Thursday, 6 February 2025

The Teachings of Abdul Qadir Jilani: A Guiding Light for Muslims

Abdul Qadir Jilani, also known as Al-Ghawth Al-Azam (the Supreme Helper), is one of the most revered figures in Islamic history. Born in 1077 CE in Gilan, Persia (modern-day Iran), he later migrated to Baghdad, where he became a leading scholar and spiritual guide. His teachings emphasize piety, sincerity, and submission to Allah, making him a beacon of spiritual enlightenment for Mu

Sincerity and Devotion to Allah

One of Abdul Qadir Jilani’s fundamental teachings is the importance of sincerity (ikhlas) in worship and daily life. He emphasized that every action should be performed purely for the sake of Allah, without any expectation of worldly gains or recognition.
Tawakkul (Trust in Allah)

He taught that true faith requires complete reliance on Allah. This trust (tawakkul) means surrendering one’s worries and desires to God’s will, knowing that He provides and guides.
Self-Purification and Spiritual Discipline

Abdul Qadir Jilani stressed the importance of purifying the heart from sins and arrogance. He encouraged constant self-reflection, remembrance of Allah (dhikr), and adherence to righteous deeds to achieve inner peace and closeness to God.

Humility and Compassion

A hallmark of his teachings was humility. He advised his followers to avoid arrogance and pride, treating all people with kindness and compassion, regardless of status or wealth.

Importance of Knowledge and Scholarship

Jilani was a strong advocate for seeking knowledge, both religious and worldly. He believed that learning strengthens faith and helps individuals become better servants of Allah.
Fighting Against Injustice and Corruption

He was known for speaking out against corruption and injustice in society. His sermons often called for fairness, honesty, and moral integrity, urging rulers and common people alike to uphold Islamic principles.

The Power of Prayer and Remembrance

Abdul Qadir Jilani emphasized the importance of daily prayers, supplication (dua), and dhikr as a means of drawing closer to Allah. He taught that constant remembrance of God strengthens the soul and shields it from negativity.

Legacy of His Teachings

His spiritual philosophy and ethical guidance continue to influence countless people. The Qadiriyya Sufi order, which he founded, remains one of the most prominent Sufi paths, spreading his teachings of love, humility, and devotion to God across the world.

The teachings of Abdul Qadir Jilani serve as a timeless guide for Muslims seeking spiritual growth and moral excellence. His emphasis on sincerity, humility, and devotion to Allah provides a path toward a meaningful and righteous life, making his legacy an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.

Wednesday, 5 February 2025

Becoming Muslim | My Journey To Islam

 


Meet Selin 👋 a PhD student from London, here to share herjourney and insights on a variety of topics, including Islam, lifestyle, academic life and fitness.

Tuesday, 4 February 2025

Salahuddin: The Legend Who Liberated Jerusalem

 

Salahuddin al-Ayyubi (rh) is one of the greatest heroes in Islamic history. How did he liberate Masjid al-Aqsa after nearly 90 years of the Crusaders’ occupation? Take a deeper dive into his story, including the early centuries of the Muslim rule in Palestine, the motivations of the Crusades, the mentorship of Nuruddin Zengi in Syria, Salahuddin's rise to power in Egypt, his personal piety, and his road to victory in Jerusalem.

Monday, 3 February 2025

Why my Entire Christian Family became Muslim

 


Yes, my Entire Christian American White family became muslim. Sounds crazy right? We have been saved by Allah's mercy

Friday, 31 January 2025

Alon Mizrahi: 'Israel Must Be Dismantled'

 


Alon Mizrahi is an Arab Jewish writer and activist who left Israel over the genocide it has perpetrated in Gaza. He now resides in the United States.

On January 21, 2025, Dimitri Lascaris spoke with Alon about his experiences as an Arab Jew in Israel, his abandonment of Zionism, and the future of the 'Jewish state'.

According to Alon, Israel's political elite and society have become so infused with hatred of Arabs, and have enjoyed impunity for so long, that the region cannot achieve a lasting and just peace unless Israel is dismantled.

Wednesday, 29 January 2025

Coping with Trauma: Islamic Advice and Guidance

 

Trauma is an overwhelming experience that can leave emotional, mental, and even physical scars. Whether caused by loss, hardship, or adversity, trauma can shake a person’s sense of security and connection. For Muslims, the journey of healing and coping is deeply intertwined with faith, as Islam provides comprehensive guidance on how to navigate life’s trials. This article explores practical ways to cope with trauma through an Islamic lens, offering comfort and hope grounded in the Qur’an and Sunnah.

1. Recognize the Nature of Trials

In Islam, life is understood as a test. Allah says in the Qur’an:

“And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 155)

Acknowledging that trials are a part of life’s journey can help in reframing one’s perspective on trauma. It is not a sign of punishment or abandonment by Allah but an opportunity for growth, purification, and increased reliance on Him.

2. Turn to Allah in Du’a (Supplication)

One of the most empowering tools for coping with trauma is du’a. Speak to Allah openly, expressing your pain and seeking His help. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often turned to Allah in moments of difficulty, saying:

“O Allah, there is no ease except what You make easy. If You will, You can make the difficult easy.” (Ibn Hibban)

The act of making du’a fosters a sense of connection with Allah and brings solace to the heart, knowing that He is always listening.

3. Reflect on Allah’s Names and Attributes

One of the most comforting aspects of Islamic spirituality is understanding and reflecting on the Names and Attributes of Allah. Al-Wadud (The Most Loving), Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful), and Ash-Shafi (The Healer) are just a few of the Names that remind us of Allah’s care and compassion. Regularly pondering these attributes can help a person feel enveloped in divine mercy, even during the darkest times.

4. Seek Support Through Salah (Prayer)

Salah is not only an obligation but also a source of healing. Allah instructs us:

“And seek help through patience and prayer.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 45)

When performed with mindfulness, salah can bring tranquility to the heart and allow one to feel closer to Allah. The physical movements of prayer, coupled with heartfelt recitation, serve as a grounding practice during moments of emotional turmoil.

5. Practice Patience (Sabr) and Gratitude (Shukr)

Patience is a virtue emphasized repeatedly in the Qur’an and Hadith. Sabr does not mean suppressing emotions or ignoring pain; rather, it means enduring hardship with faith that relief will come. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“Wondrous is the affair of the believer, for there is good for him in every matter, and this is not the case with anyone except the believer. If he is happy, he thanks Allah, and there is good for him; and if he is harmed, he shows patience, and there is good for him.” (Muslim)

Balancing sabr with gratitude—even for small blessings—can shift focus away from pain and towards Allah’s endless bounties.

6. Seek Community and Support

Trauma can often lead to feelings of isolation, but Islam emphasizes the importance of community. Surrounding yourself with supportive family members, friends, or even trusted counselors within the Muslim community can provide comfort and practical assistance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“The example of the believers in their mutual love, mercy, and compassion is like that of a body. When one limb aches, the whole body responds with sleeplessness and fever.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

If needed, seeking professional counseling or therapy is not only permissible but encouraged. Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and taking steps to address it aligns with the Islamic principle of preserving one’s health.

7. Engage in Acts of Worship and Good Deeds

Acts of worship such as reciting the Qur’an, making dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and giving in charity can be powerful tools for healing. The Qur’an, in particular, is described as a healing and mercy for believers:

“And We send down of the Qur’an that which is healing and mercy for the believers.” (Surah Al-Isra: 82)

Good deeds, especially helping others in need, can also shift focus from one’s own pain and create a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

8. Remember the Temporary Nature of This World

Islam teaches that this world is temporary and that ultimate relief lies in the Hereafter. Allah promises that those who endure trials with patience will be rewarded immensely:

“Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account.” (Surah Az-Zumar: 10)

Keeping the Akhirah (Hereafter) in mind can provide hope and perspective, reminding us that our struggles are not in vain.

9. Maintain Hope in Allah’s Mercy

No matter how overwhelming the trauma, a believer should never lose hope in Allah’s mercy. Allah says:

“Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.’” (Surah Az-Zumar: 53)

This verse is a reminder that Allah’s mercy is vast and that healing is always possible, no matter the depth of the pain.

Conclusion

Coping with trauma is a challenging journey, but Islam offers a holistic approach that addresses the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of healing. By turning to Allah, practicing patience and gratitude, seeking support, and engaging in acts of worship, a believer can find solace and strength to move forward. Remember, Allah is always near, and with hardship comes ease. As Allah assures us in the Qur’an:

“For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.” (Surah Ash-Sharh: 6)

Tuesday, 28 January 2025

The unforgettable horrors of the Genocide


• A press conference held amid piles of murdered Palestinians outside a hospital

• Hind, a little girl, disappearing after calling an ambulance and later found killed with her family

• Israelis mocking Palestinians on TikTok for dying, lacking electricity, and water

• A father holding the birth certificates of his newborn twins killed in an airstrike

• Children without legs or arms writhing in agony in hospital beds

• Beheaded Palestinian babies

• Babies decomposed in incubators

• A child ripped in half, hanging from a wall

• An elderly, disabled woman burned alive in her bed

• Dogs and cats feeding on the remains of killed Palestinians

• Israeli soldiers luring civilians with fake baby cries to shoot them

• A boy screaming “Ya Allah” over his brother’s body

• Skeletons scattered across Gaza’s streets

• A grandfather kissing his dead granddaughter goodbye. He was also killed

• A boy shivering in fear after surviving an airstrike

• Three girls on a roof screaming as they watch their father burn alive

• An Israeli tank bombing a car carrying a Palestinian family

• Palestinians stripped naked and tortured

• Children gathering breadcrumbs from dirty floors

• The 17,000 newly orphaned children in Gaza

• Israeli soldiers taking photos with the underwear of women they killed

• A Palestinian hostage crushed by an Israeli tank

• The Al-Shifa Hospital massacre

• An Israeli sniper killing a mother and injuring her baby

• A father and son executed by Israeli soldiers

• Palestinians crushed by aid airdrops

• An Israeli soldier blowing up a Palestinian house to celebrate his child’s birthday

• A malnourished child who starved to death

• Civilians murdered while scrambling for humanitarian aid

• Evacuees bombed after being told it was safe to head south

• Israeli soldiers blowing up neighborhoods for fun

• Palestinians burning alive in tents

• A man with down syndrome attacked by Israeli dogs and left to bleed to death

• A defenseless woman mauled by an Israeli dog

• Four unarmed men recorded and targeted with a drone

• The massacre in a busy market …

We will not forget

from

Friday, 24 January 2025

THE TRUTH ABOUT WOMEN IN ISLAM | Lily Jay & Shaykh Khalid Yasin


In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode, Lily Jay sits down with renowned Islamic scholar Shaykh Khalid Yasin to discuss the true essence of women’s rights in Islam. Together, they explore misconceptions, the elevated status of women in the Qur'an and Hadith, and how Islam empowers women through justice, respect, and equality.

Thursday, 23 January 2025

Israelism: How Young American Jews’ Views of Israel Are Shifting

 

The critically acclaimed feature-length documentary ‘Israelism’ investigates a movement of young American Jews who are campaigning to redefine Judaism’s relationship with Israel.

At the heart of the documentary are Simone Zimmerman, who grew up in Los Angeles and visited Israel on an exchange programme; and fellow American Eitan, who joins the Israeli military after graduating high school. Simone and Eitan are raised to defend the state of Israel at all costs but their lives are changed when they witness the mistreatment of Palestinians with their own eyes.

Their stories reveal a generational divide in the American Jewish community as more young Jews question the narratives their synagogues and Hebrew school teachers gave them as children.

‘Israelism’ features interviews with academics and political activists, including Noam Chomsky, Cornel West, Lara Friedman and a former director of the Anti-Defamation League, Abe Foxman. The film was initially released in February 2023, generating significant debate across American campuses.