Who we are

Athaar: Centre for Islamic Studies is an institute dedicated to nurturing a deeper relationship with Allāh, grounded in knowledge, reflection, and the refinement of character.

Through the study of tafsīr, sīrah, and ḥadīth, we aim to reconnect individuals with the purpose of their lives, directing hearts towards the ākhirah and a legacy rooted in sincerity and action.

What Athaar Stands For

In Arabic, Athaar means “traces” or “legacy” — the mark a person leaves behind, not in wealth or status, but in sincerity, character, and actions that endure beyond this life.

At Athaar, we believe that learning the dīn should shape both the life a person lives now and the legacy they leave behind — a legacy of goodness that continues to benefit them in the akhirah.

Our aim is to ensure that what is learned is lived, and what is lived becomes a lasting legacy.

Athaar began in Ramaḍān 2025 through small, community-based and online classes, rooted in a desire to make beneficial knowledge accessible.

Due to growing demand, in Ramaḍān 2026 we decided to formalise these efforts — expanding to reach a wider audience while maintaining the same sincerity and focus.

Our Story

We have a simple intention: to create a space where learning the dīn leads to real change — in character, in perspective, and in the way one lives their life.

In a time where knowledge is often consumed but not always lived, Athaar was established to return to a more purposeful approach to seeking knowledge — one that connects learning with action, reflection, and sincerity.

The focus has always been on delivering authentic beneficial knowledge in a clear and structured way that can be lived and applied.

Through the study of tafsīr, sīrah, and ḥadīth, the aim is to nurture growth — developing mindfulness of Allāh, strengthening awareness of the ākhirah, and encouraging a conscious approach to the legacy one leaves behind.

Your Instructor

Bint Saleem is an ʿĀlimah graduate of Maryam Institute. She currently teaches subjects including Sīrah, Tafsīr and Ḥadīth.

Alongside her Islamic studies, she holds an MSc in Health Psychology from King’s College London and has worked within the NHS. She has published a paper, The “lived” experience of menstruating women commencing anticoagulants (https://www.rpthjournal.org/article/S2475-0379(23)00108-5/fulltext)

She is currently pursuing further studies in Islamic psychology and counselling, and is actively involved in writing and editorial work, contributing to forthcoming publications and educational initiatives.

She looks forward to supporting your journey in seeking beneficial knowledge and personal growth.

Our Approach

All classes are delivered online, providing an accessible and consistent space for learning. As a female-only environment, Athaar provides a focused and supportive environment for meaningful learning, encouraging discussion among students to foster a sense of sisterhood and connection.

Who we aim to support

While our classes are open to women of all ages and backgrounds, Athaar places particular focus on supporting young girls at a formative stage in their lives.

Particular attention is given to the tarbiyah of young girls — nurturing sound understanding, strong character, and a connection to the Qur’an and sīrah from an early stage. We aim to provide a space where students can build a strong foundation in their dīn and grow with guidance that shapes both their present and their future.

What makes us different?

At Athaar, the refinement of character lies at the heart of the learning process, alongside the pursuit of knowledge.

We have observed a growing trend where a person may identify as a student of knowledge, yet struggle to embody what they have learned in their daily life. Traditionally, the student of knowledge was known not only for seeking knowledge, but for embodying it. Over time, this connection has weakened, highlighting the need to reconnect knowledge with action.

At Athaar, the aim is to restore that balance. Through a strong emphasis on tarbiyah, reflection, and consistency, we seek to ensure that knowledge is not only acquired, but lived — shaping one’s character, actions, and relationship with Allāh.

Our Values

  • Authenticity (Aṣālah)

    Grounded in the Qur’an and Sunnah upon the understanding of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jamāʿah.

  • Sound Knowledge (ʿIlm)

    Prioritising authentic, reliable knowledge rooted in the classical Islamic tradition.

  • Methodology (Manhaj)

    Following a clear and balanced Sunni methodology in learning, understanding, and teaching.

  • Sincerity (Ikhlāṣ)
    Seeking knowledge sincerely for the sake of Allāh, with the intention of acting upon it and preparing for the ākhirah.

  • Connection
    Building a meaningful relationship with the Qur’an and the life of the Prophet ﷺ.

  • Character (Akhlāq)
    Prioritising the refinement of the self alongside the acquisition of knowledge.

  • Reflection (Tafakkur)

    Encouraging reflection upon what is learned, allowing knowledge to shape thought and behaviour.

  • Community (Ukhuwwah)

Fostering a sense of sisterhood through shared learning, support, and mutual growth.

  • Legacy (Athaar)
    Striving to leave behind actions and impact that endure beyond this life.