Lights from al-Andalus is an inspiring retreat in the beautiful setting of Azahara, near Granada, in the heart of Andalucia.
The retreat includes:
Lessons for today from Andalusian classics with Shaykh Ahmed Saad; Kitāb as-Shifā by Qāḍī 'Iyad about Rasulullah ﷺ & the Tafsīr by Ibn Juzay al-Kalbī.
Guided excursions to historical sites in Granada and the Alpujarra Mountains
Nature Walks and physical activities; prayers, dhikr, and reflection time; Q&A sessions; nourishing meals; and the opportunity to establish bonds with teachers and other sincere seekers in a healing atmosphere.
Lessons about the history of al-Andalus and its key contributions for our times with Ustadh Emin Alzueta; theologian, poet and cultural historian.
An optional visit to the Alhambra Palace.
Retreat Summary Schedule
Daily Schedule at Azahara (31 March - 4 April morning):
Two Daily Classes with Shaykh Ahmed Saad
One Daily Class with Ustadh Emin Azuelta
Activities: Guided excursions to Granada and the Alpujarra Mountains, Futuwwah & connecting with the land through gardening and developing water channels.
Meals: Three nourishing Mediterranean meals per day prepared by Chef Nabil
Granada Day (4 April):
Guided Tour: Historic Albaicín Tour
Jumu'ah Prayer: Mezquita Mayor de Granada
Lunch: Local restaurant
Optional Alhambra Palace Tour Day (5 April)
Please indicate in the registration form if you would like to join this day.
About Shaykh Dr Ahmed Saad
Shaykh Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Saad Al-Azhari, born in Ramadan 1398 (August 1978) in Menoufiyyah, Egypt, hails from a scholarly family with Prophetic lineage through Imam al-Hasan. He memorized the Quran by age 10 under his father’s guidance and completed his education at Al-Azhar, earning a BA in Islamic Studies in English (2001) and postgraduate studies (2004). He pursued academic programs in Germany and the USA as a Fulbright scholar before earning a PhD from the University of Birmingham, UK, focusing on traditional Muslim scholars’ engagement with modernity in colonial and post-colonial contexts, particularly Habib Abu Bakr al-Mashhūr’s work. For more information, please visit his institute, Ihsan.
Ustadh Emin Alzueta
You will be joined by theologian, poet and cultural historian, Ustadh Emin who will take you on an enriching journey on the history of Al-Andalus. Ustadh Emin will also take you on guided walks in nature and to historical sites.
About Kitāb al-Shifā by Qāḍī 'Iyad
“Ash-Shifa' bi-ta'rif huquq Mustafa, commonly referred to as Ash-Shifa, Healing by the Recognition of the Rights of or News of the Chosen One' by Qadi'Iyad Ibn Musa al-Yasubi (d. 544/1149), is a great work on Prophet Muhammad's (ﷺ) character and life in which his qualities and miracles are described in detail. Qadi Iyad was a great Islamic scholar of the Maliki school, and was a high judge (Qadi) in Granada.”
The Tafsīr by Ibn Juzay al-Kalbī
“The author was born in 693 AH. His name was Abū `Abdullāh Muhammad, called al-Qāsim, ibn Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Juzayy al-Kalbī. He was al-Gharnātī (from Granada in Andalusia, Spain) and wrote widely on all the sciences of his day. His tasfir is considered a masterpiece for his comprehensiveness and brevity.”
Fees
Participants from outside of Spain:
Early-Bird Rates before 7 February:
850 euros — without accommodation (tuition and meals only)
950 euros - dormitory accommodation
1000 euros - with accommodation (shared room)
After 7 February:
900 euros — without accommodation (tuition and meals only)
1000 euros - dormitory accommodation
1050 euros - with accommodation (shared room)
Locals:
Please fill out the registration form and we’ll be in touch to discuss this.
Note:
We are offering payment plans. If you wish to enquire about this option please specify in the form.