Basics of Pre-algebra

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The Miracle of Fingers: Islamic Wisdom and Multiplication Tricks (Tables 6–9)

Introduction: The Gift of Fingers in Islam and Mathematics

In the Qur’an, Allah reminds us again and again of the signs He has placed within our own bodies. The human hand, with its five fingers, is one of the most perfect tools designed for learning, creating, and counting.

In Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:12–14), Allah describes how He created man in the best form, giving him the power to reason and calculate. Our hands are not just for work—they are for understanding balance and order, which includes mathematics.

Muslim scholars such as Al-Khwarizmi, Al-Biruni, and Al-Uqlidisi linked logic and faith, showing that every number reveals Allah’s wisdom. Finger counting is one of those divine systems.

Understanding the Logic of Finger Multiplication

Finger math for higher tables (6–9) works through patterns. Each finger represents a number from 6 to 10. When two fingers touch, they show tens; the ones above show ones.

This technique builds logical thinking and visual understanding, turning abstract numbers into a physical experience.

Preparing for the Practice

Before practice, assign values to fingers:

Finger                                            Value

Thumb                                                6   

Index                                                   7                                                                               Middle                                                 8                                  

Ring                                                    9

Little                                                   10

Each hand represents one number to be multiplied. When fingers touch, they form a code that tells you tens and ones.

Example 1 – Multiplying 6 × 7 Using Fingers    

Let’s multiply 6 × 7:

1. Represent 6 and 7 on your hands:

Left = 6 → Thumb

Right = 7 → Index

2. Touch both fingers.

3. Count all touching and below → 3 fingers = 30

4. Multiply remaining above → 4 × 3 = 12

5. Add → 30 + 12 = 42

Answer: 6 × 7 = 42

This shows that each finger position visually represents tens and ones.

Example 2 – Multiplying 7 × 8

Now try 7 × 8:

1. Left = index finger (7), right = middle finger (8).

2. Touch and count below: total 5 → 50

3. Remaining above: 3 × 2 = 6

4. Add: 50 + 6 = 56

     Ans       7 × 8 = 56

This activity develops quick logical reasoning.

Example 3 – Multiplying 8 × 9

1. Left = 8 (middle), Right = 9 (ring)

2. Fingers touching and below = 7 → 70

3. Remaining above: 2 × 1 = 2

4. Add → 70 + 2 = 72

Ans 8 × 9 = 72

Example 4 – Multiplying 9 × 9

1. Both = ring fingers (9)

2. Touch and count = 8 → 80

3. Remaining = 1 × 1 = 1

4. Add → 81

Ans 9 × 9 = 81

The Connection Between Fingers and the Brain

The fingers symbolize the prefrontal cortex, which is the brain center where logical thinking takes place. When the fingers are closed over the thumb, the prefrontal cortex and the limbic system are in contact and work collectively to find a balance between reason and emotion.

Islamic Reflection—Numbers as a Sign of Allah

Allah says in Surah Ar-Rahman (55:7 9):

> “And the heaven He raised and imposed the balance…”

📸 [Insert Image: Calligraphy of ‘Al-Meezan’ (The Balance) with math symbols around]

This balance (Mizan) exists in numbers too—multiplication tables show divine harmony.

The ten fingers we use reflect the decimal system (base 10), a system that all humans share equally.

How to Practice Daily

1. Start from the 6’s table.

2. Repeat each for 5–10 minutes daily.

3. Speak results aloud.

4. Practice with friends or siblings.

This builds speed and confidence without rote memorization.

Benefits of Finger Multiplication

Key advantages include:

• Application in daily life.
• Integral to developing basic mathematical building blocks.
• Building confidence with more complex tasks.
• Gaining a conceptual understanding of multiplication and a deeper thinking process.
• Improving problem-solving abilities.
• Developing key skills and 'number sense'

When students see their hands as tools of both worship and learning, they approach math with peace and curiosity.

 Activities for Teachers and Parents

1. Finger Table Challenge: Random tables (7×9, 8×8).

2. Islamic Reflection: Discuss Surah Ar-Rahman after the activity.

3. Creative Art Project: Draw hands and label 6–10.

4. Math & Dhikr Session: Combine tasbeeh with counting exercises.

How Finger Math Helps Modern Students

Finger math links body, brain, and belief—a triad ignored by modern methods.

It supports:

Montessori & Islamic schools

Online learners

Students with slow math recall

This method revives traditional wisdom through modern teaching.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Miscounting touching fingers

2. Forgetting to multiply the remaining ones

3. Misalignment of hands

4. Rushing through examples

Patience brings perfection in this method.

Conclusion—A Handful of Wisdom

Your hands are a living classroom—from prayer to problem-solving.

Learning multiplication through fingers connects mind, body, and soul—showing the harmony Allah placed in all knowledge.

> “And He taught man what he knew not.” (Surah Al-Alaq 96:5) 

So next time you teach or learn math, look at your hands—they are the divine tools of understanding.