Ijtema Knowledge Centre

What is an Ijtema?

An Ijtema is a gathering. In this tradition it refers to a local, regional, national or international assembly held over one to three days, usually at a large mosque, marquee or open ground, at which participants listen to talks, learn together, consult and make supplication.

Purpose

• Encouragement towards regular prayer and religious practice.
• Learning the basics of faith in an accessible way.
• Consultation on the coming period's local activity.
• Forming groups of volunteers willing to give time.

Typical activities

• Bayan — talks, often translated into more than one language.
• Taleem — reading sittings in smaller circles.
• Mashwara — consultation among those responsible for each area.
• Tashkeel / Jamaat formation — organising volunteers into groups by availability.
• Dua — a collective supplication, usually at the close.

Major historical gatherings

The best-known annual gatherings are held at Tongi in Bangladesh (widely reported as among the largest Muslim assemblies in the world after Hajj) and at Raiwind in Pakistan. Regional gatherings are held in many countries, including Britain.

Attending in the UK

• Confirm dates, venue and arrangements directly with the organising mosque — never rely on forwarded messages.
• Check parking, accessibility and facilities for women and families before travelling.
• Follow the venue's stewarding, fire-safety and safeguarding instructions.
• Children should remain with a responsible adult at all times.