Beyond The Shahada

15 Things Curious Christians & New Muslims Don’t Know About Islam (Angels, Jinn, Barzakh, 23-Year Quran)


Listen Later

Think you know Islam? In this longer deep-dive, Bree Shaaban (ex-Christian, now Muslim) unpacks 15 things most people don’t know, perfect for curious Christians, new/revert Muslims, and anyone who wants clear, evidence-based explanations without the fluff.

What you’ll learn (fast):

  • It started in a cave: Why the first command was “Read” and how the Quran was revealed over 23 years and not “all at once.”

  • Seal of Prophethood (Q 33:40): Why Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger with no sequels, no “new revelations.”

  • Hadith = receipts: How isnaad (chains of narration) and hadith science authenticated what the Prophet said and did.

  • Angels & the unseen realm: Jibril (Gabriel), Mika'il (Michael), and why angels are not Cupid.

  • Jinn explained: Who they are, what they can/can’t do, and the chapter in Quran named after them.

  • Barzakh: The “in-between” state from death to Resurrection and why it matters for accountability and hope.

  • Quran & science: Embryology stages, mountains as stabilizers, ocean layers, and an expanding universe, all verses that invite reflection, not blind faith.

  • Islam = a way of life: Prayer, charity, ethics in business, family rights, community care, and stewardship of the earth.

  • Seeking knowledge is mandatory (for men & women): From Fatima al-Fihri (founder of the world’s first university) to your daily study routine.

  • All the Companions were reverts: A diverse first community that preserved the message.

  • Khadijah (RA): First to accept Islam, a powerhouse businesswoman, and a 25-year monogamous marriage with the Prophet ﷺ.

  • Aisha (RA): Scholar, leader, and yes, she loved pink/saffron.

  • Prohibitions = protections: Why bans on alcohol, gambling, usury, and backbiting guard hearts and societies.

  • Polygyny, clarified: Limits, justice conditions (“marry only one” if you can’t be fair), and the social-welfare context.

  • Charity multiplies wealth: How giving brings barakah and real-world benefits.

    Who this is for:

    • Christians exploring what Muslims actually believe

    • New/revert Muslims building a solid foundation

    • Anyone comparing faith claims with history and sources

      Why listen:

      Warm and relatable explanations you can share, and a clear path to dig deeper without feeling talked down to.

      New schedule: Longer episodes every other week.

      If this helped, please follow/subscribe, rate the show, and share it with someone who’s curious about Islam. Clips & extras on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, al @beyondtheshahada.

      ...more
      View all episodesView all episodes
      Download on the App Store

      Beyond The ShahadaBy beyondtheshahada