Table Of Contents
HEARTBEATS is the quarterly newsletter of the Dar-us-Salaam Community in College Park, Maryland. The mission of Dar-us-Salaam is to build a living, vibrant model community based on the principles of the Qur’an and Sunnah. Heartbeats features stories from Dar-us-Salaam and its projects which educate and inspire our community members. Heartbeats is a publication of the Dar-us-Salaam Strategic Communications Department.
To read Heartbeats online or to learn more about Dar-us-Salaam, visit: www.darussalaam.org
Editor: Sameera Hijazi
Photographer: Khalifa Dobbins
Graphic Designer: Farah Firman
We love feedback and nasiha! Send your suggestions and story ideas to:
heartbeats@darussalaam.org
You can also call or text us at
301-982-2061 .
Interested in advertising to thousands of DMV area Muslim families? Advertise by emailing us!
Share Your Preference – How Would You Like to Receive Heartbeats - Dar-us-Salaam's Quarterly Newsletter?
Fill the form30YEARS OF DU’AAWITH IMAM SAFI
Interviewed By Khalifa Dobbins & Sameera Hijazi
We recently had the honor of sitting down with Imam Safi Khan to interview him on his journey with du’aa and the legacy of Dar-us-Salaam that has been established over the past 30 years. Below is an excerpt from our interview.
Q: This piece is going to be regarding the legacy of Dar-us-Salaam and how your connection to Allah has shaped since then. We wanted to start at the very beginning of Dar-us- Salaam’s story: on its inception. Tell us more about the vision, and what you anticipated as the outcome of this project
A: Before we begin, I just want to clarify that whatever is happening now is exactly what was expected. The only thing was that, because we’re human, we tend to want everything to happen quickly. So, I had expected things to happen sooner. But whatever is happening now, whatever has been happening all these years—this was always the plan. This was the vision from the very beginning.
Honestly, I don’t see this as my vision. This is the vision set forth in the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ). What we built at Dar-us-Salaam is simply a reenactment of the community of Madinah—the model that the Prophet (ﷺ) established. This is not something unique to us; it is a vision for all Muslims who truly immerse themselves in the Qur’an and Sunnah.
Q: In those early days, what kind of du’aas did you make? How did you and others connect to Allah during that time?
A: Reflecting on the du‘aas we made in those early days is deeply emotional and humbling. Not because I hesitate to talk about them, but because when I look back, I truly see how Allah guided us. I see His hand in the success of this community—not through any one person’s effort, but through the blessings He granted.
Allah promises in the Qur’an:
“O you who have believed, if you support Allah, He will support you and will make your foothold firm.”
(Surah Muhammad, 47:7)
This is something I witness every day. The growth of Dar-us-Salaam, the people who came together— it was never about us. It was always the mercy of Allah. The greatest honor is that He used us for His cause, just as He used the young believers in the story of the cave:
“Indeed, they were young men who believed in their Lord, and We increased them in guidance.”
(Surah Al-Kahf, 18:13)
That was our story as well. A group of youth, striving to build something greater than ourselves—not just a community, but a place rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah, one that would carry us into Jannah together.
To achieve this, we relied on three things:
- The verses of the Qur’an.
- The sayings of the Prophet (ﷺ).
- And most importantly—du‘aa.
As we grew, challenges tested us. But we never placed our reliance on ourselves. Despite our weaknesses, Allah never failed us. Whenever we faced difficulties, distractions, or fears, we turned to du‘aa, seeking His protection from arrogance, from our own shortcomings, and from losing sight of our purpose.
Some of the first du‘aas we made were:
“O Allah, we seek refuge in You from the removal of Your blessings, from our well-being being taken away, from Your sudden punishment, and from all of Your anger.”
“O Allah, we seek refuge in You from exhaustion, from hardship, from an evil fate, and from our enemies rejoicing in our failures.”
“Our Lord! Do not let our hearts deviate after You have guided us, and grant us from Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestower.”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:8)
This is just a glimpse of the many du‘aas we made. We continue to call upon Allah, knowing that everything we have built is only by His mercy. May Allah help us all to stick together, to work together, to share this beautiful deen with as many people as possible.
Q: Was the desire to unite the Muslim Ummah the initial goal? Or was there something else that really inspired the foundation of Dar-usSalaam?
A: When we began Dar-us-Salaam, unity was not the first thing we focused on. The real priority was Tawheed—understanding the Oneness of Allah. Unity among people comes naturally when they are united in their connection to Allah. Our goal was to invite people to Him first, as He says in the Qur’an:
“And who is better in speech than one who calls to Allah, does righteous deeds, and says: Indeed, I am among the Muslims?”
(Surah Fussilat, 41:33)
That was the foundation. We believed that if we built a community centered on righteousness, unity would follow as a natural outcome.
From the beginning, the mission of Dar-us-Salaam was guided by four fundamental principles:
- KNOW – To know Allah, His names, attributes, and actions.
- SHOW – To show gratitude by practicing Islam.
- GLOW – To embody Islam in our character.
- GROW – To build an intentional community based on the Qur’an and Sunnah.
These principles remain at the heart of everything we do, shaping not just a community, but a way of life rooted in faith, sincerity, and purpose.
Q: The other day I heard a brother reminisce about how he was one of the first people to put money towards Dar-us-Salaam. Do you have more stories to share?
A: SubhanAllah… there are so many stories. So many people supported this mission in ways that still move me to this day. It’s difficult to even talk about them because, honestly, they are all tearjerkers—heart-softening, humbling reminders of Allah’s mercy.
When you witness how Allah helps His servants, how He opens doors when none seem to exist, how can you ever lose faith? How can you ever doubt Him? For those whose hearts remain focused on Allah, for those who truly look, miracles are everywhere—happening every single day, moment by moment.
One night at ICCL, we were raising funds for Dar-usSalaam when a community member challenged our efforts. She asked how much money we had in our account. When I told her “about $3,000,” she shook her head and said we were being unrealistic. She insisted that if we wanted to succeed, we needed to take an interest-based loan. I told her I would rather teach our children outside on the grass than take a loan with riba.
That night, I went upstairs for Maghrib and made a du‘aa the Prophet (ﷺ) taught us:
“O Allah, help me and do not help against me. Grant me victory, and do not give victory over me. Plan for me, and do not let others plan against me.”
After the prayer, three brothers stood up and announced that a masjid in Seattle had burned down and needed urgent funds. The room was silent—no one raised their hand. I turned to our team and asked how much we had. Sayeed, our treasurer, confirmed the $3,000, and we agreed to give all of it for the sake of Allah.
As we were leaving, the same sister who had doubted us stopped me and my wife. She handed us an envelope and told us not to open it until we got in the car. When we did, we found a check for $250,000.
By the next morning, another donor called and gave $15,000. In less than 24 hours, our $3,000 had become $265,000.
Allah promises in the Qur’an:
“Whatever you spend in the way of Allah, He will replace it.”
(Surah Saba, 34:39)
And that night, we saw that promise fulfilled before our eyes. There are many more stories like this—I have witnessed it happen over and over again throughout the years.
Q: Reflecting on the past 30 years, how do you see your relationship with Allah evolving over these three decades?
A: I would say that my trust in Allah has grown tremendously. The Qur’an is not just something you read—it is something you live. Everything Allah promises in it, I see happening right in front of my eyes. Every lesson in the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ) ,I see unfolding moment by moment.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that whenever we slow down, whenever we don’t accomplish as much, it is because we have become distracted. This is exactly what Allah warns us about—trials and difficulties come when we give in to our weaknesses and stray from obedience.
From the beginning, we knew that tazkiyat an-nafs— purification of the soul—was essential. But now, after 30 years, I see its value even more. The heart has become the symbol of our community because it is where everything begins. Our intentions, our actions, our faith—it all starts with the heart.
When you work for Allah’s cause, you gain two types of knowledge. The first is book knowledge—learning from scholars, reading, and studying. The second is experiential knowledge—the wisdom that comes only through action. This second type of knowledge cannot be found in books; it is something Allah grants to those who strive in His way.
Alhamdulillah, it is incredible to reflect on how all of this began—with a group of youth, striving for the sake of Allah. And with sincere du‘aa and intentions, here we are today, 30 years later. This is no longer just about our du‘aas—it is about the du‘aas of an entire community, from the DMV to around the world.
Under One Sky
Dar-us-Salaam Revives The Sunnah Of Moon Sighting
Children make telescopes in preparation for the moon sighting!
Imam Sabri recording a video announcement that the Ramadan moon has been sighted at Dar-us-Salaam, congratulating the community on the commencement of the blessed month!
For over a thousand years, Muslims around the world have gathered at the end of Sha’ban to search the evening sky for a sliver of light—the new crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan. This Prophetic Sunnah is more than just the physical moon sighting—it is a tradition that connects generations, uniting the Ummah in a shared moment of reflection, anticipation, and renewal. Long before modern astronomical calculations, communities would step outside together, their eyes turned toward the sky, experiencing the awe of witnessing one of Allah’s signs firsthand. Even today, the practice serves as a reminder that our deen is not just intellectual but experiential—a lived connection to nature, time, and divine order.
On the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, families gathered at Dar-us-Salaam to revive this beautiful Sunnah. The evening began with engaging activities for children, including storytelling, arts and crafts, gratitude reflections, and setting personal Ramadan goals. As sunset approached, excitement grew for the moon sighting that was drawing close. Children and adults alike made their way outside in droves after praying Maghrib, their eyes searching the horizon for the first glimpse of the crescent moon.
Standing beneath the darkening sky, the community experienced a profound sense of togetherness,
mirroring the way Muslims around the world have welcomed Ramadan for generations. The anticipation was tangible, as children pointed to the sky, whispered guesses, and eagerly asked their parents if they had seen the crescent moon yet
Then came the confirmation from Imam Sabri: THE MOON HAD BEEN SIGHTED! Smiles spread across faces, voices rose in warm greetings of Ramadan Mubarak, and conversations turned to the month ahead. Children excitedly discussed their plans for fasting, their eagerness adding to the spirit of renewal and commitment that Ramadan brings.
As the night continued, the excitement of moon sighting gave way to the serenity of worship as the community made its way indoors for the first Taraweeh prayer. Rows of worshippers stood shoulder to shoulder in quiet reverence, the Imam’s voice filling the room as he began reciting the opening verses of Surah Baqarah. Children who had been pointing at the sky just moments ago now stood beside their parents in prayer. The transition from searching for the crescent to standing in worship was seamless—a reminder that Ramadan begins not just with the sighting of a new moon, but with the turning of hearts toward Allah.
Charities Fundraise At Dar-us-Salaam During Ramadan
United Hands Relief & Development donation table at Dar-us-Salaam during Taraweeh on March 18, 2025
Ramadan is a time of increased worship, reflection, and generosity. It’s also a time when many charitable organizations work tirelessly to raise funds for critical causes, from humanitarian aid to legal advocacy and social services. At Darus-Salaam, we are grateful to be able to provide a platform for these organizations, welcoming them into our community during Jumu’ah and Taraweeh prayers throughout the month.
Unlike some masajid that take a percentage of what guest organizations collect, Dar-us-Salaam has never done so. In fact, we go a step further—any cash donations dropped into our boxes during a guest organization’s visit are given directly to them. Our staff and volunteers assist with collecting donations, providing credit card readers, and ensuring they have prime table space and time on the microphone to address the congregation. As Minhaj Hasan of the Dar-us-Salaam Donor Care Office put it:
Allah promised that if you help your brother, He will help you, so for us, helping other organizations raise money at Dar-us-Salaam will bring Allah’s help to Dar-usSalaam—it’s a win-win.
This year, we were fortunate to host several organizations that serve both local and global communities, including:
Islamic Relief USA
Human Development Fund
Helping Hand for Relief and Development
United Hands Relief & Development
The Aafia Foundation
CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations)
ICNA Relief Women’s Shelter
These groups work in diverse areas—disaster relief, education, advocacy, legal protection, and shelter— addressing urgent needs in the Muslim community and beyond. Providing them with space to connect with the congregation allows for more people to contribute and support causes they care about. We are honored to be a part of a giving community and will continue to support those working to make a difference. May Allah bless all the organizations that have visited us, and may He accept the generosity of our community as we strive to uplift those in need.
“I have known Dar-us-Salaam and Al-Huda School since they first opened their doors 30 years ago. I first connected with them as a community, and through my work [in the past] at CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations), I would also visit Darus-Salaam regularly, and over the years, we have built a strong relationship.
One of the most amazing things about Dar-usSalaam—and by extension, their Donor Care department—is their generosity. They welcome all kinds of charities and organizations, giving them the opportunity to visit and fundraise for their own causes.
Even though, like many communities, they have their own financial needs, they remain open and accommodating, making it easy for others to come and seek support. The Donor Care department is incredibly professional, and whether I go through them or directly through Brother Minhaj, the process is always smooth and seamless. We cannot thank them enough for their generosity.
Beyond fundraising, Dar-us-Salaam is deeply engaged in the neighborhood, the city of College Park, and the surrounding areas. Their impact extends beyond the Muslim community—they provide social services, support various initiatives, and work to benefit both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Their students at Al-Huda School grow into community leaders and dedicated volunteers, serving across numerous organizations. We are proud of them—all of them.
As we celebrate 30 years of Dar-us-Salaam, we say: MashaAllah, may Allah accept all of their efforts. This has truly been an incredible organization. Dar-usSalaam, along with its extension, Al-Huda School, has given so much to our community and our children. We thank you for all that you have done, and we pray that Allah grants you continued success.”
— Ibrahim Abusway, Kinder USA.
Imam Around Town
Have You Seen Imam Sabri?
If you’ve been in the DMV Muslim community lately, you’ve likely run into Imam Sabri BenKahla! In the lead-up to Ramadan, he delivered khutbas, joined conferences, and engaged with various masajid to connect with the wider community.
He kicked off at the Four Imams, One Ummah conference, where scholars from PGMA, Muslim Family Center, and Dar-us-Salaam reflected on the legacy of the Four Great Imams, setting the stage for spiritual growth before Ramadan. He then reached diverse congregations at ISWA and IMAAM Center, delivering khutbas on leaving a legacy and preparing for the holy month.
At the 3rd Annual Ramadan Prep Conference at Dar Al-Taqwa, Imam Sabri led an interactive session with youth on overcoming barriers to perfecting our fast. He continued his outreach at Dar-us-Salaam, co-hosting a Ramadan Q&A workshop and an online webinar with Al-Huda School on how families can maximize the month’s blessings.
As Eid arrives, the echoes of Ramadan remain—not just in personal growth, but in the connections we’ve built. For weeks, Imam Sabri stood on different minbars, answered questions, and engaged with the community, reminding us that we don’t enter or leave Ramadan alone. The lessons, worship, and bonds we’ve formed continue beyond these thirty days.
Eid Mubarak! May the spirit of Ramadan stay with us all year long.
These groups work in diverse areas—disaster relief, education, advocacy, legal protection, and shelter— addressing urgent needs in the Muslim community and beyond. Providing them with space to connect with the congregation allows for more people to contribute and support causes they care about. We are honored to be a part of a giving community and will continue to support those working to make a difference. May Allah bless all the organizations that have visited us, and may He accept the generosity of our community as we strive to uplift those in need.
From The Strait Of Gibraltar to The Doors Of Dar-us-Salaam
A Community Rising Through Revelation
The Strait of Gibraltar is located between the borders of Spain and Morocco, where the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea meet, but do not mix—an ayah mentioned in the Qur’an.
At the edge of two great bodies of water, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, something extraordinary happens. The waters touch, yet they do not merge. Each remains distinct, flowing side by side in perfect balance—a phenomenon described in the Qur’an centuries before modern science could explain it.
Standing at the Strait of Gibraltar, one might feel humbled by the vastness of creation. But revelation transforms that humility into awe. It is in these moments—when the words of the Qur’an unfold before us in ways we never imagined—that faith deepens.
This was the heart of Dar-us-Salaam’s 30th Annual Ramadan Iftar: AN EVENING NOT JUST OF GATHERING, BUT OF RISING THROUGH REVELATION.
As the sun set and the evening began, Imam Sabri BenKahla’s words echoed a simple but profound truth:
Ramadan is not just another month—it is a gift, a moment of renewal. If your Ramadan looks the same as the rest of the year, then something is missing
His words carried the weight of both promise and responsibility. The gates of Jannah are open. The doors of Allah’s mercy are wide. If we are not striving, not purifying our hearts, not increasing in sincerity— then the loss is only our own
It was a moment to pause, to reflect: ARE WE TRULY TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THIS SACRED TIME?
Dar-us-Salaam’s 30th Ramadan Iftar: Our students reflecting on the life of Jacques Cousteau, the French explorer who marveled at the unmixing waters of Gibraltar, leading him to accept Islam.
Later in the evening, a group of students shared their reflections on the wonders of the Qur’an. They spoke of Jacques Cousteau, the explorer who marveled at the unmixing waters of Gibraltar, only to discover that the Qur’an had described this reality long before his time.
They spoke of revelation not just as text, but as a force that continues to shape and transform those who engage with it. How many scientific discoveries have only confirmed what was revealed 1,400 years ago? How many times has the Qur’an spoken directly to the hearts of those who seek guidance?
Their reflections weren’t just words—they were an invitation. To be amazed by the Qur’an. To let it settle into our hearts. To let it shape our lives
For 30 years, Dar-us-Salaam has stood as a testament to what it means to be a community guided by revelation.
Imam Safi Khan reminded us that a community is more than just people living side by side. A true community is one that is rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah, where faith is not just spoken but lived. From its very name—taken from the Qur’an—to every institution it has built, Dar-us-Salaam has sought to be a place of peace, knowledge, and service.
A place where young voices rise to recite the words of Allah, where education is not just valued but prioritized, and where service to others is an obligation, not an afterthought.
It Is A Community That Has Not Merely Existed—It Has Risen Through Revelation.
As the night came to a close, one thing was clear: the story of Dar-us-Salaam is still being written. Much like the waters of Gibraltar, this community remains distinct—holding firm to its roots, yet flowing forward with purpose. The doors of Darus-Salaam remain open, welcoming all who seek knowledge, faith, and connection.
And just as revelation has guided this community for 30 years, in shaa Allah it will continue to guide it for generations to come.
Turning Setbacks into Blessings
Zahir Baig’s 12-Year Hifzh Journey With Dar-us-Salaam
Zahir Baig smiling as the community congratulates him at his Hifzh graduation
Zahir Baig reflects on his journey to becoming a Hafizh over 12 years with Dar–us-Salaam’s Qur’an Institute.
“I grew up in upstate New York, and we had a small community of Bosnian refugees. At that time, I’m not even sure if there were any Huffazh. During Taraweeh we wouldn’t do a full Khatam and the Imam would recite really quickly. The whole idea of someone memorizing the entire Qur’an seemed impossible to me—I didn’t think people actually did it. I knew there were those in the community who had memorized large portions, but completing the whole Qur’an was never something I envisioned as possible, so I never aspired to it at the time.
The first thing that really set me on the path to memorizing the entire Qur’an was the fact that, after graduation, I didn’t have a job. For about seven months, I was unemployed, and during that time—while searching for work and trying to figure out my career—I started classes right here at the Qur’an Institute in College Park, MD. After a few years of starting and stopping due to work and the long commute, I took a break.
When we moved to McLean, VA after getting married, I saw that Dar-us-Salaam’s Qur’an Institute was offering classes there with Ustadh Muhammad Nahavandi, so I signed up. I initially started with four pages a week, but with family commitments, I dropped to a page a week—and that’s what I’ve been doing for the last six years.
Lessons & Reflections From My Hifzh Journey
1. The Benefit Of Having A Teacher
A teacher provides structure, holds you accountable, and helps you retain what you’ve memorized much better. I remember sitting with Habeeb Marso, reading Surah Al-A‘laa to him, and he stopped me on the first ayah. It’s always a little demoralizing to be stopped that early— you’d think the first ayah would be the one you know best! He stopped me again, and I still didn’t know what I was saying wrong. It turned out I had been making a mistake with my harakat for ten years, and no one had ever corrected me. I was dumbfounded, but I’ve never forgotten that lesson. Anyone who has memorized can probably recall moments like that.
2. How Setbacks Can Lead To Unexpected Blessings
Sometimes, difficult situations open doors to opportunities we never imagined. No one wants to be unemployed, but if I hadn’t been out of work for those few months, I may never have started this journey. I could have easily gotten caught up in the daily grind, and 12 years later, I might still be reciting the same 10–15 surahs every day. But Alhamdulillah, that time gave me the opportunity to pursue something greater.
3. The Role Of Consistency And Sacrifice
When I was commuting from Frederick, MD to Washington, DC for my Qur’an Institute classes, I hated driving, so I took public transportation instead. The trip was nearly two hours each way, but I noticed that the more time I spent reviewing during my commute, the stronger my recitation became. I remember one Ramadan, during my entire morning commute, I was able to recite all of Surah Baqarah from memory. Now, with family and life commitments, I sometimes struggle to do that over the course of a week.
4. The Power Of Good Company
Having good companions, a strong community, and a supportive system makes all the difference. If it weren’t for friends and community members who had completed their memorization before me, I may never have done it myself.
5. If I Can Do It, Anyone Can
It took me 12 years to finish, and if you memorize just one page a week, that’s about how long it will take you. But even if you only do half a page a week and it takes 25 years, there’s nothing wrong with that. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught us that the best deeds are those done consistently, even if they are small.
So whether it takes 20, 30, or even 40 years, what truly matters is developing a lifelong connection with the Qur’an. And if someone passes away before finishing, in shaa Allah, they will still be rewarded for their intention.
Alhamdulillah, I am grateful to Allah for granting me this opportunity. I thank my teachers and everyone who supported and encouraged me along the way. I especially thank my family for their love, support, and du’aas. Please keep my family and my teachers in your du’aas, and I hope my journey serves as encouragement and inspiration for others.”
Where Did The Fig Trees Go?
Before: Our fig trees standing tall in the courtyard
Current state of the Courtyard! Fig trees have been safely relocated, and renovations are underway.
If you’ve visited Dar-us-Salaam recently, you might have noticed the ongoing renovations in our courtyard! As part of our student initiatives to upgrade Al-Huda School, our Student Government Association (SGA) has raised funds for the last two years to renovate the courtyard and make it a functional space as an outdoors dining area, cafeteria, as well as an extension of the Musallah during busy times like Ramadan, Dhul-Hijjah, and Eid. In total, they have raised over $240,000 — Allahu Akbar!
The renovation underway meant that the beloved fig trees in the courtyard had to be removed, but don’t fret! THEY HAVE BEEN SAFELY RELOCATED behind Al-Huda School, where they will continue to grow and thrive for years to come, in shaa Allah. May Allah bless our community, staff, students, and amazing building team for allowing this transformation to happen. Keep an eye out for our new courtyard updates!
Dar-us-Salaam’s Qur’an Teacher Reflects On Her Daughter’s Hifzh Graduation
On Friday, March 14, 2025, our Dar-us-Salaam staff and community received a heartfelt message of gratitude from Sr. Fatime Ali as she reflected on her daughter’s Hifzh graduation from the night before. Sr. Fatime serves as a dedicated Qur’an teacher at Dar-us-Salaam’s full-time Hifzh School. After 16 years of commitment to the heart of our mission and helping many sisters on their path to becoming Huffazh, she witnessed her own daughter, Zahra Jones, recite her final ayat and become our 148th Dar-us-Salaam Hifzh graduate —Allahu Akbar!
Below is the heartfelt message she shared with the community:
Yesterday, my daughter, Zahra Jones, completed the memorization of the Holy Qur’an after more than five years of dedication. Imam Safi Khan was originally scheduled to give a speech, but he was invited to a charity dinner that same night. Despite his travels, he took the time to check in with us, personally calling me and insisting on meeting with Zahra and me to congratulate her and discuss her future plans. Brother Haroon Baqai, who was also traveling, also reached out to us. Their kindness was deeply touching.
Many may not know that my journey with Dar-us-Salaam began sixteen years ago when Zahra was just a little girl who could barely walk. Since then, I have experienced nothing but respect and affection from everyone.
I was initially concerned about who would give the speech, but Imam Sabri delivered a beautiful one, and Samir Kabir recited the meanings of the verses. The event concluded powerfully with Arif Kabir, who focused on the essence of the Qur’anic verses.
The mosque was filled with brothers and sisters, some traveling from far away to share in our joy. Everyone made an effort to bring a gift for Zahra and personally congratulate her.
May Allah bless Dar-us-Salaam and reward everyone, on behalf of both Zahra and I, with the best of rewards.
Our Community Is Growing!
Al-Huda High School Grads
Hifzh Graduates To Date
Serving With Impact - Ansaar-ul-Birr Volunteer Earns Double Awards!
A Sister At The Heart Of Our Mission Receives Two Awards For Her Impact
Allahu Akbar! We are thrilled to share that a dedicated sister from our Dar-us-Salaam community—who has spent years leading and serving in our social services efforts—has been honored with not one, but two prestigious awards!
Recently, she was recognized with the MCAEL People, Power, & Potential Award, which celebrates everyday leaders making a difference in Montgomery County’s adult English language learning community. Her work has helped countless English language learners gain the skills they need to succeed at work, in school, and in their daily lives.
On top of that, she has also been selected for the 2025 Montgomery County Women Making History Award, a distinction given to only 30 women each year for their leadership and service. Past honorees include state officials, elected leaders, and community advocates, and she rightfully stands among them.
Though she wishes to remain anonymous, her impact speaks for itself. If you or someone you know has ever been touched by the kindness of Dar-us-Salaam’s social services, know that this sister has played a vital role. She is at the heart of our Ansaarul-Birr efforts, ensuring that those in need receive the support and care they deserve.
May Allah bless her, reward her endlessly, and multiply the impact of her work. Allahumma Ameen!
Orphans Supported
Tons Of Food
In Emergency Relief To Families
People Benefited From Social Services
The Greetings of Eid
With our heartfelt greetings
on this day of Eid
We ask Allah Most High to
grant you all you need
We are assured from Him that
if we have striven
That our past year’s sins
will be forgiven
We thank Allah and praise
Him as we prostrate
As only He deserves because
He is Most Great
We thank Him for keeping us alive
Giving us a chance to continue to strive
We can rest assured if we are sincere
That all our struggles does
He see and hear
There is no end to His Mercy
so it is our task
To simply stop and sincerely ask
In our hearts we should not have a doubt
Just as we came in we shall go out
Meaning He determined before we were born
If we would succeed or if we’d face scorn
So that being the case we maintain the hope
That throughout our lives we hold fast to His rope
t is up to us to acknowledge the truth
Whether in old age or in our youth
That whatever effort or sacrifice
No amount of deeds can pay the price
hat equals the value of the reward
That awaits us from our Gracious Lord
As long as we worship Him alone
And submit to Him who’s above the Throne
Remember our brothers and
sisters in strife
Who are not living an easy life
Recall those stricken with hunger,
war or disease
And be grateful for living in relative ease
Today is a day when we eat and play
While we also pray not to go astray
Now if we don’t get to see you and
you’re getting this text
Then if not in this life, we pray to see
you in the next
In the place which will prove that
the Book we all read
Was much more than a story but a
deeply held creed
We pray Allah accepts the good we all do
And that He grants forgiveness
to us and to you.
by Abdul-Qaadir Abdul-Khaaliq
Vice Principal of Al-Huda School
Honoring The Sunnah Through Unity Eid
Dar-us-Salaam & PGMA Unity Eid-ul-Fitr Salah 2024 at Showplace Arena
For over a decade, the community Eid Salah at Dar-us-Salaam has stood as a cherished tradition, bringing together Muslims from across the region to uphold a beautiful Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ) .Rooted in his practice of gathering in large congregations for Eid prayer, this event is more than just an act of worship—it is a celebration of unity, faith, and the collective spirit of the Ummah.
What began as a collaboration between Dar-usSalaam and PGMA has flourished into a regional initiative, with multiple masajid joining efforts to organize this blessed gathering. Each year, as the sun rises on Eid morning, thousands of worshippers— families, friends, and strangers—stand shoulder to shoulder in prayer, their voices united in the powerful echoes of the Eid Takbeerat. The air fills with the praises of Allah, creating a deeply moving atmosphere that reminds us of the shared faith that binds us together.
There is something truly profound about experiencing Eid in such a vast congregation. The sight of countless believers bowing in unison, the joyful laughter of children running between prayer lines, the warmth of familiar faces exchanging greetings—this is Eid at its essence. It is not just a day of celebration; it is a moment of connection, a reaffirmation that no matter where we come from, WE ARE ONE UMMAH.
Beyond the Salah itself, the gathering strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. It is a time for reunion and reflection, for sharing smiles and embracing one another with heartfelt Eid Mubarak! It is a reminder that Islam is not just about individual worship but about coming together as a community, supporting one another, and rejoicing in the blessings Allah has given us.
As this initiative continues to grow, its impact remains the same: reinforcing the beauty of our faith, strengthening the bonds of our community, and upholding a timeless Sunnah that connects us to the time of the Prophet (ﷺ) .
In a world where divisions often take center stage, this gathering serves as a testament to the enduring power of unity in Islam.
On this blessed day of Eid, we ask Allah to accept our fasting, our prayers, and all our acts of worship throughout Ramadan. May He fill our hearts with peace, our homes with joy, and our community with love and unity. May this Eid be a source of immense blessings for you and your loved ones.
Eid Mubarak!
