to the UK in the last 17 years, Shaykh Thaqib Mahmood has been actively involved in teaching a broad spectrum of Islamic disciplines, from Sirah to Tafsir. In addition developing educational programmes at the various institutions he’s been serving. His significant contributions include a 9-year tenure as a Quranic Arabic tutor at the University of Oxford, where he designed and developed the Quranic Arabic programme, which was previously neglected, bringing it up to par with the other languages taught at the Faculty of Theology and Religion. He also played a crucial role in creating the first approved BSL (British Sign Language) Adhan, providing essential knowledge of the Arabic phrases that BSL can best capture. His academic achievements include a PGDip in teaching communicative Arabic and an MA in linguistics; he completed both postgraduate programmes at SOAS, which have further enriched his understanding and teaching of Islamic disciplines.
The following are the names of some of the scholars he studied under, each of whom played a meaningful role during his time away studying.
In Yemen: Habib Umar b. Hafidh In Damascus: Shaykh Abdulah Siraj ud-Din, Shaykh Shukri al-Luhafī, Shaykh Ramadhan al-Buṭī, Shaykh Muhammad Darwish, Shaykh Abdul Wahaab, Shaykh Muhammad al Yaqoubi, Shaykh Adnan al Majd, Shaykh Maree al Rashid and Shaykh Khalil al Sabbagh, In Mauritania: Murabit al-Hajj, Murabit Ahmad Fāl and Murabit Hadamīn. In Turkey: Shaykh Mahmud Effendi, Shaykh Muhammed Ameen Siraj, Shaykh Ehsaan Hojah. In Makkah: Shaykh Khalid, Shaykh Abdul-Qadir al-Dhabwān, Shaykh Ahmad al-Ruqaymi, Shaykh Ahmad al-Kāf, and Shaykh ‘Abbas al-Maliki In Madinah: Shaykh Abdur Rahman And in the UK: Shaykh Siraj and Shaykh Muhammad Ba Shuayb.
May Allah preserve those who are alive and grant them the best in this world and the hereafter. And may Allah shower His mercy on those who have returned to their creator and, forgive their shortcomings, and raise their ranks. He continues his learning under both local and international scholars. Shaykh Thaqib has been part of the Fountain for over 25 years.
