An Expanded Explanation of the Tafsir and Primary Sources Reading and Writing Program

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A serene study nook by a window with sheer curtains and soft sunrise light. On the wooden desk, an open Quran, key Islamic texts, a steaming cup of tea, and fresh flowers—lavender, irises, and white lilies—bringing fresh white, blue, and purple tones that inspire calm and focus.
A Structured Path for Spiritual Growth

Our Tafsir Reading Program is not simply designed—it was divinely guided, unfolding only as I was spiritually ready to progress, a process known and orchestrated solely by the Imams (AS). Likewise, you will move through this system at your own pace, also guided by that higher wisdom. It is a thoughtfully structured reading and reflection system, crafted with a perfection that only the Imams (AS) could have created.

This program emphasizes consistent engagement, tailored to individual personality styles, and gently directs you on which texts to begin with and how to advance.

Within this system, many layers intertwine—neurochemical and neuroplastic principles, MBTI cognitive functions, and more. The connection of these frameworks to the system was also divinely inspired. As I learned from these modern concepts, the Imams (AS) revealed the wisdom of the system progressively, guiding me through each stage of understanding and growth.

A sleek study desk by a window with soft morning light through sheer curtains. On the desk: an open Quran, Islamic books, a steaming black coffee mug, a leather-bound journal, and subtle incense smoke curling in the air, creating a focused, disciplined atmosphere.
Why a Structured Tafsir Program?

Spiritual growth flourishes with regular study, reflection, and practice. This program provides a step-by-step path that helps you not only read but internalize the wisdom of these important works. It combines reading with writing exercises and journaling (to be introduced in later stages) to enhance both intellectual and spiritual development.

Introversion and Extroversion: Reading and Writing as Complementary Paths
This program recognizes that introversion and extroversion express differently in spiritual learning:

  • Introversion is essential during the reading phase — a time for deep, focused study that nurtures inner reflection. This is the nutritive phase, where the heart is fed through understanding. Reading allows us to absorb divine meaning and internalize truth.

    Writing, in contrast, is the output phase. Here, the intellect engages the hand — a limb of action. The tongue, too, is an output organ, but it belongs to the higher human self — the self capable of conscious creation. When trained to speak only what is true, the tongue becomes a vessel for divine expression. But if it oversteps truth, it becomes a tool of the lower self — veering toward deception and distortion.

    Only divine words are truly divine, and only Arabic — the language of revelation — holds the power to penetrate the heart, mind, and inner eye with purity. No other language or non-infallible words can shape the soul in such a direct and transformative way.

A clean wooden desk with an open notebook mid-writing, framed by a vase of irises and white lilies. A small clock marks the passing hour — time set aside for sacred study. Soft daylight streams through sheer curtains, quiet and intentional.
The Divine Time-Based Framework: Structure and Intention in Practice

Our reading and writing system is deeply rooted in a divine understanding of time and intention. Each aspect of the program is carefully ordered within specific timeframes to foster focus, discipline, and spiritual growth.

  • Tafsir Reading and Writing: Set aside 45 minutes to engage fully with the tafsir material, including both reading and copying passages. This dedicated time ensures deep connection and absorption.

  • Nahjul Fasaha, Nahjul Balagha, and Sahifa: These texts are approached with a balanced rhythm of 30 minutes total — divided into three 10-minute segments for reading and 10 minutes for writing each. The emphasis here is not on speed or volume but on mindful formation of letters, both in Arabic and your native language. Every stroke of the pen is an act of focus and intention.

  • Risalatul Huqquq: This unique text requires 15 minutes for reading and 15 minutes for writing. It serves as the logic and discipline portion of our mental nourishment, grounding us in order and responsibility.

This entire cycle is designed to be completed within a 7-day period. Some may choose to complete it daily, while others may spread it out through the week, depending on their life circumstances and sincerity of intention.

The true goal is not how much is accomplished but the consistent presence of sincere effort, focus, and intention in every action. This system honors your personal rhythm while guiding you toward steady spiritual and intellectual growth.


A darker-toned study space lit by a desk lamp. The focus is on an open notebook filled with Arabic script, beside it, a cup of dark coffee and a trail of fragrant oud incense smoke. A vintage timepiece rests on a Qur'an stand nearby — a symbol of sacred nightly reflection and divine alignment.
Choosing Your Tafsir: A Guided Approach to Layered Understanding

Many may wonder which tafsir to begin with, especially since this system involves working through multiple tafsirs simultaneously. Because each tafsir offers different levels of detail and depth, it’s best to start with the most comprehensive, least detailed and gradually progress to the more in depth versions.

In terms of English-translated tafsirs, these are the three primary texts I have used in this program:

  1. An Enlightening Commentary into the Light of the Holy Quran
    This tafsir provides a clear and accessible introduction, making it ideal for starting your journey. It offers foundational insights without overwhelming detail, perfect for building a base understanding.

  2. Al-Mizan by Allama Tabatabai
    A comprehensive and deeply analytical tafsir, Al-Mizan offers extensive explanations of verses, diving into philosophical and theological discussions to broaden your perspective.

  3. Tafsir by Hube Ali
    This tafsir can be used interchangeably with Al-Mizan depending on your preference. It stands out for its inclusion of numerous hadiths from the Imams (AS), giving it a unique depth rooted in the teachings of the Ahlul Bayt.

You may choose to switch the order of Al-Mizan and Hube Ali according to your learning style. I selected these tafsirs because together they balance detailed exegesis and spiritual insight, allowing you to engage with the Quranic text on multiple levels.

The Numbered System: Your Spiritual Milestones
To help you track progress and maintain motivation, the program uses a numbered system. Each reading segment corresponds to a numbered milestone, guiding you through the text in manageable portions. This creates a clear path from foundational concepts to advanced teachings, building understanding gradually.

A low round table with open notebooks, shared tafsir texts, and pens placed intentionally around it. Each person has tea or coffee in traditional cups. In the center, a small arrangement of white lilies and irises softens the space. A classic wall clock and warm lighting from a hanging lamp evoke the divine structure of time. A sense of unity, reverence, and learning fills the air — this is not casual study, but a sacred gathering.
Where to go after Tafsir?

  • Start with Nahjul Fasaha: Its rich linguistic beauty and clarity enhance your appreciation of the Arabic language and spiritual messages.

  • Next, explore Nahjul Balagha: Its eloquent sermons, letters, and sayings provide a strong foundation in Islamic thought and ethics.

  • Go onto Sahifa Al Sajjadiya for input to the heart by connecting with Allah and learning about the output - the duties.

  • Next, we go onto Risalatul Huquq: This text offers deep insights into the rights and responsibilities in your spiritual and social life.

The Importance of Arabic and Transliteration
While this program supports reading in your native language for accessibility, it emphasizes the importance of engaging with the Arabic text as much as possible. If you cannot read Arabic script, reciting from transliteration is better than omitting Arabic entirely, because the Quran was revealed in Arabic, and this connection is fundamental.

A clean desk with an open notebook placed at the center, Arabic and native script lines in progress. A pen rests diagonally across the page. Behind it, a small stack of tafsir books and a lit incense burner. Irises and white lilies sit in a glass vase nearby. Gentle morning light glows through sheer curtains, evoking serenity, focus, and sacred purpose.
A System Guided by the Imams (AS) and Revealed Over Time
This system is not merely designed but deeply guided by the Imams (AS) through years of spiritual insight and readiness. It unfolds gradually and in stages, reflecting the evolving depth of understanding and growth. Conveying the full reasoning and evolution of this program will take time and multiple phases.

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