In a world fraught with identity crises, the need for self-awareness and purpose has never been more urgent. Modern narratives, like the promotion of the LGBTQ+ agenda in educational settings, have stirred debates about identity, morality, and the role of education. While this phenomenon sparks countless discussions, it boils down to one simple, profound truth: Your gender was assigned to you by God, and He does not make mistakes.
This foundational truth leads us to a deeper question: beyond our earthly roles as parents, teachers, and school leaders, who we really are? Are we, too, a lost cause, wandering without a sense of our divine purpose? The answer lies in a timeless declaration from our Creator. When Allah proclaimed to the angels, “I am placing a vicegerent (Khalifa) on Earth” (Qur’an 2:30), He defined our primary identity. We are His representatives, entrusted with a sacred mission to uphold justice, nurture goodness, and spread knowledge. Even if all worldly labels were stripped away—our names, titles, and professions—this identity remains. It is the anchor that grounds us in life’s turbulence and empowers us to fulfil our potential.
As educators, we must pause and reflect. Are we truly fulfilling this divine role, or merely going through the motions of life? The time to act is now—to realign ourselves with our purpose and make a conscious effort to embody it in every facet of our lives.
Dr. Syed Misbahuddin, in his Collaborative Leadership Framework, highlights three core roles for teachers: Innovate, Intervene, and Inspire. These roles are not just theoretical ideals but practical imperatives to bring revolutionary change to our schools. When teachers embrace these roles, they can shape children to not only learn but to live and lead with purpose, fulfilling the true goal of education.
Innovate: Breathing Life into Education
Innovation breathes life into education. Break away from rigid teaching methods. Use creative approaches like experiential learning, inquiry-based learning, activity-based learning, flipped classrooms and differentiated instructions to make lessons memorable and meaningful. Teachers who think creatively make education relevant and exciting. They inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for discovery.
Intervene: Ensuring No Child is Left Behind
Personalized education is the heart of an effective learning environment. A teacher who intervenes at the right moment, identifying and addressing challenges with care, can transform a child’s life trajectory. Intervention is not merely about remediation; it is about recognizing each student’s unique needs and ensuring they receive the support necessary to succeed.
Inspire: Leading by Example
Inspiration ties it all together. A teacher who leads by example, embodying a passion for learning and an unwavering commitment to excellence, can ignite the same spirit in their students. When teachers become role models, they instill a sense of purpose and direction, motivating students to not only achieve but to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
As Sir Ken Robinson aptly put it, “Teaching is only effective when learning happens. If learning isn’t happening, then what are we really doing?” This sharp critique invites introspection. Are we merely completing the syllabus, or are we cultivating minds and hearts to thrive in this world and the next?
The Need for Personal Growth in Educators
These roles cannot be fulfilled in isolation. A thriving learning community depends on the well-being of its educators. Nurturing personal growth, maintaining physical fitness, and achieving work-life balance are essential for teachers to perform at their best. Moreover, surrounding oneself with driven, optimistic individuals fosters an environment of continuous growth. While the notion that we are the “average of the five people we spend the most time with” may have its critics, the power of positive influence remains undeniable.
Above all, this ecosystem must be grounded in a shared divine purpose. The Qur’an clearly outlines who the truly successful are:
“And the forerunners, the forerunners—Those are the ones brought near [to Allah] in the Gardens of Pleasure.” (Qur’an 56:10-12)
“But only seeking the countenance of his Lord, the Most High.” (Qur’an 92:20)
These verses remind us that true success lies in striving for Allah’s pleasure and seeking closeness to Him. Every action, no matter how small or mundane, becomes meaningful when done with the intention of seeking the face of Allah. As educators, our daily chores and responsibilities should also align with this divine purpose.
When Allah declared to the angels, “I am placing a vicegerent (Khalifa) on Earth” (Qur’an 2:30), He entrusted humanity with a profound responsibility. This identity as Khalifas gives meaning to our roles as educators and learners alike, compelling us to work with ihsan—the highest level of excellence—and mindfulness. This means being present, intentional, and giving our best in every moment. When we align our daily actions with our divine purpose, teaching transforms from a job into an act of worship.
The ultimate question is whether we will use our roles as educators to pave our path to Jannah or squander this opportunity by treating our work as mere routine. As Surah Al-Asr reminds us, “Indeed, mankind is in loss, except those who believe, do righteous deeds, and encourage one another to truth and patience” (Qur’an 103:1-3).
In a world grappling with confusion, let us, as educators, be the guiding light that restores purpose and clarity. The role of a teacher is not merely to impart knowledge but to shape lives. It is a sacred trust, one that can lead to eternal rewards if carried out with sincerity and dedication. Let us rise to the challenge, not just as educators but as Khalifas of Allah, committed to nurturing a generation that learns, lives, and leads with purpose.
By doing so, we not only transform education but also fulfill the very reason for our creation. The choice is ours: Will we be among the successful or the negligent? Let us strive to be the former, for the stakes are far too high to settle for anything less.
About the Writer
Rafeen Aarif is a teacher trainer at Trellis, Mimber Academy. She’s an avid reader, educator, co-author and a mom of two. Rafeen holds a TESOL certification from Arizona State University, US and a certificate in Cambridge Primary English.
