Overview#

Istighfar is a GNOME Shell extension written in JavaScript that periodically reminds users to recite Istighfar (seeking forgiveness). It integrates seamlessly with the GNOME top panel, providing unobtrusive notifications at configurable intervals. This lightweight, open-source tool aims to bridge daily spiritual practice and desktop productivity.

Key Features#

• Panel-integrated reminders displayed as native GNOME notifications
• Configurable interval for reminders via GNOME Extension settings
• Minimal resource usage — built with standard GNOME JS APIs

Technologies Used#

• GNOME Shell / GJS – for building the extension
• JavaScript – primary language for logic and UI
• GNOME Settings Schema – for extension configuration
• CSS – for styling popup and indicator components

Skills Learned#

• Building GNOME Shell extensions and understanding metadata.json, extension.js, and prefs.js structure
• Integrating with GNOME’s settings system and translating configurations into user-friendly popups
• Using GJS (GNOME JavaScript) and CSS styling within a system-level environment
• Managing timed tasks and notifications in a desktop context

Challenges and Lessons#

• Handling GNOME Shell lifecycle events (enable, disable) to ensure stable operation across sessions
• Working with native GSettings schemas and translating toggles into actionable reminder state
• Designing a non-intrusive UX that respects both GNOME guidelines and user context

Outcome#

• nearly 20 stars ⭐ on GitHub
• used by nearly 200 people on gnome extensions site
• Successfully published and used daily by several GNOME Shell users
• Demonstrates strong understanding of JS, desktop UX, and system integration through GNOME