Contemporary Scholarship through Authentic Tradition

Seminary Admissions
CONTENTS
1.1 About Us................................................................................................................................3
1.2 Aspirations.............................................................................................................................3
2. Academics................................................................................................................................4
2.1 Tamhd Summer Arabic.......................................................................................................4
2.2 The Tanwr Intensive........................................................................................................4-5
2.3 The Takml Institute for Higher Islmic Studies.....................................................................6
2.4 The Taf Academy for Qurn Memorization and Recitation..............................................6
2.5 The Tadrs Accelerated High School Program......................................................................6-7
2.6 The Tanwr Intensives Syllabus.......................................................................................7-10
3. Student Life...........................................................................................................................11
4. Testimonials......................................................................................................................12-13
5. Tuition....................................................................................................................................14
6. Dates......................................................................................................................................15
7. How to Apply.........................................................................................................................15

1.1 ABOUT US
DarusSalams vision is to preserve, implement, and disseminate Islmic knowledge; as well as
to nurture and prepare our future leaders through sound, traditional understanding and learning.
DarusSalam is unique in that along with providing a beautiful sanctuary for worship, it also
incorporates a higher educational institute. Masjid DarusSalam serves as a community center for
residents while DarusSalam Academy offers beginner through advanced classes in various Islmic
sciences. We are grateful to Allh to have several young, American-born, qualified Islmic
scholars on our staff in addition to enjoying the support of many ulam from across the nation.

1.2 ASPIRATION
After reflecting on the history of American Muslims, it is apparent that Islmic scholarship has
arrived on the countrys shores in successive waves. The first generation of immigrant Muslims,
still strongly tied to their homelands, invited scholars born and educated abroad to teach them in
their native languages and help them live their deen harmoniously in the new land. Thereafter,
their children, immersed in the American language and culture, called for scholars who could relate
to them. So a second wave of scholars, this time American-born Muslims, travelled overseas and
acquired the knowledge they needed to serve their generations. Now the time has come to raise up
a new wave of learned Muslims who have been born, bred, and educated at home. A wave that will
duly fill the sacred posts of imms and scholars, address Islmic legal and social issues unique to the
American context, convey with clear expression the true spirit of Islm to our fellow citizens, and
establish institutions that will be forces of good, both spiritually and intellectually.

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2. ACADEMICS

The institute strives for high academic standards. On a daily basis, DarusSalam provides countless
opportunities for one to be intellectually stimulated through engaging lessons presented by qualified
scholars. And while diligent efforts are made to achieve erudition, ones studies are not limited to
academics alone. Through the courses, the resplendent light of Prophetic knowledge is kindled
awakening ones conscience, inspiring the limbs to actualize the knowledge acquired with practice.
This is the result of an environment enthused by love for Allh and His Messenger .

The vibrant legacy of Islmic scholarship is felt flourishing through DarusSalams halls. Staff,
students, and peers respect one another, welcoming the variety of backgrounds and walks of life that
are brought together. Engaging knowledge in this way is no less than a life-changing opportunity.

2.1 Tamhd Summer Arabic

This is a comprehensive and concentrated six-week crash course into the Arabic language. Each
summer, enthusiastic students prepare to be significantly challenged in a stimulating language
immersion course. Tamhd focuses extensively on reading, writing, listening, and speaking. A
systematic syllabus exposes one to the theoretical disciplines of grammar and morphology. And
time-tested primers lay a strong vocabulary base on which one can build. This course is the perfect
stepping stone for students who wish to further their studies in the Tanwr one-year program.

2.2 The Tanwr Intensive

In Arabic, the word tanwr is used for a wondrous miracle. When winter transitions into spring,
the trees undergo a remarkable transformation. After the dead of winter, spring arrives and along
with it small doses of sunshine and water nourish life; plants bud and bloom. Soon after, they are
adorned with fragrant flowers, a manifestation of sheer beauty. Marveling at this, one realizes that
it is something only Allh can create. This is an example of tanwr. Likewise, education has
the same effect on a humans soul. Through learning about Islm, one undergoes a transformation
analogous to a seemingly dead tree coming to life.

The Tanwr Intensive, a yearlong immersion program into the Arabic language and Islmic
Studies, is an opportunity to experience this. Souls are awakened to the reality of purpose; we
are Allhs servants and followers of the Prophet Muammad . That consciousness is
crucial; this program lays the foundation for ones Islmic edification.

The positive ways in which Muslims contribute to society are endless. Every Muslim should
strive to please Allh through the gifts and talents that they have been bestowed. Our scholars
recognized the importance of occupations like medicine, business, and engineering. While it is the
scholars duty to pursue formal Islmic education in the most detail, knowing Islms basic teachings
is obligatory upon every Muslim. Moreover, what Islmic knowledge provides, intellectually and
spiritually, enriches an individual thereby creating a morally upright and successful person. Some
may go on to become scholars of the religion, while others will go on to work in other occupations.
Both paths are respected; in fact, both paths are needed. For those on either path, Islmic knowledge
must be acquired. In short, choosing a professional career should not close the door to furthering
ones Islmic education. The Tanwr Intensive provides such an opportunity.

Often benefiting from our program are individuals seeking further education and religious literacy,
and those making transitions in life: from high school into college, from college into the workplace,
or from one job to another. These transitions can be enormous; along with being physically
demanding, they can be emotionally and spiritually taxing. Many of us need an opportunity to
refresh ourselves, to find direction and inspiration before embarking on major life tasks. We need
Islm in our lives, and we need to understand it. We need to enter new phases of life in full bloom,
with love for Islm radiating from within our souls, permeating our thoughts and actions, and
opening our hearts to our true purpose.

This program is a great opportunity for one to immerse his/her self into sacred knowledge; to
realize and learn ones religion while being present in an environment where Islm is practiced out
of love. For a full year, one will learn Arabic and the Islmic Sciences in a way that will change them
forever. Like a tree blooming after a cold and gloomy winter, with Allhs help and mercy, ones
soul will be refreshed and ready to walk the path of life as a successful Muslim.

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 2.3 The Takml Institute for Higher Islmic Studies
The Takml Institute is a rigorous seven-year limiyyah degree
program for men and women that comprehensively imparts a
well-designed syllabus that aims to educate the next generation
of scholars, lecturers, researchers, thinkers, and academics. Deep
and profound, the program is rooted in tradition, immersing one
into research, literature, and textual analysis that spans over 1400
years.
The institutes instructors are connected back to Islms greatest
scholars and have acquired traditional teaching licenses (ar. ijzt)
in a vast array of subjects. They dedicated many years of their
lives pursuing studies in the Arabic language and the sacred
sciences locally, as well as abroad at eminent Dr al-Ulms based
on the South Asian pedagogical model and at renowned centers
of learning in the Middle East. With their varying backgrounds,
what each teacher contributes to the learning environment makes
this program especially unique. This combination of talent
cumulates, exposing the pursuant learner to studies that equal or
surpass overseas opportunities.
Aimed at aspiring scholars, the thoroughly engaging limiyyah
program is focused on providing a high-quality educational
atmosphere in which erudite ulam are trained.
2.4 The Taf Academy for Qurn Memorization and Recitation
We offer a comprehensive Qurn memorization program for boys and girls with dedicated male
and female staff. Along with striving to produce strong huff, the academy prepares students to
become model citizens and productive members of society who embody the teachings of the Holy
Qurn. A unique feature of our Taf Academy is that we provide foundational Islmic Studies
incorporated into the program: adth, fiqh, srah, and prophetic supplications are taught by scholars
everyday alongside memorizing the Qurn.

2.5 The Tadrs Accelerated High School Program

The Tadrs Program offers an accredited high school program. Tadrs high school studies are
designed to run in parallel to the limiyyah programs introductory years. Accordingly, one who
wants to pursue the limiyyah qualification enters the Takml Institutes third-year after high school,
or one may move on to pursue a different post-secondary education.
The program consists of a comprehensive high school curriculum taught by qualified teachers
imparting a dynamic syllabus through modern didactic resources. Here, students receive -within
the confines of an Islmic environment- instruction in core subjects such as algebra, geometry,
biology, chemistry, and the language arts.
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The program aims to produce individuals who can handle the workload of the most challenging
university programs. Graduates will receive a high school diploma and will take ACT/SAT tests.
The program endeavors to prepare students for their college applications and aspirations through
exceptional grades and high SAT scores. We take the future and success of our students seriously;
tremendous effort is made to help those enrolled in the program transition into college and succeed
in their studies thereafter.
2.6 The Tanwr Intensives Syllabus

Subject: Spirituality (ar. Tazkiyah)

Text: Etiquettes for Students, Bidyat al-Hidyah
Description: The first textbook, Etiquettes for Students, concentrates on ten fundamental qual-
ities that a student must embody to succeed in the path of learning. The author explains these
qualities using anecdotes from scholars of the past.
The second text, Bidyat al-Hidyah, is one of Imm Ghazls final works. Thereby, this mas-
terpiece embodies an erudite scholars lifetime of learning, experience, and spirituality. Within it,
he elucidates how leading a life guided by the divine is achieved through God-consciousness (ar.
taqw), and he details the keys to success in ones initial stages of learning. The instructor will ex-
pound on other deeper dimensions of self-reformation.
Course Objectives:
Study an introduction on how to become a student of knowledge.
Identify pitfalls experienced by one treading the path to knowledge.
Learn how to develop taqw.
Start actualizing ones knowledge through practice.

Subject: Conversational Arabic (ar. Mudathah)

Text: al-Qirat al-Arabiyyah
Description: This text concentrates on developing articulacy in Arabic. The texts arrangement
is practical. Its lessons incorporate Arabic that hones ones conversational skills without detailing
the languages theoretical aspects. Accordingly, one will apply the language without requiring a sig-
nificant background in sciences like Arabic Grammar and Morphology. A hardworking and diligent
student will significantly improve their conversational abilities in Arabic. The first volume will be
covered.
Course Objectives:
Experience communicating in Arabic.
Develop and improve ones ability to communicate in Arabic.

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Subject: Morphology (ar. arf)

Text: Fundamentals of Classical Arabic, Min Kunz al-arf
Description: Fundamentals of Classical Arabic and Min Kunz al-arf are designed to lucidly con-
vey Arabic morphology, etymology, and verb conjugation. These books make an otherwise difficult
subject easy. The instructor will provide exercise worksheets to supplement the texts.
Course Objectives:
Learn how verbs conjugate.
Practice identifying different scales from the Qurn.

Subject: Arabic Syntax (ar. Ilm al-Naw)

Text: Arabic Tutor
Description: This renowned textbook has been selected to impart the crucial subject of Arabic
Syntax. In this course, one will study the construction of phrases and sentences as well as the gram-
matical state of the words. The subject expounds on how words are affected by other governing
words, and what apparent changes are caused due to this.
Course Objectives:
Learn how phrases and sentences are constructed.
Understand how words relate to each other.
Identify case endings.
Begin negotiating texts.

Subject: Arabic Literature (ar. al-Adab al-Arab)

Text: Mift al-Arabiyyah
Description: Mift al-Arabiyyah focuses on reading and writing. It starts with simple phrases,
gradually increasing to complex sentences. Each lesson is supplemented with exercises, allowing one
to augment each lesson through practical application.
Course Objectives:
Learn to read and write Arabic.
Practice translating from English-to-Arabic and from Arabic-to-English.

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Subject: Qurn Recitation (ar. Tajwd)

Text: Beginners Notes on Tajwd
Description: The notes of al-Qr Ayyb Essack are used to impart this subject. Both theoretical
and practical aspects of tajwd will be covered. The student will memorize and recite the 30th juz
with tajwd to the teacher.
Course Objectives:
Acquire an understanding of the subjects primary rules.
Apply the rules by reciting to a teacher.
Learn about the narration of af from im via the chain of the Shibiyyah.
Recite the Qurn as the Prophet recited it.

Subject: Islmic Jurisprudence (ar. Fiqh)

Text: Ascent to Felicity
Description: Ab al-Ikhl asan al-Shurunbulls Ascent to Felicity is an excellent primer that
is easily accessible to anyone with even a basic exposure to Islmic legal works. The students will
learn the chapters on purity (ar. ahrah) and prayer (ar. alh). Solutions to contemporary issues
that we face in our daily lives will be explained in detail. Proceeding reading the text is a detailed
introduction to the principles of jurisprudence and its evolution prepared by a teacher.
Course Objectives:
Learn the fundamental rulings pertaining to purity.
Learn the fundamental rulings pertaining to prayer.

Subject: Islmic Theology (ar. Aqdah)

Text: al-Aqdah al-awiyyah
Description: Imm Ab Jafar al-aws text is succinct, listing only that which is necessary
for a Muslim to know and believe. The works contents are derived from Islms primary sources:
the Qurn and the Sunnah. In class, contemporary issues related to Islmic theology and theology
in general will be addressed.
Course Objectives:
Learn the tenets of Islm in detail.
Analyze heterodox sects and some of the refutations scholars provided rebutting their argu-
ments.

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Subject: Arabic Literature (ar. al-Adab al-Arab)

Text: Qaa al-Nabiyyin (volumes 1-2), Mift al-Qurn
Description: Qaa al-Nabiyyin is studied at institutes across the Middle East and Southeast
Asia. The series is designed to progressively build a students understanding of Arabic. It presents
stories of various prophets, edifying the reader with exemplary conduct and teachings. The classical
Arabic studied in these works lays the foundation for one to access the Qurn and the adth in
their original language.
In Mift al-Qurn, students will learn words and phrases from the Qurn, gradually increasing
towards full sentences and paragraphs.
Course Objectives:
Learn basic Arabic literature.
Practice negotiating Arabic texts.
Compose sentences in Arabic.
Begin translating from the Qurn.

Subject: Prophetic Biography (ar. Srah)

Text: Prophet of Mercy
Description: Prophet of Mercy by Shaykh
Ab al-asan Al al-Nadw covers the life
of the Prophet Muammad , the
historical backdrop preceding the nascent
period of Islm, and the military expeditions
and victories associated with it. What distin-
guishes this book from similar works on the
topic is its breadth and careful attention to
details, illustrated maps of events, carefully
worded questions at the end of each chapter,
and an exhaustive glossary of Arabic terms.
Course Objectives:
Gain a strong understanding of the life of the Prophet .
Develop a deep bond with the Prophet and inclulate the desire to emulate him.
Extract lessons from the noble srah and apply them to modern contexts.
Learn how to refute modern-day objections against the Prophet .

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3. STUDENT LIFE
DarusSalam is located in Lombard, Illinois in Chicagos
Western Suburbs. Lombard is an integral hub in the citys
thriving Muslim community al-amdu liLlh.
Student life in the area is comfortable. In the morning,
one may observe students proceeding to campus dressed
in Islmic attire as Muslim parents see their children off
to school. Later in the day, as the sun sets, the mosques
minarets may be seen glowing as they reflect the descending
suns final rays; they stand just over the tree line of the
apartment complex where many of DarusSalams students
reside.
The neighbors, both Muslim and non-Muslim, are
cordial. The institute is located in a quiet area. Seasonally
there is enough greenery to enjoy a peaceful stroll after
class, a beautiful activity for a warm afternoon. In stride,
one may observe small flowing streams entwined with
residences and lush foliage, the sound of their gentle
trickle is accompanied by mesmeric chirps from the
occasional bird zipping around nearby trees. The sound of
bustling roads may be heard off in the distance; but as the
movements of the world around one may seem to cease,
the pursuit of knowledge occupies ones thoughts making the mundane functions of the world
seem like fleeting irrelevancies. Ones reposing moments are attached to reflecting on Allh
and sacred knowledge. The precious value of time is realized in a place like this. Al-amdu liLlh,
Islm is established in the community and the area is safe. Out-of-town students will find the area
enjoyable.
DarusSalam offers an affordable catered meal service daily for both lunch and dinner. There are
many all restaurants and grocery stores nearby as well.
DarusSalam has outdoor recreation areas demarcated for both male and female students. Nearby
parks and trails are found for those who like to explore the outdoors. There are gyms and fitness
centers for those who want to work out and remain physically active. And Chicago has multiple
attractions: landmarks, libraries, and museums. School sponsored trips occur as well. In the past,
weekend camping trips have been organized. DarusSalam performs an annual umrah during spring
break.
There are various housing options near the institute. Apartments are found within walking
distance and many students reside with each other making the cost of living more affordable.
Prospective students may contact us for more information or assistance regarding housing in the
area at 630.360.2373 or [email protected].

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4. TESTIMONIALS
DarusSalam has a unique and special meaning to every student. Some may consider it home,
while others may view it as a fountain of learning. For me, it is my safe haven. A place to protect
what is most important, my relationship with Allh.
- Yusuf Sulaiman (Miami, FL), Takml student
Reflecting upon my time in The Tanwr Intensive, I am overcome by gratitude; it was one
of the most memorable and rewarding years of my life. It was a year in which I learned the
fundamentals of my religion, from attaining the ability to comprehend the beautiful message
that lies in the Qurn to understanding who the Prophet really was and why he stands as the
timeless model for mankind. It was a year in which I attained a stronger sense of identity and
purpose as a Muslim living in 21st century America, and a year that has sharpened my vision on
life and instilled a sense of tranquility within me. I learned that: Verily in the remembrance of
Allh do hearts find rest. (13:28)
Alhamdulilah, I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to study under such knowledgeable
and altruistic scholars, and it was a ten-month investment whose returns I know I will continue
to benefit from for the rest of my life inshaAllah.
- Meriem Djelmami-Hani (Milwaukee, WI), Tanwr graduate, The Wharton School of Business
Allh has blessed us with many things in life. Not only has he blessed us in life, but he gave
us life itself. This is the reason why I enrolled in the The Takml Institute at Darussalam. This
course teaches one how to properly worship Allh and how to pass it on to others. Through the
sacrifice and hard work of my parents and teachers I feel as if I am getting closer to my goal:
pleasing the one who gave me everything in the first place.
- Zain Siddiqui (Chicago, IL), Takml student

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Looking back, I realize that when I enrolled into DarusSalams Tanwr Intensive I did not
fully understand what I was signing up for. I thought I would gain a better understanding of
Arabic, be exposed to various Islmic sciences and a few other noteworthy points mentioned on
the brochure. But a brochure cannot convey what I gained from the program.
I learned my limits and I learned how to surpass them time and time again. I learned the
meaning of the word intensive. What I gained from my ten months at DS cannot be put to
paper. When I enrolled I was, in reality, drawing a bucket from a well. After ten beautiful
months of hard work and fond memories, I finally saw the fruits of my labor.
Imagine my surprise when, while initially expecting water, I reeled up the bucket to find it
overflowing with jewels and gems, some the likes of which I could never have imagined. At
the top was a gem which contained the value of time, the value of sixty seconds. By its side
was another gem containing bonds of brotherhood and mentorship strong enough to last for
generations. There was a sapphire as blue as the clear ocean, within it was the value of alh. I
dug deeper into the bucket and came across a diamond, its light like the sun, I recognized it as
firmness in faith. Still deeper, I came across a green emerald, its light like nothing I had ever
seen before, it was none other than the Sunnah of Allhs Messenger .
Amongst these treasures and more, I obtained what I had embarked on this journey for,
a block of pure gold, understanding the Qurn and adth through the Arabic language. A
brochure cannot convey the beauties and sweetness I experienced because of this program. I
learned the meaning of the lifestyle Islm. But what I gained from DS cannot be put to paper,
because truthfully, I am still busy admiring the treasures myself.
- Faraz Syed (New York, NY), Tanwr graduate, NYIT 7-Year B.S./D.O. Medical Program

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5. TUITON & FEES
Admissions are open for the 2017-18 academic year. All applications require a $35 processing fee.
For late applications (received after April 1, 2017) the fee is $75. To request a need-based application
fee waiver, please contact the Admissions Office at 630.360.2373 or [email protected].
The tuition rate for classes entering our programs in 2017 is $6500 per annum. This may be paid
in monthly installments. For financial aid options, please contact the Admissions Office.
The estimated monthly cost for shared housing in the nearby apartment complex is $300 per
person. The 2017 cost for the meal plan provided by DarusSalam is $217 a month. For the Tanwr
Intensive, the cost for textbooks is $233.
We strive to make education available to every student. Not every individual is financially able to
cover the costs of tuition, books, and housing. Studies are full-time, which means students forgo
pursuing livelihood while studying. We try our best to serve everyone, and there are students in
our courses who would very much appreciate financial assistance by way of scholarships and grants.
Please consider financially contributing to the costs of their education.
To contribute visit us at masjidDS.org/donate.

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6. DATES FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 2017-18

Tamhd Summer Arabic 7/17/2017 to 8/11/2017
Tanwr Intensive 7/17/2017 to 5/5/2018
Takml Institute 7/10/2017 to 5/5/2018

7. HOW TO APPLY
Visit Us
Find out for yourself what it is like to study at DarusSalam
Open Houses
Everyone is welcome to attend our Open Houses. For prospective students, their families, and the
community at large, these days provide an opportunity for one to:
Attend talks and experience DarusSalams learning environment.
Interact with current students and the faculty.
Explore the institute, see its facilities, and discover the area.
For our 2017 academic year, the Open Houses are 3/18/2017 & 5/14/2017. For those who cannot
make it, we will also be offering online Open Houses on 2/18/2017, 4/22/2017, & 6/10/2017.
Guided Tours
By appointment, we offer guided tours of the institute for anyone who cannot attend the Open
Houses. To schedule a guided tour, please send an email to [email protected].
How to Apply
To apply online, visit MasjidDS.org. Please feel free to contact the Admissions Office at
630.360.2373 or [email protected].

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 www.MasjidDS.org

Whoever treads a path seeking knowledge,

Allh facilitates his path to Paradise. (Musnad Amad #8316)

DarusSalam will edify generations of enlightened Muslims, bearers of illuminated

hearts who will constructively contribute to a complex modern world without
diverging from the path laid down by the Prophet Muammad . A
path that our pious predecessors traversed. Islm delivered humanity from the
depths of darkness into the light of divine guidance. The Prophet Muammad
delivered the message and those who followed in his footsteps continued
to convey it. Generation after generation, the Prophets heirs transmitted the
tradition. This legacy is profound; Islmic scholarship is a flourishing tradition
that fortified civilization. Knowledge is the cornerstone of civilization, and the
preservation of it through education and intellectual engagement is a must.
Future generations of Muslims will need to disseminate and advance the legacy.
Therefore, higher learning that imparts traditional scholarship in a way that is
current is imperative.

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Masjid DarusSalam 21W525 North Avenue, Lombard, IL, 60148 630.360.2373