RabaTEENS

Week 1: Introduction to Knitting and Setting Intentions

Students are introduced to the basics of knitting, including selecting yarn and needles and creating their first stitches. The class explores the concept of niyyah (intention) and how mindfulness can transform knitting into a meaningful practice. Students plan a simple project and set personal intentions, learning how creativity can serve as an expression of gratitude, purpose, and worship. 

Week 2: Building Patience and Perseverance 

In the second week, students will build on their skills by learning a simple knit-and-purl pattern. The lesson highlights the Islamic principle of sabr (patience), especially when tackling new challenges. Discussions focus on how knitting reflects perseverance, where slow but steady progress leads to rewarding outcomes. Students will begin a slightly more complex project, such as incorporating stripes or a new color, while reflecting on the Quranic verse, “Indeed, Allah is with the patient” (Quran 2:153). 

Week 3: Mindfulness in Every Stitch 

This session focuses on refining knitting techniques with an emphasis on neatness and attention to detail. The concept of ihsan (excellence) is introduced, encouraging students to approach knitting as a form of dhikr (remembrance of Allah ﷻ). Students will also reflect on Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ saying, “Verily, Allah loves that when any one of you does a job, he does it with excellence”. They will explore how small actions, like crafting, can be performed with mindfulness and excellence, fostering a deeper connection to Allah ﷻ. 

Week 4: Generosity and Giving Back 

Students are encouraged to create a simple project, such as a hat or pair of mittens, with the intention of giving it as a gift. This week focuses on sadaqah (charity), emphasizing how handmade items can become meaningful acts of generosity that foster empathy and strengthen community bonds. The class will also reflect on the hadith, “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity,” and choose a recipient for their handmade item, bringing purpose and mindfulness to their work. 

Week 5: Reflection, Gratitude, and Skill Sharing 

The final session is dedicated to reflecting on the skills learned, projects completed, and the personal growth experienced throughout the course. The lesson highlights the importance of shukr (gratitude) for the abilities Allah ﷻ has granted and the sense of community created within the class. Students participate in a “show-and-tell,” sharing their finished projects and reconnecting them to their initial intentions. The session concludes with a discussion on the verse, “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]” (Quran 14:7), emphasizing how knitting can remain a positive outlet for spiritual growth, creativity, and acts of charity beyond the class.