Portraits of the Believer

A monthly tafsīr gathering exploring Qur’anic descriptions of faith and character.

Portraits of the Believer is a monthly, in-person tafsīr gathering focused on exploring selected Qur’anic verses that describe the qualities and character of the believer. Each session includes a guided explanation of the verses, highlighting their meaning, context, and relevance.

The series emphasizes practical understanding, drawing clear lessons from the Qur’an that can be applied in daily life. Sessions are presented in a clear and accessible manner and are suitable for individuals and families seeking to deepen their connection with the Qur’an and strengthen their character over time.

Next Gathering

Rayyan Center
04/18/26
12:00am
After Maghrib
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Our team is led by Shaykh Ashhar. Shaykh Ashhar grew up in Troy, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit, where, in 1994, he completed the memorization of the Qur’an at eight years of age. He graduated high school in 2004 with an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, and subsequently enrolled in the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor to complete a Bachelor’s of Science with a dual concentration in (1) Arabic & Islamic Studies and (2) Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Sciences. He graduated from medical school at Michigan State University in 2012 and completed his medical residency in neurology, with a sub-specialization in migraine and facial pain, at the renowned Cleveland Clinic. He is currently a practicing neurologist in Detroit, Michigan, and, as a Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology, is heavily involved in medical student education and resident training. He has won numerous teaching awards in his career.

During his college years, Shaykh Ashhar began studying Classical Arabic, Fiqh and other Islamic sciences under local scholars, and sought spiritual guidance from Shaykh Husain Sattar. In 2008, he began formally studying the traditional sciences in the Sacred Learning Program, and in 2014, was granted formal authorization (ijāzah) in the spiritual sciences (tasawwuf). He currently resides in Farmington Hills, Michigan with his wife and four children. He spends his free time guiding others on the path of purifying the heart and attaining nearness to Allah ﷻ.