Experiences of the Elderly in Learning the Qur’an via the Al-Ishlah Method Within the Qur’anic Literacy Program

The ability to read the Al-Qur’an is an essential foundation of Islamic worship; however, Al-Qur’an literacy among elderly individuals remains a significant challenge due to cognitive decline and limited educational opportunities in the past. This study aimed to describe and explore the lived experiences of elderly learners participating in Al-Qur’an learning through the Al-Ishlah method within an Al-Qur’an literacy program. Employing a qualitative approach with a phenomenological design, this study involved seven elderly female participants aged 40–62 years at Majlis Taklim Nur Husni Hidayah, Karawang, who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation, analyzed using interactive analysis consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, and validated through triangulation. The findings identified four central themes: (1) strong spiritual motivation driven by eschatological orientation toward preparing for the end of life; (2) physiological and cognitive barriers, including short-term memory decline, visual impairment, and articulation difficulties (makhraj); (3) the effectiveness of the practical Al-Ishlah method combined with a patient and humanistic muallim approach, which reduced cognitive burden and affective barriers; and (4) holistic self-transformation characterized by increased self-efficacy, inner peace, and strengthened social support networks. This study concludes that the Al-Ishlah method and an adaptive classical learning environment effectively support elderly learners in overcoming age-related learning challenges. Future program improvements should include the implementation of large-print learning materials and the optimization of individualized guidance (talaqqi).