“To God’s words,” Layla said. “As if for the first time.” This story is fictional but inspired by the real legacy of Shaykh Muhammad Metwalli al-Sha‘rawi (1911–1998), whose recorded tafsir (Qur’anic exegesis) remains beloved across the Arab world for its simplicity, warmth, and deep spiritual insight.
Every night after, Layla played another chapter. Teta would ask, “What will the Shaykh explain tonight?” And Layla would read from the cassette case: “ Surah Maryam … Surah Ar-Rahman … Surah Al-Fajr .” tfsyr alqran bswt alshykh alshrawy
“What’s this, Teta?”
The next morning, she said, “He speaks like the Qur’an is speaking directly to me.” “To God’s words,” Layla said
Layla handed him the cassette case. “It’s not just a voice,” she said. “It’s like the Qur’an becomes a friend.” “To God’s words