In this first episode of Soul of Islam Radio, hosts Ahmad Sakaamini and Emil Ihsan Alexander Torabi explore the deeper dimensions of Islam, emphasizing the importance of spirituality alongside religious practice. Ihsan explains that Islam consists of both an external form—rituals, laws, and practices—and an inner essence, which is spirituality and connection with God. Without its soul, religion becomes rigid, leading to distortions such as extremism. True Islam is rooted in love, peace, and divine awareness.

Drawing from the Hadith of Jibril, Ihsan outlines three stages of spiritual development. The first is Islam (Maqam al-Islam), which includes the foundational Five Pillars. The second is Iman (Maqam al-Iman), a deeper level of faith and belief. The third and highest stage is Ihsan (Maqam al-Ihsan), where one worships as if seeing God. The goal is to move beyond surface-level practice and cultivate a deep, conscious relationship with the Divine.

The hosts emphasize that true spirituality is heart-centered. As children, we live naturally in this state, but as we grow, we become dominated by the mind and ego. Practices like prayer (salah) symbolically and spiritually realign the heart above the mind, guiding believers back to divine awareness. A meaningful spiritual practice requires this shift from intellectual understanding to a heart-based experience.

Ihsan offers three practical steps to reignite spirituality. First, he encourages seeking beneficial knowledge to support spiritual growth. Second, he advises living with presence, approaching daily actions with mindfulness and intention. Third, he recommends dedicating time to meditation, allowing stillness to cultivate a deeper connection with the Divine. Through these steps, spirituality becomes integrated into daily life rather than being confined to ritual practice.

Islam’s golden age thrived when spirituality fueled knowledge and progress. Ihsan stresses the need to return to this balance, aligning science, technology, and daily life with spiritual purpose. By reconnecting with Islam’s soul, individuals and communities can transform their lives and contribute meaningfully to the world.