i'd like to get involved with DIP efforts, because traditional islamic knowledge is very lacking in houston..how can i get involved? hanane, do you know Mufti Mohammad Ali in Vancouver? he's the imam at one of the smaller masjids.

thanks Danya; what do you all think about those who've studied with shuyukh other than those we usually study with? Some have mentioned people and places that don't have any connection to DIP/Rihla... Would you like this village to be all inclusive, with the risk that the teachings/bkgds may not fall in line with what those who have gone to dips/rihlas identify with? Also, what about those who WANT to go, but haven't actually gone yet?

I think accepting ppl who have not attended should be considered on a case by case basis. Depending whether they've attempted to try (maybe you can put that as a question) or they've done other programs like Rawdah or zaytuna stuff (which is kinda dip)

Thanks for your input Ahsun. Anyone else want to comment?

wa alaikum assalaam. About accepting people who haven't attended a rihla program before... my opinion is that it is an opportunity that most people dont have due to family obligations, money, or time constraints. I'm sure many people would be interested in taking part in programs like these in the future, or at the least benefitting from any words of wisdom experienced "dippers" can disseminate. unless this village is just meant to catch up with friends and not talk about lessons learned, i would think many people could benefit provided they have a sincere intent to learn.