The Significance of Halaqah in Islamic Education

The Halaqah is more than just a teaching method—it is a time-honored tradition rooted in the practices of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The word “Halaqah” means circle, representing the gathering of learners and educators in a manner that mantains equality, shared learning, and open dialogue. This practice forms the core of Shakhsiyah education, as it cultivates both spiritual and academic growth.

At Shakhsiyah Education and Consultancy, we integrate the Halaqah pedagogy into our curriculum, emphasizing its role in shakhsiyah development and intellectual inquiry. During a Halaqah session, learners sit together in a circle, bgeining with recitation of the Qur’an and a du’a, followed by engaging in meaningful discussions of inquiry, critical thinking and analytical skills of the selcted theme. This format encourages learners to actively participate, ask questions, and reflect deeply on their Islamic identity and how the present world we live is a bridge between the past and the future.

The dialogic nature of Halaqah promotes self reflection and helps learners develop their Shakhsiyah (Islamic character). At Islamic Shakhsiyah Foundation, we believe that Shakhsiyah development and academic learning go hand in hand, and our thematic plans for each year, from Early Years to Year 9, are designed to engage students in this holistic learning experience.

Why Halaqah Matters

Halaqah encourages personal connection with the subject matter. For example, in Year 1’s theme, “New & Old,” students explore the etiquettes of seeking knowledge, reflecting on Allah’s command to “Iqra” (Read). Through dialogue, they learn how these teachings apply to their lives, fostering a deep spiritual connection while building critical academic skills.

By using Halaqah in education, we empower students to explore their faith and values, while also learning to engage with the world around them. This method of dialogic learning is key to shaping future leaders who are not only knowledgeable but also deeply rooted in Islamic values.