Undoubtedly, the Ummah needs both male and female scholars whose extensive knowledge of Islamic studies represents vital contributions to the Muslim community. Becoming an Alimah or a female Muslim scholar is of great benefit for a great section of the Islamic nation, which is women.
So, if you pursue the path of Islamic knowledge and want to know how to become an Alimah, this article will provide you with all you need to know before venturing into this great aspiration in shaa’Allah. Enrolling in an Islamic course for women can be one of the best starting points on this journey, as it provides structured learning, guidance, and a supportive environment to help you progress in your studies.
What is an Alimah in Islam?
An Alimah in Islam is a female scholar who possesses Ilm. The word Ilm in Arabic is translated into knowledge because it indicates the full realization of a subject as it is.
Thus, being an Alimah in Islam means that this female scholar is not just a Hafizah of the Quran or prophetic Hadith, but also possesses the necessary analytical and deductive tools to introduce a comprehensive understanding of Islam to other Muslim sisters. A Muslim Alimah must be knowledgeable in the fields of Fiqh, Aqeedah, Tafseer, and other aspects of Islamic knowledge.
Guide to Becoming an Alimah
Becoming an Alimah is definitely not a walk in the park because it requires exerting a lot of effort to understand and properly apply Islamic principles and teachings by learning fields of Fiqh, Aqeedah, Hadith, Tafseer, etc.
1- Start with Quran Studies
- Quran Recitation and Tajweed
You have to master the advanced and basic rules of Tajweed in order to have an accurate recitation of the Quran. You cannot be an Alimah and make grave mistakes when reciting verses from the Quran
- Memorization of the Quran
Memorizing the Quran by heart is not only useful in recalling verses as you are speaking on a certain subject, but also in making the Quran a permanent resident in your heart and mind. It goes without saying that the Quran is a main source of legislation, so memorizing it is an essential part of becoming an Alimah.
- Tafseer of the Quran
Understanding the interpretation of Quranic verses is one of the pillars of becoming a Muslim Alimah because it gives you the necessary tools to explore and delve deep into the meanings of those verses. The result is a thorough and accurate knowledge of Islamic principles and teachings derived straight from the source, the Quran. It is also one of the necessary steps of the journey of contemplating the verses of the Quran.
2- Follow the Example of Prophet Muhammad
Studying the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad PBUH, recorded in the Sunnah and his manner of dealing with others as found in Seerah, represents an indispensable guide for an Alimah on the proper attitude adopted in Dawah. Learning from the wisdom and kindness of the Prophet is key in becoming a Muslim scholar.
3- Study Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence)
This is a great area of knowledge, and it is of great importance to Muslim sisters because it enables you to explain the Islamic ruling on matters relating to women. Make your intention sincere for the sake of Allah to be an Alimah who guides her Muslim sisters on issues relevant to their lives and their fate in the hereafter.
Check our online Islamic classes for adults at Almuhammadi Academy for an insightful learning experience of the for ladies to become an alimah with the guidance of our Islamic tutors who are graduates of Al-Azhar University and certified in Quranic recitation.
4- Have Thorough Knowledge of Aqeedah (Islamic Theology)
It cannot be stressed enough that Aqeedah is one of the essential pillars of Islamic knowledge because it is the basis of belief. It shapes your belief in Allah SWT, His messengers, His Books, Judgment Day and Destiny. Being an Alimah in this area enables you to combat the rising waves of atheism affecting the belief of young Muslims and making them question their faith.
5- Learn from Reliable Sources
Whether you are learning from books or lectures, make sure that these sources are reliable because there is much content on the internet that includes false information about Islam. As an Alimah, you are accountable before Allah SWT about the knowledge you teach to others about the religion, so make sure that this knowledge is accurate.
6- Seek the Guidance of a Mentor
Do not hesitate to seek spiritual mentorship from professional Alimahs. Their tips and guidance can help you overcome any hurdles on your way, clarify misunderstandings, and gain insight into matters of religion.
7- Keeping up with the Challenges of the Ummah
It is important for an aspiring Alimah to be aware of the challenges facing the Muslim Ummah because she needs to be aware of the condition of the Ummah and use that as a source of continuous motivation and inspiration. Addressing the issues of the Muslim community and seeking solutions is part of her greatest responsibilities
5 Tips on Becoming an Alimah in Islam
These are some quick pieces of advice to bear in mind as you begin your journey of seeking Islamic knowledge:
- Purify your intention from diseases of the heart, such as arrogance and pride.
- Start by making a plan that includes a section for each aspect of Islamic knowledge.
- Seek the help of online tutors by taking an online Islamic studies program.
- Listen to contemporary Alimahs and scholars in the field you are interested in such as Ustadha Yasmin Mojahid and Ustadha Haifaa Yousuf.
- Dedicate time to daily Quranic reflections to establish a strong relationship with the Quran.
Conclusion
Remember that this path of seeking Islamic knowledge bears great reward, and it is the path of great female Muslims in Islamic history, like Sayyidah Aisha bint Abi Bakr. You are surely going to face some obstacles with sincere intention and determination; you can definitely achieve your purpose.