A Muslim Pearl in a Western Shell: Recent Episodes
Khadija Bazzi Hamdar
This show was meant to educate the muslim and non-muslim folk about the true Islamic faith, not what ISIS and BOKO Haram are doing.
Happy Ramadan everyone! To those that are aware of Ramadan then we welcome this beautiful month with open hearts. To those that don't know what Ramadan is, don't worry, you have come to the right place! Welcome to our Ramadan series totally dedicated to this blessed month. Listen up this weeks episode to get your Ramadan intro on!
Does the average American or westerner for that matter believe that muslim women have no rights or privileges? Are ISIS women the true version of what an ideal muslim women should look like or represent? In our day and age, the exploitation of women bodies and rights is clearly confused with the cultural practices of others. In this episode, Khadija really delves deep into this concept of "oppressed muslim women" and gives a lot of personal experience in this topic. Be sure to listen and give your opinion on our Facebook page!
For everyone outraged by ISIS, one thing that makes many people wonder is the act of bombing houses of faith like churches, synagogues, monasteries, and mosques. ISIS has bombed each of these places on an international level and as intellectual human beings, we must question if the religion preaches this or if it's another ISIS ploy. In this episode, Khadija delves into the Quran to see what the word of God is on this exact idea. Tune in to find it out!
Charity: something known to every intellectual human being as a "good deed". But is this good deed solely related to a specific faith or community? Can we promote charity and give to those that are not the same religion as myself? Khadija discusses Islam's view on giving, especially to those that aren't muslims. Do you think you know the answer? Check out this weeks episode to find out!
Prophet Muhammad. To many non-muslims, he is known as a pedophile, a mass-murderer, and even a promoter of hate towards those of other religions. But is this just propaganda? How can the Prophet and founder of the worlds fastest growing religion be such a psycho? In this episode, Khadija delves into the top five most popular misconceptions about Prophet Muhammad and how important "fact-checking" really is!
Logic and emotion seem to be at the epitome of "gender difference" discussions. In this episode, Khadija delves into the actual science behind gender differences in logic and emotion. Looking at recent studies of biological and neurological findings, Khadija discusses the truth behind the popular claim: women are emotional and thats what makes them weak, and men are logical and that makes them strong. Be sure to tune in!
More often then not, we hear that women are emotional and men are logical, and we have placed logic above emotion. But is this true? Are men not in touch with their emotions at all, or don't make any decisions based on emotion? In this weeks episode, Khadija delves into this social topic of the hierarchy of emotion and logic, and where do men specifically sit in that hierarchy. Be sure to tune in and share this episode!
When we look at the different religions of the world, we tend to look at them through a specific lens of what we deem is appropriate or acceptable. Now, in terms of race and ethnic origin, does religion deem certain "facial tones" more superior then others? In this weeks episode, Khadija delves into the concept of religious superiority in race. Be sure to listen in on this interesting topic, as well as her take on the "In the News" segment for this episode!
When critics and Islamophobes enter into a debate on the religion of Islam, the most important "fact" they have against Islam is that the Prophet Muhammad was a pedophile. They make this false claim by asserting that he married his wife Aisha when she was 9 years old. Can this be true? Can the Prophet of God and the fastest growing religion on the planet marry a 9 year old? Check out this weeks episode to find out!
Confidence. It's something we all aspire to have, since it governs many aspects of our social life. But in our day and age, confidence is currently correlated with being "skinny or thin" and how much you fit into society's standard of "beautiful". So, what do hijabies think? We walk around with nothing showing but our hands and face, so should we lack confidence in relevance to society's standard? Check out this weeks episode to find out what Khadija thinks on this matter!
Muslim. Female. Oppression. We hear about this left and right, and in honor of International Women's Day, Khadija wanted to discuss this very fact. How can a Victoria Secret model be considered "liberated" and hijabi muslim women are considered oppressed and backward? Is it because we, as hijabies, don't fit into society's acceptable standard of femininity? Tune into this weeks episode to find out!
So we all don't agree with the "Islamic State of ISIS" because it is unjust and cruel, but what does a real Islamic State look like? First off, not just anyone can start their own Islamic State thats for sure, but were there Islamic States in the past that were nothing like ISIS? Listen to this weeks episode to see Khadija's discussion for the week on this topic! Also, Nike just released its first "Pro Hijab" which is a hijab made for muslim athletes! This is definitely an episode you don't want to miss!
It's been a week since we were at Podfest 2017 and boy was it worth it! We have dedicated this episode to the topics that Khadija was asked about in regards to Islam since she was the only hijabi present at the conference! We continue on with our regular segments and Khadija shares with you an interesting article she came across on CNN titled "The triple-divorce". Be sure to listen to this episode to find out just how rediculous (and stupid) some muslims can be when it comes to divorcing their wives.
For many islamophobes or anti-islam activists, the first Quranic Verse they throw at you during a debate is : "Kill the disbelievers wherever you find them". They use this, first and foremost to point fingers as to why Islam is a so called "barbaric" religion. So does this verse have a context or does it apply to everyone who does not adhere to the islamic faith? In today's episode, Khadija speaks about this verse and other verses in the Quran that discuss killing in Islam, and the context these verse came down in. Be sure to listen todays episode and share it if you find it interesting!
When we think about the acts of ISIS, do we relate these acts to Prophet Muhamad? Do we believe that he promoted murder and acts of violence? In this episode, Khadija answers the most fundamental question: did Muhammad set the stage for ISIS's disgusting acts of violence and, how does this relate to what is happening in our country today? Listen to this weeks episode to find out the truth!
Happy Valentines Day everyone! Yes, we muslims do celebrate Valentines Day and what a better time to discuss the concept of love in Islam. Many people believe Islam is a religion of hate and intolerance, and with Quranic Verses and Authentic Traditions, I disprove that theory in todays episode. I challenge you to listen to this episode with an open mind, that the religion of Islam is a promoter of good actions and love for all! Enjoy!
Have you heard the oh so popular phrase "Islam is barbaric because it allows forced/arranged marriages"? We muslims have, and we are aware that it's a touchy subject for many. In this episode, Khadija delves into the true reality of "arranged marriages" and seeks to uncover the truth. Tune into this weeks episode to find out what Islam truly believes and encourages its followers to practice. Khadija also introduces a new "Multimedia Focus" Segment where she discusses a movie called "Imperium" and it's attempt to expose the very much alive and active KKK movement in America.
In this episode, Khadija discusses the concept of "jihad", a word known to many as holy war. Jihad is a concept thrown around by many fundamentalists and extremists, trying to manipulate Islamic theology to suit their murderous desires. But is this really the case, or is there more that meets the eye? Khadija delves into this topic for todays episode and discusses the second and more important meaning of Jihad. Tune in to figure it out!
Preggo eggo...just a joke there for all of you muslimpearl family. "Preggo eggo obviously means pregnancy, so what does pregnancy and God have in common? Khadija delves into her personal journey with her pregnancy so far, and how it was a big 'wake up call' for her belief in the One Lord. Listen in for this interesting episode and be sure to share your comments and concerns since this is a topic that many people differ on. Listen up folks!
This episode does have a lengthy title but it speaks for itself: Khadija promotes Islam is a religion of tolerance and peace, so why does the Quran say "kill the disbelievers wherever you find them"? Good question, and I guarantee you this is an episode that would answer the most popular question on the minds of Americans today. Also in this episode, Khadija decided to speak about muslim Americans that promote positive social change to our everyday lives. This is definitely an episode worth listening to.
Happy new year muslim pearl family and welcome to a fresh new start! Khadija delves right into heated topics for this year starting with this: Does Islam favor men over women? Many of you may have heard that women do not have a say in Islam and that they are forced to do things they may not want to do. Does Islam promote this? Are women the inferior sex? Listen to Khadija's first episode of the year and kickstart your day with this great talk!
In the final episode of this year, Khadija delves into the whole purpose of discussing Jesus and Christmas in the religion of Islam. To many, it may have been educational and those that only want to separate instead of unite, it was simply a bunch of pointless words. So what's the take home? Listen to our final episode of 2016 and get ready for brand new shows and topics in 2017! Enjoy your holidays and Happy New Year!
So, if your muslim, your role model can't be the Virgin Mary? Whoever said that? In this weeks episode, Khadija discusses the position of the Virgin Mary and her respect as well as importance in the religion of Islam. As she is considered one of the top four most influential role models of all time, the Virgin Mary is without a doubt, a very pillar in Islamic influence. Tune in for this week's episode and be sure to check out the "All-Things Christmas" Theme for the month of December! Enjoy.
Continuing on our holiday December specials, Khadija continues to discuss the concept of Jesus Christ in Islam and Christianity. For this week. she is discussing the differences between the way Islam views Jesus as opposed to Christianity. Be sure to listen in! Also tune in for this weeks "In the News" segment for an incident that took place in New York with an NYPD muslim Cop!
It's December...and that means its time for red & green decorations, delicious holiday baking, and spreading the message of Jesus Christ! Not expecting that from a muslim right? Khadija starts the first of this months topic: Jesus and Islam. She delves into the role of Jesus to the muslims and even discusses specific verses that mention his merits and miracles. This is truly an episode you would not want to miss, so tune in! Tis the season muslimpearl family, Tis the season!
Gender. Appropriate. Toys. It may be a big deal and it may not. Khadija takes a look into what constitutes a toy being for "boys vs. girls". Now this topic isn't necessarily related to Islam; however, Khadija delves into topics culture or society based, and this is an excellent episode to do so. She also discusses the first Somalian-Muslim American to be elected as a lawmaker during this years heated election! Listen in for some awesome details!
Happy Turkey Day Muslim Pearl Family! In this episode, Khadija discusses a few key topics after not posting an episode the past few weeks. She discusses her take on the new president-elect as well as the Thanksgiving holiday many Americans are celebrating this week. Be sure to listen to this weeks episode for an inside scoop on whats going on with the muslims in America, and how we should continue focusing on what brings us together, and not what separates us as Americans. Enjoy!
Khadija delves into many topics in this episode, returning back to our weekly segmented episodes! She discusses the gender dispositions towards emotion and logic, the newest HIJABI featured in a U.S. fitness magazine, and her favorite verse from the Holy Quran. Listen to this brief yet very informative episode on these vast topics and please be sure to let us know what you think! Enjoy!
Jesus and Muslims...most people would say that has no basis in Islam, and that is incorrect! Jesus has a lofty positive in Islam, as well as his mother the Virgin Mary. Listen to this week's episode to learn more about the commonalities between the way Christians and Muslims view Jesus, and how we consider him a great and honourable Prophet of God. . This week also marks the 10th of Muharram, or Ashura, were muslims around the world commemorate the death of the grandson of the Prophet, Imam Hussain, and the great sacrifice and legacy he left behind. Listen in for one awesome episode!
In this episode, Khadija discusses the very controversial topic of Noor Tagouri, and her recent interview in "Playboy". This interview has sparked much uproar in the muslim and non-muslim world with many articles and journal published within the past week. Khadija gives her opinion on Tagouri's stance. Khadija also discusses halal food and kosher food and the similarities between the two. Two very interesting topics discussed this episode; feel free to share!
In this episode, Khadija delves into what is culture and what is religion. More often then not, the religion of Islam is often lost in cultural traditions and habits. Khadija speaks about how the Lebanese culture was often dominated by its own tribal beliefs than hard core Islamic principles, and how that relates to her personal upbringing. Do you think Islam has barbaric and illogical claims because that is what cnn and fox news show you, then listen to this episode to see what Khadija has to say about that!
Ever met a muslim women, extended your hand to shake hers, and she rejects you saying "I don't shake"? Or have you met a muslim women that does shake? Khadija delves into the reason why she does not shake hands and the religious reason for it! She also delves into a recent ex-terrorist who was hired by the FBI! Take a listen!
In this special episode, Khadija delves into many different topics including the Eid celebration taking place today! She also discussed the first American-Muslim judge that was chosen by president Obama as well as the meaning of the term "Allah Akbar".
Controversial topic alert! Have you heard the stereotype that muslim women are slaves to men? Well Khadija has, one too many times! In this extensive episode, Khadija looks into a few stereotypes of the so called "slavery and control" of muslim women by their male counterparts...with an added twist of entertainment. Curious to learn about this topic, then be sure to click the download button and listen away!
Khadija is back to her usual segmented show and this is definitely one you do not want to miss! Khadija delves into a little bit more about herself, allowing her personality to infiltrate the shows atmosphere, as well as allowing the listeners to be more familiar with her! Her segmented topics include racism from a current Muslim's perspective, a critical look at violence in America, as well as questions sent from our listeners! Enjoy!
In this continuation of our Special guest episode with Marcela Patel, we discuss cultural tolerance between the muslim and christian faith. Khadija and Marcela also delve into the world of humanitarianism and cultural understanding, and how the world needs to solve its "us and them" mentality. Enjoy!
In this special two part episode, Khadija (Muslim) and Marcela (Catholic) discuss Christianity and Islam in terms of their conservative upbringing, their shared religious beliefs, and their cultural differences as well as similarities! Marcela discusses her take on racial and ethnic diversity, as well as her experience when Khadija went to mass with her for the first time! A very interesting discussion from a different perspective of culture and faith then the usual Muslim Pearl layout.
Guest Speaker: Marcela Cardenas-Patel
Todays episode discusses the most heated discussions Khadija faced on her social media. Even though the threads were very basic and opinionated, they sparked many derogatory comments and somewhat rude remarks on her page. This was the first time Khadija received this form of backlash, so she decides to reminecse on these heated thread.
In this episode, Khadija delves into the concept of equality. Is this a concept non existent in ISLAM? Many will argue yes, that Islam believes men are more superior then women. During this episode, Khadija gives extensive proof after proof from the Quran that Islam is an equalitarian religion, as well as a religion of equity across races, ethnicity, and genders.
In this episode, Khadija veers a little off track with her usual show segments with a poem and a moment of silence for all of the befallen. She delves into her thoughts on the foot soldiers of ISIS and how they should be referred to by their psychological ailment; psychopaths.
In this episode, Khadija touches on some heated topics in the media. She discusses her opinion on politics, the media's stereotyping of Muslims, and oppression at the International level. She also touches base on the unification of muslims and non-muslims alike all found in one truly thoughtful quote.
First full length episode of A Muslim Pearl in a Western Shell discusses the basics hijab and the covering of women in society, Khadija's first experience in a church mass, and her take on Kim Kardashians road to fame.
In this episode, Khadija discusses her experience with those who do not understand the hijab and its value, as well as why she identifies with this piece of clothe on her head. She also dives into her first face to face encounter with a stranger on Islam, politics, and ladies that wear a hijab on airplanes.
In this episode, Khadija discusses her take on the Orlando shootings massacre and how, we the muslims, will stand with the oppressed against oppressors. She also discusses the concepts of loving your neighbor in all three Abrahamic religions and our commonalities between them.