Introduction
Education is a vital tool for the development and progress of any society. It provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to lead a meaningful and productive life. In many parts of the world, education is not only about the transmission of secular knowledge but also includes the infusion of moral and ethical values. In this context, the Quran, the holy book of Islam, plays a significant role. Reading the Quran before the start of a teaching and learning session in the classroom is a practice that holds great importance, as it helps establish a strong foundation of moral and ethical values for both educators and learners.

The Quran: A Source of Ethical Guidance
The Quran is considered by Muslims to be the word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It serves as a comprehensive guide for leading a just, ethical, and virtuous life. The Quran addresses various aspects of human conduct, morality, and ethics, providing valuable insights on how individuals should interact with one another and with the world around them. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, compassion, justice, and humility, among other virtues.

Promoting Moral and Ethical Values
Reading the Quran before the commencement of a teaching and learning session helps in instilling these moral and ethical values in the hearts and minds of both educators and students. It sets the tone for the learning environment, creating a space where the pursuit of knowledge is not isolated from the development of character. By grounding education in these principles, it becomes a holistic endeavor, nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also principled.

Fostering a Sense of Purpose
The Quran also emphasizes the significance of intention and purpose in one’s actions. When the Quran is recited in the classroom, it serves as a reminder for both educators and students to align their intentions with the pursuit of knowledge. It encourages educators to teach with sincerity and dedication, ensuring that their primary goal is the betterment of their students. Similarly, students are reminded to approach their studies with a sense of purpose, seeking knowledge not merely for personal gain but for the betterment of society as a whole.

Creating a Peaceful Learning Environment
Reading the Quran before the start of a teaching and learning session also has the potential to create a peaceful and harmonious classroom environment. The Quran promotes the values of tolerance, respect for diversity, and the resolution of conflicts through peaceful means. When these values are embraced in the classroom, it fosters an atmosphere where students from different backgrounds can learn together, respect one another’s differences, and work collaboratively towards common goals.

Conclusion
The practice of reading the Quran before the commencement of a teaching and learning session in the classroom is not merely a ritual; it is a powerful way to infuse moral and ethical values into the educational process. By grounding education in the principles and teachings of the Quran, educators and students are encouraged to be honest, compassionate, just, and humble. This practice fosters a sense of purpose and creates a harmonious learning environment, which, in turn, contributes to the holistic development of individuals who are not only well-educated but also morally upright. In a world where education is key to progress, this practice serves as a reminder of the values that should guide our pursuit of knowledge.

Written by Sabriah binti Japrin