At Al Asr Institute of Cleveland Ohio, we understand that ignorance is the most powerful weapon that is being used against the establishment of peace and pluralism. Our aim, as a non-profit organization, is to focus on the spiritual advancement of Cleveland Muslims and followers of other faiths by reviving time-tested methods of educating and transforming human beings through the spread of the Divine light and the universal wisdom of Prophetic teachings. These efforts will also give individuals an opportunity to learn the truth about the pluralistic and merciful nature of Islam and Muslims.
The Institute accomplishes its mission by inviting scholars and teachers from all over the globe, hosting classes, seminars, workshops and interfaith events. Our ultimate goal is to have a full time Islamic Academy dedicated to the revival of the traditional Islamic Sciences.
We also realize that it is of the highest importance that our community leaders have prerequisite knowledge that enables them to deliver this message in a very clear and coherent way. Therefore, all events will be mediated and delivered by individuals who are fluent in both the English and Arabic language, as well as having a familiarity with current communal issues facing the muslim american communities, popular culture, social and physical sciences.
Why Al-Asr?
We named the institute after the chapter in the Quran named Al-Asr. We believe this Chapter or Surah is a mission statement in its self.
Imam al-Shafi‘i has said "that if the people contemplated upon this surah well, it alone would be enough for their guidance." Here is a translation of the meaning of this Chapter:
"By the passing of time! Verily Man Kind is in Loss! Except those who believe and do that which is good, and (join together) in the mutual spreading of Truth, and of patience and constancy."
It is our belief that Islam offers a cohesive understanding of the world and a practicality that enables one to cut through the illusion of contemporary nihilistic philosophy and materialism.
