“I hate Arabic class!“
After years of teaching in Muslim schools, Sunday schools and summer schools, this is the one universal phrase uttered by children and teenagers of all ages. I have never once heard, “I love Arabic class.”
Even if the children like the teacher, they rarely like the subject. Why is that the case? After all, we adults emphasize that Arabic is the language of Allah’s last Message: the Holy Qur’an. To know Arabic is to have the clearest understanding of what Allah wants of us in this life.
But the youth never budge in their dislike. Can it be the youthful rebellion against learning in general? Maybe for a few, but I remember in high school that my favorite subject was Spanish. And in junior high I liked English very much. I even wanted to take Chinese language courses but there were none offered in my home town.
I’ve met Muslim kids who attend public schools, quite a few in fact, who say they love Spanish class. I even know some who are taking German or Korean in their schools- and they’re so excited! So why don’t the kids like Arabic class?
Are you ready for the answer? It may surprise you and you may not agree with me. But what I’m telling you is my heart-felt observation with the goal of getting people to learn Arabic. Everyone should learn it. Allah’s revelation is waiting to be unlocked in its entirety and we’re
