The Nigerian Muslims Community Qatar continued its rich tradition of spiritual excellence with the annual Quranic Tafseer program at Fanar Cultural Islamic Center, a beacon of Islamic heritage and education in the heart of Doha. By choosing such a prominent location, the community signaled its commitment to deep intellectual engagement and high-quality spiritual discourse. The program served as a dedicated space for expatriates to reconnect with the Divine Writ in their native scholarly tradition, fostering an atmosphere of profound reverence where families, professionals, and students gathered to seek the light of revelation. This initiative anchors the community in foundational Islamic principles through its long-standing tradition of annual learning.
The Scholarly Leadership of Sheikh Idris Ahmad
The sitting of this yearly series was delivered by the esteemed Sheikh Idris Ahmad, a scholar whose reputation for meticulous textual analysis and eloquent delivery is well-regarded within the Nigerian and wider African scholarly circles.
His presence provided a vital bridge between the rich heritage of Islamic learning in Nigeria and the contemporary challenges faced by those living in the diaspora. The program was carefully structured to ensure that the message of the Quran remained accessible and transformative for all attendees. By maintaining this yearly tradition, the Nigerian Muslims Community in Qatar seeks to empower its members, ensuring that the complexities of expatriate life are navigated with a heart fortified by faith and a mind enlightened by sound knowledge.
Exegesis of Surah Al-Hajj: Preparation for Hijrah and Jihad
The core of the gathering was centered on the scholarly exposition of the Ever-Glorious Quran, specifically beginning from verse fifty-three of Surah Al-Hajj. Sheikh Idris Ahmad opened the session by explaining the unique significance of this Surah, which carries the name of the great pilgrimage.
The Historical Context: Preparing the Sahaba
A central theme of the lecture was how this Surah served to prepare the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions for Hijrah and Jihad. He emphasized that the chapter addresses the ultimate reality of the Day of Judgment, the necessity of absolute monotheism, and the spiritual trials that believers encounter during their worldly journey.
Starting from verse fifty-three, the Sheikh delved into the profound discussion regarding the trials that Allah allows to occur as a means of distinguishing between the various states of the human heart. In his detailed commentary, he explained the Quranic insight into how certain trials are made a test for those whose hearts are diseased or hardened. He masterfully navigated the linguistic nuances of the Arabic text, translating complex metaphysical concepts into relatable lessons for the modern believer.
Lessons on Steadfastness and Divine Wisdom
Sheikh Idris Ahmad further expanded on the verses following verse fifty-three, highlighting the Divine promise that Allah will surely guide those who believe to a straight path. He spoke eloquently about the concept of Divine protection over the truth and those who carry it with sincerity.
For the members of the Nigerian Muslims Community in Qatar, these lessons were particularly poignant. Living in a foreign land often brings unique challenges to one’s spiritual consistency. The Sheikh argued that the Quranic text—specifically in its preparation of the early Muslims for their migration—offers a spiritual shield against the whispers of doubt and the distractions of material life that often loom large in the diaspora experience.
Building Community Through Knowledge and Ramadan Preparation
Beyond the technical aspects of the Tafseer, the gathering at the Fanar Cultural Islamic Center was a masterclass in community building. By prioritizing the study of the Quran as the first major activity of the Ramadan season, the community is sending a clear message that knowledge is the foundation upon which all social and charitable activities must be built.
The social impact was evident in the warm interactions between attendees. For many, it was an opportunity to reconnect with compatriots and share the unique experiences of being a Nigerian Muslim in the State of Qatar. The organizers expressed their gratitude to the management of the Fanar Cultural Islamic Center and the local authorities for providing world-class facilities, highlighting the positive relationship between the expatriate community and the host nation.
The Vision for Future Annual Programs
The leadership intends to expand the scope of this recurring highlight of the Islamic calendar in Doha. The goal is to invite prominent scholars from Nigeria and the wider global Islamic community to share their insights every Ramadan.
There is a strong desire to see this initiative grow into a comprehensive educational platform that addresses the diverse needs of the community, from spiritual counseling to intellectual empowerment. By investing in the intellectual and spiritual development of its members, the community is building a resilient and informed populace that can contribute positively to both Nigerian society and the local Qatari community.
Conclusion: A Landmark of Faith and Unity
In summary, the annual Quranic Tafseer program organized by the Nigerian Muslims Community in Qatar on the twentieth of February, 2026, stands as a landmark achievement. Through the scholarly efforts of Sheikh Idris Ahmad and his profound exploration of Surah Al-Hajj’s lessons on Hijrah and Jihad, the community was reminded of the eternal power of the Quran to guide, heal, and unite.
As the community looks forward to the many years of Tafseer programs to come, the echoes of the verses explained at Fanar will continue to resonate, providing a spiritual roadmap illuminated with hope and certainty.
By Musa A. Mosiudi
