Stages of Al-Ashbāl
Youth Pathway
Stages of Al-Ashbāl
Youth Pathway
At Iḥyā, yaqaẓah refers to a stage where the archer realizes what Archery in Islām is, and now becomes aware of its teachings and the traditions of our Noble Master and Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The concept of Musāfir is the same as that of the adult phase, but extended over a longer timeframe to accommodate the enthusiastic minds, hearts, and developing physical abilities of our young archers. During this phase, our Ashbāl begin to make archery a part of their lifestyle, focusing on acquiring consistency, discipline, and presence through regular practice.
At Iḥyā, the concept of Rajāʾ represents a stage in which the young archer begins to recognise that they are, at times, required to serve as an example for others. They may be called upon to act as team leaders during training, entrusted with responsibilities, or asked to support new archers as they begin their journey.
Archers at this maqām are expected to participate in all competitions recommended by Iḥyā. At this stage, they begin to naturally connect with archery as a form of ʿibādah (worship), recognising that it is meritorious in the court of Allāh.
The Ashbāl remain at this maqām until the age of 18.
At Iḥyā, if an Ashbāl has spent their youth progressing through the Maqām of Rajāʾ, then upon reaching the age of 19, they enter the Maqām of Tawbah.
At this stage of the Ashbāl's journey, archers begin to specialise in their chosen field of archery and are recognised as 'Senior Practitioners'. Their expertise is now deeply integrated with a mature understanding of Islām, embodying both technical mastery and the principles of Islamic leadership.
At this stage, the Ashbāl begin to take on mentorship roles, helping to shape the next generation of archers by imparting not only technical skill but also the ethical teachings of Islām. They continue to grow both spiritually and mentally, aligning their practice with their dīn, and serving their community with sincerity and purpose.
At Iḥyā, once the Ashbāl have transitioned into adulthood and fulfilled their mentorship roles, their capacity to spread the Sunnah of archery increases. Upon attaining mastery, the archer graduates and embraces the responsibility expected of a Master Archer, as outlined in the Maqām of Muḥabbah along the adult pathway.