Reflection on Juz’ 30 by Nur Shaina Ayers

As the sun sets on the last night of Ramadan and the 30th juz is read, a bittersweetness floods the air. We are amongst the privileged who have experienced another blessed month with endless opportunities to have the Qur’an penetrate our hearts.

Surat Al-Naba’ to Al-Nas continue and conclude the messages of power and brilliance, and mercy and protection from our Lord. The last 36 chapters emphasize the same messages we heard throughout the month of Ramadan. From the placement of the earth with the stars surrounding us and the rise and setting of the sun and moon to each drop of rain giving life to the plants and inhabitants of this world, we are reminded in Al-Naba’, Al-Takwir, Al-Infitar, Al-Tariq, and Al-Shams of the precision and intricacy – solely of the physical world. Then as we read Al-A’la, Al-Layl, Al-Sharh, and Al-Qadr we get a glimpse of the mercy and love of our Creator in the opportunities we have to attain relief and our lord’s pleasure. The chapters are the answers Sr Mubarakah reflects on in Juz’ 1. They are the signs of love Sheikh Odoro speaks to us about in Juz’ 3 and what Sr. Kori writes about in Juz’ 9. They are reminders of our gratitude and patience just as Br. DJamil reflects on in Juz’ 10. They are all almost poetic in their nature, just as Br. Rasheed and Sr. Neisma reflections on Juz’ 13 & 14. And the words impactful, as Sr. Salimah & Br Eric’s reflections on Juz’ 24 & 25. Each of the chapters closing out the Qur’an affirming verses from earlier ones, ultimately leaving us to reflect on how clear and beautifully complete it is in guidance.

For the past 7 years Sapelo Square has been delivering award-winning original content that centers Black Muslims in the U.S. — on a shoestring budget. Help us reach 7 more years and beyond. Donate today!

Nur Shaina Ayers is a graduate of Howard University School of Business and School of Divinity. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business and a Master of Arts degree in Islamic Studies. She served as the Executive President of the School of Divinity Student Government Association, was a research assistant to Dr. Zainab Alwani, Founding Director of Islamic Studies program at Howard University School of Divinity, and was a graduate assistant to Dr. Nisa Mohammad, the Assistant Dean of the Chapel. Ms. Ayers’ scholarship focused on the cultural phenomenology of Islam and religious history in America. Her research interest includes phenomenology of Islam, religious identity, and religio-cultural trauma. Prior to shifting into academia, she held various management positions in the private sector dedicated to engagement, training & development, and operational implementation. She has extensive experience in Management, Program Implementation, CX Design & Management, Stakeholder Engagement, and Training Facilitation.
Share Post
No comments

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.