Explore every episode of the podcast Page by Page - Shaykh Ahsan Hanif

In this episode, Shaykh Ahsan Hanif goes through Page 1 of the Qur'an; Surah Al-Fatiha. Learn the importance & meaning of Surah Al-Fatiha.

In this episode, Shaykh Ahsan Hanif goes through Page 2 of the Qur'an; Surah Al-Baqarah. On this page, Allah states that there is no doubt in the Qur'an, and this book serves as a guide for Al-Muttaqun, the righteous individuals who fear Allah.

Furthermore, Allah elaborates:

Those who believe in the unseen, establish their prayers, and give to charity—these are the believers who believe in the Qur'an and other Holy Books, and they have faith in the Day of Judgment. They are the ones who achieve true success.

On Page 11 of the Qur'an, Allah tells a story about a murder among the Children of Isra’il. They argued about it, but Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ revealed the truth in a miraculous way. He had them strike a dead man with a piece of cow, bringing him back to life to show his power. However, despite witnessing these miracles, some people's hearts remained hard as stones. 

This story teaches us about different reactions to Allah's signs and how some people change the words of the Torah knowingly. It emphasises the importance of true understanding and sincerity in our actions.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan explores the consequences of hypocrisy, the importance of sincerity in faith, the possibility of repentance and forgiveness, and the rewards of gratitude and faithfulness in Surah An-Nisa, verses 142-147 on page 101 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan explores the attributes of Allah, the unity of belief, Divine mercy, and the consequences of disobedience in Surah An-Nisa, verses 148-154 on page 102 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan discusses the condemnation for breaking covenants, rejection of Allah's signs, prohibition of certain foods, affirmation of Allah's power, and recognition of true believers, in Surah An-Nisa, verses 155-162 on page 103 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif emphasizes the clear message of Tawheed, how it has been imparted to mankind through numerous messengers mentioned by name in the Quran and many more who aren't, the Qur'an as a source of clear guidance witnessed by Allah, and the importance of following His path to gain guidance and avoid the consequences of Hell, in Surah An-Nisa, Verses 163-170, on page 104 of the Qur'an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif emphasizes avoiding extremism in Ibadah and the absolute devotion and submission to Allah (عزوجل) by all of creation, explaining that all messengers and prophets were sent to relay Allah's message and the consequences for those who stray from the path in Surah An-Nisa, Verses 171-175, on page 105 of the Qur'an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif concludes Surah An - Nisa, explaining Allah‘s عزوجل clear rulings on inheritance, and starts Surah Al-Ma’idah where he highlights the importance of adhering to Shariah and honouring the sacred rites of Allah on page 106 of Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif guides us about what is permissible and forbidden for Muslims, strengthening our social bonds, and reaffirms the perfection of Islam, in Surah Al Ma’idah, verses 3-5 on page 107 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif reminds us of the importance of both physical and spiritual cleanliness (Wudu), upholding justice even in the face of adversity, reflecting on Allah's (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ) countless blessings, His promise of forgiveness and reward for good deeds, and the importance of respecting the holy sites in Surah Al Ma’idah, verses 6-10 on page 108 and 109 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains Allah's protection of the believers, the importance of fulfilling covenants, and the consequences of breaking them in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 11-13 on page 109 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explores the abandonment of divine messages, the consequences of disobedience, and the guidance provided by Allah in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 14-17 on page 110 of the Qur’an.

By reading page 12 of the Qur'an, we emphasise the greatness of Allah’s knowledge. Some among the Jews lack knowledge of the Book and rely on false desires. Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ condemns those who alter the Book for personal gain and falsely assume a brief punishment in Hell. However, this assumption is baseless, as they cannot bind Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ with any covenant.

Believers, on the other hand, will enjoy eternal paradise for their Emaan and righteous deeds. This page also recalls Allah's covenant with the Children of Isra’il, which includes worshipping Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ alone and performing acts of kindness. Unfortunately, many deviated from this path.

The page serves as a reminder of Allah's knowledge, justice, and the consequences of one's actions, highlighting the importance of Emaan and good deeds.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif discusses the claims of the People of the Scripture, the role of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a bringer of glad tidings and a warner, and the lessons from the story of Musa (AS) in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 18-23 on page 111 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif discusses the consequences of defying Allah's commands, the story of Musa عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ and his people, and the lessons from the story of the two sons of Adam in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 24-31 on page 112 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan highlights the sanctity of human life, the severe consequences of corruption and violence, the significance of repentance and Allah’s mercy, the importance of striving for Allah's cause, the futility of earthly ransom on the Day of Resurrection, and the eternal torment for disbelievers in Surah Al-Ma’idah, verses 32-37, on page 113 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan highlights the importance of Justice, the significance of Repentance and Forgiveness, the power of Divine Sovereignty, and the challenges of hypocrisy in Surah Al-Ma’idah, verses 38-41 on page 114 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains that Allah told us about the behaviour of the People of the Scripture, the importance of judging with justice, and the guidance provided in the Torah in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 42-45 on page 115 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan highlights the significance of adhering to Allah's revelations, the role of the Qur'an in confirming previous scriptures, the importance of judging by divine law, and the superiority of Allah's judgment over the judgment of ignorance in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 46-50, on page 116 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan highlights the caution against non-Muslim alliances, warns against hypocrisy, assures Allah's protection for believers, and prohibits mockery of Islam by emphasizing loyalty, unity, and reverence in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 51-58, on page 117 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains that Allah told us about the criticism from the People of the Scripture, their transgressions, and Allah's response to their actions in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 59-64 on page 118 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains that Allah SWT describes the potential rewards for the People of the Scripture if they had adhered to their Books without alteration in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 65-71 on page 119 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif tells us about Allah's response to the false claims made by Christians about ‘Isa, his true message of Tawhid and explains the warnings against shirk in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 72-76 on page 120 of the Qur’an.

On page 13 of the Qur'an, Allah provides important guidance. This page reminds us of a covenant where a community (Bani Isra’il) pledged not to shed the blood of their people or drive them from their homes. However, they violated this covenant by killing one another, assisting their enemies, and even ransoming captives they were not allowed to expel.

Some of them believed in only a part of the Scripture and rejected the rest, resulting in disgrace in this world and severe punishment in the Hereafter. They traded the life of this world for the hereafter, and their torment will not be eased.

The page also mentions how Allah gave books and messengers to guide people, including Musa and Isa. However, when messengers came with messages, the people did not desire them; some grew arrogant, disbelieved, and even killed them. As a result, their hearts became closed to Allah's word, and they believed very little.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif discusses how Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ cursed the Children of Israel in Tawrah, Zabur, and Injil because they would not speak up against the evil in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 77-81 on page 120 and 121 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains Allah’s praise about the characteristics of the righteous who recognise the truth of Islam and the expiation for breaking oaths in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 82-89 on pages 121 and 122 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains the prohibitions of intoxicants and gambling and the rules regarding hunting in the sacred area during Ihram in surah al-Ma'idah, verses 90-96 on pages 123 and 124 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains Allah’s guidance on proper worship, the disapproval of unnecessary questioning and pre-Islamic customs in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 97-103 on page 124 of the Qur'an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif clarifies the importance of having a wasiyah (final will) before death and the role of just witnesses in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 104-108 on page 125 of the Qur'an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif discusses how Allah will question the Messengers about their nations' responses and reminds `Isa (علیہ السلام) of the blessings and trials he faced in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 109-111 on page 126 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif explains the story of Ma'idah, Isa's rejection of shirk, and the response of Allah عَزَّوَجَلَّ to the requests of the People of the Scripture in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verses 112-120, on pages 126-127 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif discusses the context of the revelation of Surah Al-An'am, its virtues, and the defiance of disbelievers in verses 1–7 on page 128 of the Qur’an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Ahsan Hanif discusses how Allah addressed the defiance of disbelievers and the purpose of sending Messengers and His mercy and might in Surah Al-An'am, verses 8-18, on pages 128 and 129 of the Qur'an.

In this episode, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan  Ḥanīf discusses the consequences for those who reject the signs of Allah عَزَّ وَجَلَّ  and their spiritual blindness in Surah Al-An'ām, verses 19-26 on page 130 of the Qur’an.

On Page 14, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ mentions how a book (Qur’an) was sent to the Jews, confirming their previous scriptures like the Torah and the Injil. Despite their past prayers for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, they disbelieved when he came. As a result, they incurred Allah's curse.
It's unfortunate that they rejected what Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ revealed due to jealousy about His grace. This led to their downfall, and disbelievers will face a severe punishment.

The Jews are asked to believe in the Qur'an as well, which confirms their scriptures. However, they claim to believe only in their earlier scriptures and reject the truth that came later. They are reminded of their past actions, such as worshipping a calf after Prophet Musa left and breaking their covenant with Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ. 

The page also mentions how Allah gave books and messengers to guide people, including Musa and Isa. However, when messengers came with messages, the people did not desire them; some grew arrogant, disbelieved, and even killed them. As a result, their hearts became closed to Allah's word, and they believed very little.

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-An’ām v27-35, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf conveys the regret expressed by the disbelievers, their wish for a second chance and constrastingly Allāh's ﷻ reassurance to the Prophet ﷺ to persist despite his grief at what the deniers say.

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-An’ām verses 36-45, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf discussed verses pertaining to His power and directly addresses the criticisms by the idolators. Allāh's ﷻ concludes by leaving a lesson for the believers on the idolators shortfalls and how their weaknesses limited their ability to accept the truth.

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-An’ām verses 46-53, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf discussed verses pertaining to His power once more with rherorical questions that causes one to sincerely reflect on His Lordship. It ends on the exhortation toward the Prophet ﷺ on how he should warn those who fear the day of gathering of their ultimate weakness in averting His punishment and having no Protection except from Allāh ﷻ Himself and also to stay close to the people of worship and sincerity, favouring their company over others."

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-An’ām, verses 53-59, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf delves into the themes of divine selection, mercy, and ultimate authority. The verses highlight how Allāh tests different groups by bestowing favors on some, leading others to question His wisdom. 

The discussion emphasises Allāh’s boundless mercy, extended to those who repent after wrongdoing, and His detailed exposition of the truth to distinguish the righteous from the wrongdoers. The passage concludes with a powerful reminder of Allāh's exclusive knowledge of the unseen, His control over all things, and His position as the ultimate judge.

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-An’ām, verses 60-67, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf explores themes of divine authority, accountability, and human reliance on Allāh. The verses remind us that Allāh controls our lives, taking our souls at night and returning them in the morning until our appointed time comes. 

Allāh’s guardianship over humanity is emphasised, especially in moments of death when His messengers (angels) dutifully take the souls of those passing away. The passage also highlights human vulnerability in times of distress, where people turn to Allāh for rescue, yet often return to worshipping other than Him once distress has passed. 

The discussion concludes with a warning about the consequences of denying the truth of the Qur'ān and the inevitable reality of divine judgment.

On page 15 of the Qur'an, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ addresses the concept of longing for the Hereafter and the behavior of different groups. Some claim a special place in the Hereafter but do not truly desire it due to their past deeds. Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ is aware of the wrongdoers.

The passage also highlights the Jews' excessive desire for a long life, wishing for a thousand years, but it won't save them from the consequences of their actions.

This page emphasizes the significance of accepting the guidance brought by the angel Jibrael, confirming previous scriptures and delivering glad tidings to believers.

It further mentions that Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ has sent clear signs and verses, but many rebels continue to disbelieve and break their covenants. When a messenger from Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ, such as Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, came to them, a party among the people of the Scripture rejected the Book of Allah as if they were unaware of its significance.

On page 16, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ recounts an incident from Prophet Sulaiman time when devils spread false teachings about magic. Sulaiman did not disbelieve, but the devils did, using angels Harut and Marut to spread magical knowledge as a trial.

The magic caused discord between spouses, but harm or benefit only occurred with Allah's permission. Those practicing magic harmed themselves and excluded themselves from the hereafter.

The verse emphasises that belief, guarding against evil, and fearing Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ bring a far better reward. Believers are advised to use respectful language with the Prophet, and Allah, in His mercy, chooses recipients of goodness according to His will.

On page 17 of the Qur'an, Allah reminds us that whenever a verse is abrogated or forgotten, He replaces it with a better or similar one. This emphasises Allah's limitless authority. The verses also assert that Allah alone holds dominion over the heavens and the earth, and there is no protector or helper besides Him.

The verse challenges those who wish to question the Messenger, comparing it to the query posed to Musa. Changing faith for disbelief leads one astray. Some of the people of the Scripture may envy and attempt to turn believers away, but forgiveness is advised until Allah's command prevails.

Further, performing prayers, giving Zakat, and sending forth good deeds are highlighted as actions rewarded by Allah. The notion that only Jews or Christians will enter Paradise is refuted; submission to Allah and virtuous conduct lead to reward without fear or grief.

On page 18 of the Qur'an, Allah addresses disputes between Jews and Christians, emphasising that He will judge them on the Day of Resurrection. Those unjustly forbidding Allah's name in His mosques will face disgrace and severe torment. Allah, owning the East and the West, is sufficient for all needs.

The false claim of Allah having offspring is rejected; everything in the heavens and the earth belongs to Him. Allah, the Creator, commands "Be!" and it exists. Those lacking knowledge question why Allah doesn't speak directly or provide a sign. The truth brought by Prophet Muhammad serves as glad tidings for believers and a warning for rejecters. The Prophet isn't answerable for the fate of the dwellers of the blazing fire.

On page 19 of the Qur’an, Allah tells Prophet Muhammad ﷺ that Jews and Christians won't be pleased until he follows their religion. It emphasises that Allah's guidance is the true one. Those who believe in the given book are true believers; those who don't are losers.

Further, the children of Isra’il are reminded of Allah's favour, and a warning about Judgement Day is given. The page reflects on Prophet Ibrahim's trials and leadership role. The Kaaba's significance and Allah's command to purify it are highlighted.

Ibrahim's prayer for Mecca’s security and provisions for believers is noted. Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ warns disbelievers to be content for a while before facing the fire's torment. The page ends with a reminder of the consequences for those who reject the guidance of Allah.

On Page 20 of the Qur'an, Allah recounts the moment when Prophet Ibrahim and his son Isma'il were diligently laying the foundations of the Ka'bah. They prayed to Allah, asking Him to accept their service. The heartfelt supplication included a request for submission to Allah, the formation of a righteous nation from their descendants, guidance in pilgrimage ceremonies, and acceptance of repentance.

In this powerful prayer, they sought the sending of a Messenger, a role fulfilled with the advent of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who would recite Allah's verses, impart knowledge, and purify the people. 

Further, the verse concludes with Prophet Ya'qub questioning his sons about their faith after his passing, to which they unwaveringly declare their submission to the One God, Allah.

This narrative serves as a reminder of the continuity of faith and the significance of submission to Allah, drawing parallels between the past and the present.

On this page, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ addresses disbelievers and hypocrites. Despite warnings for disbelievers who refuse to believe, and Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ has sealed their hearts.

On the other side, there are hypocrites, and they are more dangerous. Hypocrites claim faith but deceive themselves and others. They create mischief while pretending to be peacemakers and mocking true believers. Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ mocks them in return, and they trade guidance for error, ending up lost.

On page 21, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ emphasises rejecting the call to adopt Judaism or Christianity, asserting that the true path is the religion of Ibrahim, characterised by pure monotheism. Muslims believe in Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ, the scriptures revealed to various prophets, and make no distinctions among them. 

The call extends to others to believe in the same truth, but Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ suffices as the ultimate judge if they turn away. The religion of Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ is the best, and the followers are sincere in their worship. Disputes about Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ are futile, as He is the Lord of all, and everyone will be rewarded according to their deeds. The question poses: Were Ibrahim, Isma'il, Ishaq, Yaqub, and their descendants Jews or Christians? 

The answer highlights that they were Muslims, submitting to the will of Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ. Those who conceal this truth are considered unjust, and Allah is fully aware of their actions. This serves as a reminder of the fate of past nations and individual accountability for one's deeds.

On page 22, Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ explains that the change in the Qiblah (prayer direction) from Jerusalem to the Kaabah in Mecca was a test for true believers. Allah, Who owns both the East and the West, guides whom He wills. Muslims are made a just and exemplary nation, witnesses over mankind. The change in Qiblah was heavy for some, but a guidance for those Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ guided. Allah, in His kindness, ensures that faith is not lost.

The Prophet Muhammad's turning towards the heavens is noted, and Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ promises a Qiblah that pleases him, i.e., the Ka'bah. Muslims are instructed to turn their faces towards Al-Masjid-Al-Harâm (at Makkah) in prayer. The people of the Scriptures (Jews and Christians) know the truth of this change. Even if Muslims present proofs, the People of the Scriptures won't follow the new Qiblah, and vice versa. Following their desires would lead to wrongdoing.