Walking red flags - Shaykh Hamza Yusuf

 

Very beneficial lecture by the Sheikh.

The Importance of Justice in Islam: A Core Pillar of Faith

 

Justice, or ‘adl in Arabic, is one of the most significant values in Islam. It is deeply embedded in the Qur'an, the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and Islamic teachings as a whole. Islam regards justice as essential not only for individual well-being but also for the harmony and stability of societies. It is a principle that governs every aspect of life—personal conduct, governance, economic dealings, and relationships between nations.

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of justice in Islam, its foundation in Islamic teachings, and how it is applied in various aspects of life.

1. Justice as a Divine Command
Justice is a central command in Islam, mandated by Allah Himself. In the Qur’an, Allah instructs Muslims to uphold justice even when it may be against their own interests or the interests of their families:

"O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both."
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:135)

This verse emphasizes that justice in Islam transcends personal gain, family loyalty, or social status. It is a divine directive that applies universally, ensuring fairness and equity for all.

2. Justice as a Reflection of Faith
In Islam, justice is seen not just as a legal or social obligation but as an integral aspect of faith. To act justly is to follow the path that Allah has prescribed. It is through justice that a person demonstrates their obedience to Allah, and any deviation from justice is considered a form of disobedience.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also emphasized the importance of justice in his teachings. He said:

"The just will be seated upon pulpits of light near Allah. Those are the ones who practiced justice in their rulings, with their families, and in all that they did."
(Sahih Muslim)

Here, the Prophet highlights the high status of those who implement justice in every aspect of their lives, showing that justice is a reflection of righteousness and piety.

3. Justice in Social and Economic Life
Islamic principles of justice extend to all social and economic dealings. Muslims are expected to deal with others fairly, whether in matters of trade, inheritance, or family life. Islam prohibits exploitation, fraud, and corruption, ensuring that every individual receives their due rights.

For instance, in economic transactions, the Qur'an stresses fairness and transparency:

"Give full measure and do not be of those who cause loss. And weigh with an even balance and do not deprive people of their due."
(Surah Ash-Shu'ara, 26:181-183)

These teachings foster trust, honesty, and fairness in all economic dealings, safeguarding the rights of all parties involved. Justice is seen as a protection against the greed and selfishness that can destroy social harmony.

4. Justice in Governance and Leadership
Islamic governance is built on the foundation of justice. The rulers and leaders in an Islamic state are required to implement justice for all, without favoring any particular group, tribe, or individual. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his successors, the rightly-guided caliphs, are remembered for their just governance.

One of the most famous examples is that of Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab, who exemplified justice during his leadership. His impartiality, concern for the oppressed, and equitable distribution of wealth made him a model of just governance in Islamic history.

Leaders in Islam are reminded of their accountability before Allah. On the Day of Judgment, rulers who ruled with justice will be given a special status:

"Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice."
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:58)

This verse underscores that the responsibility to uphold justice is not just an earthly duty, but one that will be questioned in the hereafter.

5. Justice in Interfaith Relations
Islam promotes justice even towards those of different faiths. The Qur’an commands Muslims to treat others fairly, regardless of their religious beliefs:

"Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly."
(Surah Al-Mumtahanah, 60:8)

This principle shows that justice in Islam is not confined to intra-Muslim relations but extends to all human beings. Justice is universal, applying to every interaction, including with non-Muslims. This guidance reflects the inclusiveness and fairness Islam demands from its followers.

6. Justice in the Hereafter
In Islam, justice is also a key concept in the afterlife. Muslims believe that on the Day of Judgment, Allah will establish perfect justice. Every human being will be held accountable for their deeds, and no one will be wronged, even by an atom's weight:

"And We place the scales of justice for the Day of Resurrection, so no soul will be treated unjustly at all."
(Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:47)

This ultimate accountability reminds Muslims that justice is not just a worldly matter but also a spiritual one. Upholding justice in this life is closely linked to one's fate in the afterlife.
 

The Eternal Value of Justice in Islam
Justice is one of the most important values in Islam, permeating every aspect of life—social, economic, political, and spiritual. It is both a divine command and a moral obligation for every Muslim. Islam teaches that justice should not be swayed by emotions, personal gain, or social pressures; rather, it should be pursued with sincerity, fairness, and integrity.

By establishing justice, individuals and societies can create harmony, protect the rights of the vulnerable, and build a world that reflects the divine principles laid down by Allah. Injustice, on the other hand, leads to corruption, division, and suffering. For Muslims, the pursuit of justice is not just a noble endeavor; it is a religious duty that brings them closer to Allah and secures their ultimate success in the hereafter.

May we all strive to uphold justice in our lives and reflect the true values of Islam in everything we do.

How Gaza exposed the US empire ‘like never before’ | Matt Kennard

 

They're not ready for the storm that's happening... The average Joe has Twitter and is seeing what's going on [in Gaza].’

On Real Talk, we sat down with investigative journalist Matt Kennard to discuss his latest book, The Racket.

In this conversation, Kennard dives deep into US hegemony and foreign policy, especially in light of Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza. He also unpacks the broader implications of US imperialism, the upcoming US elections, and why he believes Gaza has "exposed the US empire like never before".

Real Talk is a Middle East Eye interview show hosted by Mohamed Hashem that delves into the stories and experiences of a diverse range of guests.

People who use issues of Ummah for their benefit - Shaykh Hamza Yusuf

 

In this insightful lecture, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf discusses the life and legacy of Imam Al-Ghazali. Learn how his teachings, wisdom, and critiques shaped Islamic thought, including his views on Sufism, logic, and the spiritual dimensions of Islam. A timeless scholar with a profound impact on our tradition.

Ibn Arabi: The Mystic Who Bridged Worlds of Philosophy, Sufism, and Spirituality

Ibn Arabi, also known as Muhyiddin Ibn al-Arabi (1165–1240), is one of the most influential figures in Islamic mysticism and spiritual philosophy. Born in Murcia, Spain, during the Golden Age of Andalusian Islam, his profound thoughts have had a lasting impact on the Islamic world and beyond. Revered by many as Shaykh al-Akbar (the Greatest Master), Ibn Arabi's works delve deeply into the nature of existence, God, and human potential, making him a towering figure in Islamic intellectual and spiritual traditions.

Early Life and Education
Born into a well-established family in al-Andalus, Ibn Arabi had access to some of the finest scholars of his time. His early years were marked by traditional Islamic education, which included studies in Quran, Hadith, jurisprudence, and other Islamic sciences. However, his life took a significant turn when he encountered Sufi masters who would ignite his journey into the realms of mysticism.

One key moment was his meeting with the famous philosopher Averroes (Ibn Rushd). This encounter highlighted the contrast between the rationalist school of thought and the mystical, intuitive path Ibn Arabi would embrace. Ibn Arabi's spiritual journey was fueled by profound experiences of divine presence and revelations, setting him apart as a seeker of direct knowledge of God through mystical means rather than through pure reason or scholastic theology.

The Unity of Being (Wahdat al-Wujud)
Perhaps the most well-known and debated concept associated with Ibn Arabi is Wahdat al-Wujud, often translated as "the Unity of Being." While Ibn Arabi himself did not coin this term, it reflects his philosophical and metaphysical view that all existence is ultimately one, and everything in the universe is a manifestation of the Divine. In his view, God is the only true reality, and the world and all beings are reflections or expressions of God’s existence.

This notion radically shifts how one perceives creation. The world is not separate from God, but rather a dynamic and continuous unfolding of the Divine. Ibn Arabi explains this using the metaphor of mirrors, where the universe and all beings are reflections of God's infinite attributes. Each individual reflects a unique aspect of the Divine, and through self-awareness and spiritual refinement, a person can realize their deeper connection to God.

The Perfect Man (al-Insan al-Kamil)
Central to Ibn Arabi's teachings is the concept of the Perfect Man (al-Insan al-Kamil). He believed that the ultimate purpose of human life is to attain perfection by embodying the divine attributes in one’s character and being. The Perfect Man is a person who has realized the full potential of their existence by aligning their soul with God’s will and becoming a mirror of divine qualities such as mercy, justice, and wisdom.

In this way, Ibn Arabi viewed Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the archetype of the Perfect Man. Muhammad was the most complete manifestation of the divine attributes, making him the highest example for believers to emulate. Ibn Arabi’s interpretation of the Perfect Man is a call for spiritual and moral excellence, encouraging individuals to strive for self-awareness, ethical conduct, and closeness to God.

The Bezels of Wisdom (Fusus al-Hikam)
One of Ibn Arabi's most famous works is Fusus al-Hikam (The Bezels of Wisdom), which is considered a masterpiece of mystical philosophy. In this book, Ibn Arabi discusses the wisdom of different prophets, drawing from their stories in the Quran to illustrate various aspects of the human journey toward God. Each prophet represents a particular quality or manifestation of divine wisdom, and through their lives, Ibn Arabi explains how believers can realize these attributes within themselves.

The work is a deep, allegorical exploration of the human soul's journey to God, and its complexity has been the subject of extensive commentary by scholars for centuries. The Fusus serves as a spiritual guide for those seeking to understand the deeper meanings of divine wisdom and the nature of the relationship between God and humanity.

The Meccan Revelations (Al-Futuhat al-Makkiyya)
Another monumental work by Ibn Arabi is Al-Futuhat al-Makkiyya (The Meccan Revelations), a vast and comprehensive text that spans several volumes. It is a mixture of autobiography, philosophical discourse, mystical insight, and spiritual instruction. In this work, Ibn Arabi covers a wide array of topics, including cosmology, theology, metaphysics, and spiritual psychology.

What makes the Futuhat especially unique is Ibn Arabi’s attempt to present a cohesive system of knowledge that integrates all aspects of Islamic sciences with spiritual insights. It serves as a record of his mystical experiences, many of which he claims were revealed to him during his time in Mecca, where the work takes its name from. The Futuhat remains a cornerstone text for those studying Sufism and Islamic mysticism.

Controversy and Legacy
Ibn Arabi’s ideas, particularly his concept of Wahdat al-Wujud, have sparked debate among scholars and theologians. While many view him as a saint and a spiritual genius, others have criticized him, accusing his views of bordering on pantheism (the belief that God is synonymous with the universe). This critique has led to a divided reception of his works, particularly among more orthodox Islamic scholars.

Despite the controversy, Ibn Arabi’s influence is undeniable. His thoughts and teachings have shaped the development of Sufism, particularly in regions such as Turkey, Persia, and the Indian subcontinent. Many Sufi orders, including the Naqshbandi and Shadhili orders, hold his works in high regard, and his ideas continue to inspire spiritual seekers today.

Ibn Arabi’s Enduring Relevance
In today’s world, Ibn Arabi’s teachings hold profound relevance. His philosophy of unity, tolerance, and spiritual self-realization speaks to a modern audience grappling with questions of identity, purpose, and the nature of existence. His emphasis on love as the path to God and his view that all of creation is an expression of divine beauty resonates with those seeking spiritual depth and a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of all life.

Ibn Arabi’s works encourage introspection and self-awareness, teaching that each individual carries within themselves a reflection of the divine. His call to realize the “Perfect Man” is not just a lofty spiritual goal, but a reminder that by cultivating compassion, wisdom, and love, we can come closer to embodying our true, divine potential.

Ibn Arabi remains one of the most influential mystics and philosophers in Islamic history. His writings continue to inspire spiritual seekers and scholars, offering profound insights into the nature of God, existence, and the human soul. Though his works are often challenging and complex, they offer a timeless message: that the path to understanding God lies in understanding ourselves, and that every human being has the potential to reflect the divine. Through his teachings, Ibn Arabi invites us to explore the deeper mysteries of existence and to embrace the unity that lies at the heart of all creation.

93 Years Ago: Omar al-Mukhtar Executed | Shaykh Dr Yasir Qadhi

 

The Evils of Backbiting in Islam: A Grave Sin with Far-Reaching Consequences

 

Backbiting, or ghibah in Arabic, is a serious moral and spiritual offense in Islam. It is more than just a breach of trust or a failure in social conduct; it is a sin that can damage relationships, tarnish reputations, and harm the soul. In Islam, backbiting is condemned in the strongest terms, and its harmful effects ripple through personal lives, communities, and the individual's relationship with Allah.

What is Backbiting?
Backbiting refers to speaking ill about someone behind their back, sharing information or criticisms they would not want disclosed. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) defined backbiting clearly when he said:

"Do you know what backbiting is?" They said, "Allah and His Messenger know best." He said, "It is to mention something about your brother that he would dislike." It was said, "What if what I say about my brother is true?" He said, "If what you say is true, you have backbitten him; and if it is not true, you have slandered him." (Sahih Muslim)

This Hadith underscores the gravity of backbiting, even if what is said is accurate. The fact that the person would feel hurt by the words is enough to make it sinful. Moreover, slander, which involves falsehood, is an even graver offense, equating to spreading lies that damage someone’s dignity and honor.

The Quran’s Clear Condemnation
The Quran explicitly condemns backbiting, comparing it to one of the most repulsive actions a person could commit. Allah says in the Quran:

"O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful." (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:12)

This verse emphasizes the ugliness of backbiting by likening it to cannibalism, illustrating the repulsion a Muslim should feel towards this act. The metaphor of eating the flesh of a dead brother is striking, symbolizing how backbiting dehumanizes both the speaker and the victim.

The Spiritual Consequences
Backbiting not only damages interpersonal relationships, but it also harms one’s own spiritual standing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against the severity of this sin. In one narration, he said:

"Whoever protects the honor of his brother in his absence, Allah will protect his face from the Fire on the Day of Resurrection." (Tirmidhi)

This Hadith indicates the reward for those who avoid backbiting and, by extension, the punishment for those who engage in it. The act of backbiting strips away the spiritual protection a person has, leading to punishment in the Hereafter. Those who indulge in it not only risk the displeasure of Allah but also jeopardize their own salvation.

The Social Impact
Backbiting has a corrosive effect on society, breeding distrust and enmity. It sows discord among people, destroys friendships, and weakens the bonds of community. When backbiting becomes widespread, it cultivates an environment where everyone lives in fear of their reputation being attacked, creating a toxic atmosphere.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) stressed the importance of maintaining brotherhood and unity. He said:

"The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the Muslims are safe." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Thus, a Muslim's words should never cause harm to another person. Respecting the honor of fellow believers is central to Islamic ethics. Backbiting disrupts this ethical framework, leading to widespread mistrust and division.

How to Avoid Backbiting
It can sometimes be difficult to recognize when a conversation is crossing into backbiting, especially if the remarks seem harmless or justified. However, Muslims are encouraged to be vigilant in guarding their tongues and hearts. Here are a few practical steps to avoid falling into the trap of backbiting:

Mindfulness of Allah (Taqwa): Always remember that Allah is watching, and He hears every word spoken. Consciousness of Allah can help one restrain their tongue.

Change the Topic: If you find yourself or others engaging in backbiting, try to change the subject or gently remind everyone of the gravity of the sin.

Speak Positively or Remain Silent: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or remain silent." (Sahih al-Bukhari). Silence is preferable to words that harm.

Make Du'a for the Person: If you feel compelled to speak negatively about someone, stop yourself and instead make a supplication (du'a) for them. This will soften your heart and redirect your thoughts.

Repentance and Forgiveness
For those who have engaged in backbiting, it is crucial to seek Allah’s forgiveness and rectify the harm caused. Islam emphasizes both repentance (tawbah) and restitution in relationships. The victim of backbiting must be approached, and their forgiveness should be sought sincerely. In doing so, the person acknowledges their mistake and attempts to heal the wound they have inflicted.

Islam, in its mercy, always leaves the door open for those who sincerely seek to correct their actions. Allah is the Most Forgiving, and those who repent with sincerity can hope for His mercy.


Backbiting is more than a social misstep; it is a sin with profound spiritual, moral, and social consequences. Islam teaches Muslims to guard their tongues and honor the dignity of others. By avoiding backbiting, individuals not only protect their own souls but also contribute to a harmonious, trusting, and compassionate society. The best path is one of kindness, where Muslims are conscious of their words and work to foster love and unity within their communities.

al-Hallaj: Mystic Martyr of Sufism

 

Explore the life and profound teachings of Husayn Ibn Mansur al-Hallaj, the 9th-century Sufi mystic known for his controversial declaration, “Ana al-Haqq” (I am the Truth) & the factors which led to his martyrdom. In this video, we delve into al-Hallaj’s spiritual journey, his poetry, role in Sufism, and the lasting impact of his philosophy on Islamic mysticism.

How to be Mindful in life like our Prophet ﷺ - Hamza Yusuf

 

Physical and Spiritual Benefits of Walking

Exploration of walking's benefits for both body and spirit.

Enhancing mindfulness and connection to the divine.

Prophetic Engagement in Walking

How the Best of Creation ﷺ engaged in walking with purpose and perfection.

Transforming a simple act into a deeply spiritual experience.
Prophetic Traditions and Practices

Highlighting the importance of walking through prophetic traditions.

Emulating the Prophet ﷺ's intentionality and excellence in all actions.
Practical Advice

Incorporating walking into daily routines as a form of worship and reflection.

Achieving a more balanced and spiritually enriched life through this practice.

The Evils of Oppression in Islam: A Grave Sin

 

 

 

 

Oppression, in all its forms, is deeply condemned in Islam. Whether it is the oppression of individuals, communities, or nations, the act of unjustly causing harm to others violates the very essence of Islamic teachings. In this blog post, we will explore the Islamic perspective on oppression, the severe consequences it carries, and how Muslims are encouraged to stand firmly against injustice.

Oppression in the Qur’an
The Qur’an is unequivocal in its denunciation of oppression. The term for oppression in Arabic is “ẓulm,” which can be understood as wrongdoing, injustice, or tyranny. Allah warns against the oppression of others in several verses, making it clear that such acts are despised by Him. In Surah An-Nisa, Allah states:

"Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice." (Qur’an 4:58)

This verse emphasizes that justice is a central value in Islam, and the failure to uphold it leads to oppression. Allah instructs believers to be fair and just in all their dealings, whether they involve individual relationships or larger societal responsibilities.

In another verse, Allah says:

"And do not incline toward those who do wrong, lest you be touched by the Fire, and you would not have other than Allah any protectors; then you would not be helped." (Qur’an 11:113)

This powerful warning highlights the severe consequences for those who align themselves with oppressors. Even supporting or showing leniency toward unjust actions can lead to divine punishment.

Oppression in the Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also condemned oppression and emphasized the value of justice in his teachings. One of the most profound hadiths on this subject is:

"O My servants, I have forbidden oppression for Myself and have made it forbidden among you, so do not oppress one another." (Sahih Muslim)

This hadith illustrates that Allah has prohibited oppression upon Himself, meaning He does not deal with His creation unjustly. Therefore, oppression is completely forbidden between human beings as well. It sets a clear standard that injustice in any form has no place in an Islamic society.

The Prophet also warned of the consequences of oppressing others in this world:

"Beware of oppression, for oppression will be darkness on the Day of Judgment." (Sahih Muslim)

On the Day of Judgment, those who have wronged others will be surrounded by the darkness of their actions, deprived of Allah's light and mercy. This image vividly portrays the spiritual and moral consequences of unjust behavior.

Forms of Oppression in Islam
Oppression in Islam can manifest in various ways, from individual wrongdoings to large-scale injustices. Some of the key forms include:

Personal Oppression: This includes wronging individuals through actions such as lying, cheating, backbiting, or any form of unjust treatment. It also encompasses family oppression, where someone abuses their power within the family unit.

Economic Oppression: Islam prohibits exploitation, hoarding, fraud, and interest (riba), which contribute to the oppression of the economically vulnerable. The Islamic system advocates fairness in business transactions, zakat (charity), and ensuring that wealth is distributed equitably in society.

Political Oppression: Tyranny and the abuse of power by rulers or leaders are strongly condemned in Islam. Rulers are instructed to govern with justice and care for the welfare of their people. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“The best of leaders are those whom you love and who love you, and you pray for them and they pray for you. And the worst of leaders are those whom you hate and who hate you, and you curse them and they curse you.” (Sahih Muslim)

Political oppression that involves corruption, persecution, or tyranny is against the very principles of governance in Islam.

Religious Oppression: Forcing people to adopt or abandon faith is a form of spiritual oppression, which is prohibited in Islam. The Qur’an says:

“There is no compulsion in religion.” (Qur’an 2:256)

Islam promotes the freedom of belief and opposes any form of coercion in matters of faith.

Social Oppression: This includes racism, discrimination, or marginalizing certain groups of people based on ethnicity, status, or gender. Islam teaches equality, declaring that no individual is superior to another except in righteousness. In his farewell sermon, the Prophet (PBUH) declared:

"All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have any superiority over a white; none have superiority over another except by piety and good action."

Consequences of Oppression
Oppression has far-reaching consequences, both in this world and in the hereafter. It disrupts social harmony, causes immense pain and suffering, and ultimately leads to the downfall of communities. The Qur’an warns that the destruction of past nations was often due to their widespread oppression:

"And such is the seizure of your Lord when He seizes the cities while they are committing wrong. Indeed, His seizure is painful and severe." (Qur’an 11:102)

In the afterlife, those who have oppressed others will face severe punishment. The Prophet (PBUH) taught that the oppressed will be given the opportunity to take justice from their oppressors on the Day of Judgment. Every wronged individual will be compensated, and every oppressor will be held accountable for their actions.

Standing Against Oppression
Islam not only forbids oppression but also calls upon Muslims to stand up against it wherever it occurs. The Prophet (PBUH) said:

"Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is oppressed." The companions asked, "O Messenger of Allah, we understand helping the oppressed, but how do we help the oppressor?" The Prophet replied, "By preventing him from oppressing others." (Bukhari)

This hadith demonstrates that standing against oppression involves both supporting the oppressed and stopping the oppressor from committing further injustice. Muslims are encouraged to speak out against wrongdoing, work for justice, and promote fairness in all aspects of life.

Oppression is a grave evil in Islam, condemned by both the Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It undermines justice, violates human dignity, and leads to both worldly and spiritual ruin. Muslims are commanded not only to refrain from oppression but also to actively work against it, promoting justice, compassion, and fairness in their societies. By standing against oppression, believers uphold the core values of Islam and contribute to the betterment of humanity.