About

And it is for this reason that Deen Intensive Foundation has concentrated its efforts in this area that is so vital to our communities today. We believe that a sound knowledge-based approach to the sacred sciences of Islam is an essential tool in improving the conditions in which we now live. We seek to transform lives through learning (`ilm) and faith (iman). Allah, the Most Wise, has preserved the essential body of Islamic religious sciences through scholars – both men and women — who continue to transmit, teach and expand upon it in our age. As we are reminded in the Noble Qu’ran, “Say: ‘Are they equal, those who know, and those who do not know?’

Our programs seek to connect participants to the rich intellectual heritage that we have inherited from our scholars. Following the educational model outlined by our Noble Messenger, upon whom be prayers and peace, in the famous Hadith Jibril (the second hadith in the famous collection of forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi), our curriculum is built upon the following three major components: Iman (`aqidah or beliefs), Islam (fiqh or jurisprudence), and Ihsan (tazkiyah or the spiritual purification of the hearts). Our aim is to provide students with a working foundation in each of these major disciplines which are taught by highly qualified traditionally trained scholars. With a comprehensive curriculum, we aim to provide students of knowledge with a well-rounded certification program in which students, upon completion, will have a firm understanding of the foundations of the deen. Our focus is the fard ayn (or the obligatory sciences) with special emphasis on contemporary issues and concerns. We feel sacred knowledge is indispensable to the transformation of hearts, families and communities. Our primary goal is to establish quality programs which transmit this knowledge and contribute to the revival of Islam’s rich and textured intellectual legacy which we believe is a precursor to creating dynamic North American communities.

could not be seen, and whom none of us knew, until he sat down close to the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, so that he rested his knees upon his knees and placed his two hands upon his thighs and said, ‘Muhammad, tell me about Islam.’ The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, ‘Islam is that you witness that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and you establish the prayer, and you give the Zakat, and you fast Ramadan, and you perform the hajj of the House if you are able to take a way to it.’ He said, ‘You have told the truth,’ and we were amazed at him asking him and [then] telling him that he told the truth. He said, ‘Tell me about Iman.’ He said, ‘That you affirm Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day, and that you affirm the Decree, the good of it and the bad of it.’ He said, ‘You have told the truth.’ He said, ‘Tell me about Ihsan.’ He said, ‘That you worship Allah as if you see Him, for if you don’t see Him then truly He sees you.’ He said, ‘Tell me about the Hour.’ He said, ‘The one asked about it knows no more than the one asking.’ He said, ‘Then tell me about its tokens.’ He said, ‘That the female slave should give birth to her mistress, and you see poor, naked, barefoot shepherds of sheep and goats competing in making tall buildings.’ He went away, and I remained some time. Then he asked, ‘Umar, do you know who the questioner was?’ I said, ‘Allah and His Messenger know best.’ He said, ‘He was Jibreel who came to you to teach you your deen’.” (Narrated by Muslim)

Based on this noble Hadith, which outlines the three essential elements of the religion, Deen Intensive Foundation has developed its curriculum. All courses will fall under one of these elements: Islam, Iman and Ihsan. We believe that the cumulative understanding, learning and practice of these 3 branches of the religion are what guide us to live as upright Muslims.

What is a deen intensive?

A deen intensive is a specially designed program that is committed to teaching the essentials of the Islamic sciences in an environment that is conducive to learning. We feel that a deen intensive program is unique not only because of the course content and qualified teachers but also because of its holistic environment.

Do I have to be a member to attend programs?

Programs are open to any interested students so long as the minimum age requirement is met. One does not have to be a registered member to attend.

What types of programs does Deen Intensive Foundation offer?

We offer weekend programs, weeklong retreats and month-long Rihla programs. Our weekend programs are focused programs based on a course from our curriculum. The weeklong retreats run typically from 7-10 days and cover multiple classes from our curriculum. They are held in retreat-type settings so as to provide a more spiritual environment that is conducive to optimum learning. Our unique summer Rihla program is a near-month long course that covers a significant portion of our curriculum. The Rihla program is generally hosted in a serene, secluded environment. Students are able to immerse themselves in the study of sacred knowledge for an extended period of time. The Rihla program is designed to impart a transformative experience so students can return home with a drive to learn and pursue personal/moral betterment.

What is the minimum age requirement to attend?

The minimum age requirement for our programming is 18. Exceptions are made on an individual basis.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, scholarships are available for our programming but are limited. Full scholarships are rarely allotted. Priority is given to those who have not attended a DIF program in the past.

Do we have to know Arabic to attend/understand the classes?

No, classes are held in the English medium. We do recommend for all students to commit to learning the Arabic language as it is necessary for advanced study of the religion.

How do I certify?

DIF offers an Essentials Certificate which recognizes those students who have successfully completed the courses and their associated exams. One can certify by simply registering with DIF, taking the required courses over a period of time, and passing the examinations that are offered after each course. Once all courses and associated exams have been completed, a student will be sent a Certificate that indicates they have completed our core curriculum.

What are the benefits of certification?

The certification process is meant for students to develop a holistic understanding of their religion. It allows students to practice the essentials of the religion, unifying both theory and practice. Moreover, it provides students a working understanding of important principles of the key Islamic disciplines. We feel this is pivotal in developing healthy communities in the West where the religion can be practiced and represented in a positive and productive manner.

What if I do not wish to participate in the certification process?

Participation in the certification process is optional and, though strongly encouraged by our teachers, is not required to attend the DIF programs.

What is the examination or testing process like?

Approximately 2-3 weeks after a program, online testing will be made available for those students who wish to participate in our certification process. Students will be notified when the testing will be made available online.

Do the programs offer babysitting?

Babysitting is offered only in our Weekend Programs and is at the discretion of the local community that is hosting the program.

How does one host a DIF program?

We encourage students to consider hosting a DIF program in their respective communities. For more information, please email us at programs@deenintensive.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Our representatives will work with you and your community to see which program would be most beneficial.

What are the benefits of becoming a member?

A DIF member receives regular updates on upcoming programming and also free audio/visual and/or course materials. Members also will have unlimited access to our multimedia section that includes lectures/courses from our past programs. The DIF membership fee is $100 per person and is valid for two years.

What are the Forums?

The Forums provide a unique opportunity for students from around the world to connect with other students who have participated in our programs. Students can share notes, ideas, thoughts, questions/answers and develop a lasting networking base that fosters learning and brotherhood. Registration is free and simply involves creating an account by clicking on “Login” from the main menu above.

Do I have to be a member to post on the Forums?

To post on the Forums, one must register with DIF. No fees are required to use the Forums.

How do I get involved with DIF?

DIF is always looking to expand our volunteer base. We are a not-for-profit organization that consists of a group of dedicated volunteers who work year-round to establish the various DIF programs. If you wish to offer your time and talents, please contact us at info@deenintensive.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.