Sham 2007

by Sara Haider

The eight days we spent in Shaam were spiritually uplifting, socially engaging, emotionally reviving, mentally
challenging and a whole lot more. There was not a single person on the trip that felt ready to say Allah Hafis to Lady Zainab and the atmosphere of Shaam on the Monday afternoon that we left.

Never have I been so willing to give up my sleep, however with such a beautiful opportunity for development
at hand it was impossible to forsake this invitation from Lady Zainab.

Every aspect of the trip was organised to the core detail, the days were filled with educational and spiritual activities that made the whole experience an inspiring one, that will InshAllah lead us all to becoming better Muslims, and better Shi’as. We were so well pampered, with excellent food, luxurious accommodation, extremely comfortable travel- our every need was catered for.


We were blessed to have wonderful speakers accompany us on the trip, who were so willing to share their knowledge with us, and answer our endless questions. No doubt we exhausted them but their conduct and akhlaq was an example to us all. Every moment was made use of with lectures and question & answer sessions on bus journeys, as well as additional sessions slotted into the mornings and nights.

This was supplemented with excellent nauha, mersia, and qasida reciters such as Uncle Ramazan Ali and the ‘‘Shi’as from South London’’. The latter, in particular, ensured tabarra was well and truly alive, and praise of Imam Ali was a constant utterance.

As our departure drew nigh, many of us began discussing our aspirations and areas we intended on improving upon- everyone had been motivated by the knowledge gained to improve and prepare ourselves for the return of the Hujjat, the 12th Imam (AS). We had all recognised that we have an aim, and each of us is more than
capable of making this world a better place, if we just put our mind to it. This was the message passed on to us by truly moving speakers such as Mohammad Jaffer, and the work already being done by himself, and Syed Modarresi were illustrations of the plethora of opportunities for us to get involved in.

One cannot underestimate the value of engaging  with other Muslim brothers and sisters to share experiences and engage in discussions of how to balance our ‘deen and duniya’ demands. This trip gives you the opportunity to grow as a person mentally and emotionally. The scholars do not enforce on you what to change about your life to lead a more Islamic lifestyle, but point you in the right direction to find your own ideals and aspirations. The journey does not just end after the duration of the stay in Syria, but continues by practically implementing Islam upon your return. Without a doubt, Sham 2007 was a life changing and delightful experience.

Hyderi Youth would like to thank the organisers, speakers and volunteers on this trip. May Allah reward
you all inshallah.