Friday, 3 July 2026

The British Empire’s Downfall: From India to Palestine | William Dalrymple

 


How did Britain use its empire to accumulate enormous wealth? What role did the British play in the dispossession of the Palestinian people? How does a corporation become more powerful than a state?


 Zack Polanski is joined by historian William Dalrymple.

Thursday, 2 July 2026

7 Conquests He ﷺ Promised Before The Hour | Signs of the Hour Ep. 7 | Dr. Omar Suleiman

 


Do you believe in “impossible” victories? 

The Prophet ﷺ foretold several conquests that would occur before the emergence of the Dajjal. Many have already happened. The timing of Ghazwat al-Hind (Battle for India) is debated. And in between are other events he ﷺ predicted, such as the Mongol invasions. 

From Jerusalem to Constantinople, discover which battles and conquests are part of the signs of the Day of Judgement. 

Tuesday, 30 June 2026

Tie Your Camel: The Islamic Balance Between Trust in Allah and Personal Responsibility


Among the most frequently quoted teachings in Islamic spirituality is the Prophetic instruction:
 "Tie your camel and trust in Allah."

This concise statement captures a central principle of Islamic theology and ethics: true reliance upon Allah (tawakkul) does not negate human effort. Rather, genuine tawakkul requires a believer to employ the means Allah has provided while recognizing that all outcomes ultimately rest with Him.

Throughout the Qur'an, the Sunnah, and the writings of classical scholars, Muslims are taught to harmonize faith with action, dependence upon Allah with responsible planning, and spiritual trust with practical effort. This balance protects believers from both excessive self-reliance and passive fatalism.
 

 The Hadith of "Tie Your Camel"

The narration is reported from Anas ibn Malik (رضي الله عنه) that a man asked the Prophet ﷺ:

> "O Messenger of Allah, should I tie my camel and trust in Allah, or leave it untied and trust in Allah?"

The Prophet ﷺ replied:
 "Tie it and trust in Allah."

Reported by Imam al-Tirmidhi in his *Sunan* (2517), who classified it as a hasan (good) narration.

Though brief, this hadith establishes a foundational principle: reliance upon Allah must be accompanied by taking appropriate means (al-akhdh bil-asbab).
Tawakkul in the Qur'an

The Qur'an repeatedly commands believers to place their trust in Allah.

Allah says:
 "And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him."
 (Qur'an 65:3)

Similarly:
 "And upon Allah let the believers rely."

 (Qur'an 3:122)

And:

 "So when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely upon Him."
 (Qur'an 3:159)

Notice the sequence in this verse. Allah mentions decision-making and consultation before reliance. The believer is expected to deliberate, plan, and act, and then entrust the result to Allah.

This demonstrates that tawakkul is not abandonment of effort; rather, it follows effort.

 Taking the Means: A Qur'anic Pattern

The Qur'an consistently portrays the Prophets as taking practical measures while placing complete trust in Allah.
Prophet Nuh (Noah) عليه السلام

Although Allah could have saved Nuh directly, He commanded him:
 "Construct the Ark under Our observation and Our inspiration."
 (Qur'an 11:37)

The construction of the Ark itself was a means through which Allah's decree was fulfilled.

Prophet Musa (Moses) عليه السلام

At the Red Sea, Allah instructed Musa:
 "Strike the sea with your staff."
(Qur'an 26:63)

Allah could have parted the sea without any apparent means, yet Musa was commanded to act.

Maryam (Mary) عليها السلام

While enduring the pains of childbirth, she was instructed:
 "Shake toward yourself the trunk of the palm tree; it will drop upon you ripe, fresh dates."
 (Qur'an 19:25)

Despite her weakened state, Allah commanded an action before providing sustenance.

These examples reveal a recurring divine pattern: believers are instructed to take the means even when Allah alone creates the result.

The Prophet ﷺ as the Greatest Example of Tawakkul

No one possessed greater trust in Allah than the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. Yet no one was more diligent in taking practical measures.

During the Hijrah

When migrating from Makkah to Madinah, the Prophet ﷺ:

* Planned the route carefully.
* Chose trustworthy companions.
* Arranged for provisions.
* Concealed his movements from enemies.
* Took refuge in the Cave of Thawr.

Despite his certainty in Allah's protection, he employed every reasonable strategy available.
 

 In Battle

The Prophet ﷺ wore armor in battle, organized military ranks, appointed scouts, and developed defensive strategies.

Had tawakkul meant abandoning precaution, the Prophet ﷺ would not have adopted such measures.

Imam Ibn al-Qayyim (d. 751 AH) observed that the Prophet ﷺ was the most complete example of combining reliance upon Allah with utilizing worldly means established by Allah.
 

 Classical Scholarly Commentary

 
 Imam al-Ghazali (d. 505 AH)

In *Ihya' Ulum al-Din*, Imam al-Ghazali explains that abandoning lawful means while claiming trust in Allah reflects ignorance rather than spirituality.

He argues that Allah created causes and effects as part of His wisdom, and utilizing those causes is itself obedience to Allah.

According to al-Ghazali, genuine tawakkul resides in the heart, not in neglecting action.
 Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (d. 728 AH)

Ibn Taymiyyah wrote:
"Turning away from the means altogether is a deficiency in reason, while relying upon the means themselves is a deficiency in tawhid."

The balanced path is to employ the means while recognizing that they possess no independent power apart from Allah's permission.
Ibn al-Qayyim (d. 751 AH)

In *Madarij al-Salikin*, Ibn al-Qayyim states that abandoning the means contradicts the Sunnah and the divine order established in creation.

He explains that reliance upon Allah and taking the means are not opposites. Rather, they are complementary acts of worship.

The heart relies upon Allah, while the limbs engage in action.

 Imam al-Nawawi (d. 676 AH)

Commenting on various hadiths concerning reliance upon Allah, Imam al-Nawawi emphasized that Islam encourages seeking treatment for illness, preparing provisions for travel, and taking precautions against harm.

Such actions do not diminish tawakkul; they complete it.
Distinguishing Tawakkul from Fatalism

A common misconception is to equate tawakkul with passive resignation.

Islam rejects this notion.

The Prophet ﷺ said:  "The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, though there is good in both. Be eager for that which benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not become helpless."
Sahih Muslim (2664)

This hadith combines three elements:

1. Pursuing beneficial action.
2. Seeking Allah's assistance.
3. Rejecting helplessness and passivity.

These principles form the essence of Islamic tawakkul.

Practical Applications in Contemporary Life

 Education

Students should study diligently, seek knowledge from qualified teachers, and prepare thoroughly for examinations. Success is then entrusted to Allah.
Employment and Business

Believers are encouraged to pursue lawful earnings, develop professional skills, and plan responsibly while recognizing that provision (rizq) comes from Allah alone.

Health and Medicine

The Prophet ﷺ said:
"Seek treatment, for Allah has not created a disease except that He has created for it a cure."
 Sunan Abi Dawud (3855)

Seeking medical treatment is therefore consistent with reliance upon Allah.
 Family Life

Building strong marriages, raising children, and maintaining family ties require active effort alongside sincere supplication and trust in Allah's guidance.

Theological Balance: Means and the Creator of Means

Ahl al-Sunnah affirm two truths simultaneously:

1. Allah alone creates all outcomes.
2. Allah has commanded His servants to utilize lawful means.

The means do not independently produce results. Rather, Allah creates outcomes through means according to His wisdom.

This understanding preserves both tawhid (affirming Allah's ultimate power) and human responsibility.

The hadith "Tie your camel and trust in Allah" summarizes a profound Islamic worldview. It teaches that believers must neither depend entirely on their own efforts nor abandon effort under the guise of faith.

The Qur'an, the Sunnah, and the teachings of the classical scholars all point toward the same balanced path: employ the means that Allah has provided, fulfill your responsibilities with excellence, and place complete trust in Allah regarding the outcome.

As Ibn al-Qayyim beautifully summarized, the heart's reliance upon Allah and the body's engagement with the means are not contradictory. They are two dimensions of the same act of worship.

The believer ties the camel—not because the rope guarantees safety—but because Allah has commanded responsibility. The believer trusts in Allah—not because effort is unnecessary—but because every outcome ultimately belongs to Him alone.

Friday, 26 June 2026

Fear Allah, Not People | Dhul Hijjah 2026 | From Jerusalem to Makkah | Nouman Ali Khan

 


Allah says almost the same thing three times in this passage: turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque. The Quran doesn't repeat without purpose. In this episode, Ustadh Nouman Ali Khan explains what the repetition is pointing to in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:149–150): every action we take should carry the same direction, the same purposefulness, as turning toward the Ka’bah in prayer. 

It cannot be that we face the Qibla for salah and then turn every other direction in our dealings, our character and our commitments. Allah makes the point explicit: turn toward Me so that people will not have a case against you on the Day of Judgment. Don't be afraid of them. Be afraid of Me. 

Ustadh Nouman connects this to the story of Ibrahim (AS), for whom standing against the pressure of people meant being thrown into fire and for whom Allah completed His favor anyway. The same promise is extended to us.

Monday, 15 June 2026

Winning Hearts Through Character: Sharing Islam by Living Its Values

 


In a world filled with noise, arguments, and competing ideas, one of the most powerful ways to introduce people to Islam is not through debate, but through character. Throughout Islamic history, countless people were drawn to Islam not because they were persuaded by lengthy discussions, but because they witnessed Muslims embodying honesty, kindness, justice, humility, and compassion.

The Power of Example

Islam teaches that actions often speak louder than words. When a Muslim demonstrates integrity in business, patience in hardship, generosity toward others, and respect for people of all backgrounds, they become a living reflection of Islamic teachings. Such behavior naturally sparks curiosity and admiration.

Many people form opinions about Islam based on the Muslims they encounter. If our conduct reflects the beauty of the faith, we can help others see Islam through its true values rather than through misconceptions or stereotypes.

Following the Prophetic Model

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known for his excellent character long before he began publicly calling people to Islam. He earned the trust of his community through honesty, reliability, and compassion. His treatment of family, friends, strangers, and even opponents demonstrated the principles he preached.

People were often attracted to Islam because they saw sincerity and goodness in his actions. This teaches an important lesson: effective invitation begins with personal example.

Key Islamic Values That Inspire Others
Honesty and Trustworthiness

Being truthful and dependable builds credibility. Whether at work, school, or in daily interactions, honesty reflects a core Islamic principle and earns respect from others.

Kindness and Compassion

Simple acts of kindness can leave lasting impressions. Helping a neighbor, supporting someone in need, or showing empathy during difficult times demonstrates the mercy that Islam encourages.

Patience and Good Manners

People notice how we respond under pressure. Remaining calm, respectful, and patient during disagreements can be more influential than winning an argument.

Justice and Fairness

Treating everyone fairly, regardless of their background, beliefs, or status, reflects the Islamic commitment to justice and human dignity.

Humility

Humility allows people to connect with us authentically. Rather than presenting ourselves as morally superior, we should acknowledge our own imperfections and strive for continual growth.

Building Relationships Before Conversations

Meaningful discussions about faith often arise naturally through genuine relationships. When people trust and respect a Muslim, they are more likely to ask questions about Islam and be open to learning.

Instead of focusing on persuading others, focus on being a good friend, colleague, neighbor, or community member. Authentic relationships create opportunities for sincere dialogue.

Avoiding Pressure and Respecting Choice

Islam teaches that faith must be embraced freely and sincerely. The goal is not to pressure people but to share truth with wisdom, respect, and kindness. Every person has the right to make their own decisions regarding belief.

When discussing Islam, listening is just as important as speaking. Understanding another person's experiences and concerns helps create meaningful conversations based on mutual respect.

One of the most effective ways to introduce people to Islam is by living according to its values. A smile, an act of honesty, a moment of patience, or a gesture of compassion can communicate more about Islam than a thousand arguments.

When Muslims strive to embody the teachings of their faith, they become ambassadors of Islam through their character. By leading with kindness, integrity, and respect, we can help others see the beauty of Islam in action and open the door to meaningful understanding.

Friday, 12 June 2026

Norman Finkelstein: Palestinians Tried EVERYTHING before October 7th - A Slave's Case for Resistance

 

In this Exclusive presentation, Dr. Norman Finkelstein examines the framework through which we assess violence, resistance, and state power. His central argument: what unfolded in Gaza cannot be understood within the conventional language of "war" or "self-defense"—but requires a more precise legal and moral category.

In war, the objective is military defeat. In genocide, the civilian population is the target. Finkelstein's challenge: name a single battle in Gaza. The absence of conventional military engagement, he contends, reveals the operation's true nature.

Using the Nat Turner rebellion as historical parallel, Finkelstein forces us to confront how context is erased when power controls the narrative. Who gets to define "violence" when the conditions that produce it are systematically ignored?

The 17-year blockade, the 2006 election sanctions, the Gaza Freedom Flotilla, the Great March of Return sniper fire—all documented, all dismissed. Finkelstein traces how every diplomatic, legal, and nonviolent avenue was met with escalation, not engagement.

Citing Frederick Douglass: "The thing worse than rebellion is the thing that causes rebellion."

Israel forfeited its moral claim to self-defense long before October 7.

Thursday, 11 June 2026

Mariya al-Qibtiyya (ra): Mother of the Prophet’s ﷺ Last Child | The Firsts | Dr. Omar Suleiman

 

Mariya al-Qibtiyya (ra), “the gift of Egypt,” embraced Islam and her life with the Prophet ﷺ wholeheartedly, even as slander and jealousy tested her. 

She delivered a baby boy, Ibrahim (ra), who wouldn’t live past being a toddler. 

Find out how the Prophet ﷺ reacted and remained steadfast in his belief in Allah even during this personal tragedy.

Friday, 5 June 2026

“Abu Jahl’s Forelock Verse Led Me to the Qur’an” - American Neuroscientist Converts to Islam

 


American neuroscientist Daniel Abdul Rahman McBride was raised in a Catholic environment, but he was always searching for the truth. As a brain specialist, his research and questioning eventually led him to the Qur’an and Islam.

In this interview, Daniel explains how science and the Qur’an brought him closer to Islam.

Wednesday, 3 June 2026

Listen to Shams of Tabriz for 1 Hour Once in Your Lifetime!

 


Who was Shams Tabrizi?

Born in Tabriz around 1185, Shams was a wandering dervish, a fierce spiritual master, and a profound lover of God. He lived a life of complete detachment from worldly fame and possessions. In 1244, his divine encounter with Rumi in Konya sparked one of the most extraordinary spiritual friendships in history. Shams awakened Rumi from scholarly knowledge to the burning fire of divine love — a transformation that gave the world the timeless poetry of the Mathnawi and the whirling dervishes.

His words, preserved in the Maqalat, cut through illusions and awaken the soul to its true divine nature.

Tuesday, 2 June 2026

Prophet's ﷺ Answer That Rewrote a Man's Entire Destiny - Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad

 


The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Convey from me, even a single verse. 

At Rihlatul-Ilm, our aim is to share the pure and authentic knowledge of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah — knowledge that softens the heart, refines the soul, and reconnects the Ummah to the path of light.

Everything in the world belongs to Rabbul Izza, Jalla Jalaluhu. We are only striving, day by day, to carry and spread what benefits. Every video is a small effort in خدمة الدين, a reminder of the beauty of Islam as it was lived, preserved, and taught.

If you benefit from this content, we ask you to share it with others. Spreading good is a responsibility we all carry.

May Allah increase you in beneficial knowledge, grant you sincerity in learning, and make your efforts a means of nearness to Him. May He fill your hearts with love for Habibullah ﷺ.

Monday, 1 June 2026

The Woman Who Rejected Heaven and Hell

 

Who was Rabi'a al-Adawiyya? Explore the life, teachings, and spiritual legacy of one of history’s most influential mystics. From divine love to radical devotion, this video examines how Rabi'a transformed Islamic spirituality and continues to inspire people centuries later.

Wednesday, 13 May 2026

System of sexual torture targeting Palestinians exposed in new report, with Maha Hussaini

 


Israeli detention facilities have been transformed into “black holes” where torture, including rape, genital mutilation and other sexual violence, is carried out systematically and with impunity.

Survivors recount horrific and depraved abuse, as we learn in conversation with Maha Hussaini.

She is head of media and public engagement at Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, which has published a report documenting systematic sexual violence against Palestinian detainees in Israeli detention since October 2023. 

This is a segment from The Electronic Intifada's livestream on day 937 of the Gaza genocide. Ali Abunimah, Nora Barrows-Friedman, Jon Elmer and Asa Winstanley were joined by writer and researcher Maha Husseini.

Monday, 11 May 2026

How to get rid of Unwanted Thoughts & Waswasa – Dr. Marwa Assar

 

In this insightful session, Dr. Marwa Assar explores practical strategies for easing unwanted thoughts and managing Waswasa. Learn about the H.O.M.E. Method, a step-by-step approach designed to help calm the mind and find peace. This video provides simple yet effective tools to navigate these challenges, perfect for anyone struggling with overthinking, anxious thoughts, or religious doubts.

Thursday, 7 May 2026

Disgusting Israeli War Crime in Gaza Exposed

 


Al Jazeera report reveals how Israel used thermobaric weapons to vaporize people in Gaza. 

Monday, 4 May 2026

Aliza Kim - The Dark Reality Behind The Scenes

 

Aliza Kim, ex-model & actor, now an Islamic Life Coach, Activist & Speaker, opens up about the hidden realities of the entertainment industry and the uncomfortable situations she was forced to navigate behind the scenes. From the pressures and unspoken expectations to moments that challenged her values, these experiences pushed her on a deeper search for truth, ultimately guiding her to Islam and a complete shift in perspective.

Friday, 1 May 2026

Every Dua From Allah's Names | Dr. Omar Suleiman — Full Compilation

 


There are moments when words fail you — but you still need to speak to Allah.

This is that video.

Dr. Omar Suleiman calls upon Allah through His Beautiful Names in one continuous act of worship, drawing from Yaqeen's The Name I Need series. Each Name opens a door — to mercy, to forgiveness, to provision, to healing. Follow along, raise your hands, and let the words carry what your heart can't.
This video is meant to be returned to. When you feel distant from Allah. When you need to make dua but don't know where to start. When your heart needs to be reminded of who Allah is and how close He is to you.

Listen carefully. Reflect on the meanings. Raise your hands as the duas are recited. You may wish to listen with your family or loved ones and make supplication together.

Allah is closer to us than our jugular vein — and He loves when His servants call upon Him by His Names. May Allah accept our duas, forgive our shortcomings, and draw our hearts closer to Him.

Thursday, 30 April 2026

Israeli Woman Marries Palestinian Then Converts To Islam

 

What happens when two decades of marriage and a lifetime of tradition meet a single moment of curiosity? Lizzie joins us to discuss her life and the internal shift that drew her toward a new religious discovery.

Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Misogyny Is Haram in Islam: Reclaiming a Misunderstood Truth

 


In many conversations today, Islam is unfairly associated with the oppression of women. Cultural practices, political realities, and selective interpretations are often mistaken for religious teachings. However, a closer and more honest look at Islamic principles reveals something very different: misogyny hatred, devaluation, or unjust treatment of women is fundamentally incompatible with Islam. In fact, it is haram (forbidden).

The Spiritual Equality of Men and Women


At its core, Islam establishes the spiritual equality of all human beings, regardless of gender. The Qur’an repeatedly emphasizes that both men and women are equally accountable to God and equally capable of righteousness:

“Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women… God has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward.” (Qur’an 33:35)

This verse is not symbolic, it is explicit. Worth is not determined by gender, but by character and faith. Any ideology that diminishes women simply for being women directly contradicts this foundation.

The Prophet’s Example: A Model of Respect

The life of the Prophet Muhammad offers a practical demonstration of how women are to be treated. He uplifted women in a society where they were often treated as property. He consulted women, valued their opinions, and emphasized kindness toward them.

One of his most well-known teachings states:

“The best of you are those who are best to their women.”

This sets a clear moral standard. Misogyny, whether expressed through abuse, dismissal, or discrimination is not only discouraged but directly opposed to prophetic character.

Rights Granted, Not Given by Society

Islam introduced rights for women that were revolutionary in their historical context, rights to inheritance, education, consent in marriage, and financial independence. These are not favors granted by men; they are divinely mandated الحقوق (rights).

For example:

A woman has the right to own and manage her own wealth.
She must consent to marriage; forced marriage is invalid.
She is entitled to education and personal development.

To deny or undermine these rights is not just cultural malpractice, it is a violation of Islamic law.

Culture vs. Religion: A Crucial Distinction


Many practices that appear misogynistic in Muslim societies stem from cultural traditions, not Islamic teachings. Patriarchal customs, misinterpretations of scripture, and power structures have, at times, overshadowed the ethical clarity of Islam.

Blaming Islam for these practices is like blaming a constitution for the actions of those who violate it. The problem lies in human behavior, not divine guidance.

Misogyny as ظلم (Oppression)

In Islam, injustice (zulm) is a grave sin. Misogyny, by its very nature, is ظلم, it denies women their dignity, rights, and humanity. Whether through systemic discrimination or everyday attitudes, it stands in direct opposition to Islamic ethics.

The Qur’an repeatedly condemns oppression in all forms. There is no exception made for gender-based ظلم.

Reclaiming the Narrative

For Muslims and non-Muslims alike, it is important to separate Islam from the actions of individuals or societies that fail to uphold its teachings. Challenging misogyny is not a rejection of Islam, it is a return to it.

Muslim communities today are increasingly engaging in this process: revisiting texts, amplifying women’s voices, and confronting harmful norms. This is not innovation; it is restoration.

Conclusion

Misogyny is not just discouraged in Islam, it is incompatible with it. The faith calls for justice, compassion, and dignity for all people. Any belief or practice that undermines women contradicts these principles and must be recognized for what it is: not Islam, but a deviation from it.

Understanding this distinction is essential, not only for correcting misconceptions but for building communities that truly reflect the values Islam teaches.

Wednesday, 22 April 2026

Polish MP Waves Israeli Flag With Swastika On It In Parliament!

 


Jimmy and Americans’ Comedian Kurt Metzger discuss Polish MP Konrad Berkowicz who displayed in parliament an Israeli flag altered to feature a swastika and called Israel the "new Third Reich" for committing genocide in Gaza. Jimmy supports Berkowicz's actions, dismissing Israeli condemnations as "crying wolf" and arguing that Zionists weaponize accusations of antisemitism. 

A clip of former Israeli minister Shulamit Aloni is played, in which she admits that Israel leverages the Holocaust and accusations of antisemitism as a "trick" to justify its actions against Palestinians. The segment concludes by praising Berkowicz for speaking his genuine opinion rather than reading from an approved script.

Monday, 20 April 2026

Why The Epstein Empire Attacked Iran | Ramadan Pause & Reflect | Dr. Omar Suleiman

 

What happens when powerful elites are exposed — and war follows?

Dr. Omar Suleiman reflects on the Epstein scandal, the Iran war narrative, and a powerful ayah from Surah Al-Isra about how nations fall. The Qur’an teaches that when corruption spreads among the elites, destruction follows a pattern.

Are we witnessing that pattern today? From past empires to our present moment, exposure often comes before collapse.

Wednesday, 15 April 2026

‘Israeli Society Has Become Completely Genocidal' - B'Tselem Head Yuli Novak

 

Simone Zimmerman sits down with Yuli Novak, Executive Director of the Israeli human rights group B’Tselem, and one of the most uncompromising dissident voices within Israel. Yuli reflects on her journey from an upbringing shaped by patriotism and belief in Israeli democracy to a painful reckoning with what she now calls an apartheid regime — and with the conditions that enabled mass complicity with genocide.

Yuli revisits her years leading Breaking the Silence — a group of former Israeli soldiers that documented abuses under occupation — which became the target of an all-out smear campaign involving government officials, mainstream media, legal harassment, and infiltration by right-wing groups. Today, as head of B’Tselem, Yuli explains why the organization chose to name Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide in its report ‘Our Genocide’. 

Beyond Israelism with Simone Zimmerman is a provocative new video podcast series from Tikkun Olam Productions, the team behind the viral and award-winning 2023 film Israelism. In this series, Simone hosts bold and inspiring conversations that face, head on, the growing global reckoning with Zionism, the debates over Jewish identity, and the urgent struggle for Palestinian freedom.

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

The Islamic View on Being a Step-Parent: Mercy, Responsibility, and Reward

 


In today’s world, blended families are increasingly common. Islam, as a complete way of life, offers guidance rooted in compassion, justice, and wisdom for those who take on the role of a step-parent. Far from being a secondary or lesser role, being a step-parent in Islam can be a path to immense spiritual reward when approached with sincerity and kindness.

At the heart of Islam is the principle of rahmah (mercy). The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“Actions are judged by intentions…”

A step-parent who enters a child’s life with the intention of care, stability, and love is engaging in an act of worship. Raising or supporting a child who is not biologically yours, purely for the sake of Allah, reflects sincerity (ikhlāṣ) and compassion—qualities highly valued in Islam.

One of the most beautiful examples comes from the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself.

After marrying Umm Salama (رضي الله عنها), he became a stepfather to her children. Among them was Umar ibn Abi Salama (رضي الله عنه), who narrated:

“I was a boy under the care of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ…”

The Prophet ﷺ gently taught him manners—such as saying Bismillah before eating and eating with the right hand. This shows that step-parenting in Islam includes nurturing, teaching, and guiding with patience—not harshness or distance.

Islam emphasizes fairness and emotional sensitivity. A step-parent should avoid favoritism between biological and stepchildren. Allah commands justice in all matters, including family life.

The Prophet ﷺ consistently demonstrated kindness to children, whether related to him by blood or not. His approach teaches that emotional care—listening, playing, teaching—is just as important as providing materially.

Islam also provides clear structure:

A step-parent is not a mahram (permanently unmarriageable guardian) to a stepchild unless certain conditions are met (such as breastfeeding in infancy).
Proper boundaries of modesty (ḥijāb) should be observed when children reach maturity.
Financial responsibility for a stepchild is not obligatory, but voluntarily supporting them is highly rewarded.

These guidelines ensure both emotional warmth and moral clarity within the household.

The Reward of Caring for Children

While step-parenting is not explicitly singled out in every text, Islam strongly emphasizes caring for children—especially those in vulnerable situations.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“I and the one who cares for an orphan will be in Paradise like this,”
(and he held his fingers close together)

Although stepchildren are not necessarily orphans, the spirit of this hadith applies: caring for a child who needs love and stability is an act beloved to Allah.

Practical Lessons from the Sunnah

From the Prophet’s ﷺ example, step-parents can learn to:

  • Build trust gradually — relationships take time
  • Teach with gentleness — guidance should come with patience
  • Show consistent love — children thrive on emotional security
  • Respect the child’s background — including their biological parent
  • Challenges and Patience


Step-parenting can come with emotional complexity—loyalty conflicts, adjustment struggles, or feelings of distance. Islam acknowledges hardship and elevates patience (ṣabr).

Allah promises that those who persevere with sincerity will never lose their reward.

Being a step-parent in Islam is not just a social role—it is an opportunity to embody ihsān (excellence in character). By following the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, step-parents can transform their homes into spaces of mercy, growth, and faith.

In a world where many children face instability, choosing to love and guide a child who is not your own may be one of the most powerful acts of devotion.

Friday, 3 April 2026

The Entire History of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)

 



For over 1000 years, historians and explorers have tried to unveil the secrets of this ummah, and compile the entire history Islam into a single book. But each one of them has come and gone, and none of them has ever succeeded. 

Never has a single book told the stories of the Muslims from Brazil to China and from Japan to Russia and from Somalia to India. 

Never has a single book also included the Muslim sultanates of Italy and Greece and Vietnam, nor has a book told the stories of the Filipino sultanates that fought off the European invaders for over 300 years.

Never has a book included the fall of the ummah and the rise of colonialism, or the details of the Palestinian nakba.  Never has a book told the history of liberalism and feminism and capitalism and communism and how these ideologies became prevalent in our societies. 

And never has a book told the entire history of Bani Isra’il, including the fact that Isa (AS) once had a khalifa. Nor has a book given us a history of each muslim country, all the way up until the modern era.

This will be the first of its kind. A book that has never been made before. 

Wednesday, 1 April 2026

Daniel Klein: Why I left Judaism and The West Bank

 


Daniel Klein was born in Jerusalem in 1991 and raised in a West Bank settlement his family settled before his birth. He grew up deep inside the religious-Zionist world, moving through its institutions, youth movements, schools, yeshiva, and the IDF as a tank commander. He holds degrees in business and law from Reichman University and an MBA from Yale.

After nearly thirty years inside, he began telling the truth about what he witnessed and what he inherited. He writes about ideology, betrayal, accountability, and transformation, and the love, connection, and freedom that become possible when hiding ends.

Monday, 30 March 2026

Jewish Professor James D. Frankel's Journey to Islam

 

Professor James D. Frankel was born into a Jewish family and raised with basic religious values. From a young age, he was deeply curious and constantly questioned rabbis about God and religious practices. However, when he couldn’t find satisfying answers, he began to drift away from Judaism and started searching for truth through other religions.

He explored different beliefs, studying the Bible and developing love and respect for Jesus, but he could not accept him as God. His journey led him to Buddhism, the Upanishads, and various philosophies. Interestingly, although his close Pakistani friend had gifted him a copy of the Quran years earlier, it remained untouched on his shelf for a long time.

Everything changed when he encountered a street dawah conversation that challenged him deeply. In an attempt to prove a point, he finally opened the Quran. Instead of what he expected, he found clarity, truth, and a powerful connection with Allah. That moment marked a turning point in his life, leading him to accept Islam and begin a completely new journey of faith.

Wednesday, 25 March 2026

“Don't Come Back Home Until You're Hindu Again…” Revert Story Interview



Aamina’s parents told her, "Don’t come back home until you return to being Hindu."

Aamina embraced Islam in November 2022 after years of quietly grappling with her faith. Belief in Allah (SWT) had always been in her heart, but her family situation made it feel impossible to take that step.

As the eldest daughter, she feared her father’s anger would affect her mother and younger siblings if he ever discovered her faith.

After an unhappy marriage and the birth of her son, Aamina made the brave decision to take her shahadah. Now, her parents refuse to let her into their home.

She needs time and space to learn about her new faith while navigating separation and raising her son.

Friday, 20 March 2026

The Tawbah Allah Never Rejects | LATEST Khutbah by Dr. Omar Suleiman

 


What is the tawbah that Allah never rejects? Many of us struggle with guilt, wondering if our prayers for forgiveness are actually being heard. In today’s khutbah, Dr. Omar Suleiman explains the spiritual mechanics of Allah’s forgiveness and why admitting your sins is the key to unlocking divine mercy.

Wednesday, 18 March 2026

"I remember breaking my fast alone...thinking if this was it...

 

“I don’t think we were shown the right Islam,” she says.

She used to sneak to Madrasa (Islamic School), holding onto her faith in silence, until her family found out.

They told her to leave.

At just 17 years old, Claire had nowhere to go.

She remembers her first Ramadan clearly.
“I remember breaking my fast with almost nothing,” she said.
“Sitting there thinking… is this what it’s meant to be like?”

Today, Claire’s story is not just one of struggle, it’s one of resilience.
And there are many women like her, still breaking their fasts alone, still choosing faith despite the cost.

This Ramadan, many revert women are facing it alone, with no family to spend it with. You can be their family.

Monday, 16 March 2026

The Dua That Teaches You How to Survive Hard Times | Ust Yasmin Mogahed

 


What if the key to getting through your hardest times isn't pretending everything is okay and isn't despair either?

In this session from AlMaghrib's Ramadan webinar, Ustadha Yasmin Mogahed breaks down the dua of Prophet Ayyub ﷺ and what it teaches us about real resilience. Not toxic positivity. Not hopelessness. But the believer's formula: honest acknowledgment of your pain and unshakeable certainty that Allah will bring the light again.

She also draws on the Stockdale Paradox — a remarkable story from psychology about how people survive the unthinkable — and shows how it maps almost exactly onto what Ayyub ﷺ demonstrated thousands of years ago.

If you've been masking, suppressing, or just telling yourself you're fine when you're not — this one's for you.

Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Attack on the Prophet’s ﷺ Grave: The Secret Mission of Sultan Nuruddin Zangi

 


Two men beneath the ground. One Sultan 800 miles away. And a secret mission that saved the most sacred resting place in Islam.

In 1164 CE, the city of Medina slept in peace, unaware that a plan was in motion to shatter the heart of the Muslim world. Two men, posing as pious travelers, had spent six months digging a tunnel toward the blessed grave of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. While the community loved and trusted them for their charity and devotion, they were secretly cutting into the very foundation of the sanctuary.

Monday, 9 March 2026

How Muslims Came to India | Shaykh Yasir Qadhi

 

In this episode of his Ramadan series, Yasir Qadhi explores one of the earliest encounters between the Muslim world and the Indian subcontinent: the campaign that brought Islam to Sind.

Long before the arrival of Muslim armies, the region was home to ancient civilizations, powerful dynasties, thriving Buddhist centers, fortified river cities, and maritime trade networks that connected India to the wider world. Into this complex landscape entered a young general whose name would become inseparable from the history of the region: Muhammad ibn al-Qasim.

Under the Umayyad Caliphate, and with the backing of the powerful governor al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf, the campaign into Sind was launched with multiple objectives. It sought to address piracy along the Makran coast, secure trade routes, and expand the political authority of the Umayyad state.

The episode traces the political context of the time, from the rule of ʿAbd al-Malik and al-Walid, to the wider expansion of the Muslim world across Central Asia and beyond. It also examines the role of other figures such as Qutaybah ibn Muslim, whose campaigns opened the eastern frontiers of the Muslim world.

Beyond military history, the episode explores how early Muslim rule interacted with the existing religious communities of the region. Hindus and Buddhists were largely allowed to maintain their traditions while participating in the new political order through the system of jizya, reflecting a broader pattern of governance in early Islamic expansion.

Throughout the lecture, Shaykh Yasir reflects on the deeper lessons of history: the rise and fall of kingdoms, the role of youth in leadership, and the Qur’anic reminder that true authority belongs to Allah alone.

This episode also reflects on prophetic traditions about the conquest of India and places them within the broader historical context of the early Muslim world.

From the Makran coast to the cities of Sind, this is the story of how Islam first entered the Indian subcontinent and how those events shaped centuries of history that followed.

Tuesday, 3 March 2026

Ramadan and the Consumerisation of Islam

 

 Pls maximise your good deeds and worship not your consumption and consumerism.