Explore every episode of the podcast SeekersGuidance Podcast - Islam, Islamic Knowledge, Quran, and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad

In this final episode, Shaykh Sadullah delivers a befitting reminder to us all. This day of Eid should be a day of happiness, joy, and celebration. Despite the circumstances that we find ourselves in we should continue to remain hopeful for a better tomorrow. It is on this day that we proclaim the greatness of God over everything else. God is the greatest and He has control over everything. Let us do our part in ensuring that we are fulfilling our personal and social responsibilities to God. It is in our attachment to Him that we are able to look forward in optimism. Eid Mubarak.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this episode, Shaykh Sadullah explains how we can miss out on the blessings of Allah in our lives. Whilst we search for the Night of Power in the last ten nights of Ramadan, it is very easy to lose the opportunity to truly benefiting from this auspicious occasion. Through bickering, fighting, and arguing Muslims cause more problems for themselves. Furthermore, Allah removes his blessings and mercy from Muslims when they antagonize each other.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this episode, Shaykh Sadullah discusses the importance of appreciating beauty. It is very easy to lose appreciation for the simple things in life. When we are not able to see the grandeur and majesty of Allah we become somber and inert. By appreciating the beauty around us we are able to rekindle our hearts and add meaning to our lives.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this episode, Shaykh Faraz addresses the important yet often abused obligation of commanding the good and forbidding the evil, basing the discussion on the relevant chapter in Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance. After explaining relevant Qur’anic verses and hadith on the topic, he delineates when commanding good and forbidding evil is obligatory, recommended, and not obliged, warns against leaving it for worldly considerations. Imam Haddad advises that commanding the good should be done with sincerity, gentleness, wisdom, and mercy, and that one who cares for others would not fail to carry it out. He closes with a reminder that sins should be come private, and notes the danger of public sin.

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance Canada in Ramadan 2019.

Check out the SeekersGuidance Ramadan Portal: www.seekersguidance.org/ramadan

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate Help SeekersGuidance support deserving scholars and students this Ramadan: give your zakat and charity to the Global Islamic Scholars Fund — www.seekersguidance.org/donate

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani reads the discussion on zakat and charity in Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance. He first outlines some practical guidelines on when and how to give one’s zakat, as well as certain practices to avoid. He also warns severely against the non-payment of the obligatory charity. Next, Shaykh Faraz discusses the virtue of zakat al-fitr, secret charity, giving even a small amount daily, and giving to beggars. He closes by explaining some of the merits of charitable giving and the great opportunity it presents.

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance Canada in Ramadan 2019.

Check out the SeekersGuidance Ramadan Portal: www.seekersguidance.org/ramadan

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate Help SeekersGuidance support deserving scholars and students this Ramadan: give your zakat and charity to the Global Islamic Scholars Fund — www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this episode, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani covers the chapter of Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance on conduct in mosques. He first discusses the great virtue of mosques and devotional retreat (iʿtikaf) therein. Next, he highlights things to avoid in the mosque, as well as particular adab and supplications to make the most of one’s time in the houses of God. He closes by touching on the merits of answering the call to prayer (adhan).

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance Canada in Ramadan 2019.

Check out the SeekersGuidance Ramadan Portal: www.seekersguidance.org/ramadan

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate Help SeekersGuidance support deserving scholars and students this Ramadan: give your zakat and charity to the Global Islamic Scholars Fund — www.seekersguidance.org/donate

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this episode, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani looks at the chapter of Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance on religious obligations and seeking Islamic knowledge. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring we fulfill our religious obligations, reminding that these are not merely things we do but are keys to the love and closeness of Allah Most High. In this vein, he reminds of the importance of intention in how we view our life and priorities. Shaykh Faraz particularly highlights the necessity of gaining sound Islamic knowledge in order to be able to soundly practice one’s faith. He explains which knowledge is the most important to prioritize, warning against neglecting the knowledge required in one’s circumstances for lesser priorities.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this episode, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explores the chapter of Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance on Doctrine. He highlights the importance of learning one’s beliefs (ʿaqidah) soundly and from reliable sources. He sheds light on ahl al-sunna wa’l-jamaʿa, the mainstream of Muslims, and warns against sectarianism. In this chapter, the author, Imam Haddad, explains how the traditional Ashʿari doctrine is that followed by the early Muslims as well as his own Ba-ʿAlawi tradition. He encourages studying a traditional statement of creed, recommending particularly that of Imam Ghazali. At the same time, he warns against delving too deeply into theology and philosophy, as faith is strengthened through reflection and righteous action.

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance Canada in Ramadan 2019.

Check out the SeekersGuidance Ramadan Portal: www.seekersguidance.org/ramadan

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate Help SeekersGuidance support deserving scholars and students this Ramadan: give your zakat and charity to the Global Islamic Scholars Fund — www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this new podcast series, Shaykh Ahmed Hussein El Azhary will discuss why the art of reading is critical for students of knowledge to master. One of the greatest barriers in mastering a science is the inability to read with structure and comprehension. In this series, Shaykh Ahmed will provide students with a detailed approach to rectifying this problem.
In addition to offering practical tips and guidance in improving one’s reading and learning skills, Shaykh Ahmed will also elaborate on the development of the instrumental (foundational) sciences within the Islamic tradition and how they compare to medieval and modern theories of literary comprehension.

Shaykh Ahmed El Azhary is a researcher in Islamic intellectual history and a teacher of Islamic traditional sciences. He’s currently a teacher of Hadith, Usūl, Logic, and Kalam at Rawdatul-Na`īm under the supervision of Habib `Ali al-Jifrī; and at Madyafat Shaykh Ismaīl Sadiq al-`Adawī (RA), a prominent learning center by al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo.

Formerly, Shaykh Ahmed worked as a Lead Researcher at Tabah Foundation. He was appointed by Habib `Ali al-Jifrī to architect the philosophical framework of Suaal initiative – an initiative concerned with modeling an Islamic philosophical response to contemporary existential questions, supervised by Shaykh `Ali Jumu`ah, Habib `Umar and Shaykh Usama al-Azhary. Shaykh Ahmed continues to participate in Suaal initiative through essays, public lectures, and workshops.

Shaykh Ahmed studied Anthropology at American University in Cairo and received his training in Leadership Communication from Tulane University and The University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is also a life-long learner. He holds a diversified portfolio of almost 50 certificates in a variety of subjects – extending from Teaching Character and Clinical Psychology of Children and Young People to Complexity Theory, Model Thinking and Conflict Analysis.

Shaykh Ahmed began his journey of studying traditional sciences about 20 years ago. In addition to studying with scholars from al-Azhar, he had the privilege of studying with visiting scholars from Algeria and India in a one-on-one format and was thus given an exceptional opportunity to study and discuss advanced-level texts of different sorts and over a long period of time. Shaykh Ahmed has more than 70 Ijazas from scholars from all over the Muslim world.

In this session, Shaykh Faraz looks at the section on reflection from Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance. He first explains the centrality of reflection to religious practice. Next, he explores the various types of reflection — reflecting on Allah’s creation, His favours, His encompassing knowledge of one, one’s shortcomings, the paltry nature of this world, death, the virtues mentioned in the Qur’an, and on the Divine names and attributes — citing the relevant verses and hadiths related to them.

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance in Ramadan 2019.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani continues the series “Embracing Excellence: 30 Steps on the Straight Path” exploring Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance. In this episode, he explores the chapter on reciting the Qur’an

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance Canada in Ramadan 2019.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani reminds of the gift of the guidance of the Qur’an, which provides the answers to the fundamental questions of life. He advises that we use Ramadan to reflect on the gift of the Quran and reconnect with Allah’s Book, and reminding of the great rank and virtue of “the people of the Qur’an” described in Prophetic traditions. Shaykh Faraz advises that we establish a sustainable goal of recitation of the Quran in Ramadan that we maintain after. He encourages us to take advantages of opportunities to recite, listen, and learn the Qur’an for eternal joy. He closes by giving pointers on how we should make our relationship of the Qur’an a relationship of love.

This lesson is brought to you by SeekersGuidance, the world’s first truly Global Islamic Seminary. Visit https://seekersguidance.org to access reliable Islamic knowledge, taught by qualified teachers. We offer a wide range of courses, podcasts, articles, and a world-class answers service, all completely free of charge.

This is made possible solely by supporters like you. Be a partner in this blessed work by making a small donation at https://seekersguidance.org/donate. Even $10/month can go a long way.

Our Beloved Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever guides someone to goodness will have a similar reward”. So don’t forget to share this lesson, and join us in spreading Prophetic Guidance.

In this episode, Shaykh Sadullah discusses the various emotions that we can feel when we are constrained or restricted. Sometimes, when people are under pressure they tend to be irritable. We should remember that even if people act in a displeasing manner to us, we should always respond with what is better.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani continues the series “Embracing Excellence: 30 Steps on the Straight Path” covering Imam Haddad’s manual The Book of Assistance. In this session, he looks at the third chapter, on Vigilance (muraqaba), which, he explains, is consciousness that Allah sees you, is with you, and is constantly aware of everything you do. Shaykh Faraz offers an explanation of the six solutions given by Imam Haddad for laziness in performing acts of worship and leaving sin. In addition, he explains how the awareness that God sees one leads to the beholding of the Divine.

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance Canada in Ramadan 2019

Ustadh Amjad Tarsin covers the first chapter of Imam Haddad’s manual The Book of Assistance, on Certainty. He explains how we can nurture sincerity through the reflection in our lives and to our how this applies to our recitation of the Quran in Ramadan. Ustadh Amjad explains why certainty is seen as the first step, not the final, in this outline of the path to Allah. He also describes the three levels of certainty of believers outlined in the text.

This is part of the series presented by SeekersGuidance Canada in Ramadan 2019, “Embracing Excellence – 30 Steps on the Straight Path” based on Imam Haddad’s Book of Assistance

In this new podcast series, Shaykh Ahmed Hussein El Azhary will discuss why the art of reading is critical for students of knowledge to master. One of the greatest barriers in mastering a science is the inability to read with structure and comprehension. In this series, Shaykh Ahmed will provide students with a detailed approach to rectifying this problem.
In addition to offering practical tips and guidance in improving one’s reading and learning skills, Shaykh Ahmed will also elaborate on the development of the instrumental (foundational) sciences within the Islamic tradition and how they compare to medieval and modern theories of literary comprehension.

In this second episode of The Art of Reading, Nabiel Mohamed asks Shaykh Ahmed El Azhary to discuss the historical development of Adab al Muṭāla’ as a genre within the classical tradition, and the various factors which resulted in its emergence as a science. Furthermore, Shaykh Ahmed El Azhary discusses the various theories related to deep reading within the Islamic tradition, and he elaborates on two methodological examples of how to read and approach texts.

Biography of Shaykh Ahmed Hussein El Azhary:

Shaykh Ahmed El Azhary is a researcher in Islamic intellectual history and a teacher of Islamic traditional sciences. He’s currently a teacher of Hadith, Usūl, Logic, and Kalam at Rawdatul-Na`īm under the supervision of Habib `Ali al-Jifrī; and at Madyafat Shaykh Ismaīl Sadiq al-`Adawī (RA), a prominent learning center by al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo.

Formerly, Shaykh Ahmed worked as a Lead Researcher at Tabah Foundation. He was appointed by Habib `Ali al-Jifrī to architect the philosophical framework of Suaal initiative – an initiative concerned with modeling an Islamic philosophical response to contemporary existential questions, supervised by Shaykh `Ali Jumu`ah, Habib `Umar and Shaykh Usama al-Azhary. Shaykh Ahmed continues to participate in Suaal initiative through essays, public lectures, and workshops.

Shaykh Ahmed studied Anthropology at American University in Cairo and received his training in Leadership Communication from Tulane University and The University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is also a life-long learner. He holds a diversified portfolio of almost 50 certificates in a variety of subjects – extending from Teaching Character and Clinical Psychology of Children and Young People to Complexity Theory, Model Thinking and Conflict Analysis.

Shaykh Ahmed began his journey of studying traditional sciences about 20 years ago. In addition to studying with scholars from al-Azhar, he had the privilege of studying with visiting scholars from Algeria and India in a one-on-one format and was thus given an exceptional opportunity to study and discuss advanced-level texts of different sorts and over a long period of time. Shaykh Ahmed has more than 70 Ijazas from scholars from all over the Muslim world.02-

Fasting became obligatory in stages — first, the Prophet (peace be upon him) commanded his Companions (Allah be pleased with them) to fast the day of ‘Ashura; then, Allah Most High revealed the verses that made it obligatory to fast Ramadan, but He gave the Companions (Allah be pleased with them) the option to pay a fidya; then, He revealed the verses that removed this option to pay a fidya.

Delivered during the SeekersGuidance Tour of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

In this new podcast series, Shaykh Ahmed Hussein El Azhary will discuss why the art of reading is critical for students of knowledge to master. One of the greatest barriers in mastering a science is the inability to read with structure and comprehension. In this series, Shaykh Ahmed will provide students with a detailed approach to rectifying this problem.
In addition to offering practical tips and guidance in improving one’s reading and learning skills, Shaykh Ahmed will also elaborate on the development of the instrumental (foundational) sciences within the Islamic tradition and how they compare to medieval and modern theories of literary comprehension.

In this episode, Dr. Yusuf Patel asks Shaykh Ahmed Hussein El Azhary why many students of knowledge are not able to read and master texts that they have studied.
In addition to answering the above question, Shaykh Ahmed discusses the various phases of mastery that students should attain during their studies, and how the science of learning developed in the classical Islamic period and in modern times.

Biography of Shaykh Ahmed Hussein El Azhary:

Shaykh Ahmed El Azhary is a researcher in Islamic intellectual history and a teacher of Islamic traditional sciences. He’s currently a teacher of Hadith, Usūl, Logic, and Kalam at Rawdatul-Na`īm under the supervision of Habib `Ali al-Jifrī; and at Madyafat Shaykh Ismaīl Sadiq al-`Adawī (RA), a prominent learning center by al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo.

Formerly, Shaykh Ahmed worked as a Lead Researcher at Tabah Foundation. He was appointed by Habib `Ali al-Jifrī to architect the philosophical framework of Suaal initiative – an initiative concerned with modeling an Islamic philosophical response to contemporary existential questions, supervised by Shaykh `Ali Jumu`ah, Habib `Umar and Shaykh Usama al-Azhary. Shaykh Ahmed continues to participate in Suaal initiative through essays, public lectures, and workshops.

Shaykh Ahmed studied Anthropology at American University in Cairo and received his training in Leadership Communication from Tulane University and The University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is also a life-long learner. He holds a diversified portfolio of almost 50 certificates in a variety of subjects – extending from Teaching Character and Clinical Psychology of Children and Young People to Complexity Theory, Model Thinking and Conflict Analysis.

Shaykh Ahmed began his journey of studying traditional sciences about 20 years ago. In addition to studying with scholars from al-Azhar, he had the privilege of studying with visiting scholars from Algeria and India in a one-on-one format and was thus given an exceptional opportunity to study and discuss advanced-level texts of different sorts and over a long period of time. Shaykh Ahmed has more than 70 Ijazas from scholars from all over the Muslim world.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani shared five key spiritual lessons related to fasting and the month of Ramadan. These same lessons are a means to prepare for Ramadan and reflection upon changing our relationship with Allah.

These lessons of fasting and Ramadan are taken from verses 183-187 of Sura al-Baqara, and are nurturing:

(1) A living relationship with the Qur’an;
(2) Mindfulness (taqwa) of Allah;
(3) Gratitude (shukr);
(4) Magnifying Allah (takbir), by making Allah the greatest concern in our lives; and
(5) the most important–and ultimate–aim of fasting: realizing the reality of Allah’s Closeness.

This khutba was delivered at the Bosnian Islamic Centre, as part of SeekersGuidance Canada’s community outreach and engagement.

In this episode. Shaykh Sadullah reminds us of the various emotions we feel as human beings. In this testing time that we are all facing it is imperative that we exude love and compassion to everyone. Love has the capacity to heal the deepest of wounds, and to provide light in the darkest of time

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

This is a talk by Shaykh Sadullah Khan, who is a leading Islamic Scholar from South Africa. In this talk, he discusses the pertinent lessons we can derive from the Night Journey and Ascension of the Prophet (peace be upon him).

In this keynote address delivered at SeekersGuidance’s New Home benefit luncheon, Shaykh Yahya Rhodus explains the crucial role knowledge plays in bringing communities to life and the importance of sacrifice to spread knowledge. Shaykh Yahya begins by reading a memorandum on the state of our community and the challenges its leaders face, explaining how it fits into the agenda set by their illuminated teachers: “If you can’t plow seeds, so plow the land so that it is fertile enough for the next generation to plant seeds.” He also draws attention to the vision, foresight, and sacrifice of SeekersGuidance’s founder Shaykh Faraz Rabbani. Next, Shaykh Yahya stresses the importance of knowledge and religious education, necessary for holistic Islamic living in the world today. He highlights the importance of building and laying foundations, and the crucial role of institutions like SeekersGuidance in preserving the wellbeing of the community. Shaykh Yahya closes by reminding that knowledge is the number one way to bring a heart, family, community, and society to life. Knowledge should be an excuse for other things, not vice versa. We should make knowledge a priority—not only in seeking it but in supporting initiatives spreading the knowledge which gives one’s orientation in life.

New Home for SeekersGuidance: Help Us Raise $250,000 to Establish Our New Learning Centre and Headquarters in Toronto: https://seekersguidance.org/newhome/

In this timely reminder after the New Zealand mosque shootings, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani of SeekersGuidance (https://seekersguidance.org) sheds light on how the believer should respond to the tragedy. While one feels pain for the loss of life faced by the victims and their families, one grounds oneself in one’s faith in God and one’s certitude that the victims are ultimately with God in a better state.

Shaykh Faraz relates this to a relevant passage from the Qur’an:
“Do not think of those who have been killed in God’s way as dead. They are alive with their Lord, well provided for, happy with what God has given them of  His favour; rejoicing that for those they have left behind who have yet to join them there is no fear, nor will they grieve; [rejoicing] in God’s blessing and favour, and that God will not let the reward of the believers be lost.” (3.169-171)

This talk was taken from a Friday sermon (khutba) delivered at Sayeda Khadija Centre (https://www.skcentre.com/).

Our emotions are the means through which many of our tests in life come. Whether it is happiness, sadness, gratitude, anger, or otherwise, we are tested through our responses to them. Being balanced emotionally is essential to physical, emotional, and mental health, as well as longevity.

Trauma can upset this balance, and in its absence issues such as addictions, OCD, psychosomatic pain, depression, chronic illnesses, back pain, cancers, and – in extreme cases – mental illnesses can arise.

This seminar looks at the means of balance Allah created within us, and how it has been compromised in many people today. In order to understand this balance, the personality of the Messenger of Allah, Allah bless him and give him peace, is analyzed. The seminar discusses in topics of developmental trauma, ‘big ‘T’ trauma’ and ‘little ‘t’ trauma’, relationships, means of recovery, and more.

The content of this discussion was based on the Qur’an, the Sunna, classical tafsirs, and the works of experts in the field of trauma recovery, such as Dr. Gabor Mate, Dr. Bessil Van Der Kolk, Dr. Peter Levine, and others.

In this brief podcast, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani provides 10 genuinely useful tips on gaining and retaining a firm grasp of your knowledge of fiqh.

See also:

“From knowing nothing to becoming a student of knowledge”
Advice from Habib Ali Al-Jifri for Seekers of Knowledge
The Etiquette of Seeking Knowledge
Habib Umar’s Advice to the Seekers of Sacred Knowledge
Shaykh Áwwamah’s advice for Students of Sacred Knowledge
Importance of Intention in Seeking Knowledge

Allah has promised that He will facilitate the path to Jannah for anyone who embarks on the journey to seeking knowledge. Imagine being in the company of the “pious ones” in the Eternal Garden. Can you afford to lose out on this opportunity? Listen to Shaykh Faid Muhammad Said explain how clear and easy Allah has made this choice for us and start today by taking a free course with SeekersGuidance from the comfort of your own home.

In this Friday sermon, given at a historic mosque in Cape Town, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani encourages us to be more appreciative of the greatest blessings we possess: our vast of knowledge of the Prophet Muhammad(peace be upon him).

Knowledge of the Prophet(peace be upon him) enriches our day-to-day lives, and gives our family, social and personal lives so much more meaning. Citing the example of Cape Town, whose Muslims were persecuting in horrific ways for decades, Shaykh Faraz points out how they not only remained Muslims, but remained steadfast in their knowledge of Islam and their love for the Prophet (peace be upon him). Their great appreciation of this blessing was their motivation to hold onto it. We should regularly thank Allah for this blessing, as He called us to do frequently.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us how to do the smallest actions in the most beautiful way. He taught us to put on our shoes, to drink water, and to clean ourselves in the most beautiful way. We should look at our money with gratitude, as well as our free time. By living gratitude, we can taste the beauty of the message, and direct our blessings for good.

For more podcasts by SeekersHub, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts/

The Mahabbah Foundation of Cape Town, South Africa, has organized a tour featuring Habib Umar bin Hafiz and a number of other scholars.

You can find the full program with times and dates on their Facebook page here.

As part of the tour, Habib Umar asked Shaykh Faraz Rabbani to address the scholars who were present in Johannesburg.

The subject of the address was the definition of a righteous scholar (or, a true Sufi) as, “A person of knowledge who acted upon their knowledge, so Allah granted them knowledge of what they didn’t know.”

Shaykh Faraz Touched upon the three aspects of this definition of what constitutes a true scholar, with some practical counsel. The three aspects being

1. knowledge
2. action
3. state with Allah.

May Allah bless, protect, and preserve the knowledge of this umma in our beloved scholars and righteous believers, and benefit all Muslims through them, amin.

In this episode, Shaykh Sadullah Khan reminds us of the importance of respecting the Islam of other individuals. As Muslims, we have become extremely segregated and antagonistic towards each other. Many times the differences we have with each are extremely trivial and minute. In this current time, we should realize the importance of unity and the need to respect all individuals.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this Friday khutba Dr. Asim Yusuf begins by giving a brief history how the adhan came about to be the call to prayer for the Muslims. The companions dreamt the words of the adhan. One should reflect on the significance of the adhan. Nothing in our religion came about randomly. Rather, our religion come from the Hakim (The Wise), and is never bereft of wisdom. Men should be giving the adhan and the iqama before praying. Adhan is a form of dhikr (remembrance) that should be done five times a day. Reflect on the symbolism of the adhan. The adhan is recommended outside of the performance of the prayer one of these times is when a baby is born. The adhan is a call to prayer, but to which prayer is the baby being called to? It’s a call to their own janaza prayer, which is a prayer performed without adhan. Adhan is a remembrance of death and what follows it. Instinctively we know that there is something after death. Every human has some belief about the afterlife. Even those who don’t believe in God. Remembering death frequently is not a negative thing. The adhan is a remembrance for the stages of the afterlife. The adhan is direct sequential reminder in the moments after death. Religion is here to remind us there is a dawn coming, and you need to prepare for the day after which there are no more days. Worship at its core is not an action. Action is how worship is expressed. Worship at its core is a realization and internal reorientation.

In this Friday khutba Shaykh Faraz begins by reminding the believers to appreciate the signs around one. There are verses about those signs that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would recite regularly upon waking for his night prayer.

“Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the day and night there are signs for people of reason. ˹They are˺ those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth ˹and pray˺, “Our Lord! You have not created ˹all of˺ this without purpose. Glory be to You! Protect us from the torment of the Fire.”  [Sura al-Imran: 3:190-191]

All of Allah’s creating should remind one of The Creator. He is kind, caring, just, and all-knowing. One of the basic proofs of God is everything besides Allah is given to change. Anything given to change points to a creator. People of insight look at not just forms, but look at the reality of things. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was constantly in the remembrance of Allah. Make a habit to pause and look with the eye of reflection. The prophetic gaze was reflecting.

For more podcasts by SeekersHub, visit seekershub.org/podcasts .

In this Friday khutba Shaykh Faraz Rabbani begins by reminding the believers to appreciate the gift of Allah. Allah’s blessings are beyond imagination. He then comments on the verse from the Qur’an from Surat Ibrahim: “ If you were to count the blessing of Allah, you would be unable to innumerate them.” Sura 14:34. The believers should pause and reflect on the Qur’an. There is a distinction between reflecting on the Qur’an and interpreting the Qur’an. Reflecting on the Qur’an is a take the Qur’an as a mirror, and ask what is this verse saying to me. Some reflection can be personal. One should reflect on the reality of Allah’s blessing upon you. If Allah is not blessing you in your life you would not exist. If Allah stops sustaining you for a moment you would stop existing. Nothing exists except that it is a blessing from Allah. Existence itself it a gift. Even trials and tribulations are a blessing. When one is sick and grateful and turns to Allah it is a blessing. Allah calls one to have a higher standard of gratefulness. Being truly grateful is to view pleasure and displeasure, ease and difficulty, and success and failure as all being a blessing from Allah. A believer responds to everything with faith. Everything that comes, is only from Allah.

For more podcasts by SeekersHub, visit seekershub.org/podcasts

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

In this Friday khutba Shaykh Faraz Rabbani begins by reminding the believers that Allah has granted a reminder as a gift alongside guidance in this life, as a way to show one’s purpose, and for one to have contentment. The Qur’an  is not simply a book of guidance. The Qur’an is also a reminder. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was sent not only as a guide. But as a reminder as well. Reminder benefits the believers. There are three critical qualities that describe the believers from Surat al-Anfal. “The ˹true˺ believers are only those whose hearts tremble at the remembrance of Allah, whose faith increases when His revelations are recited to them, and who put their trust in their Lord”. Qualities are mentioned for the believers to take heed, and be elevated through them. The fear of awe is not a negative fear. Positive awe is awe of Allah’s majesty, perfection, beauty. Hearts tremble out of a sense of gratitude. Upon opening the book of Allah, a believer will be moved by the remembrance of Allah. The believers’ trust is upon Allah.

For more podcasts by SeekersGuidance, visit SeekersGuidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://www.SeekersGuidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

Allah blessed and gifted the believers with the gift of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), and the message he came with. His message is one that highlights what truly matters in life. In this Friday khutba, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani reminds us of the nature of this life and the nature of the hereafter through verses 14-17 of Sura al-Imran:

The enjoyment of ˹worldly˺ desires—women, children, treasures of gold and silver, fine horses, cattle, and fertile land—has been made appealing to people. These are the pleasures of this worldly life, but with Allah is the finest destination.

Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “Shall I inform you of what is better than ˹all of˺ this? Those mindful of their Lord will have Gardens under which rivers flow, to stay there forever, and pure spouses, along with Allah’s pleasure.” And Allah is All-Seeing of ˹His˺ servants, ˹It is they˺ who are patient, sincere, obedient, and charitable, and who pray for forgiveness before dawn.

These verses highlight five qualities of the true servants of Allah:

1. Steadfast Patience – One who is fireman what is pleasing to Allah
2. Those Who are True – Those who make the right commitment in life. Their actions correspond to their words.
3. Truly Devoted to Allah – They turn to Allah in supplication and prayer, in a state of need.
4. Ever Giving – They spend on the needy, and spend in the ways of good.
5. Those Who Seek Forgiveness in Depths of the Nights

For more podcasts by SeekersHub, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

In this fourth part of the series A Day in Madina by Shaykh Faid, he continues by describing how the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) loved each and everyone of his umma. He (peace and blessings be upon him) called those who believed in him even though they never met him as his brothers. The Prophet’s actions (peace and blessings be upon him) have been transmitted from generation to generation. Shaykh Faid goes on and explains how after the companion Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him) calls for the prayer, the companions wouldn’t stand up until they saw the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him). All of the Prophet’s actions were with absolute humility. He (peace and blessings be upon him) would stand for his daughter Fatima as a way to honor her (may Allah be pleased with her). He gave attention to everyone, and honored everyone. Respect was learned from Prophetic actions. Shaykh Faid then explains some of the meanings of the prayer that are learned from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

For more podcasts by SeekersHub, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

In this Friday khutba, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani speaks about the power of speaking the truth. It was from Prophet’s practice (peace and blessings be upon him) to recite particular verses during his khutba. The verses 70-71 from Sura Ahzab are two such verses.

“ O  believers! Be mindful of Allah, and say what is right. He will bless your deeds for you, and forgive your sins. And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger, has truly achieved a great triumph.” (Ahzab: 70-71)

Shaykh Faraz explains that being mindful of Allah is to uphold taqwa. Mindfulness of Allah is to fulfill the purpose of this life in submitting to Allah Most High, seeking His good pleasure, and seeking His closeness. The first step in mindfulness is to leave what Allah has prohibited.

Shaykh Faraz then reminds to not be silent when the truth is called for.  Always say what is right. The most honored with Allah is the most mindful. Speak truthful and upright speech, and Allah will rectify all your actions. Speaking that which is wrong harms other people. One is commanded to say what is right. In doing what is right a believer is concerned with all the truths.

The purpose of speech  is to say things of benefit. Being considerate in one’s speech is the key to change. One should learn restraint and how to act with purpose. One of the keys to speech is to speak with intention, seeking the pleasure of Allah, and  in accordance with the sunna. Prophetic concern was to always speak what is right.

In this episode, Shaykh Sadullah Khan discusses the importance and great power of dua. We should never underestimate the value of dua. In good times and in bad times, we should always be supplicating to Allah.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this Friday khutba Shaykh Faraz Rabbani reminds the believers that the Day of Ashura is a  day of tremendous blessing for the people of faith. Many great events happened on this great day throughout history. Our beloved Imam Hussain (may Allah be pleased with him) was martyred. Great days of the year are to be remembered. It is important to pause and reflect, and focus on the meanings not just forms. Allah created us and is sustaining us. There are numerous signs for those of insight. There are wisdoms behind why the 10th of Muharram is a day of fasting and extra worship. The day is meant to reminder for us. Similarly, Friday to Friday are days that serve as reminders. The purpose of the Friday khutba is to remind us of Allah. Each prayer is means to know who is your Lord and who you are. You are a servant . These are opportunities to be taken. Don’t lose out on these opportunities. Don’t lose out on a moment of reflection . The early Muslims would say: “ A moment of reflection is better than 80 years of heedless worship.” It is a moment to turn your heart to Allah, reflect on the greatness of Allah, and reflect on having gratitude . A moment to reflect on what is needed to turn back to Allah Most High. It is good to take a reminder on the special days. Use every moment to reflect, even if it is just a moment. Don’t just go through the motions in the prayer, rather reflect on the majesty of Allah, and the beauty and perfection of Allah. Reflect on the mercy of Allah. One of the key sunnas is to rejoice in Allah. A key to being able to reflect in remembering Allah and in making supplication, is that one doesn’t focus on the words alone rather the meaning expressed by the words.

For more podcasts by SeekersHub, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

Belief in God is perfectly summarized by the statement ‘There is no god except Allah’. In past times the prevalent trend of disbelief was a denial of ‘except Allah’, whereas in our times the mantra has become ‘There is no god’.

The themes of proper reasoning, reflecting on the Qur’an, the Fitra – the default setting – of the human being are discussed here, before an analysis and call for reflection on Sura al-Tin (The Chapter of the Fig). The sura provides a very profound evaluation of human nature, revelation, prophecy, the Fitra and Allah’s plan for humanity; all of which lead to the necessary conclusion of God’s existence, and His wisdom-imbued plan for us all.

For more podcasts by SeekersHub, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

In this episode, Shaykh Sadullah reminds us that Ramadan is the month of the Quran. Therefore if we truly wish to benefit then we should ask ourselves the question if we are connecting with the Quran this Ramadan. The Quran serves as a guide and a source of healing for people. In this current time of confusion and chaos, we need to live by the book of Allah.

For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts

Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this khutba Shaykh Faraz begins by reminding the believers that the first days of Dhul Hijja are beloved to Allah, and that there is a significant reward for actions during these days. The objective of the ten days of Dhul Hijja is Allah and the love of Allah. These days are the best days of the year. It is recommended to fast all nine days of Dhul Hijja, particularly the ninth (the day of Arafa), which is an expiation for at least the preceding year. Charity has more reward during the days of Dhul Hijja. Giving brings the hearts together. These are days of opportunity to engage in more worship and remembrance of Allah. The greatest of good deeds is returning to Allah. Expressing love to Allah. On the ninth of Dhul HIjja one should start to do takbirat beginning at the Fajr prayer. On the tenth, if able, one should slaughter and give to those in need. Don’t make Eid just like another day. Make it a day of rejoicing.

For more SeekersHub podcasts and podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through a monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax-deductible in the US and Canada.

For more SeekersHub podcasts and podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersGuidance build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

Change is a reminder of things being created. Change is a sign of Allah. Change is a proof of the oneness of Allah. Anything that changes has the necessary quality of being dependent. Anything that has a beginning couldn’t possibly not have an end.

“ Verily, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of insight.” [Surat al-Imran 3:190]. It was regular practice of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) to recite these verses when getting up at night for night worship. Every moment all created things are changing, and in it are numerous signs for people of insight. The believer should strive to know what these signs, and know how to reflect on these signs. These signs point to Allah, the creator and sustainer of everything which is given to change. The believer sees this with the eye of the heart. Allah is the creator and sustainer at every moment. Everything besides Allah is perishing.

For more SeekersHub podcasts and podcast shows, visit seekersGuidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

In this Friday khutba Shaykh Faraz Rabbani begins by reminding that people are neglectful of death, and that life and death are from Allah Most High. Death is mentioned in the Qur’an several times, and one is called to reflect on death. Death is a point of reflection to the believers personally and collectively. The reality of death should make us reflect on: (1) what is my responsibility, (2) what is the collective responsibility, and (3) what is the more broad responsibility. Death of scholars is one of the most dangerous things that happens to the community of believers. Through scholars there are gifts of mercy. There are many lessons to heed when some scholars pass away. Anything that changes or perishes could not be eternal. At the point of death all that matters is the heart and what it contains. If the heart is sound the whole body is sound. Imam Ibrahim al-Khawwas, one of the righteous early predecessors (died 231 a.h.), said: “The medicine for the heart and healing the heart are in five things. (1) reciting Qur’an with reflection, (2) emptying of the stomach, (3) praying at night, (4) beseeching Allah in the pre-dawn time, and (5) keeping the company of the righteous. We should all take heed from the reality of death. We should strive to have a moment of reflection upon death after each of the five obligatory prayers.

For more SeekersHub podcasts and podcast shows, visit SeekersGuidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersHub build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explores some amazing examples of the awesome humility of the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) from Esfahani’s work “Sharaf al-Mustafa.” Shaykh Faraz describes how the Prophet would lower a vessel for a cat, and not left it until it was finished drinking. While eating dates with his left hand, he fed a sheep the pits from his left. When his companions divided up the tasks after slaughtering a sheep, the Prophet volunteered to collect firewood. He refused to give a man his leftovers, having him eat with him instead. And he would except people’s invitations, even if the meal consisted of only barley bread.

For more SeekersHub podcasts and podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersGuidance build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.

How should Muslims face and immunized themselves from these ideological challenges? How did our luminous scholars of the past respond to the various intellectual and doctrinal quagmires of their age so that they were able to preserve sound belief in the integrals of Islam?

For more SeekersHub podcasts and podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts.

Help SeekersGuidance build a Global Islamic Seminary and spread the light of guidance to millions around the world by supporting us through monthly donation by going to https://seekersguidance.org/donate – your donations are tax deductible in the US and Canada.