Empowering Women Through Cultivating Knowledge & Spirituality
Introduction
Irada (إرادة) is a term I deeply cherish. It means “will” and signifies the determination to reach the Beloved (God) through spiritual effort, or the desire to become beloved by God by fulfilling what pleases Him.”1 This concept embodies willpower, intention, and unwavering resolve, specifically directed toward striving for the Divine and seeking His pleasure with a profound, burning desire. May Allah bless us all with such determination. Ameen!
In Islam, beneficial knowledge is highly esteemed, and those who possess it bear the responsibility of sharing it to guide others towards righteous actions, a deeper understanding of one’s faith, and closeness to Allah. Sharing such knowledge can yield continuous rewards (sadaqah jariyah) even after one’s passing. Similarly, the pursuit of beneficial knowledge is regarded as a lifelong obligation for every Muslim. This pursuit, especially of knowledge that fortifies our deen, inspires spiritual growth, and cultivates a closer with Allah, Most High, holds immense significance.
“And say: My Lord! Increase me in knowledge.”
(Surah Ta-Ha, 20:114)
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we are excited to present Irada a series highlighting the invaluable contributions of Black Muslim women who lead deen-focused study circles that are curated to help Black Muslim women grow, flourish, and feel seen, safe, celebrated, heard, and understood. By shedding light on their vital role in nurturing deen-focused education and spiritual growth, we hope to inspire others to follow their example, insha’Allah. May Allah increase them and all of us.
Islamic study circles centered on Deen offer Muslim women a valuable chance to deepen their faith, engage in enriching discussions, and build a sense of sisterhood. Whether conducted online or in person, these gatherings create a nurturing space for exploring various dimensions of Islam, such as Arabic tajweed, tafsir (Quranic interpretation), the attributes of Allah, hadith, and different facets of Islamic spirituality. By fostering the pursuit of Islamic knowledge, these study circles empower women with greater confidence and resilience in their faith, thereby contributing to both personal spiritual growth and the enrichment of their communities.
Black Muslim Women: Leaders of Islamic Study Circles
The women who organize these study circles come from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences. They share a common passion as Muslim women who are committed to uplifting their communities through the cultivation of Islamic knowledge. Dynamic yet humble, they are women of knowledge who are continuously learning and growing and are dedicated to creating empowering spaces where women of color can also learn, grow, and support one another. Likewise, they encourage other women in their circle to also step up and share what they have been blessed and inspired to learn.
Throughout this series, we will share insights and experiences from the women who lead these study circles. From their motivations to their challenges, we will explore the journeys of these remarkable individuals. Their stories will shed light on the importance of these gatherings and the impact they have on the lives of the participants.
The women were asked to share their experiences and insights regarding organizing study circles for Muslim women. They discussed their motivations for initiating these groups and highlighted the specific aspects of Islamic teaching that they focus on, such as reading the Quran or studying Islamic spirituality. Participants described the spiritual and personal benefits gained from these study circles, detailing growth and development through shared experiences. They shared personal anecdotes illustrating the positive impact on individuals and emphasized the importance of fostering community and sisterhood. Additionally, they addressed how inclusivity is maintained for women of diverse backgrounds and knowledge levels, and offered advice for others interested in starting similar initiatives in their communities.
Many of the organizers express a deep sense of responsibility and passion for their work. They are driven by the desire to provide a platform for women to learn about Islam in an inclusive and supportive environment. Their motivations often stem from their own experiences, recognizing the need for spaces where Muslim women can freely explore their faith and spirituality.
Challenges and Impact
Leading Islamic study circles is not without its challenges. The organizers sometimes face obstacles such as time constraints, resource limitations, and balancing their commitments with personal responsibilities. Despite these challenges, their unwavering dedication and resilience enable them to continue their important work. Their ability to overcome these hurdles is a testament to their strength and commitment to their communities.
The study circles have a profound impact on the women who attend them. Participants often report experiencing spiritual transformation, feeling more connected to their faith, gaining a deeper understanding of Islamic teachings, and experiencing a sense of camaraderie with their fellow attendees. These gatherings provide a safe space for women to ask questions, share their experiences, and support one another in their spiritual journeys.
Conclusion
By highlighting these study circles, we aim to promote the importance of cultivating Islamic knowledge and spirituality among Muslim women. We hope to inspire others to organize similar gatherings in their communities, fostering a network of support and learning for Muslim women across the country. The series will also serve as a reminder of the vital role that women play in the preservation and dissemination of Islamic knowledge.
As we embark on this series during Women’s History Month, we celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Muslim women who lead Islamic study circles. Their dedication to fostering Islamic knowledge and spirituality is an inspiration to us all. Through their efforts, they are empowering women to become more confident in their faith and to contribute positively to their communities. We invite you to join us in this celebration and to learn from the experiences of these remarkable women.
Stay tuned for the first article in our series, where we will dive deeper into the journeys of the organizers and the impact of their work. Together, let us honor the legacy of these women and promote the cultivation of Islamic knowledge and spirituality for generations to come.
- Mohamed Fouad Aresmouk & Michel Abdurrahman Fitzger (Translators), The Book of Ascension to the Essential Truths of Sufism by Ahmad ibn Ajība (Louisville, KY: Fons Vitae, 2011), 17 ↩︎
Akanke is an Atlanta native who grew up in a non-religious family. In her late twenties, she embraced Islam after an unexpected introduction to the faith while training as a television producer. She volunteered to help as a camera operator on a live talk show featuring Muslim guests and was captivated by the insightful discussions surrounding Islam. Encouraged by her fellow producer colleagues, she attended Friday prayers and began reading the Quran, ultimately finding profound inspiration that solidified her decision to convert. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong passion for spirituality and personal growth rooted in her faith.
She holds a degree in Communication from Georgia State University, specializing in film, television, and anthropology. Her diverse career includes roles as a television and radio producer, life coach, voiceover artist, and abstract painter. During a decade spent in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Akanke refined her public speaking and leadership skills, mentoring women through two women-only Toastmasters clubs she founded. Above all, she emphasizes spirituality as the cornerstone of self-actualization, advocating for a life devoted to Allah. She believes personal growth and lasting success stem from a strong, loving relationship with Him.
Since 2007, Akanke has been involved with MANA in various capacities. She currently serves as Board Vice President and part-time Director of Communications.
