Beginning of Guidance Series

All classes are free and open to all women. Listen anytime on any device!

We find ourselves having to balance aspirations of self-improvement against the myriad obligations we face as women. Many of us are juggling competing demands of work, school, family responsibilities, and community. How do we retain something for ourselves? How do we hold onto our himmah-our spiritual resolve? How do we prioritize our relationship with Allah Ta’ala, manage our time, and integrate taqwa into every aspect of our lives?

In the Beginning of Guidance, Imam Al-Ghazali, a scholar of the 5th/11th century (AH/CE), provides the answers to problems that preoccupy worshippers – his advice so relevant and timeless that it is applicable to us in the 15th/21st century. Learn from this great sage how to increase in mindfulness of Allah Most High, thereby increasing in daily productivity and drawing greater satisfaction from life.

Originally written for one of his students, Imam Al-Ghazali’s epistle is relevant for women from all walks of life who seek to benefit from the wisdom of one of Islam’s greatest thinkers and friends of Allah.

Teacher: Ustadha Zaynab Ansari

The course is led by Zaynab Ansari, scholar-in-residence at Tayseer Seminary, who will cover the main sections of the text while providing commentary directed to the concerns of today’s Muslim community, particularly women, youth, and new Muslims.

Beginning of Guidance I: Introduction

(1 hr 10 min)

Beginning of Guidance II: On Obedience

(Part A: 37 min / Part B: 45 min / Part C: 42 min / Part D: 42 min)

Beginning of Guidance III: Refraining from Disobedience

(Part A: 37 min / Part B: 29 min / Part C: 25 min / Part D: 42 min)

Beginning of Guidance IV: On Etiquette with the Creator and Creation

(Part A: 35 min / Part B: 42 min / Part C: 20 min)

Beginning of Guidance V: Conclusion and Parting Advice

(20 min)