At Darus Saulieghien Quraan Academy (DSQA), we strive to nurture not just academic excellence but also spiritual strength in our learners. Life often presents challenges, whether it’s keeping up with studies, memorizing the Qur’an, or simply staying motivated. The Qur’an gives us a powerful reminder to help us overcome these struggles with one simple yet profound word: “قُم” (Qum) – which means “rise.”
This command was used by Allah when addressing the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in key moments of his life. It wasn’t just a word; it was a call to action, a motivation to move forward, and a reminder of the strength Allah places within us.
The Meaning of “قُم”
“قُم” comes from the root ق-و-م, which means to rise, stand, or establish something. It teaches us to prepare ourselves mentally, physically, and spiritually to take on challenges with determination and resolve.
At DSQA, the lessons from “قُم” resonate deeply with our mission of equipping learners to stand tall – spiritually and academically – so they can become positive contributors to society.
Two Key Lessons from “قُم”
Allah uses “قُم” in the Qur’an to guide the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in two important ways. These lessons also apply to our DSQA learners, teachers, and parents:
1. Rise for Inner Strength (Surah Al-Muzzammil)
قُمِ ٱلَّيْلَ إِلَّا قَلِيلًا
“Stand [to pray] at night, except for a little.” [73:2]
In this verse, Allah commands the Prophet (SAW) to rise in prayer during the night. It wasn’t just about worship; it was about building spiritual resilience, finding peace, and preparing for the challenges ahead. For DSQA learners, this is a reminder that connecting with Allah through prayer – especially during quiet moments like before and after Fajr – builds the strength needed for both academic and spiritual success.
What This Means for DSQA Learners:
- Set aside time for salah and Qur’an recitation every day, especially during early mornings when the mind is fresh.
- Use prayer as a way to calm your worries about school, exams, or personal challenges.
2. Rise for Action (Surah Al-Muddaththir)
قُمْ فَأَنذِرْ
“Arise and warn.” [74:2]
In this verse, the command shifts from internal preparation to external action. Allah instructs the Prophet (SAW) to rise and deliver His message to the people. This is a call to face challenges, opposition, and hardships head-on, trusting in Allah and focusing on the effort, not the outcome.
What This Means for DSQA Learners:
- Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” to start your homework, memorization, or helping your parents – just rise and begin!
- Effort matters more than perfection. Allah rewards the steps you take, even if they seem small.
“قُم” in the DSQA Environment
At DSQA, we encourage our learners, teachers, and parents to embody the lessons of “قُم” in their daily lives:
- For Learners: Rise to the challenge of balancing Hifz, Islamic studies, and academics. Start your day with focus, pray for guidance, and take each task step by step.
- For Teachers: Rise with passion and dedication to inspire learners. Approach every lesson as an opportunity to instill a love for the Qur’an and academic excellence.
- For Parents: Rise to support your children’s journey. Set routines for study, encourage revision, and lead by example with your own dedication to salah and Qur’anic connection.
Building a “قُم” Mindset at DSQA
The lessons of “قُم” remind us that life’s challenges – whether internal struggles or external responsibilities – are opportunities to grow. At DSQA, we aim to instill this mindset in our learners, helping them develop the inner strength to rise in prayer and the external courage to take meaningful action.
When overwhelmed, remember to:
- Pray: Start your day by connecting with Allah.
- Act: Take small but consistent steps toward your goals.
- Trust: Have faith that Allah will guide you through every challenge.
May Allah help all of us – learners, teachers, and parents alike – rise with strength and purpose, fulfilling our roles with sincerity and determination. Ameen.