RabaTEENS is a nurturing space for deep and meaningful Islamic spiritual mentorship with compassionate and caring mentors. We design fun, creative, and positive educational experiences to help teens grow confidently and comfortably into their faith.


Class Description


This 5-week class offers a deep dive into the rich story of Surat Yusuf, engaging Muslim teen girls with lessons that are timeless and transformative. Through an exploration of themes such as patience, integrity, and trust in Allah ﷻ,  students will journey alongside Prophet Yusuf  عليه السلام,  uncovering how his experiences offer a blueprint for handling life’s tests with faith and resilience. Each week, we will focus on specific verses and themes that reflect challenges Yusuf  عليه السلام  faced, from familial jealousy and temptation to hardship and ultimate forgiveness. Through these reflections, students will learn how to apply Quranic guidance to their own lives in meaningful ways. 

This class offers a supportive environment for Muslim teens to discuss real-life issues they may face, such as peer pressure, moral integrity, and navigating family relationships. With open discussions, reflections, and interactive activities, students will drive inspirations from the surah on how to build strong character while developing a deeper understanding of their faith. This class aims to be more than just a study of tafsir; it is an opportunity for young Muslim girls to strengthen their connection with the Quran and apply its teachings as a source of guidance, comfort, and purpose in their daily lives. 



Class Outline


Week 1: Introduction and the Story of Yusuf: Divine Wisdom and Patience in Adversity (Verses 1-20)

In the first week, students will be introduced to the background of Surah Yusuf, its revelation in Mecca, and the role of storytelling in the Quran as a means of teaching profound lessons. The focus will be on Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  early life, including the jealousy of his brothers and their harmful actions against him. This will lead into a discussion on the concept of patience (sabr) as demonstrated by Yusuf  عليه السلام  in the face of injustice. Students will reflect on how envy and family dynamics, as seen in Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  story, are still relevant in today’s world. The class will encourage participants to think critically about their own experiences and relationships, fostering a connection between the Quranic narrative and their personal lives.  


Week 2: Resisting Temptation and Upholding Moral Integrity (Verses 21-34) 

In the second session, the focus will shift to Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  life in Egypt and his encounter with temptation from the wife of Al-Aziz. The discussion will delve into the themes of chastity, self-control, and trust in Allah ’s guidance when faced with moral dilemmas. Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  steadfastness in resisting temptation serves as a powerful example of upholding integrity despite challenging circumstances. The class will explore practical ways students can embody these principles, addressing peer pressure and real-life scenarios where their values may be tested. Through this, teens will gain actionable insights into staying true to their faith and principles.   


Week 3: Faith and Trust in Allah ﷻ in Times of Hardship (Verses 35-53)  

This week, students will examine Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  time in prison, a period marked by his unwavering faith despite being wrongfully imprisoned. The class will highlight the importance of trusting Allah ’s plan, even in the most challenging moments. Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  interpretations of the prisoners’ dreams will also be discussed, emphasizing the significance of maintaining faith and continuing to help others even in personal hardship. Students will reflect on the value of resilience and learn how to hold on to their faith during their own difficult times, drawing inspiration from Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  steadfastness. 


Week 4: Forgiveness and the Power of Reconciliation (Verses 54-86) 

The fourth week will focus on Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  reunion with his family and his remarkable capacity to forgive his brothers despite their betrayal. The theme of forgiveness will be explored in depth, highlighting its healing power, the importance of reconciliation, and the role it plays in restoring family unity. Students will reflect on the impact of holding grudges versus letting go, and how forgiveness can bring peace to one’s heart. Through the story of Yusuf  عليه السلام, the class will examine how to apply these lessons to their own family relationships and conflicts, fostering empathy and understanding. 


Week 5: Conclusion and Reflections: The Mercy of Allah ﷻ and Lessons from the Story (Verses 87-111) 

In the final session, the class will review the entire surah, focusing on overarching lessons about Allah ’s mercy, divine planning, and the ultimate victory of righteousness through patience, faith, and moral uprightness. Yusuf  عليه السلام ’s  journey serves as a comprehensive guide to navigating life’s challenges while maintaining trust in Allah . Students will reflect on the lessons they’ve learned throughout the course and discuss how these principles can be applied in their own lives. To celebrate the end of the course, each student will share a creative art piece inspired by their reflections on Surat Yusuf, creating a memorable conclusion to their journey of learning and self-discovery.

Class Activity Materials

Art materials

Required Book

The Clear Quran (or any tafsir books for tafsir of Surat Yusuf)

Class Day & Time

Sundays 9:30 - 10:30 am CST 

Session dates: January 12th - February 9th 

This class is for teen girls ages 12-17 years old 

*Please note: Enrollment into the RabaTEENS program is on a per-student basis. If two (or more) students are planning to attend a class together by sharing a screen, each student will need to enroll for class individually. Students must attend Zoom live sessions. Classes are NOT recorded.

Certificate of Participation

A certificate of participation will be given to students who complete the class.

Refund Policy

No refunds are issued once the session begins. 

Tafsīr Surat Yusuf

Meets once a week for one hour (5-week session)

Instructor

Anse Dr. Farhana Yunus

Anse Dr. Farhana Yunus is a lifelong student of sacred knowledge. She has completed the Ribaat Teacher Certification through the Ribaat Academic Institute, completed Bayyinah Access 1, 2, and 3, studied the Ajroomiyah with Qutoof Academy, completed tajwīd and studied the Jazariyyah with Rahman School of Orlando, and studied with Islamic Online Institute with the Islamic Circle of North America Sisters Wing. She has been teaching Tafseer of the Quran for over 10 years and currently runs a study circle for women of Quran Tafseer and Seerah. She also organizes the women’s Annual Spirit Retreat, has served on the Muslim Womens Organization Board, and is a Girlscout Troop leader. She joined Ribaat as an instructor in 2021, and also teaches for both the Rabata youth programs, RabaTEENS and Dragonflies.