Introducing the Noor Mizan Course
Noor Online Islamic Center Presents: Ziarah & Intensive Mizan Course
Dates
June 3 - 19, 2025
Locations
Mashhad & Qom
Optional Extension
4-Day Ziarah to Najaf & Karbala
About
Noor Mizan course is a two-week in-person educational program primarily taught by Shaykh Amin Rastani. It provides an excellent opportunity for those interested in the topics mentioned below. By combining these three distinct but related courses into one intensive program, you’ll enjoy a unique and structured learning experience. Holding the program in sacred cities like Mashhad and Qom further elevates the spiritual significance of the course, and makes this an amazing opportunity for participants who seek authentic knowledge in a profound setting.
Lecturer
Shaykh Amin Rastani
Shaykh Amin Rastani traveled to the holy city of Qum after high school in 1999 to pursue hawzah studies in the Hawzah Ilmiyyah of Qum. Due to references by scholars in the US, he was able to get into one of the top schools therein, and graduated from the six-year introductory level covering all Islamic disciplines, after which, he began the four year intermediate level of fiqh and usul al-fiqh studies (namely the works of the late Shaykh Murtadha al-Ansari of “Makasib” and “Rasa’il”). Afterwards, he had the opportunity to participate in advanced kharij fiqh classes. He also holds a master’s degree in Semitic religions with a dissertation on the Code of Canon Law (Catholicism) through the University of Religions and Denominations of Qum. Shaykh Amin is also a teacher of the Howza and lectures internationally on various occasions of the Islamic year. In 2017, he moved back to the US and is currently serving the Dallas community.
Main Topics
During this course, three main topics will be discussed as described below
Death & Barzakh
What happens to the soul after death? This course offers a profound exploration of the soul’s journey, focusing on the intermediate realm known as Barzakh. Drawing from Quranic verses, hadiths, and the insightful works of Allamah Tabatabai in al-Insaan and Tafsir al-Mizan, it provides a comprehensive study of the stages between death and resurrection.
While many have read about or attended lectures on the afterlife, how deeply do we truly understand it? This course goes beyond surface-level knowledge, helping participants grasp the essence of death, the Barzakh, and their deeper meanings and implications.
The Hour
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the events surrounding “The Hour,” building upon the foundations laid in the “Death and Barzakh” course. Starting from the resurrection of bodies and their reunion with souls after the second blow of the Sur, it examines the profound realities of the Day of Judgment. Guided by the works of Allamah Tabatabai and his students, this course uncovers key events of the Day of Resurrection, including:
- The Ashraat of The Hour: Natural phenomena marking the Final Day.
- Ultimate Tawhid: The manifestation of divine unity in The Hour.
- The Bridge of Sirat: A critical passage for all souls.
- The Mizan (Scales of Deeds): Balancing one’s actions.
- The Kutub (Books of Deeds): Records of every individual’s life.
Beyond Control
Free will is a cornerstone of the Islamic belief system and central to understanding the creation of humankind. This course examines the Quranic principle that humanity’s existence is deeply tied to free will. Without it, the purpose of human creation would be void. But how does free will align with the reality of predetermination and the many factors beyond our control? This course also delves into pressing questions that challenge our understanding of free will:
- Why wasn’t everyone born infallible like prophets and imams?
- How is it fair that some are born into Muslim families while others are not?
- Why didn’t God consult us before creating us?
- Does God’s knowledge of our future actions negate our free will?
- How do Qada’ and Qadar fit with the concept of human choice?
Ziarah Opportunities
As the course takes place in the spiritually significant cities of Mashhad and Qom, participants will have multiple opportunities for Ziarah. Visiting the holy shrines will enrich the overall experience and provide time for reflection and supplication.
Optional Extension to Najaf & Karbala
Tajwid Lessons
Most days will include a one-hour Tajwid session, where participants will improve their Quranic recitation skills under expert guidance. By the end of the program, you’ll have gained a stronger command of proper Quranic recitation.
Daily Open Discussions
Each day, participants will have the chance to engage in open discussions, allowing for a deeper exploration of the day’s topics, clarifying questions, and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Why Attend Noor Mizan Course?
- Comprehensive Learning: This is the first time these three powerful courses are being taught together, offering a well-rounded perspective on Islamic eschatology and theology.
- Spiritual Enrichment: Held in Mashhad and Qom, the program includes Ziarah opportunities, enhancing both the intellectual and spiritual experience.
- Interactive Learning: Daily open discussions provide a forum for participants to engage directly with Shaykh Amin Rastani, ask questions, and participate in group reflections.
- Quranic Proficiency: With daily Tajwid lessons, participants will leave with improved Quranic recitation, making this program beneficial both intellectually and practically.
- Extended Spiritual Journey: For those wishing to deepen their experience, the optional 4-day extension to Najaf and Karbala offers the chance to visit some of the holiest sites in Islam.
Who Should Attend?
This course is ideal for anyone interested in gaining a deep understanding of Islamic eschatology and the role of divine will in our lives. Whether you are a student of Islamic studies, a seeker of knowledge, or a parent wishing to connect your family with their faith, this program offers something for everyone. The content is accessible to both beginners and advanced learners, with daily open discussions providing ample opportunity for interaction.
Course Schedule*
June 2025
(Subject to Change)
Day 1
Tuesday, June 3
Arrival in Mashad
🏨 Overnight in Mashhad
Day 2
Wednesday, June 4
Opening Ceremony and Ziyarah of Imam Reza (a.s)
- 4 – 5:15 Death and Barzakh
- 5:30 – 6:30 Death and Barzakh
Overnight in Mashhad
Day 3
Thursday, June 5
- 8:30 – 9:30 Tajwid
- 10 – 11:30 Death and Barzakh
- Arafah
🏨 Overnight in Mashhad
Day 4
Friday, June 6 (Eid)
- 8:30 – 9:30 Eid Prayer and celebration
- 10 Guided Ziyarah followed by Jumah Prayer
- 4 – 5:30 Death and Barzakh
- 5:45 – 6:45 Open Discussion
Overnight in Mashhad
Day 5
Saturday, June 7
- 8:30 – 9:30 Tajwid
- 10 – 11:30 The Hour P1
- 4 – 5:30 The Hour P1
- 5:45 – 6:45 Open Discussion
Overnight in Mashhad
Day 6
Sunday, June 8
- 8:30 – 9:30 Tajwid
- 10 – 11:30 The Hour P1
- 2 – 3:30 The Hour P1
- 4 pm Recreational Activities
🏨 Overnight in Mashhad
Day 7
Monday, June 9
- 8:30 – 9:30 Tajwid
- 10 – 11:30 Beyond Control
- 4 – 5:30 Beyond Control
- 5:45 – 6:45 Open Discussion
🏨 Overnight in Mashhad
Day 8
Tuesday, June 10
- 8:30 – 9:30 Tajwid
- 10 – 11:30 Beyond Control
- 4 – 5:30 Beyond Control
- 5:45 – 6:45 Open Discussion
Overnight in Mashhad
Day 9
Wednesday, June 11
- 8:30 – 9:30 Tajwid
- Farewell Ziarah of Imam Reza (a.s)
- Flight to Isfahan (4 pm)
- Isfahan Hotel Check-in
- Visisting Historical Bridges of Isfahan
🏨 Overnight in Isfahan
Day 10
Thursday, June 12
- Explore Isfahan
- Naghshe Jahan Square and its historical sites.
- Shopping time
🏨 Overnight in Isfahan
Day 11
Friday, June 13
- Explore Isfahan
- Chehelsotun Palace
- MeharJonban
- Transtar to Qom in the afternoon
🏨 Overnight in Qom
Day 12
Saturday, June 14
- 8:45 – 9:45 Tajwid
- Qom Programs
Overnight in Qom
Day 13
Sunday, June 15
- 8:45 – 9:45 Tajwid
- Qom Programs
🏨 Overnight in Qom
Day 14
Monday, June 16
- 8:45 – 9:45 Tajwid
- Qom Programs
- 5 – 6 Certificate Ceremony
- Farewell to Lady Masumah
- Pack up
🏨 Overnight in Qom
Day 15
Tuesday, June 17
- Departure to Tehran
- Explore Tehran
🏨 Overnight in Tehran
Day 16
Wednesday, June 18
- Explore Tehran
🏨 Overnight in Tehran
Day 17
Thursday, June 19
- Tehran
- Afternoon: Flight back home (or to Najaf for the optional extension)
Optional Extension
Day 18
Friday, June 20
- Najaf
🏨 Overnight in Najaf
Day 19
Saturday, June 21
- Najaf / Karbala
🏨 Overnight in Karbala
Day 20
Sunday, June 22
- Karbala
🏨 Overnight in Karbala
Day 21
Monday, June 23
- Returning Flights
Pricing Plans
1. Participants (14+ years)
For individuals actively participating in the course and educational programs:
o Single Occupancy: $1790 USD (Private room)
o Double Occupancy: $1390 USD per person (Shared room)
2. Non-Participants (Children)
For children who are accompanying participants and will not attend classes:
o Children (4-13 years): $690 USD
o Children under 4 years: Free (if no separate bed is required)
3. Family Plan (3 or More Members)
Designed for families attending together:
- Adults (14+ years): $1190 USD per person
- Children (6-13 years): $690 USD per child
- Children under 6 years: Free (if no separate bed is required)
4. Childcare Support Plan
For participants bringing young children requiring supervision during course hours:
- Cost: $290 USD per child (Childcare service is not available on Tehran and Isfahan tour days)
- Includes: Supervised activities for children during class sessions, a safe play area.
5. Optional Extension to Najaf and Karbala
For participants and family members joining the optional pilgrimage extension:
- Cost per person: $900 USD (This part is optional, and the price is additional to the main body of the course)
- Includes: Accommodation, meals, return flight from Tehran to Najaf, transportation between Najaf and Karbala, and guided Ziyarah.
Payment
Flight Booking
Please refrain from booking your flight at this time. We will notify all registrants when the appropriate time arrives.
Visa Assistance
Noor Online Islamic Center will assist all participants with visa processing to help facilitate your travel. We will provide visa assistance for our dear participants of all nationalities including American, Canadian and British citizens.
Important Notes
- Participation in the Course: Participation in educational programs is only for individuals aged 14+ who are registered as participants.
- Programs for Children: If you wish to arrange special programs for children under 14 years (e.g., Quran lessons, Islamic stories, or creative activities), please contact us in advance. Custom plans can be designed based on the number of children and their ages.
- Special Arrangements: For unique situations (e.g., single parents with children), tailored pricing can be arranged upon request.
- Early Bird Discount: Participants who complete their registrations by sending all the documents that will be requested before January 31, 2025, will receive an early bird discount.
Included
All prices are for the entire program and include:
- Accommodation as requested
- Meals
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Transportation during the program, including one domestic flight
- International flights for those who join the optional Najaf and Karbala extension
- Course participation and materials
- Tehran and Isfahan tours
- Entry fees
- Visa assistance
Not Included
- Prices do not include international airfare and visa fees.
Testimonials
Words from Our Community
FAQ
Are international flights included?
International flights are not included in the program fee, except for those joining the optional 4-day Ziarah extension to Najaf and Karbala. (Return flight from Tehran to Najaf)
Is there an early bird discount?
Yes! Participants who complete their registrations by sending all the documents that will be requested before January 31, 2025, will receive an early bird discount.
Can I bring my children?
Yes! This is a family-oriented program, so all family members are welcome. Based on the participants, we can organize Islamic programs and activities tailored to different age groups.
Can I request special arrangements if I am a single parent with children?
Yes, we can offer tailored pricing and arrangements for single parents traveling with children. Please reach out to us for more information.
What is the optional 4-day Ziarah extension?
After completing the course, you can join a 4-day Ziarah to the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala. This journey will allow you to visit the sacred shrines of Imam Ali (AS), Imam Husayn (AS), and other revered figures, concluding your spiritual journey.
How do I pay for the course?
Participants are not required to make any payments at the time of registration. All program fees can be paid in cash upon arrival to the organizers.
Is visa assistance provided?
Yes, Noor Online Islamic Center will assist all participants with visa processing to help facilitate your travel. We will provide visa assistance for our dear participants of all nationalities including American, Canadian and British citizens.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Because there is no prepayment needed, cancellations will not cost anything. Visa fee that is paid to the visa office is not refundable though.
Are there any age restrictions for the course?
The course is open to individuals aged 14 and older. For children under 14, special programs can be arranged based on their age and number.
What is the program schedule like?
The course will run from June 3 to 16, 2025, with daily sessions and multiple opportunities for Ziyarah in Mashhad and Qom. There will also be Tehran and Isfahan excursions. In the course schedule section of this page, you can find the detailed itinerary.
What is the accommodation and food like?
Very good accommodation (4-star hotel) and all the meals are provided for all the participants, ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay.
Will there be an opportunity to visit Tehran and Isfahan?
Yes, there will be an opportunity to visit both Tehran and Isfahan.
Mizan Course Registration
To secure your spot in the Noor Mizan Course, fill out our registration form, and we’ll get back to you with more details. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.
