Class 7- Lesson Quran Appreciation The Story of Samiri Class 7- Lesson Quran Appreciation

Starter Sura Taha: verse 89 أفَلَا يَرَوْنَ ألَّا يَرْجِعُ إلَيْهِمْ قَوْلًا وَلَا يَمْلِكُ لَهُمْ ضَرًا وَلَا نَفْعًا Could they not see that it did not reply to them, it did not control any harm or benefit for them?

Reflections What should be the qualities of a God who creates? What are the three things mentioned in this verse that the calf cannot do? What should be the qualities of a God who creates? Does God reply when you speak to Him? How? Why did the people not use their intelligence and think for themselves?

What can we understand from these verses?

Learning Objectives To explore the concept of idol worshipping and why the people of Samiri resorted to this. To understand verse 89 in more depth.

Relevant Verses 26:78-82- A comprehensive description of God by Nabi Ibrahim Who created me, and guides me. And Who feeds me and gives me drink, and Who, when I am ill heals me, and Who causes me to die, then gives me life, and Who I hope will forgive me my sins on the Day of Judgement. [26:78-82] 6:116- Following the majority leads you astray Wert though to obey most of those on earth, they would lead thee astray from the way of God; they follow naught but conjecture, and they do not but surmise. [6:116]

Relevant Hadiths “Surely Allah has not created human beings except to recognize Him and worship Him. And when they worship Him they would not need to worship anybeing other than Him.” - Imam Husayn (a) “Truth and falsehood are not recognized by the number of followers. Know Truth and you will know its people. Know falsehood and you will know its people.” - Imam Ali (a)

Important Lessons A God who is worshipped must have the most superior qualities. It cannot be weaker than the human being himself. Before doing something that may be wrong, ask questions and think for yourself. You will be able to see the flaws in what you want to do. Don’t give in to pressure from others. Peer pressure can lead you to wrong things. If majority of people are doing something, that does not make it right. Know the Truth and then follow it.

Talk to the person next to you…. Pick two names of Allah which you think will be beneficial for you to turn to and use in times of question, why do you think these names are important?

Listen to the Story about the man who worshipped idols… What is the moral of this story? Why did this man believe in idols?

Your Task…. Practise the habit of asking questions before doing something that may be wrong. Telling a lie, not praying, wearing improper hijab . . . what are some questions you could ask yourself about it?

Plenary Talk to your partner about your week, was there any actions you could have questioned before doing?