Finding divine connection in a world of self-love In a world that constantly tells us to “love yourself first,” the idea of love often begins and ends with the self—how we feel, what we need, what we deserve. But in one warm classroom at Rabata Cultural Center in Minnesota, around twenty women gathered to look […]
The Light of the Prophet ﷺ through Love Languages Read More »
A fun check-in for Rabateers—and an invite! In her Latte & Learn on “Grounds for Growth,” Anse Fatima asked us: If your personal growth journey was a coffee order, what would it be and why? And then talked about how each one of us helps other women move along the Rabata woman’s journey. In that spirit,
Grounds for Growth Read More »
Think about the last time you settled in with a good book, a steaming cup of coffee in hand. It’s a universal ritual of comfort and focus. Now, let me ask you a question that might seem strange: What does that cup of coffee have to do with a polymath who lived in Baghdad over
The Unlikely Link Between Your Coffee and a Ninth-Century Muslim Genius Read More »
“You live here now, you can take all of that off.”
I untangle the dark thread of your bias from around my heart, and discard it. Turn.
After years of yearning for a child, I bend in prayer and feel the first flutter of her movement.
I reach my hand out to the golden thread of gratefulness and wrap it around my heart. Turn.
Our lives are like fields. We sow seeds through our actions, words, and intentions, and what we plant determines the harvest we leave behind. What will my legacy be? The Prophet ﷺ taught us that when a person dies, their deeds come to an end—except for three: sadaqa jariya (continuous charity), knowledge that is beneficial, and the prayers of a virtuous descendant. In a world where so much fades, possessions break, money is spent, and accomplishments are forgotten, these three legacies endure, continuing to send blessings to the believer even after they have returned to Allah. If you are able to produce knowledge and share this knowledge, please do so. If you can publish a book, then do it, but if not, teach something. Create a video. This will stay for you as long as people are benefitting from it. You will continue reaping the benefit from this harvest.
Harvesting Knowledge Read More »
Born in northwest Indiana and raised in a Christian family, Chloe Porter Dixon embraced Islam in 2015—a decision she describes as “the best I have ever made.” Though the path came with challenges, it also brought countless blessings.
Now living in North Carolina with her husband (who is also a convert) and their cat, Chloe works full-time in human resources. “Together, we’ve made an intentional choice to center our lives around Islam and always strive to continue learning the deen,” she shares.
Student of the Month – October Read More »
At the foundation of every story is a character. And at the foundation of that character is something they yearn for. Something they need or want that will shape their actions and relationships the entire journey, whether they know it or not. Harry Potter wanted family, love, and safety. Pip in Great Expectations wanted to
Power, Power, Who’s Got the Power? Read More »
Oh faithful guest
The day you come for me,
Will my soul be at its best,
Waiting to be free?
The fall Ribaat semester is here—courses began on September 7, 2025! Whether you’re a new student or returning for another term, one of the best ways to set yourself up for success is to have a time management plan in place before classes begin.
The truth is, no single method works for everyone. You may find that a mix of techniques is most effective. Here are a few approaches you might try:
Time Management Techniques Read More »
Over the past two decades, I have inhabited many roles in relation to Arabic—learner, teacher, researcher, and curriculum developer. The question “Why is it important to study Arabic?” has been a recurrent one during my journey. The simple response is that the answer depends on the questioner. For some, the value lies in religious goals; for others, it lies in heritage, academic ambitions, or even politicized motivations. In reality, there is an answer—and an Arabic—for everyone.
Why Is It Important to Learn Arabic? A New Answer to an Old Question Read More »
