Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq

Heeding Admonition Part 1 of 3

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 13th January 2023 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/-ZbJEEwB4Jk

This talk emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, sincere intentions, and humility when engaging with religious teachings. While individuals receive religious knowledge through various means - such as the Quran, Hadith, and lectures - it is crucial to reflect upon how much this knowledge actually transforms a person for the better. The talk highlights several barriers to understanding and absorption of religious teachings, illustrating through historical examples of the Quraysh's response to the Quran and Rasulullah's ﷺ community gatherings, where despite being in the presence of the Prophet ﷺ, many did not truly listen or accept the message due to their hardened hearts and preconceived notions.

To genuinely benefit from religious admonition, individuals must cultivate specific qualities and fulfill certain conditions such as having robust faith, sincere intention, and respectful listening practices. Active participation and humility in seeking knowledge are essential, as distractions and arrogance can hinder one's ability to absorb divine teachings.

The talk encourages attendees to be respectful of both the material and the teaching environment, asserting that genuine engagement and humility will lead to meaningful spiritual growth and understanding.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- Prerequisites for transformation

- The Prophet ﷺ only being a warner

- The Prophet's ﷺ love for his ummah

- First condition - Iman (Belief)

- Second condition - Ikhlas (Sincerity)

- Third condition - Listen attentively

- Fourth condition - Respect

- Taking notes during lectures

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The Prophet ﷺ: A Servant of Allah

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 9th December 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/bQUC8knLpYQ

This talk outlines the attributes and names of Rasulullah ﷺ, focusing on how Allah has elevated him through various titles such as Nabi, Rasul, Muhammad, and Ahmad, emphasizing his revered position as "Abdullah" or servant of Allah. Several anecdotes reflect prophetic virtues, especially during significant moments in their lives, showcasing their humility in servitude toward the Creator. The talk emphasizes that true honour lies in the act of serving Allah, as demonstrated through instances from the lives of prominent prophets like Yusuf and Sulayman, who despite their elevated status remained humble servants of Allah.

The key point highlighted is that servitude should be embraced, and through this humility, individuals can forge a deeper connection with Allah. The talk concludes by urging everyone to adopt the spirit of servitude as exemplified by Rasulullah, promoting the understanding that one's position in this world should be approached with the utmost humility, regardless of past glories or achievements. Through such a lens, the talk reinforces Islamic values of patience, respect, and servitude, advocating that humility before Allah is the ultimate sign of faith and piety.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- Names given to the Prophet ﷺ

- Allah's choice of a title for the Prophet ﷺ

- Humility of Yusuf a.s, Sulayman a.s & Isa a.s

- The position which Allah loves the most

- The manner of eating by the Prophet ﷺ

- Avoiding extravagant praise

- Accepting the rank of servitude

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Obedience to the Messenger ﷺ

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 2nd December 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/gq-w7BfYq6o

This talk emphasizes the multifaceted relationship between believers and the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, anchored in belief, support, love, and the essential aspect of obedience. The talk points out that simply believing in the Prophet ﷺ is insufficient; it is crucial for believers to actively follow his teachings and implement them in their lives to achieve true guidance and success. The talk illustrates the significance of obedience through various Qur'anic verses, where the disobedience of the Prophet ﷺ directly correlates with the disobedience of Allah, highlighting the severe consequences of ignoring this relationship.

The talk reminds the audience that even close familial ties, such as those of the Prophet’s ﷺ wives or children, do not guarantee salvation if they fail to follow him.

Furthermore, the talk stresses that a true connection with the Prophet ﷺ must be demonstrated through actionable obedience and that cultural or familial sentiments alone cannot serve as a substitute for embracing and following his teachings.

The discussion warns against the inclination to mock or deride those who practice the Sunnah, as this reflects a deeper issue of personal belief and devotion. It concludes by underscoring that the believer's ultimate success hinges on their commitment to both loving and obeying the Prophet ﷺ, showcasing the necessity of this duality for salvation in the hereafter.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- The Prophet ﷺ being a messenger for all

- Success through following the Prophet ﷺ

- Those who turn away from obedience

- Personal connection along with obedience

- Ridicule towards those who observe the sunnah

- Relationship with the Prophet ﷺ

- Allah addressing the wives of the Prophet ﷺ

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Spirituality in a Material World

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Sunday 20th November 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/z0cXYQPEfEQ

This talk emphasizes the significance of spirituality in a materialistic world, highlighting that materialism can overshadow the unseen dimensions of faith if not acknowledged. Throughout the talk, important concepts such as the importance of intention, the need for reminders, and the differing depths of understanding spirituality are explored. The talk reflects on the Quran's emphasis on Taqwa, or consciousness of Allah, as a guiding principle not just for believers but all of humanity. The discussion points serve to remind listeners of the essence of worship, which should transcend mere physical actions or rituals, aiming instead for a deeper connection with the unseen.

The talk further uses examples from the Quran, particularly stories from Surat Al-Kahf, to illustrate the triumph of spirituality over materialism. The narratives highlight the importance of faith and the unseen, demonstrating how true spirituality allows individuals to see beyond the physical aspects of life. The talk encourages a re-evaluation of personal worship practices, urging listeners to strive for a more profound understanding of their spiritual lives.

Ultimately, the message calls for a collective and individual awakening to the spiritual foundations of Islam, reaffirming that true faith is rooted in believing beyond the material world.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- Reminders and renewing ones intention

- Islam not being a material religion

- Creating a true connection with Allah

- How does a person attain Taqwa?

- Examples of the true pious ones in Islam

- Examples from the Quran

- Striving to attain spirituality

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The Prophet of Purity & Relief ﷺ

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 14th October 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/LalP_sE-R3E

This talk elaborates on the attributes of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as mentioned in the Qur'an. Key points include the Prophet's ﷺ unlettered nature and how his role is to guide, instruct, and inspire people towards good (Ma’rouf) while forbidding evil (Munkar). The talk emphasizes the necessity of understanding these terms in both moral and spiritual contexts, asserting that societal norms often shape one's perceptions of good and evil. The discussion takes into account the balance of positivity and negativity in religious teachings and emphasizes the unrealistic expectations individuals may have in wanting only positive reinforcement from spiritual leaders.

The talk further illustrates the Prophet's ﷺ behaviour through various examples, showing how he handled confrontations with calmness and wisdom while also adhering to moments of justified anger. The talk also involves a detailed discussion on the significance of lawful and unlawful practices, outlining how adherence to halal brings about spiritual purity.

Ultimately, the message conveyed revolves around recognizing the beauty of the Prophet's ﷺ teachings as a means of liberation and relief from burdens, culminating in a prayer for understanding and following the Prophet's ﷺ Sunnah.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- The attributes of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

- Enjoining the good and forbidding the evil

- Encouraging people to do good

- Examples of the Prophet's ﷺ approach and wisdom

- The Prophet ﷺ becoming angry when laws were violated

- Making lawful the pure and unlawful the impure things

- Being neutral in judgement

- Pure consumption leading to purity in character

- Prohibition of intoxicants

- The Prophet's ﷺ role in removing burdens

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The Prophet ﷺ in the Scriptures Part 2 of 2

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 7th October 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/Pib9hSTYjjA

The talk elaborates on the attributes of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, emphasizing his qualities as described in both the Quran and earlier scriptures like the Torah and Gospel. The talk discusses how the Prophet ﷺ was titled a "bearer of glad tidings and a warner," highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between conveying positive news and applying accountability in faith. Central to the Prophet’s ﷺ character were compassion, forgiveness, and a gentle manner of speech, contrasting with harshness.

The talk also emphasizes the impact of the Prophet’s ﷺ character on unity and acceptance in the community, noting that his leniency and compassion helped unite people who were previously adversaries. Furthermore, the Prophet ﷺ is portrayed as a transformational figure whose mission included rectifying misbeliefs and instilling the core tenets of Islam.

The talk delves into the imperative for followers to embody the Prophet’s ﷺ forgiving and tolerant nature, while reminding the audience that authentic Islam encompasses more than rituals—it mandates ethical behaviour and interpersonal kindness rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- The Prophet's ﷺ mention in the Scriptures

- The Prophet ﷺ being a witness & bearer of glad tidings

- The Prophet ﷺ being a servant & messenger

- The Prophet's ﷺ role in unifying tribes

- The tongue being the interpreter of the heart

- Protecting the tongue while fasting

- The Prophet's ﷺ role in reforming religion

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The Stinters - A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn Part 1 of 5

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 20th May 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/zQ8tMSDIqbQ

This talk provides an in-depth Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn, explaining its historical context, linguistic significance, and broader ethical implications. The talk highlights that the Sūrah warns against fraudulent practices, focusing on those who manipulate measures and weights for personal gain.

The term ‘Mutaffifin’ is analysed linguistically, showing that it refers to minor but intentional deceptions that accumulate over time. The talk also contrasts the economic systems of Mecca (which used weights) and Medina (which relied on volume-based measures), illustrating how dishonest practices were common before the Prophet ﷺ reformed society. Furthermore, historical examples from the Saḥābah and early Muslims demonstrate how this Sūrah corrected dishonest business dealings, leading to a more ethical trading system.

Beyond trade, the talk emphasizes that the principle of fairness applies to all aspects of life, including prayer, relationships, and social interactions. It explains that Islām teaches balance and justice, and ‘Tatfif’ (stinting or cheating) is condemned not just in business but in personal conduct as well. Examples from Umar ibn al-Khattab (r.a.) and Salman al-Farsi (r.a.) show that neglecting communal prayers or failing to fulfil one’s responsibilities in relationships is also a form of cheating. The Prophet ﷺ stressed the importance of being a giver rather than a taker, whether in trade, social interactions, or acts of charity.

The talk concludes by highlighting Prophet Shu'ayb's (a.s.) warning to his people about fraud, emphasizing that societies engaging in dishonesty face divine consequences.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- The meaning of 'Taṭfīf'

- Pre-Islamic practise of taṭfīf (stinting)

- The economy of Makkah and Madinah

- A Deeper meaning to the word taṭfīf (stinting)

- The lowliness of being a taker in friendship

- The Prophet ﷺ repaying loans

- Misconceptions that taṭfīf (stinting) is harmless

- Examples of instances we need to be givers

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The Stinters - A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn Part 5 of 5

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 2nd September 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/15MrZY3XELQ

This final session continues to explore the fate of the dishonest (Muṭaffifīn) and their lack of belief in divine accountability. The discussion emphasizes how minor fraud in trade reflects a deeper moral and spiritual corruption, ultimately leading to their records being inscribed in Sijjīn, a place of disgrace and restriction. The concept of rān (spiritual rust) is elaborated, explaining how continuous sin blinds the heart to truth. In contrast, the righteous (abrār) have their deeds recorded in ʿIlliyyīn, a lofty place in the highest heavens, witnessed by the most honoured angels. The ultimate reward of the believers is their ability to see Allāh, while the greatest punishment for the wicked is their deprivation of this divine vision.

The discussion then shifts to the pleasures of Paradise, describing how the righteous will be granted luxurious blessings, including celestial wine sealed with musk, symbolizing purity and eternal joy. A key takeaway is the call to true competition: instead of vying for wealth, status, or material success, believers should strive for righteousness and divine pleasure.

The talk concludes by highlighting how the arrogant mockery of disbelievers towards the faithful will be reversed on the Day of Judgment. The believers, once ridiculed, will witness the downfall of their persecutors while reclining in bliss, confirming the absolute justice of Allāh.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- Verses 18-36 explained in detail

- Difficulty of being from the abrār

- Competition in lowly things

- Virtuous competition

- Examples of how the believers are mocked

- Muslims taunting other Muslims

- Judging others & not being responsible for anyone else

- Comments made by hypocrites on the way to Tabūk

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The Stinters - A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn Part 2 of 5

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 27th May 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/xh-0xsDcgGE

The lecture continues the Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn, highlighting its broader application beyond dishonest trade. While the verse explicitly condemns traders who cheat in weights and measures, the talk explains that the principle of fairness applies to all aspects of life, including marriage, family, friendships, and business interactions. Those who take more than they give—whether in relationships or financial dealings—are guilty of ‘Taṭfīf’ (stinting and deceit). A major cause of dishonesty is a lack of belief in the Hereafter, as many people act as if they will never be held accountable for their actions. The talk reinforces this message with the Prophet’s ﷺ warnings about dishonest traders, emphasizing that most will be resurrected as sinners unless they maintain integrity.

A key takeaway is that wealth and power should not lead to arrogance or exploitation. The Prophet ﷺ taught that the upper hand (the giver) is better than the lower hand (the taker), encouraging generosity over greed. The discussion connects these moral teachings to modern business ethics and even animal behaviour, showing that honesty and cooperation are fundamental principles, even in nature. Examples from the marketplace, family life, and the animal kingdom reinforce that deceit eventually leads to isolation and divine punishment. Ultimately, the Surah serves as a reminder that true success lies not in amassing wealth dishonestly but in upholding fairness, preparing for the Day of Judgment, and seeking Allah’s pleasure.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- Taṭfīf (stinting) not just restricted to trading

- Reflecting on one's own taṭfīf

- The reason behind people doing taṭfīf

- Verses mentioning accountability in the Qurʾān

- Abdullah ibn Umar's relationship to the Day of Judgement

- Explanation of verses 7-9

- The dangers of wealth

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The Stinters - A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn Part 4 of 5

Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 1st July 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/c_mux0p6vLY

This talk particularly focuses on the warnings against those who cheat in their dealings (Muṭaffifīn) and the consequences of persistent sin. It explains that sinners develop a spiritual rust (rān) over their hearts due to continuous disobedience, preventing them from accepting the truth. The discussion highlights historical examples, especially the wealthy elite of Makkah, who arrogantly rejected the Prophet's ﷺ message due to their materialism and pride. Various aḥādīth reinforce the concept that sins accumulate, leading to a hardened heart, which blinds a person from distinguishing right from wrong. False oaths, hypocrisy, and arrogance are cited as key reasons why people reject faith, despite clear signs of divine truth.

A major theme is the fate of the sinners in the Hereafter. They will be deprived of the greatest blessing—seeing Allāh (Maḥjūbūn), while the righteous will experience this honour in Paradise. The Quran and ḥadīth emphasize that habitual sins create a downward spiral, reinforcing further wrongdoing.

The lecture ends with a strong reminder to focus on self-accountability rather than judging others. The next session will continue with the discussion of the righteous (Abrār) in contrast to the sinners (Fujjār), offering further insights into divine justice and mercy.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:

- Verses 14 & 15 explained in detail

- Effects of deeds on a person's character

- The sin of false oaths and promises

- Momentum of sins

- Context of Verse 14

- Seeing Allāh in the Hereafter

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