By The-14
February 10, 2026
“Indeed, seeking knowledge is an obligation on every Muslim.”
In today’s world, where the Muslim Ummah faces intellectual, moral, and cultural challenges—especially in the West—pursuing authentic Islamic knowledge has never been more essential. True understanding of faith requires more than surface-level learning; it demands dedication, spiritual growth, and the guidance of qualified scholars.
Imam Hussain (AS) Hawza in Windsor, Ontario, Canada opens its doors for a new semester, welcoming students from across North America who are ready to embark on this profound journey of knowledge, faith, and community service. The application deadline for the new semester is February 28, 2026, offering a timely opportunity for those committed to studying Islam deeply and meaningfully.
A Hawza Rooted in Tradition, Serving North America
Founded in January 2006 and inaugurated on the blessed occasion of Eid al-Ghadir 1426 H, Imam Hussain Hawza has grown into a respected Shia Islamic seminary. Its mission is to produce knowledgeable, ethical, and community-oriented scholars.
The curriculum is rooted in the classical Hawza traditions of Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf and Holy Qom, while also addressing the unique realities faced by Muslims in North America. The Hawza educates future clergymen (ulama) who can teach, guide, and defend Islamic values in Western societies—without compromise and fully engaged with the community.
Hawza | Islamic Seminary Education
A Hawza is an advanced Islamic seminary dedicated to the in-depth study of religious, legal, philosophical, and theological sciences, offering a profound and structured understanding of Islam. Hawzas are found worldwide, with the most prominent centers historically in Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf, Iraq, and Holy Qom, Iran, forming the foundation of Shia scholarship and advanced Islamic learning.
The curriculum of a Hawza typically includes:
• Qur’anic Studies
• Hadith Studies
• Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)
• Aqeedah (Theology)
• Logic and Philosophy
• Arabic Language
Hawza: Guiding Faith and Community in Today’s World
In North America, a Hawza is more than a place of study—it is a center for community, spiritual growth, and guidance. It trains scholars who help Muslims understand and live their faith in today’s world, emphasizing humility, prayer, reflection, and service to others.
Understanding the Hawza Journey
Hawza education is a lifelong intellectual and spiritual journey, traditionally divided into three stages:
1. Muqaddimat (Introductory Stage) مقدمات:
Initial stage of study, usually lasting about 4 years of full-time study.
2. Sutouh (Intermediate Stage) سطوح:
Typically 6 years, where students deepen their engagement with Islamic sciences.
3. Bahth al-Kharij (Advanced Research Stage) البحث الخارج:
Highest level, preparing students for independent reasoning (Ijtihad). This stage spans 5–10 years and continues throughout a scholar’s life.
More Than Education: Building Character and Responsibility
A Hawza student is not defined only by what they learn, but by who they become. Students pursue deep knowledge, spiritual growth, and ethical development, embodying virtues like humility, honesty, and patience. They are trained to think critically, serve their communities, and act as guides, educators, and role models who live Islamic teachings with integrity and compassion.
Overview of an Imam Hussain Hawza Student’s Curriculum
Higher-level subjects are taught in Arabic. Students who are not proficient receive intensive Arabic instruction during their first year to prepare for Hawza studies.
During the introductory and intermediate stages, Imam Hussain Hawza students study a wide range of subjects:
• Arabic grammar and eloquence (Nahw, Sarf, Balagha)
• Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh)
• Principles of jurisprudence (Usul al-Fiqh)
• Philosophical studies including logic, philosophy (Islamic & Western), principles of faith (Ilm al-Kalaam)
• Qur’anic sciences and exegesis
• Traditions and narrators of Hadith (Ilm al-Rijal)
• Morals and ethics (Akhlaq)
• Islamic economy
• Contemporary Islamic issues
• Personal laws in Islam
• History (Islamic & Western)
• Comparative religions
• Dialogue and preaching (Khetabah)
• Manners and sociology (Tarbeyah & Ijtema3)
• Islamic Psychology
Campus Life and Student Services
Imam Hussain Hawza provides a supportive environment for students, including:
• Residential dormitories and kitchen facilities for eligible single male students
• Imam Ali Library, with hundreds of books in multiple languages and a quiet study space
• Sayida Fatima Mosque, open daily for worship, congregational, and Friday prayers
Classes are provided free of charge.
Note: At this time, female students and married couples are expected to arrange their own accommodations.
Admission Requirements
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Age must be 18–25 for full-time studies
• Age must be 18 years and above for part-time studies
• Two recommendation letters from recognized scholars
• Two recent photographs
• A police clearance
• Pass the interview
• Complete and sign application & agreement form
How to Apply or Learn More
📍Address: 1485 Janette Ave, Windsor, ON N8X 1Z2, Canada 📧 Email: hawza@ihfwindsor.com ☎️ Imam Hussain Foundation: (519) 256-7171 📞 Sheikh Abdul Menhem Charara: (519) 819-8117 📞 Sheikh Hamam Nassereddine: (226) 975-1705🌐 Visit the official Hawza website: Imam Hussain Hawza
📝 CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE APPLICATION FORM (or scan the QR code below)
A Message from The-14 to Parents and Youth
For parents seeking a path that nurtures faith, discipline, and purpose in their children—and for young men and women searching for meaning beyond material success—The-14 encourages considering Imam Hussain Hawza as a rare and valuable opportunity.
Investing in authentic religious knowledge today is an investment in the future of the Ummah.
This path is more than an academic choice—it is a commitment to faith, knowledge, and service to Islam and the Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them). The-14 confidently recommends Imam Hussain Hawza for families and youth seeking a meaningful, spiritually grounded, and community-focused educational journey.
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