The Deenspiration Podcast

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  • EP 44: Covid-19 Through the Lens of Spirituality – Shaykh Ruzwan Mohammed

    The Believer’s Mindset During Times of Hardship

    This week we’re joined by Shaykh Ruzwan Mohammed – co-founder, author and educational director of the iSyllabus Islamic studies course.

    In this episode we discuss the believer’s mindset during times of hardship and uncertainty, how the nafs (self) is affected, and what we must do to maintain a strong connection with Allah (swt) during this time.

    The coronavirus pandemic has affected us in many ways, but perhaps most importantly, it’s had negative implications on our overall spiritual health as Muslims.

    We’ve seen a lack of motivation, personal struggles with worship, and a deep yearning to rekindle the sense of belonging and spiritual enlightenment we experience together as a community.

    Is this to be expected given the current circumstances, or do we as believers need to shift our ways of thinking and how we navigate this test?

    Shaykh Ruzwan provides some powerful advice regarding this during the episode, and covers not only how we as a community can overcome this, but what we as individuals should be doing personally to ensure our ‘spiritual tank’ remains full.

    WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
    • Seeing the positive sides of the Coronavirus pandemic
    • The word ‘insan’ and how we as humans – as social beings – are affected by events like this
    • Recognising the spiritual void created by the sudden lockdown, especially during Ramadan
    • How the pandemic is affecting both our humanity and spirituality
    • The battle of the nafs (self) – fighting between its desires and the barriers blocking its way (i.e. lockdown)
    • Why the Quran is the default go-to in time of confusion
    • Why tests during this life are both inevitable and necessary
    • The importance of developing al I’timad (reliance) upon God
    • How the pandemic has tested our sincerity; are we worshiping God properly?
    • How the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) dealt with, and was strengthened by extreme hardship and sadness
    • Lessons from Surah Yusuf, Surah al-Asr, and Surah ad-Duha
    • Seeing light at the end of the tunnel; how history has proven that things always get better after the worst point
    • What our top priority should be during the lockdown restrictions
    • And fun facts about Shaykh Ruzwan during the rapid fire round!
    • The iSyllabus One Year Diploma in Islamic Studies

      The iSyllabus Diploma Course is designed to give Muslims of all backgrounds confidence in themselves by empowering them with Islamic knowledge they can trust.

      The course aims to equip you to be confident in what you know, while respecting legitimate differences of opinion. We will explain not only what scholars disagree upon, but also why.

      The modules will provide an indispensable base from which to increase your faith. The Diploma course serves as an excellent entry to a nuanced yet fulfilling experience of the Islamic sciences as they relate to both the individual and society in the 21st Century.

      Register now and use code DEEN20 at checkout to receive £20 off the course fees.

      About Shaykh Ruzwan 

      Shaykh Ruzwan Mohammed is a Sunni theologian and scholar. A graduate in Geopolitics and Arabic from the University of Glasgow, in 1993 he left to travel and study with a wide array of leading scholars and theologians in various countries in the Muslim world. In the process, he studied the Turkish language at the University of Ankara and as part of his formal Islamic training, he graduated from the Fat’h Islamic Law College in Damascus, graduating from the prestigious 6-year program with a distinction of merit, achieving overall first position in his year of graduation from the college.

      In the summer of 2009, he co-founded the Solas Foundation, which focuses on offering quality and transparent religious consultancy in the areas of Islamic ethics and education. He is the author and educational director the iSyllabus Islamic studies program.

      Learn more about Shaykh Ruzwan.

      Never Miss an Episode!

      Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

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      The post EP 44: Covid-19 Through the Lens of Spirituality – Shaykh Ruzwan Mohammed appeared first on Deenspiration.

      1 hr 6 min
    • EP 43: Ramadan Q&A: The Fiqh of Fasting in Light of the Covid-19 Lockdown – Shaykh Amer Jamil

      In this episode we’re joined by Islamic scholar and co-founder of the iSyllabus Islamic Studies programme, Shaykh Amer Jamil, who answers questions submitted by our audience on topics related to Ramadan and fasting.

      All questions asked are listed below:

      TARAWEEH

      4:30 – Can we pray Taraweeh at home during the lockdown, and if so, how do we do it?
      6:25 – Can you pray Taraweeh virtually behind and imam who’s streaming online?
      8:15 – What if you don’t know much Quran and can’t lead your family?
      9:40 – Can you hold the Quran while leading Taraweeh? (Hanafi school position)
      12:00 – What’s the minimum required for a Taraweeh congregation?
      12:00 – Can a husband and wife pray together?
      12:42 – Can a female lead the prayer?
      14:35 – Is it better to pray Taraweeh, or replace it with missed (qadha) prayers from the past?

      FASTING

      16:00 – Should we fast if we are concerned about our health or become unwell? What if we’re worried about catching the coronavirus?
      17:45 – Do we have to make up fasts from last Ramadan before starting this year?
      18:15 – Can we prepare food for a non-fasting person while we’re fasting?
      19:25 – What if our spouse refuses to fast, are we allowed to continue serving them food?
      20:35 – Is it okay to remain awake the full night until Fajr and then sleep during the day in Ramadan?
      21:50 – If someone sleeps through suhoor and misses the chance to eat, can they still fast? (Hanafi & Maliki rulings)
      22:40 – Can you use inhalers while fasting?
      24:50 – I broke a fast in the past but have repented and paid charity. I also can’t remember if this was before or after I became mature and obligated to fast. I still feel unsure if this will be accepted. What do I do? Do I need to pay kaffarah?
      28:30 – If someone accidentally eats while fasting, is their fast broken?
      29:13 – Can you change school of thought when it comes to paying the kaffarah?
      30:55 – Does inhaling steam or smoke, or smelling scents break the fast?
      32:07 – Why does taking medicine break the fast if it’s not for nourishment?
      33:20 – Can you use toothpaste while fasting?
      35:05 – Should you gargle water when performing wudu or ghusl during Ramadan?

      FASTING

      35:53 – Can we give Zakat to those who are financially struggling due to the economic climate caused by coronavirus?
      38:13 – Does everyone in the home need to pay Zakat ul-Fitr, or can the head of the household pay it?

      EID

      39:00 – What do we do if there’s no Eid prayer at the Masjid due to the coronavirus lockdown. Shall we pray it at home?

      RAMADAN IN LOCKDOWN – ADVICE 

      40:00 – What advice do you have for staying productive and keeping the Ramadan spirit alive during the lockdown?

      SEE MORE FROM SHAYKH AMER JAMIL
      • Shaykh Amer on YouTube
      • Shaykh Amer on Facebook
      • Shaykh Amer on Instagram
      • Shaykh Amer’s A-Z Pre-Marital Course for Single Muslims
      • RELATED EPISODES
        • Preparing for Ramadan – Shaykh Amer Jamil
        • EP 33: Obtaining the Virtues of Ramadan (feat. Shaykh Zoheeb Iqbal)
        • EP 32: Health, Nutrition & Well-being in Ramadan (feat. Dr. Sahira Dar & Adeel Ibrahim)
        • EP 25: Exploring the Wonders of Ramadan – feat. Shahbaz Mirza
        • RELATED POSTS
          • Seclusion from My Lord – My First Home I’tikaf Experience
          • The Ultimate Guide to Maximising Your I’tikaf (with Sample Daily Schedule)
          • 7 Easy Ways To Earn More Rewards in Ramadan
          • The Ultimate Ramadan Du’a List
          • Setting Realistic Goals for a Simple and Effective Ramadan
          • About Shaykh Amer Jamil

            Shaykh Amer is a qualified Islamic scholar and marital relations expert. Having spent 10 years studying Islamic sciences in various countries with distinguished scholars Shaykh Amer Jamil is a traditionally trained and fully qualified scholar.

            Shaykh Amer’s specialisation lies in Islamic Family Law. Being a certified NLP practitioner and also holding a certificate in counselling skills he has combined his religious and secular knowledge to help contextualise marital issues for the contemporary Muslim living in the 21st century.

            With over 10 years of experience in dealing with around 1000 real-life marital cases Shaykh Amer brings not only the Islamic know-how, but also hands-on marital consultation experience, insightful case studies and personal advice.

            Experience the Ramadan Virtual Hub by iSyllabus
            Download on Apple
            Download on Android
            Never Miss an Episode!

            Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

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            The post EP 43: Ramadan Q&A: The Fiqh of Fasting in Light of the Covid-19 Lockdown – Shaykh Amer Jamil appeared first on Deenspiration.

            49 min
          • EP 42: Why Does Allah Hate Me? – Sarah Sultan & Najwa Awad (Yaqeen Institute)

            In this episode we’re join by sisters Sarah Sultan (LPC, LMHC) and Najwa Awad (LSCW-C), who are both licensed professional counsellors and psychotherapists respectively, and also authors of the ‘Trauma Series: Your Lord Has Not Forsaken You’ at Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research.

            Both Sarah and Najwa have a wealth of experience in exploring the links between spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health, and throughout this episode take us on a journey of understanding why individuals may ask themselves the question:

            “Why does Allah hate me?!”

            Experiencing lows in our spirituality from time to time is common for all of us, however feeling deep levels of distress and hopelessness that stems from the assumption that Allah (swt) Himself is unhappy with us can translate into a number of other issues.

            Why do we come to this conclusion? What thought processes and feelings lead us to believing this?

            In this eye-opening episode, we explore how negative thoughts of one’s self and even past traumatic experiences can affect our relationship with Allah (swt).

            What You’ll Learn

            • A bit about Sarah and Najwa and the work that they do
            • A summary of why the Trauma series ‘Your Lord Has Not Forsaken You’ on Yaqeen Institute was released and what’s in it
            • Emotional reasoning and the difference between what we “think” is real vs reality
            • How our negative thoughts of ourselves are linked to negative thoughts of what Allah (swt) thinks of us
            • Common reasons why people believe Allah is displeased with them and that they aren’t good enough
            • The links between self-esteem and our levels of spirituality
            • The effects of past trauma on our mental, spiritual and emotional health (including different types of trauma)
            • How trauma in our own homes can affect how we view Allah (swt)
            • The effects of depending upon other people more than we depend on Allah (swt)
            • The links between dependency and external validation from people vs validation from Allah (swt)
            • Feelings of hopelessness vs clinical depression
            • The powerful hadith that Najwa has taped on her wall about the relationship Allah (swt) has with us
            • Practical steps we can take to develop healthier thought processes and behaviours
            • The relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviours
            • Final words of comfort and encouragement from Sarah and Najwa
            • Read More from the Yaqeen Trauma Series
              Read More
              Read More

              RELATED EPISODES

              • Mental Health – An Islamic Perspective (feat. Shaykh Abdul Hameed)
              • Sadness & Anxiety in Isam – feat. Hafsa
              • Allah’s Love for His Servants – Youssra Kamel Kandil
              • Healing with Words – The Art of Giving Advice – feat. Dear Chereen
              • RELATED POSTS

                • Never Lose Hope in the Mercy of Allah
                • The Power of Du’a: Talk to Allah Like A Friend – Matin Rosyid
                • In My Loneliest Moment, I Found Allah
                • About Sarah Sultan – LPC, LMHC
                  Sarah Sultan is a licensed professional counselor who strives to empower her clients through achieving healthier, more fulfilling lives and relationships while reconnecting with Allah during the healing process. Sarah obtained a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and has practiced therapy for nearly 10 years. She is also an instructor with Mishkah University, where she teaches a course about the intersections between Islam, psychology, and counseling.

                  CONNECT WITH SARAH ONLINE

                  • Sarah’s Website
                  • Sarah on Psychology Today
                  • Sarah on Facebook
                  • Sarah on Instagram
                  • Sarah on LinkedIn
                  • Sarah’s Articles on Yaqeen Institute
                  • About Najwa Awad – LSCW-C
                    Najwa Awad is a psychotherapist who is passionate about helping Muslims heal, grow, and thrive after adversity. She has over a decade of experience providing online and in-person counseling to children, adults, and families at her practice Amanah Family Counseling. Najwa also enjoys giving workshops to destigmatize mental illness, address current mental health issues within the community, and promote psychological health from an Islamic perspective.

                    CONNECT WITH NAJWA ONLINE
                    • Learn more about Amanah Counseling
                    • Najwa on Facebook
                    • Najwa on Instagram
                    • Najwa on LinkedIn
                    • Najwa’s Articles on Yaqeen Institute
                    • In Collaboration with
                      Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research
                      Never Miss an Episode!

                      Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

                      Subscribe
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                      The post EP 42: Why Does Allah Hate Me? – Sarah Sultan & Najwa Awad (Yaqeen Institute) appeared first on Deenspiration.

                      1 hr 9 min
                    • EP 41: Exploring the Beautiful Names of Allah – Shaykh Ibraheem Menk

                      In this episode we’re join by Shaykh Ibraheem Menk from Zimbabwe, who we met during the ‘Lord of the Worlds’ tour in Scotland, hosted by the Scottish Annual Conference.

                      Continuing on from theme of the conference, and adding on to his existing YouTube series ‘Lord of the Worlds’, we discussed some attributes of Allah (swt) and the importance of knowing Allah’s Names in order to establish a stronger connection and love for Him.

                      Shaykh Ibraheem also shares a beautiful reminder regarding treating Allah as a close friend, and why we should never despair if the answers to our prayers are delayed.

                      Of course, we also have our usual rapid fire round featuring some fun personal questions aimed at Shaykh Ibraheem in which you’ll learn what his favourite hobby is, his relationship with his uncle Mufti Ismail Menk, and much more!

                      What You’ll Learn

                      • The importance of studying the Names of Allah (swt)
                      • The meaning of the following attributes of Allah (swt): Al Haafidh, Al Hafeedh, Al Mujeeb and Al Qareeb
                      • What inspired Shaykh Ibraheem to launch the Lord of the Worlds series
                      • Why you should never think that “Allah isn’t answering my du’as”
                      • Common reasons for why we fall into despair regarding Allah’s plans
                      • Advice for those of us who think we do not deserve Allah’s mercy
                      • Why there is no “perfect” time to call upon Allah (swt)
                      • Tips on how to learn more about the 99 Names of Allah
                      • A fun rapid fire round!
                      • SEE MORE FROM SHAYKH IBRAHEEM
                        • Shaykh Ibraheem on YouTube
                        • Shaykh Ibraheem on Facebook
                        • Shaykh Ibraheem on Instagram
                        • The Lord of the Worlds series on YouTube
                        • RELATED EPISODES
                          • The Role of Muslim Women in Islam – feat. Alima Ashfaq & Hafiz Zahid
                          • Healing with Words – The Art of Giving Advice – feat. Dear Chereen
                          • Social Media & Its Effects on Social Media – feat. Omar Usman
                          • RELATED POSTS
                            • Allah’s Love for His Servants – Youssra Kamel Kandil
                            • Never Lose Hope in the Mercy of Allah
                            • The Power of Du’a: Talk to Allah Like A Friend – Matin Rosyid
                            • In My Loneliest Moment, I Found Allah
                            • About Shaykh Ibraheem Menk
                              Ibraheem Menk, born in Harare Zimbabwe, began his first Islamic studies with his grandfather Sh. Musa Menk. He completed his hifth under the supervision of Sh Musa and went on to study Arabic and other Islamic sciences with him.He then furthered his studies at the Islamic University of Madinah where he obtained a bachelors degree in the Shariah. He currently resides in Harare where he is Imaam and teacher at some of the local Masaajid.Quran Audio by Shaykh Ibraheem Menk can be heard on Quran Central.
                              Our Episode Sponsors

                              Scottish Annual Conference serves the community through educational Islamic conferences, in order to enrich the learning environment of the Scottish community and supports reputable charities for their Aid Projects. Their journey began back in 2017 with the first conference in Glasgow Central Mosque. Later with the hard work of their dedicated team and the support from local community, they formally launched as Scottish Annual Conference in 2018.

                              Website

                              Facebook

                              YouTube

                              Deen & Dunya is Scotland’s Islamic Lifestyle Store, established in 2015.
                              Providing Scottish Muslims with unique products to help practice their Faith. Specialising in Ramadan & Eid Gifts, the store is also a one stop shop for all your islamic essentials, from Quran, modest clothing, gifts, educational books, Hajj & Umrah resources, Oud Perfumes and much more.

                              Facebook

                              Instagram

                              Never Miss an Episode!

                              Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

                              Subscribe
                              Record a Review
                              Write a Review

                              The post EP 41: Exploring the Beautiful Names of Allah – Shaykh Ibraheem Menk appeared first on Deenspiration.

                              33 min
                            • EP 40: Are We Doing Enough for the Muslim Youth? (Powerful Advice) – Imam Siraj Wahhaj

                              In this episode we’re joined by the legendary Imam Siraj Wahhaj from Brooklyn, New York, who shares some powerful advice for our Muslim communities and discusses the struggles faced by our youth. We asked him what he would do if he was growing up again in today’s world as a young Muslim, given everything going on in society and the challenges our youth are facing.

                              Imam Siraj shares 22 minutes of pure wisdom and insights from over 40 years of experience and service among the Muslim community.

                              What You’ll Learn

                              • What Imam Siraj would have done if he were to grow up as a Muslim again in today’s society
                              • The youth around the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and why they were so empowered
                              • What Imam Siraj looks for to determine the state of a Muslim community
                              • The importance of investing in the Muslim youth and advice on how to engage with them
                              • Initiatives that Imam Siraj has been involved in to support the youth
                              • What happened when non-hijabi sisters asked him to prove from the Quran why they should cover
                              • An inspiring quote by Martin Luther King Jr.
                              • Stories of how Imam Siraj grew into his Muslim identity
                              • The difference between the symptoms and the problems that the Muslim youth are facing today
                              • SEE MORE FROM IMAM SIRAJ ONLINE
                                • Masjid At-Taqwa on Facebook
                                • Masjid At-Taqwa on Instagram
                                • RELATED EPISODES
                                  • The Role of Muslim Women in Islam – feat. Alima Ashfaq & Hafiz Zahid
                                  • Healing with Words – The Art of Giving Advice – feat. Dear Chereen
                                  • Social Media & Its Effects on Social Media – feat. Omar Usman
                                  • RELATED POSTS
                                    • If You Change Yourself, You Can Change the World – Abdulsami Arjumand
                                    • Dawah Within Our Families – Calling Our Youngest Towards Islam
                                    • About Imam Siraj Wahhaj
                                      Imam Siraj Wahhaj is Imam of the Al-Taqwa Mosque in Brooklyn, a prolific lecturer, community activist, the leader of the Muslim Alliance in North America, and former Vice President of ISNA. He first became famous for his successful efforts in fighting drugs and crime in his neighbourhood. In 1991, he became the first Muslim to recite the Opening Prayer of the Qur’an (Al-Fatiha) at the US House of Representatives.
                                      For over 40 years, Imam Siraj has inspired Muslims from across the globe with his motivating lectures and workshops, with a gift for touching the hearts of people from all backgrounds with his positive and uplifting attitude about the religion of Islam.
                                      Read more about Imam Siraj

                                      Born and raised in New York, he became a Sunday school teacher as at a young age, then later went to Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) where he studied biology education.

                                      In 1969 he joined the Nation of Islam and was taught under Louis Farrakhan at the height of the NOI’s anti-Malcolm X rhetoric. He became a Sunni Muslim after the death of Elijah Muhammad in 1975 and Muhammad’s son Warith Deen Mohammed took over and reorganized the organization, urging members to come to orthodox Islam. Kearse then changed his name to Siraj Wahhaj. He was chosen to study Islam at the Umm al-Qura university of Mecca in 1978. He also briefly taught a course in Islamic studies at Howard University. In 1981 he started his own mosque, Masijd ul-Taqwa, in a friend’s apartment in Brooklyn. Although it originally started out with only 25 people, today it is well-known.

                                      In 1988 he led his community in an anti-drug patrol in which they staked out drug houses in Bedford-Stuyvesant in the cold of winter for 40 days and nights, forcing the closure of 15 drug houses. This effort received high praise from the New York City Police Department and the media.

                                      Since that time, Siraj has been active in many Islamic organizations. He has been vice president of the Islamic Society of North America since 1997 and has served on the Majlis al Shura, a consultative council of Islamic scholars, since 1987. He is a member of the Board of Advisors for the American Muslim Council and has also served on the national board of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

                                      Siraj is a prolific speaker in America. He makes many appearances at major North American Muslim conventions, and numerous forums and lectures in New England. His audio and video lectures are also popular in America’s Muslim community. He is known to encourage Muslims to be God-fearing, enjoin good and forbid evil, practice regular charity, stay away from drugs, abstain from pre-marital relations, and other issues as well. He has also appeared on several national television talk shows and has had interviews with several media outlets.

                                      Our Episode Sponsors

                                      Scottish Annual Conference serves the community through educational Islamic conferences, in order to enrich the learning environment of the Scottish community and supports reputable charities for their Aid Projects. Their journey began back in 2017 with the first conference in Glasgow Central Mosque. Later with the hard work of their dedicated team and the support from local community, they formally launched as Scottish Annual Conference in 2018.

                                      Website

                                      Facebook

                                      YouTube

                                      Deen & Dunya is Scotland’s Islamic Lifestyle Store, established in 2015.
                                      Providing Scottish Muslims with unique products to help practice their Faith. Specialising in Ramadan & Eid Gifts, the store is also a one stop shop for all your islamic essentials, from Quran, modest clothing, gifts, educational books, Hajj & Umrah resources, Oud Perfumes and much more.

                                      Facebook

                                      Instagram

                                      Never Miss an Episode!

                                      Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

                                      Subscribe
                                      Record a Review
                                      Write a Review

                                      The post EP 40: Are We Doing Enough for the Muslim Youth? (Powerful Advice) – Imam Siraj Wahhaj appeared first on Deenspiration.

                                      36 min
                                    • EP 39: Purify Your Heart Through the Quran – Ustadh Yahya Raaby

                                      How to Bring The Quran Back Into Your Life
                                      and Experience its Many Blessings & Mircales

                                      In this episode we’re joined by the brilliant Ustadh Yahya Raaby from London, who inspires us with a beautiful discussion all about the Quran.

                                      While on his UK & Ireland tour called ‘Purifying Your Heart Through the Qur’an alongside Ethar Relief (organised by MIE Management), we had the chance to sit with Ustadh Yahya after his talk at SUMSA (the Strathclyde University Muslim Student Association) to talk about the Book of Allah (swt) and how we can utilise its miracles and blessings to purify our own hearts.

                                       

                                      WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
                                      • About Ustadh Yahya and what he does
                                      • A little bit about Ethar Relief
                                      • Why the Quran should be such an important aspect of our lives
                                      • Why Allah (swt) revealed the Quran (the objective)
                                      • The importance of learning, understanding and implementing the Quran
                                      • How the Quran should be changing us as people (how and why this happens)
                                      • Inspiring stories of pious people and their connection with the Quran
                                      • How to become a person of the Quran
                                      • The connection between the Quran and Ramadan
                                      • Tips on how to begin implementing the recitation and study of the Quran into our daily lives
                                      • Advice for those who find it difficult to implement regular Quranic recitation into their lives
                                      • The difference between listening, reading and reciting and the rewards associated with each
                                      • 5 intentions you should have before reciting the Quran for maximum benefit and blessings
                                      • A fun rapid fire round with Ustadh Yahya!
                                      • Today’s Ayah of the Day

                                        Alif, Lam, Ra. [This is] a Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that you might bring mankind out of darknesses into the light by permission of their Lord – to the path of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy – [Qur’an, Surah Ibrahim – 14:1]

                                        View Ayah on Quran.com

                                        https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Surah-Ibrahim-Verse-1-audio.mp3
                                        CONNECT WITH USTADH YAHYA ONLINE
                                        • Ustadh Yahya Raaby on Instagram
                                        • Ustadh Yahya Raaby on Twitter
                                        • LEARN WITH USTADH YAHYA
                                          • Badr Academy Courses
                                          • Badr Academy on YouTube
                                          • RELATED EPISODES
                                            • Quranic Transformation (Part 1) – Wisam Sharieff
                                            • Quranic Transformation (Part 2) – Wisam Sharieff
                                            • Quran Memorisation: Practical Tips and Motivation – Shaykh Suleiman Hani
                                            • RELATED POSTS
                                              • 10 Ways to Reconnect with the Quran and Change Your Life
                                              • Today's Featured Podcast Review

                                                by Usman (Glasgow, Scotland)

                                                https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Usman-Abdul-Quayum-Review-Edited.mp3
                                                Submit a Recorded Review
                                                MIE Management

                                                MIE are an events management company, providing bespoke, tailor made services to their clientele such as tours, weddings, charity dinners, conferences, youth camps and much more. Learn more about their services below. 

                                                Learn More
                                                Ethar Relief

                                                A UK-based humanitarian aid organisation operating mainly in East Africa. It serves to ease the suffering of refugees. Their goal is to help the needy across Africa, regardless of ethnicity, gender or religious beliefs.

                                                Donate Now
                                                SUMSA

                                                The Strathclyde University Muslim Student Association (SUMSA) is a multi-award winning society based at the heart of the University campus with an aim to serve as a spiritual and community hub for Muslim students on campus.

                                                Learn More
                                                About Ustadh Yahya Raaby

                                                Ustadh Yahya Raaby currently serves as an instructor of Arabic & Islamic Sciences at Badr Academy, Department manager and Supervisor of student affairs.

                                                Yahya completed memorising the Quran as a teen whilst studying at Badr Academy under qualified teachers who consisted of graduates of The Islamic University of Madina Al-Munawarra (KSA) & Islamic University of Al-Imam Muhammad Ibn Saudi in Riyadh (KSA). Therein he also studied different Islamic sciences such as Tafseer, Hadith, Usool-Fiqh, Fiqh, Grammar, Seerah, History and more. 

                                                Today Yahya spends his days juggling between studying Islamic Law and serving his community through means of  Teaching, Lecturing, Delivering Friday sermons, Leading Prayers, Counselling and more. Lastly by also being a major influencer in the development of Badr Academy.

                                                Never Miss an Episode!

                                                Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

                                                Subscribe
                                                Record a Review
                                                Write a Review

                                                The post EP 39: Purify Your Heart Through the Quran – Ustadh Yahya Raaby appeared first on Deenspiration.

                                                58 min
                                              • EP 38: Why I Stopped Listening to Music – feat. Nilly Naseer-Farooqui

                                                Let’s be real: we all have our vices, and whether or not we’d like to admit, it’s inevitable that we often engage in habits or activities that aren’t so great for our spiritual wellbeing. Whether we’re stuck in a cycle of sin, struggling with performing certain acts of worship, or dealing with personal insecurities and identity issues, we all travel a unique path on our journey towards Allah (swt).

                                                On that journey, there comes a time when we begin to realise which of our behaviours draw us nearer to Allah (swt) and which of them take us further away. Of course, the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh) teaches us what to avoid and what to strive for, but for the majority of us, unless we experience them for ourselves we won’t truly digest the lessons that we’ve been taught from a young age.

                                                In this episode, we’re joined by TEDx speaker, peak performance specialist and founder of Words Behind a Smile – sister Nilly Naseer-Farooqui – who gets real about her struggles with quitting music, dancing, and other habits that were holding her back from feeling spiritually awake and close to Allah (swt).

                                                (Heads up! We don’t discuss whether or not music is technically ‘halal or haram’ in Islam, but rather the negative impact that it had on Nilly, why she quit, and the positive changes she noticed in her life once she quit.)

                                                 

                                                WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
                                                • About Nilly and what she does
                                                • The story behind @WordsBehindASmile
                                                • The reason why Nilly gave up listening to music and how this affected her connection with Allah (swt)
                                                • Other hobbies Nilly gave up that she once loved, and how this affected her life in a positive way
                                                • The struggles we face in today’s society to stay away from sinful activity, including peer pressure
                                                • The importance of surrounding yourself with good company
                                                • What Nilly does when she feels inclined to fall back into old habits
                                                • The positive domino effect caused by leaving one bad babit
                                                • Fun rapid fire round of questions!
                                                • Key Advice From This Episode

                                                  What others think of you is none of your business.

                                                  Click to tweet this gem

                                                  Today’s Ayah of the Day

                                                  “… But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah Knows, while you know not.” [Qur’an – 2:216]

                                                  View Ayah on Quran.com

                                                  https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Surah-Baqarah-216-Al-Hikam-Sabillurrosyidin.mp3
                                                  CONNECT WITH NILLY ONLINE
                                                  • Nilly on Instagram – Words Behind a Smile
                                                  • Nilly’s online blog
                                                  • Learn about Nilly’s professional work
                                                  • RELATED EPISODES
                                                    • EP 10: The Sin Cycle – How To Stop Sinning & Return To Allah (feat. Shaykh Abdul Hameed)
                                                    • EP 27: Social Media & Its Effects on Spirituality – feat. Omar Usman
                                                    • Watch Nilly’s TEDx Talk

                                                      Nilly Naseer-Farooqui is a TEDx speaker, computer scientist, Peak Performance speaker, Human Trafficking Prevention Educator, Modest-Fashion Stylist, and a Social Media Influencer. She is currently a Systems Analyst at Northwestern University, along with being a lifestyle blogger whose profile, Words Behind A Smile, caters to an audience of over 10,000 people all across the globe. Mentored by the renowned author, Jack Canfield (author of Chicken Soup for the Soul), she is a Certified Canfield Trainer in teaching his success principles nationwide.

                                                      She is also an ambassador and prevention education speaker for Shared Hope International, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and restoring the lives of human trafficking victims.

                                                      Never Miss an Episode!

                                                      Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

                                                      Subscribe
                                                      Record a Review
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                                                      The post EP 38: Why I Stopped Listening to Music – feat. Nilly Naseer-Farooqui appeared first on Deenspiration.

                                                      51 min
                                                    • EP 37: Allah’s Love for His Servants – feat. Youssra Kamel Kandil

                                                      Our Relationship with Allah (swt)

                                                      By far the most important love, the deepest connection and the most protected relationship in our lives should be that between us and our Lord – Allah (swt).

                                                      As Muslims, the very foundation of our belief is that Allah (swt) – our God – is One. He created us, He has sustained us, He has control over every aspect of our life, and one day, to Him we will return. As Muslims created by Allah (swt), our purpose is to worship Him.

                                                      However, there are times in life when inevitably our thoughts about Allah (swt), our trust in Him and our hope in His love can all be a little bit shaky. Whether we experience trauma, neglect our worship, or feel too overburdened by our sins, it’s natural to feel that maybe Allah (swt) doesn’t love us as much anymore, or that we are undeserving of His blessings.

                                                      For some of us, the only relationship we have with Allah (swt) is that of a servant who must worship and stay away from lots of fun things, “or else! Jahannam!”. With this mindset, however, we lose sight of just how great Allah’s (swt) love for us truly is, and His desire to draw us nearer to Him.

                                                      To further discuss our relationship with Allah (swt) and His deep love for us, we’re joined in this episode by sister Youssra Kamel Kandil. If you’re active on social media, it’s most likely you will have seen some of Youssra’s heartwarming and inspiring reminders – some of which have gone viral and amassed millions of views.

                                                      Just like in her reminders, this podcast is filled with some really important reminders and practical tips on how we can become closer to our Lord and strengthen our faith.

                                                       

                                                      WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
                                                      • About sister Youssra and what she does.
                                                      • How does Allah describe His relationship with His servants in the Quran / Hadith?
                                                      • Why is it important for us to feel a love and connection with Allah?
                                                      • The incorrect mindset many Muslims have towards worship.
                                                      • A beautiful Hadith Qudsi (words of Allah via a hadith) regarding what Allah (swt) says to Angel Jibreel (as) when He loves someone.
                                                      • The difference between the love of creation for one another, and the love Allah (swt) has for His creation.
                                                      • Tips for people who feel hopeless and think that Allah does not love them?
                                                      • Advice for those who say “How can Allah love me? I am going through so many problems in life! Clearly He hates me!” or that “my sins are far too much, Allah will never forgive me!”
                                                      • What are some signs that Allah loves a person? Is there anything that a Muslim can do to gauge how much Allah loves them?
                                                      • The mentality of the Sahabah (ra) with regards to gauging their status in the eyes of Allah (swt).
                                                      • What can someone do on a daily basis to obtain Allah’s love?
                                                      • The ‘golden rule’ you must always revert back to when life isn’t going so well.
                                                      • A deeper look into the name of Allah (swt): Al-Wadood – The Affectionate, The Most-Loving.
                                                      • Today’s Ayah of the Day

                                                        “And be patient, [O Muhammad], for the decision of your Lord, for indeed, you are in Our eyes. And exalt [ Allah ] with praise of your Lord when you arise.” [52:48]

                                                        View Ayah on Quran.com

                                                        https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Surah-at-Tur-verse-48-Usman-Majid-Deenspiration.mp3
                                                        CONNECT WITH YOUSSRA ONLINE
                                                        • Follow Youssra on Facebook
                                                        • Follow Youssra on  Instagram
                                                        • Watch Youssra on YouTube
                                                        • Send Youssra an Email
                                                        • RELATED EPISODES
                                                          • EP 28: Stop Feeling Guilty Over Your Lack of Worship
                                                          • EP 10: The Sin Cycle – How to Stop Sinning & Return to Allah (feat. Shaykh Abdul Hameed)
                                                          • RELATED ARTICLES
                                                            • Never Lose Hope in the Mercy of Allah
                                                            • Signs That Show You’re Close to Allah
                                                            • Some Popular Clips by Sister Youssra
                                                              An Inspiring Hajj Story by sister Youssra
                                                              Today's Featured Podcast Review

                                                              by Nicole (Dallas, Texas) | Salaam, Girl! Podcast

                                                              https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Nicole-Queen-Dallas-TX-edited-mp3.mp3
                                                              Submit a Recorded Review
                                                              About sister Youssra

                                                              Sister Youssra is a homeschooling mother of three children, originally from Egypt and living in the US.

                                                              She spent time studying Islam with various teachers, and now does her best to share the knowledge she has learnt with others.

                                                              Youssra is active on social media and regularly shares personal reflections and uplifting reminders on a variety of topics in Islam. Her warm personality and relatable storytelling style has garnered her millions of views from Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

                                                              Never Miss an Episode!

                                                              Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

                                                              Subscribe
                                                              Record a Review
                                                              Write a Review

                                                              The post EP 37: Allah’s Love for His Servants – feat. Youssra Kamel Kandil appeared first on Deenspiration.

                                                              50 min
                                                            • EP 36: Developing a Quranic Lifestyle (Part 2) – feat. Wisam Sharieff

                                                              Part 2 – Spiritual Healing & Transformations

                                                              During Part 1 of this two-part podcast, we were joined by Ustadh Wisam Sharieff who shared with us an incredible system for Quranic Transformation.

                                                              By combining self-development techniques (mind, body and soul) with supplications from the Quran, as well as a strategic goal setting framework, Ustadh Wisam showed us the tools that will empower us to develop a complete ‘Quranic Lifestyle’ that is unique to us and our lives.

                                                              Now in Part 2 we’re diving deeper into the physical components of the transformation system that take into consideration the following:

                                                              1. The postures of prayer
                                                              2. The postures of purity
                                                              3. The postures of request / supplication
                                                              4. Have you ever wondered why the Salah has a bowing or prostrating movement? Or why wudu requires us to wash our limbs in a certain order besides simply cleaning our bodies?

                                                                What are the deeper meanings of these actions beyond just the physical rituals?

                                                                How does your posture, your breathing, your flexibility, your strength and power all derive from, and dictate, the quality of your worship?

                                                                All of this and more is packed into this incredible episode. Grab a notepad and pen!

                                                                 

                                                                WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
                                                                • A brief summary of the Quranic transformation system and the 4 steps involved.
                                                                • The single act of worship which incorporates all of these components.
                                                                • How the Prophet (pbuh) used to make du’a.
                                                                • Examples of the physical strength of the Prophet (pbuh) and the spiritual implications of this.
                                                                • Why wudu is NOT just about the water; it’s about you.
                                                                • How to turn wudu into an act of physical therapy and treat it like an act of worship.
                                                                • An emotional reflection on Musa’s (as) conversation with Allah (swt)
                                                                • The approach we should be taking towards making du’a to Allah (swt).
                                                                • How nature can help us connect with Allah (swt) and improve our spirituality.
                                                                • Common mistakes we’re likely making during our Salah (and other acts of worship) with regards to our posture and concentration.
                                                                • How civilisations before Islam used to connect with Allah (swt) through physical modes of spirituality.
                                                                • and more!
                                                                • Today's Featured Podcast Review

                                                                  by Syrah (USA)

                                                                  https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Syrah-Navid-US-Edited.mp3
                                                                  Submit a Recorded Review
                                                                  LEARN WITH WISAM ONLINE
                                                                  • Wisam Sharieff on YouTube
                                                                  • Wisam Sharieff on Instagram
                                                                  • Wisam Sharieff on Facebook
                                                                  • Wisam Sharieff on Twitter
                                                                  • Learn about Quran Revolution
                                                                  • Learn about AQL (Advocating Quranic Lifestyle)
                                                                  • Donate to Wisam’s projects on Patreon
                                                                  • RESOURCES
                                                                    • 30 Top Tips for Attaining Khushoo’ in Prayer (eBook)
                                                                    • VIDEOS MENTIONED BY WISAM & USMAN
                                                                      • Postures of Prayer series on YouTube
                                                                      • Shaykh Khatri al-Maliki Wudu Demonstration
                                                                      • RELATED EPISODES
                                                                        • Quranic Transformation (Part 1) – Wisam Sharieff
                                                                        • Quran Memorisation: Practical Tips and Motivation – Shaykh Suleiman Hani
                                                                        • RELATED POSTS
                                                                          • 10 Ways to Reconnect with the Quran and Change Your Life
                                                                          • About Ustadh Wisam

                                                                            Wisam Sharieff has been Advocating Quranic Lifestyle for over a decade with thousands of students across the globe.

                                                                            He’s the creator and primary instructor for  Quran Revolution, an online Quran Learning System through AlMaghrib Institute, which has transformed the way over 2,000 students relate to the Quran — teaching them to read, recite, and retain/memorize the Qur’an, with video lessons, live classes, and weekly homework.

                                                                            In addition he’s the founder and CEO of AQL, Advocating Quranic Lifestyle, an institute focused on personal development through Quranic recitation, prayer, and supplication—to empower the mind, body, and soul.

                                                                            Beyond this, Wisam provides hours of free content online through his  YouTube channel—including series like Postures of Prayer, Sunnah Supplements, NOORishment, Quranic Transformations, and Prophetic Dynasty II: Names of Our Nabi. Supporters of Wisam’s Patreon page will be facilitating all the work he does, and enabling him to further develop and producer high-quality series that go beyond basic knowledge, and helps people to improve their lives holistically.

                                                                            Never Miss an Episode!

                                                                            Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the podcast show for free on your smartphone via a range of apps for iOS and Android.

                                                                            SUBSCRIBE
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                                                                            The post EP 36: Developing a Quranic Lifestyle (Part 2) – feat. Wisam Sharieff appeared first on Deenspiration.

                                                                            1 hr 26 min
                                                                          • EP 35: Developing a Quranic Lifestyle (Part 1) – feat. Wisam Sharieff

                                                                            Part 1 – Quranic Transformations and Goal Setting

                                                                            You may have heard people using the terms ‘living a Quranic or Islamic lifestyle’, but what does that really mean?

                                                                            When our mother A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) described the Prophet’s (pbuh) character as being the embodiment of the Quran [Sahih Muslim], what comes to mind? Do you envision a man who was only concerned with rulings of halal and haram, do’s and don’ts, or someone whose entire being emanated the light of the Quran and beautified every living being that passed his way?

                                                                            Why is it that although some people have memorised the entire Quran, their character, actions and lifestyle all contradict its teachings? Why do we still feel uneasy around them? What’s the missing piece here?

                                                                            In Part 1 of this two-part podcast, we’re joined by Ustadh Wisam Sharieff who shares with us an incredible system for Quranic Transformation.

                                                                            By combining self-development techniques (mind, body and soul) with supplications from the Quran, as well as a strategic goal setting framework, Ustadh Wisam gives you the tools that will empower you to develop  a complete ‘Quranic Lifestyle’ that is unique to you.

                                                                            This means that not only will you be able to memorise, recite and reflect upon the Book of Allah, but every part of your life

                                                                            During this episode we cover the foundations of Quranic Transformation, and in Part 2 we dive deeper into the components of self-development in relation to living an Islamic lifestyle.

                                                                            WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

                                                                            • About Wisam Sharieff and what he does
                                                                            • The definition of a Quranic Transformation
                                                                            • The mindset that society has developed towards the Quran vs the attitude of a holistic Quranic lifestyle
                                                                            • Steps needed to begin a Quranic transformation
                                                                            • Why we should have a ‘Jannah Focused’ mindset
                                                                            • The first thing to do before you begin setting goals
                                                                            • A step by step guide on how to set life goals (with categories and time scales)
                                                                            • How to personalise du’as from the Quran to super-charge your goals
                                                                            • A story of how Wisam almost lost his eyesight, and how he used “Rabbana atina….” in this instance
                                                                            • The 3 questions you must ask yourself to personalise a Du’a
                                                                            • The ‘Perfect Day’ concept
                                                                            • The importance of building daily habits that bring you back you back on track
                                                                            • Is the Quran for people who sin?
                                                                            • Today’s Ayah of the Day

                                                                              But among them is he who says, “Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.” [Qur’an – 2:201]

                                                                              View Ayah on Quran.com

                                                                              https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Quran-Bəqərə-2201.mp3
                                                                              CONNECT WITH WISAM ONLINE
                                                                              • Wisam Sharieff on YouTube
                                                                              • Wisam Sharieff on Instagram
                                                                              • Wisam Sharieff on Facebook
                                                                              • Wisam Sharieff on Twitter
                                                                              • Learn about Quran Revolution
                                                                              • Learn about AQL (Advocating Quranic Lifestyle)
                                                                              • Donate to Wisam’s projects on Patreon
                                                                              • VIDEOS MENTIONED BY WISAM
                                                                                • Quranic Transformation series on YouTube
                                                                                • Quranic Supplications series on YouTube
                                                                                • RELATED EPISODES
                                                                                  • Quranic Transformation (Part 2) – Healing – Wisam Sharieff
                                                                                  • Quran Memorisation: Practical Tips and Motivation – Shaykh Suleiman Hani
                                                                                  • RELATED POSTS
                                                                                    • 10 Ways to Reconnect with the Quran and Change Your Life
                                                                                    • Today's Featured Podcast Review

                                                                                      by Justin (Los Angeles)

                                                                                      https://deenspiration.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Justin-Lee-Los-Angeles-edited-MP3.mp3
                                                                                      Submit a Recorded Review
                                                                                      About Ustadh Wisam

                                                                                      Wisam Sharieff has been Advocating Quranic Lifestyle for over a decade with thousands of students across the globe.

                                                                                      He’s the creator and primary instructor for  Quran Revolution, an online Quran Learning System through AlMaghrib Institute, which has transformed the way over 2,000 students relate to the Quran — teaching them to read, recite, and retain/memorize the Qur’an, with video lessons, live classes, and weekly homework.

                                                                                      In addition he’s the founder and CEO of AQL, Advocating Quranic Lifestyle, an institute focused on personal development through Quranic recitation, prayer, and supplication—to empower the mind, body, and soul.

                                                                                      Beyond this, Wisam provides hours of free content online through his  YouTube channel—including series like Postures of Prayer, Sunnah Supplements, NOORishment, Quranic Transformations, and Prophetic Dynasty II: Names of Our Nabi. Supporters of Wisam’s Patreon page will be facilitating all the work he does, and enabling him to further develop and producer high-quality series that go beyond basic knowledge, and helps people to improve their lives holistically.

                                                                                      Never Miss an Episode!

                                                                                      Did you enjoy this episode? Click below to subscribe to the show on your smartphone and join our family of 1000’s Muslims around the world who love listening and learning. To support us, please consider leaving a positive 5-star review on Apple Podcast/iTunes. Want to have your own voice featured on our show? Click below to leave a 60-second voice recording and we’ll feature you on an upcoming episode.

                                                                                      Subscribe
                                                                                      Record a Review
                                                                                      Write a Review

                                                                                      The post EP 35: Developing a Quranic Lifestyle (Part 1) – feat. Wisam Sharieff appeared first on Deenspiration.

                                                                                      1 hr 30 min

                                                                                    About The Deenspiration Podcast

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                                                                                    Islamic Podcast, Videos & Free Tools