Tarbiya Institute: Recent Episodes
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A collection of khutbas, lectures, and khatirahs given by Imam Azeez and the Tarbiya Imams and speakers
Often in life, we encounter moments that shake us to our very core. When shaken, some abandon their previous way of living, others hold on but become discouraged, and a rare few see it as an opportunity to grow stronger. As believers, we strive to learn from the examples of the bravest among the Sahaba, like Anas ibn An-Nadr, who remained steadfast through trials and battles. Join us as we explore the stories of our courageous Sahaba and discover ways to remain steadfast against the tests of this Dunya.
With the election season looming over our heads, the minds of many community members are filled with anxiety, as they wonder, "What should we do?" In seeking answers and easing our worries, let’s turn to the story of Prophet Musa (A) and learn how he engaged with political challenges. Let’s explore the Seerah and find out how we can support our brothers and sisters overseas. Join us as we learn from the Quran’s timeless guidance on navigating political engagement through the inspiring story of Prophet Musa (A).
Think back to your most cherished childhood memories—how often do they involve family gatherings? The warmth of welcoming guests, sharing meals, and laughing together was a source of barakah in our lives. Yet, today, this tradition of hospitality seems to be slipping away. With the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as our ultimate role model of hospitality, have we lost touch with this beautiful Sunnah? Do we still feel that excitement when the doorbell rings, eager to greet our guests? Or do we find ourselves pretending we aren’t home? Join us as we rediscover the timeless lessons of hospitality and revive this spirit taught in our lives.
God is the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth. He is the Light of the Heavens and the Earth. He is the Sustainer of all things, and every moment exists purely by His decree. His awareness of all of His creations does not restrict how deeply He knows every slave. He has gifted us with the capacity to know Him, so how can it be, that men and women of faith are going through life too often without a sense of God? Join us as we explore how to cultivate a deeper awareness of God in our lives.
How do we respond when frustration comes upon us? Do we become passive-aggressive with our spouse? Or are we short-tempered with our children when they make mistakes? In those moments of frustration, do we neglect to consider that even these challenges are blessings from Allah (SWT)? Join us as we reflect on how to recognize blessings in every circumstance in our daily lives.
As a result of the events that have played out recently in the Middle East, many are anxious about what may come next. We have witnessed a year of war crimes against the people of Palestine and now the conflict seems to have spilled over, rather than a de-escalation. We grieve for the massive loss of life but under no circumstances should we fall into Despair. Grieving is a part of the natural process but becoming hopeless is unacceptable.
We are blessed to be in the month of Rabi' al-Awwal. Though it is not a sacred month, it holds a special place in the hearts of all Muslims, as it marks the birth of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (S). But is this month significant only to Muslims? How do others perceive our Nabi (S)? What impact has he made not just on us, but on the world at large? Imagine how different our world would be if his influence hadn't reached so many. What would a world without Muhammad (S) look like? Join us this Jumaa as we explore the Impact of Prophet Muhammad (S).
Truly we are grateful to Allah SWT for blessing us with inspirational figures throughout our history, but today we talk about the greatest role model that Allah SWT ever sent, A guiding light for all of humanity, our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He was sent to perfect character, through his teachings, we are fortunate to recite the same ayahs as he recited in the Quran, even after 1400 years of revelation. Join us as we explore his character and derive lessons from his life, through his interactions with both loved ones and enemies alike.
How do we take advantage of this life, knowing it is only a temporary abode before the inevitable? Perhaps a life with purpose is the key, but that raises the question: what is our purpose, and what drives us? Is it our profession, hobbies, desires, families, or even nationalities? Will these things truly fulfill us and allow us to make the most of our lives before we face death? What kind of purpose can sustain us throughout our entire lives? We will conclude our series on the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) Five Before Five, where we will reflect on the final blessing to cherish: Your Life, before Your Death.
We wonder how the likes of Abu Bakr (R), Imam Nawawi (R), or Salahuddin Ayubi accomplished such incredible feats. They didn't live for hundreds of years, yet their legacies endure. What was their secret? Was it their unwavering commitment to making the most of every moment Allah SWT granted them? Do we dismiss our own potential by saying, "But they were special; I'm just me?" Yet, they lived with the same 24 hours a day that we also have. Part four of this series will focus on the fourth blessing to cherish: Your Free Time, Before Your Preoccupation.
Do we truly consider our wealth as a blessing from Allah (SWT) or do we behave as if we are entitled to it? Are we making the most of this gift, is the answer to completely abandon it? Will the mismanagement of our wealth be called into question on the Day of Judgment? Could our wealth lead us astray from the straight path? Part three of this series will focus on the third blessing to cherish: Your Wealth before Your Poverty.
Do we truly consider our health as a favor from Allah (SWT) or do we act as though we are entitled to it? Are we making the most of this blessing, or will our bodies testify against us on the Day of Judgment, revealing the hardships and neglect we've subjected them to?
Do you remember the days when you could climb a tree? When running a mile in under ten minutes felt effortless? You do, it was when you were young. But what changed? On the Day of Judgement, the believer will say that this life was but a fleeting moment at sunset. We will explore the lessons from the famous hadith "Five Before Five," which will focus on taking advantage of your youth before old age.
The man we'll talk about this week is a prophet who is truly loved by all, loved by Allah (SWT), Prophet Muhammad (S), Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike. In fact, our beloved Prophet Muhammad (S) took pride in the fact that he resembled this man, and that man is none other than Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.)
Among the more well-known prophets, there's one in particular that we often overlook: Prophet Salih (A.S). Sent to a people who were blessed with remarkable skills but lacked gratitude. When Allah (SWT) blesses us, do our intentions remain at the default setting of gratitude or do they falter and become corrupt?
Are we a people who are heedless in distinguishing between wants and needs? Would you ask for hardship? Do we embrace the challenges of this world to such an extent that we begin asking Allah (SWT) for hardship?
When spreading Islam becomes challenging, do we simply give up and say things will never change? When it comes to determination to spread the word of Islam, Prophet Nuh (A.S.) is perhaps the best example for us as believers, as he preached the message of Islam for 950 years.
Through our tradition, we know of only four things that Allah SWT created with His own hands. Among these creations, one stands out in particular: Adam (A.S.). Why was Adam (A.S.), the Father of Humanity, given such special attention that Allah SWT chose to create him directly rather than commanding his existence?
What is the great event that changed the history of the world, an event not only of global significance but also an event that transformed the human experience as we know it? Today in the 21st century, we still have so many lessons to extract from the Hijra, the migration of the Muslims to Madinah.
We hear stories of the companions who courageously protected Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with their lives. Do we share the same fervor and love for him? Do we stand up when his name is mentioned and his character is questioned? Or do we sit on the sidelines, waiting for someone else to hold firm the flag of Islam? Join us this Friday to learn how to be a strong believer.
In everyone's life, there are multiple circles of relationships. Some we choose and some are mandated upon us by birth or necessity. In his ultimate wisdom, Allah (SWT) made it so that the rights we owe depend on the nature of the relationship. On what basis would those rights and responsibilities be given? And how is the vitality of those relationships assessed? How can our relationships be the ships through which we sail to a safe and secure hereafter? Join us on Friday to find answers.
In the 7th year of the Prophetic Mission of Muhammad ﷺ, the Muslims finally had some respite from the constant battles for survival. Now the Ummah would have a chance to blossom under the shade of hard-earned peace. So how did Rasulullah respond when that peace was unexpectedly violated? Did he close the community off? Did he try to appease the violators? We find ourselves facing similar decisions today; we have much to learn from how God’s Messenger responded.
It's Thanksgiving season! And regardless of the historical narratives that we subscribe to, the season of thanks is on everyone's mind. For a brief moment of introspection, millions will pause the mad clock of life and count their blessings with family and friends. What does it really mean to live in the spirit of gratitude in the modern age? What is the Islamic concept of thankfulness? What is the difference between Shukr and Hamd? How do we transform our thanks into tangible acts of giving in a manner that pleases the Creator and enriches the creation?
Muhammad (pbuh) is often looked at as the most notable recipient of God's greatest honor: prohethood. And while the honor of prophecy is Allah's way of bestowing his love upon the most favored of his creation, Rasool-ul-Allah was a brilliant human being in his own right. What character traits and choices in the Prophet's life enhanced his leadership skills and augmented his social intelligence? What do we learn from that as we excel to lead better and more balanced lives in this age?
Recently, the Michigan Muslim Community rallied for the removal of books from their school libraries that exposed their elementary school children to sexual deviance and godlessness. The books were later removed. The incident represents a small victory in a detracted battle for principles and values. It still felt like a triumph from times past. The Quran in surat al-Imran celebrates this Himmah to achieve Rabbaniyah and states the three qualities of character the cultivation of which enables Muslims to achieve victories in life, big and small. What are those qualities? And what is the context of their mention in the Quran? What do we learn from that today as we fight against sexual deviance and atheism? Join us today at Jumaa to learn more.
The very first ayat of the Quran came down from on high to instruct the Ummah to read, teach, and learn. Yet, the Ummah of Iqra does not read. A general state of apathy when it comes to the pursuit of knowledge, especially its sacred variant, seems to permeate modern Muslim everywhere. Why are we falling behind when it comes to learning the knowledge of the Deen? And what can be done to reverse this trend? Join us today at Jumaa to learn more inshaa’ Allah.
We are so excited to welcome Imam Tahir Anwar for a day honoring our beloved Prophet ﷺ in the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal. Imam Tahir will be the khateeb at Tarbiya House Roseville at the first two shifts of Jumaa and will be joined by Imam Kamran Islam and Imam Sherif Azeez at our annual Mawlid event this evening at 7:00 PM.
For centuries humanity struggled to define a moral system that would resolve all of its ethical questions. Between Greek, Jewish and Christian thought, to utilitarianism, humanism and even atheism, the struggle was real and the questions remain unresolved. And then came the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) with a genius, stable and practical moral code that still inspires millions to this day. What are the general characteristics of the Muhammad moral code and why is it still relevant today?
When life ends, the deceased still leave behind an inheritance, a legacy, that passes to others in the family who may carry that legacy forward. But when the greatest human beings to ever walk the face of the earth, the prophets and messengers, leave this temporary abode, they do not leave behind wealth. Instead, they leave behind a legacy of knowledge! So the greatest that remain among us are the heirs of that treasure, the keepers of that legacy, the scholars of this Deen! The age of the prophets has ended, but the age of scholars may yet endure.
Salman al-Farissi and Abu-d-Darda, were two different people in every sense of the word. Yet, after Hijra the Prophet (PBUH) paired them together, and hundreds of others, as brothers in an unprecedented process of community building that humanity had not seen before or after. The community that was engendered came to inspire the world and still does. What are the qualifications of this brotherhood building? What are the qualities of a healthy community? How can we today strive to preserve the stability of our community and ensure its thriving long term? Join us today to learn more inshaa’ Allah.
Honoring one of the most special relationships in our Deen - we are highlighting the month of Safar, the month in which Rasulullah ﷺ and Khadija (r) were married! In line with our annual theme of resilience, every Friday this month we will focus on different roles within the Muslim Family. In a world of failing marriages and broken families, we are grateful for the guidance of Islam. Today, we talk about the role of a husband.
The month of Safar is perhaps one of the most overlooked months of the entire Islamic Calendar. Yet, it is the month in which Rasulullah ﷺ and Khadija (r) were married! Couples love to celebrate their own wedding anniversaries, should we not at least commemorate the marriage of our beloved Prophet to our beloved mother of the believers? That is why we have decided to dedicate this month of Safar in this year of resilience as the Month of the Muslim Family. In a world of failing marriages and broken families, we are grateful for the guidance of Islam. Today we will focus on the role of wives.
People sometimes give themselves the liberty to complain about God’s decree. They question why they are being tested. They rage against the obstacles in their lives. They allow themselves to misbehave and act destructively, all because they are angry at the world that God has created. But did any of them stop and ask themselves: is there something I have done to create such distance between me and my Lord? Is it possible that my sins have accumulated so much that I have built with their walls and now I am trapped inside? I have flailed my arms and thrown many fits…but when will I surrender?
Our Summer of Heroes comes to an end. We celebrated some of the best men and women that walked this earth. With our hero today, the series finishes strong. A leader, a faqih, a reformer and a reviver of Islam, Abdul-Qadir al-Jilani shined upon the world with his knowledge and became a beacon of an orthodox form of Tasawuf that enlightened millions of Muslims and continues to do so today. Join us today at Jumaa to learn more about this incredible hero.
Conventional wisdom might suggest that faster is better. Speed is a defining quality of the way many people seek to live their lives. We want faster cars, faster computers, faster solutions, and faster information! But the mad rush to share content faster and faster has left behind one of the most important ethics of a healthy community: verification! In a world where most think that the more important a claim is less likely we are to verify it, what can we learn from a hero who brought to life the sunnah of verifying claims?
Our Deen, Islam, is complete and whole and we adhere to this way of life with so much pride and honor. But then there are some who act with a dangerous concoction of zealotry, ignorance and a lack of wisdom that start’s to exclude other Muslims. The vicious cycle of sectarianism begins and not even a mere hint of difference is tolerated. As we stand at the cusp of the new Hijri year, we seek to heal what unnecessarily divides us. Join us today to be inspired by a legendary descendant of Rasulullah, an immigrant in a new land that was newly blessed with Islam, a true healer of sectarianism.
The life of this world is so short in comparison to all that needs to be done! Most people feel this pressure, whether they are raising a family or governing a nation! But if we are wiser with our time and resources, we may find that Allah (swt) is propelling our work forward, increasing our impact, opening new doors, and helping us to leave a legacy. Today’s hero had many obstacles, many time constraints, and many duties to fulfill, yet he still finds a way to dedicate himself to a lifelong mission. In today’s installment of the Summer of Heroes, we learn about the life’s work of Nizam al-Mulk at-Tusi.
Discrimination is all too common in human history, and much of it is for all the wrong reasons. People have discriminated against each other because of the color of their skin, the roots of their ancestry, the differences in their cultural practice, the disparity of their wealth, and the list goes on. The prophetic mission of Rasulullah dismantled this among the believers and provided us with the tools to eliminate it worldwide! Today’s hero takes those tools and puts them to use, teaching the rest of us how we might do the same!
In this summer of 2022, we have been on a journey of exploration to find the real heroes of our tradition and history. Today we encounter one of the most monumental figure’s of human history that most people have never heard of! She was true to her faith, honored her beloved father who raised her as a righteous woman, and crafted a concept that has transformed the world completely! She breathed new life into the masjid, and her efforts reverberated across space and time, impacting those who may never step foot inside one of God’s houses. Join us today to learn more!
Each Friday in this summer of 2022, we have been visited by one of the many great heroes of our tradition. Each one taught us something special about being a Muslim hero, a real hero! Today we learn about a figure who’s heroic effort extended even to those who would have rather seen him dead. Further still, his heroism extended far beyond his life and continues to impact us today, through people who have never even learned his name. Today’s hero teaches us what it means to be excellent and to pursue excellence in our lives. Join us to find out who this hero was!
Imagine a world in which critical thought has nearly vanished. No new ideas, no exploration, no exciting discoveries. In its place are all of the conventions that people start to take for granted. Instead of ideas, people just repeat the statements of those who came before. Instead of inquiry, people just quiz each other on what they already know. Instead of wisdom, people satisfied themselves with the lesser distractions of this world. This was the condition of the most of the world, until our hero arose! Inspired by his faith, he revived the love of intellectual discovery and became the foremost seeker of wisdom.
Does God need a defender? Ask any Muslim and they will rightly tell you: There is no might or power except from Allah himself! Allah (SWT) is not in need of anything. Yet a defender of God is still absolutely necessary…not for Allah, but for humanity. Today we explore the impact of one of Islam’s great heroes. Imam Abu Mansoor al-Maturidi, defender of God.
We need a hero. In fact, we need many. And we need them to be real, not figments of our wild imaginations. We need them to be examples of morality, not a source of entertainment. We need them to be so that we are inspired to be better, not to show us what could never be achieved. Such heroes exist in our tradition if we take a moment to look into our history rather than sedating ourselves with the screens. These real heroes must be discovered, not simply for us Muslims to identify with them, but for the greater good of all mankind! This Summer of 2022, we begin that discovery together!
Do we know the day when Allah (swt) created Adam (as), the ancestor of all humanity? Do we know the day he was brought to the garden? What about the day he and his wife were both expelled from it? Do we know the day upon which Resurrection will take place? If we knew any of these days, wouldn’t any of them have qualified to be the most important day for us to commemorate? What if I told you that we do know these days, that they were mentioned to us by Rasulullah (saw), and he even gave us clear instruction on how to honor these days, yet somehow most of the Ummah has become neglectful.
There are so many ways that we leave an impression on the world. So many deeds that we commit determine the legacy we leave behind as well as the eternity to which we can look forward. But one among them is utterly underestimated! It may bring ruin to all the good we do, or it may wash us clean of the most severe sins. This is the power of the word!
Imagine if people only helped others when they felt satisfied. Imagine of people only stood up for the truth when they felt appreciated. Imagine if people only worshiped when they felt motivated. Too often that is exactly what people do. They start out with immense enthusiasm and it seems as though they would never quit. Months later you find them wavering and filled with doubt. You find them bitter and jaded and only able to see the struggles. They’ve lost all sight of the purpose for which they set out. In the modern day, we have given this phenomenon a label: Burn Out! But can the people of Himmah ever allow themselves to burn out?
Today we continue our Ramadan Khutba series: A Divine Case for Du’aa, by exploring the third case that Allah (swt) presents for why we should supplicate to Him and Him alone. Who is it that aids people in their darkest hours? Who is the One that turned the most impossible situations into the most miraculous moments. Who the the One that provides the ultimate support to mankind? So is it true that Allah (swt) would intervene in our lives of we are asking with enough desperation, or is there something more that we can do to truly deserve His intervention?
تَوَفَّنِي مُسْلِمًا وَأَلْحِقْنِي بِالصَّالِحِينَ " [يوسف: 101] Allow me to die as one who submits, and join me with the righteous.
رَبَّنَا لَا تَجْعَلْنَا فِتْنَةً لِلْقَوْمِ الظَّالِمِينَ [يونس: 85] Our Lord! Make us not a trial for those who practice oppression.
رَبَّنَا ظَلَمْنَا أَنْفُسَنَا وَإِنْ لَمْ تَغْفِرْ لَنَا وَتَرْحَمْنَا لَنَكُونَنَّ مِنَ الْخَاسِرِينَ " [الأعراف: 23] Our Lord! We have wronged ourselves. If You do not forgive us and have mercy on us, we will certainly be lost.
رَبَّنَا وَآتِنَا مَا وَعَدْتَنَا عَلَى رُسُلِكَ وَلَا تُخْزِنَا يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ إِنَّكَ لَا تُخْلِفُ الْمِيعَادَ [آل عمران: 194]. Our Lord! Grant us what You have promised us through Your messengers and do not put us to shame on Judgment Day, for certainly You never fail in Your promise.
رَبَّنَا مَا خَلَقْتَ هَذَا بَاطِلًا سُبْحَانَكَ فَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ [آل عمران: 191].Our Lord! Not in vain have You created all of this. Glory be to You! Protect us from the torment of the Fire.
رَبَّنَا اغْفِرْ لَنَا ذُنُوبَنَا وَإِسْرَافَنَا فِي أَمْرِنَا وَثَبِّتْ أَقْدَامَنَا وَانْصُرْنَا عَلَى الْقَوْمِ الْكَافِرِينَ [آل عمران: 147].Our Lord! Forgive our sins and excesses, make our steps firm, and grant us victory over those who deny the truth.
رَبَّنَا آمَنَّا بِمَا أَنْزَلْتَ وَاتَّبَعْنَا الرَّسُولَ فَاكْتُبْنَا مَعَ الشَّاهِدِينَ [آل عمران: 53].Our Lord! We believe in Your revelations and follow the messenger, so count us among those who bear witness.
In the second installment of our Ramadan Khutba series: A Divine Case for Du’aa, we explore the second argument that Allah (swt) makes for why we need to reach out to Him regularly. Often we see in the Qur’an that God will site the features of this earth as a reminder for those who are observant. But it’s not only that Allah is reminding us of His might, he is also revealing to us the incredible functionality of this planet that we call home.
رَبِّ هَبْ لِي مِنْ لَدُنْكَ ذُرِّيَّةً طَيِّبَةً إِنَّكَ سَمِيعُ الدُّعَاءِ [آل عمران: 38]
My Lord! Grant me, by your grace, righteous offspring. You are certainly the Hearer of all prayers.
رَبَّنَا لَا تُزِغْ قُلُوبَنَا بَعْدَ إِذْ هَدَيْتَنَا وَهَبْ لَنَا مِنْ لَدُنْكَ رَحْمَةً إِنَّكَ أَنْتَ الْوَهَّابُ [آل عمران: 8]
Our Lord! Do not let our hearts deviate after you have guided us.
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ [البقرة: 201]
Our Lord! Grant us the good of this world and the Hereafter, and protect us from the torment of the Fire.
رَبَّنَا وَلَا تُحَمِّلْنَا مَا لَا طَاقَةَ لَنَا [البقرة: 286]
Our Lord! Do not burden us with what we cannot bear.
رَبَّنَا وَاجْعَلْنَا مُسْلِمَيْنِ لَكَ وَمِنْ ذُرِّيَّتِنَا أُمَّةً مُسْلِمَةً لَكَ وَأَرِنَا مَنَاسِكَنَا وَتُبْ عَلَيْنَا [البقرة: 128]
Our Lord! Make us both fully submit to You and from our descendants a nation that will submit to you. Show us our rituals, and turn to us in grace.
رَبَّنَا أَفْرِغْ عَلَيْنَا صَبْرًا وَثَبِّتْ أَقْدَامَنَا وَانْصُرْنَا عَلَى الْقَوْمِ الْكَافِرِينَ [البقرة: 250]
Our Lord! Shower us with perseverance, make our steps firm, and give us victory over those who deny the truth.
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ٱدۡعُونِیۤ أَسۡتَجِبۡ لَكُمۡ
PRAY TO ME AND I WILL ANSWER YOU [QURAN 40:60]
These words from Allah SWT echo through every masjid and in the heart of every believer. In adversity, the believers turn their faces to Allah SWT - imploring our Lord for His graceful intervention. Our supplications support us against the weight of the world and reflect the resilience in our hearts. Following the annual theme of Himmah, the Tarbiya Institute Imams plan to dedicate each night of Ramadan to address a different Qur’anic du’aa in a series titled “Invocations: Thirty Nights of Du’aa”.Each night, we will cover one du’aa - it’s meaning, scope, how it’s used, and the spiritual impact it can have. May Allah (SWT) accept our du’aa, in the month of du’aa and grant us all the most impactful Ramadan experience, ameen.
We are in absolute need of Allah (swt) every moment of every day for the entirety of our existence. Yet somehow too many people find themselves unmoved when they raise their hands to make their du’aa. Some repeat the same supplications without any thought or meaning. Others don’t make appeal to Allah at all. Too often we hear people complain that their prayers are unanswered. We cannot continue like this, especially as we near Ramadan. Join us today to learn how to bring your du’aa back to life.
With Ramadan only days away, it’s time we all prepared ourselves for a season of Barakha, Rahmah and Maghfirah! Masajid across the globe are sharing dates and planning events. Imams and teachers are are sending out special Ramadan messages, inspiring their congregations with tips and ideas to make this month special. And the most important Ramadan message of all comes to us from Allah (swt) Himself! That message is found in the ayat of surat al-Baqarah, yet often people read this section and miss the point.
There is a month between Rajab and Ramadan that is often neglected by the vast majority of mankind, yet it is our behavior in that very month which might endear us to our Lord, or distance us from him! That is the month of Sha’baan and we are right in the middle of it! We find in the community, some who are utterly neglectful of these days and others who have come up with the most unsubstantiated tales about this month. Join us today to learn the perspective of Rasulullah regarding the importance of Sha’baan.
Again and again Allah (swt) tells us that he has paved the earth for us. Again and again He draws our attention to the wonders that are to be found on this planet. Even in our original purpose he mentions to the angels that we are to be His representatives on earth. So how can we be aware of this and yet chose to spend our entire leaving the earth unexplored? Many muslims today may have little regard for travel, but the tradition is overflowing with it’s encouragement! Is it possible that in travel we strengthen our faith, elevate our character, find pure sustenance, and even see some of the greatest scholarship in Islamic history? Join us to find out!
A lesson on love with Sheikh Hassan Elwan and Ustadha Jannah Sultan with stories from the battle of Uhud. How does Allah swt, Al Wadud, Al Ghafur, love us completely and perfectly despite our major flaws and falls? What can we learn and adopt from His traits and His example? Join us for a night of ilm, inspiration and impactful lessons with Sheikh Hassan Elwan as he shares unforgettable stories and lessons on the topic of love. We invite the Natomas and Roseville community to come together for an evening of knowledge, discussion, tea and dessert.
More often than not, we get exposed to people’s life stories through a picture they posted on social media. This only heightens our expectations and unleashes us on a quest to pursue a pipe dream. In the course of such pursuits, the ability to appreciate the blessings and show gratitude for them is diminished. The Islamic tradition offers clear guidance to nurture the feelings of gratitude in the heart and resist the tendency to endlessly lust for more. How does the Quran achieve that? What is the prophetic guidance with regards to gratitude? Join us today at Jumaa to learn more.
Mu’adh bin Jabal was one of the closest companions to Prophet Muhammad (saw) and throughout the prophetic biography and the books of hadith we see that relationship come to life. One day, after years of mentorship and friendship, Rasulullah trusted Mu’adh enough to send him to Yemen, where he would be in the minority, and asked him to bring the region into the fold of Islam. He did exactly that! Minority Muslim communities around the world have so much to learn from the example that great companion.
We’ve committed ourselves in the year 2022 to become more resilient people! Yet, in this year of Himmah, one major obstacle could completely derail us. That is the obstacle of fear. When we hear the stories of our heroes from the past, sometimes it’s made to seem as though they never struggled with fear. Allah (swt) tells us otherwise in the Qur’an: every one of us will face the test of fear. So how can we remain firm on our faith and demonstrate our resolve, even when we face our greatest fears? Join us today to learn more!
Ours is a strange story. We come into this world where we do not belong. We give ourselves fully to that which we know will fade. We are hurt by this place and it’s painful realities, yet we seek it evermore. And after a lifetime of suffering and anxiety, after a lifetime of building and hoarding pieces of this dunya, we leave it all behind for the stillness of the grave. Is it possible, that we’ve been chasing the wrong thing this whole time? Is it possible that this world was never worthy of our ultimate pursuits? Perhaps this is why God Almighty has been calling us to Jannah.
Islam has been handed down for generations, pure and unadulterated. From the Prophet (PBUH), his companions, his family, the Tabi’een, and the great scholars known and unknown, to the teachers, mentors and imams across the centuries, everyone played their part in the preservation of this divine legacy. As the year of the good life comes to a beautiful end, and as we embrace the year of Himmah/Resilience, we are called upon to examine the beauty of this Deen and how it reached us, and the resilience of keeping it and protecting it. What role do we need to play to ensure that Islam remains in our families and communities, and to take hold in this land for generations to come?
The holiday season in west often comes with mixed feelings from the Muslim community. We are inundated with Christmas lights, images of ornate trees and scenes of children lining up to make requests from Santa. This often comes with questions from the Muslim community. Is it halal to participate? Should we offer holiday greetings? Can I watch Christmas movies? Isn’t it weird if we separate ourselves from the festivities which seem harmless? These questions have been answered again and again, but there is a deeper issue that we as Muslims should be more concerned with, if we weren’t so distracted by the shiny lights and fancy decor. What does participation in such activities and celebrations say about our relationship with Prophet Issa (pbuh), the figure who is supposedly at the center of all of this? Join us today for Jumaa and find out!
People are flawed and they make mistakes. That much is given, but then there are those who rise above their base desires and limitations to become the archetypes of good. We call those people the righteous, the pious, the truthful. So how should we grapple with the reality that even the good fall short? Even someone as good as the Ka’b bin Malik (r). The story of Ka’b bin Malik is a classic story of procrastination and repentance, but it is also a story of the resilience that is necessary to pull ourselves out of the darkness.
Imagine being among Bani Israel, under the leadership of Prophet Musa (as), after you’ve all made a miraculous escape from the forces of Pharaoh and are finally starting to settle in Canaan. One day, Prophet Musa delivers the most incredible Khutba you’ve ever heard; you shed the rust of comfort and are ready to give anything for the cause. The next day, out of nowhere, he just leaves for some unknown journey. Where is he going? Why did he leave? And how does his departure prepare us for the next phase of our mission? Join us today and learn about the Tarbiya Institute theme for 2022!
When a hardliner reads the hadith, all he sees is black and white issues. When a uncompassionate person reads through the prophet biography, all she finds is rules and strictness. Too many people look at the sunnah through the lens of their own flaws and insecurities, but if God’s Messenger (pbuh) was among us today, we would probably feel his rifq (gentleness) more than anything else. While it is true that he would be leading the fight for truth and foremost to confront injustice, perhaps one of the thing’s we’d find him saying is “take it easy”. Join us today to learn more!
Imagine that Allah (swt) gave you a gift. Naturally, it would be the most beautiful gift ever given. Of course it would be the most useful thing you've ever received. You could take it anywhere and use it whenever you needed it. I. Times of joy or days of sorrow, it would serve you well for the rest of your life. So how tragic would it be if you didn't know how to actually work the gift? That gift is is salah, our five daily prayers, and the sign that it is working is when we have khushoo’.
They’ll tell you nothing will change, no one will listen, it’s all set up, and you’re wasting your time. These are among the many sentiments people express when someone takes the track of activism, especially if the activism is da’wah! If you’re strong enough, you’ll ignore the pessimism and start to share the teachings of Islam. That’s when you’ll notice others abandoning the effort left and right! After months of effort you’ll understand why and you’ll be tempted to do the same. Why is this happening? Because we’ve forgotten that those who make da’wah are in the profession of the prophets, upon them be peace. Join us today to learn what it will take to do this work right.
We’ve all had moments of inspiration when we feel so close to Allah (swt) and so strong in our faith. Then life comes at us, and as we move further in distance from the moment of inspiration we feel our connection begin to weaken. We tend to the mundane aspects of life and we become neglectful of that which is sublime. This is the problem of spiritual motivation that has impacted every man and woman of faith across all time. Does Islam provide us with a solution?
As part of our annual theme this year, our Imams have been trying to share insights how to live a good life. Today many of us are bound by hard and rigid hearts. Our relationship with Allah سبحانه وتعالي suffers because of it and our quality of life is terrible. Yet, the cure is very accessible and very prolific. The cure lies in the hands of orphans and in caring for their spiritual, emotional, financial, and physical well-being.
We race through life at the fastest speed possible! Phase through phase, we quickly try to achieve “milestones” as fast as we can. But we tend to fall short in one specific area - racing to complete good deeds! Join us today to learn more.
The month of Rabi’ ul-Awwal is the month in which Allah (swt) gave the world the man who would soon become His final messenger, peace and blessings be upon him. In this season we celebrate a life and a legacy that changed the world forever. Before the dawn of Rasulullah (saw), the world was consumed in layers of darkness. Oppression, immorality, aggression and ignorance blinded mankind until the light of Islam shined through the example of Prophet Muhammad. That light remains unextinguished, that example continues to inspire.
Is it enough that God gave us reason that governs our minds, knowledge of the world around us, and the free will to act as we wish? Certainly it is true that each of these resources are necessary to live a good life. Yet, even if one is endowed with an incredible intellect, an immense amount of knowledge, and almost complete freedom in life, this is not enough to achieve the good life that Allah (swt) has promised us in the Qur’an. So what is the missing link? Hikmah: wisdom divinely endowed by Allah (swt). So how can we attain this necessary fourth ingredient? Join us today to learn more!
A popular idea among the righteous is that wealth corrupts indefinitely. The Quran makes it clear that while wealth must ultimately be used as an investment in the Akhirah, a modicum of enjoyment of what Dunia has to offer, within the bounds of the Deen, is not only permissible, but meritorious. The story of Qarun, who was a follower of Moussa (PBUH) but corrupted by the financial manipulation of Pharaoh, is a stark reminder of that necessary balance. Join us today at Jumaa to learn more about how to bring this equilibrium to your life.
One of the ways that God’s promise of a good life is fulfilled is through the children we raise to become righteous men and women of faith. Yet many parents will tell you that children can also be the cause of immense anxiety and grief. Many people feel that raising children requires them to suspend their own lives. Some set unreasonably low expectations, and still they fear that the children will not meet them. Some couples even fear to bring children into this world. But when we examine the prophetic example, we see a completely different approach to parenthood. What was the secret ingredient of the prophet model of parenting that guaranteed the general wellbeing of his children? Join us today and find out!
Wherever you are in life, whatever your condition, there is nothing that disqualifies you from turning back to Allah (swt). For those who have experienced it, turning to Allah sincerely is one of the most beautiful and comforting feelings on earth. In that moment we taste the sweetness of His love for us and feel the comfort of His acceptance. Some turn to Allah out of repentance triggered by a calamity. Others turn to Allah in awe of a unique spiritual experience. Is there one that is more dear to Allah?
Life is comprised of relationships that we make and maintain with the people that surround us. Some of those relationships are great blessings for us while others can be a real test. One particularly special relationship stands out among the rest: brotherhood. This is a bond that is deeper than friendship, and one that is not limited to those who come from the same parents. This bond, if it is true, may propel us to greatness or deliver us from the deep abyss of despair. How many of us have tasted the sweetness of such brotherhood?
The treaty of Hudaybiya brought much needed peace to the nascent Islamic Community, and enabled the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to pursue what he's most interested in:" to spread the Deen of Allah (SWT) and inspire hearts and minds. In the month of Muharram, the Messenger sent 8 letters to 8 heads of state inviting them to consider Islam. One particular letter, that he sent to the Roman king Heraclius, and the subsequent exchange, really stood out. What do we learn from the prophetic correspondence with the Byzantine Emperor that can inspire our Dawaa efforts today? Join us today at Jumaa to learn more and get inspired.
Surat Al-Qassass brings to light an unwavering divine promise: that the darkness of the night will ultimately be replaced by the brightness of the day, so long as God wills it. In the days of the pandemic, as our community grapples with our new social reality, being deprived of the annual Hajj, or the festivities of Eid-ul-Adha, perhaps the God's promise can fall on our hearts like water on fire.
Illness comes in so many forms, some seem mundane but others are quite severe or even deadly. It is a fact is life, each of us will be touched by illness. People have had all kinds of explanations or illness. Some have said this is the wrath of God while others have claimed that illness must mean that it means that Allah (swt) does not love us. Some have even used illness to question His very existence. What guidance does Islam offer us on this difficult fact of life?
Among the pillars of our deen, according to the famous hadith of Jibreel (as), is the practice of zakah, yet many Muslims only think of this matter once a year, when it’s time to pay their obligatory 2.5%. In reality, the practice of paying zakat-ul-maal is only one manifestation of a much deeper spiritual ethic and one that requires much more consistency and attention. That is the practice of purification: Tazkiyya. That is how we offer zakah on every aspect of our lives.
This coming Monday is the greatest day of the year: The day of Arafah. It’s a day of worship, forgiveness and divine grace. But the word Arafah عرفة in Arabic comes from معرفة, or knowing. What is it that we are supposed to “know” on the Day of Arafah? What is its historical and spiritual significance? Why is fasting that day an expiation of one’s sins, a year before and a year after? Joins us at Jumaa to learn more, and Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak to everyone!
In the age of sharp dichotomies, nuance is lost. Modern culture limits us to only two choices with regard to almost every matter. Liberal or conservative, Anti-immigration or pro-immigration, pro-gun or anti-gun, pro-LGBTQ or homophobic, etc. Many of us choose a path and feel forced to publicly espouse its values entirely, despite disagreeing with many of them, just to be consistent. This ultimately leads to conformity and the fear of reproach. The Quran teaches us that a true believer should take a principled stance even if you stand alone. How does the encounter between Imam al-Awzai’ and the Butcher of The Levant teach us about standing for what is right, with nuance and scrupulousness.
Ibrahim (pbuh) went against his fatherly instincts and attempted to take the life of his only son, as an act of sacrifice intended to offer Allah (swt) his utmost devotion. But in Ismael’s stead, Allah (swt) called upon Ibrahim to sacrifice a ram. Ever since, offering an Udhiya, or a Qurbani, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, has been a staple in the Sunnah and the beautiful tradition. What are some of the adab, virtues and rulings of offering a sacrifice? And what are the virtues of the first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah? Join us today at Jumaa to learn more inshaa’ Allah.
The descriptions of the Quran are perhaps the most accurate and precise words in human spoken language. Yet, Allah (swt) describes the Truce of Hudaybiya, a treaty that had seemingly unfair terms against the Muslims, as a victory. What is the story of Hudaybiya? What do we learn from it? Why is it a victory and how can this understanding inform our lives in this day and age? Join us today at Jumaa for more, inshaa’ Allah.
If you were lost in a desert and you stumbled upon a cave, would this cave protect you from wild animals, bugs, rain, from sun and heat? Would it give you shelter and a sense of Aman? With all the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we must have a cave we to take refuge in! What is your source of protection, peace, and tranquility? Where is your cave in this Dunia? Join us at Jumaa today to learn more about the cave in Surat al Kahf.
Allah (swt) commands Rasulullah (saw) to recite the story of Qabeel and Habeel, or Cain and Able, in the Qur’an. In this story we find the first great conflict in human history between two brothers that concludes in the most tragic of ways. As Qabeel murders his own brother, he murders is own spirit. Thousands of years later people continue to play out versions of this same conflict in their own lives turning relationships into catastrophes and lives into tragedies. What we need is Divine guidance on conflict resolution.
When someone engages in unbecoming behavior or sins openly in ways that Allah (swt) has prohibited and then boldly claims “only God can judge me”, what statement are they really making? Even for those of us who seek to live righteous lives, is it really true that we should completely abandon the idea that our reputation among others matters? Does the prophetic tradition endorse this abandonment of maintaining a good reputation? Or is it possible that our reputations mean more to us than we realize?
In the third year of Hijra, during the month of Shawwal, the believers in Madina faced their most dangerous threat to date! The Quraysh of Makkah, heavily armed, and bloodthirsty for revenge, arrived at the doorsteps of Madinah giving the outnumbered Muslims only days to prepare. This chapter in our history is filled with pain and tragedy, and yet we can never forget it or leave it behind. Let’s honor our history and explore the lessons of Uhud.
With every resource at our disposal, every opportunity before us, and a life filled with blessings unimaginable to most humans in history, how could it be that we still may feel that our lives are falling apart? The same mind-boggling phenomenon seems to apply to societies who seem to have had all the might and power to dominate the world, and today all that remains of them is is ruins! What is the missing ingredient that can ensure that the resources we build our lives with will persist?
If you want to hear someone say critical and harsh things about Muslims, you probably don’t have to search very far. Some of the meanest things to be said about our brothers and sisters do not come from bigots out there, they come from fellow Muslims. Sometimes the harsh language is disguised as self-assessment, but with no solutions to be offered. Other times it is the expression of a few negative experiences that have completely tainted someones outlook on the world and made them feel hopeless. We’ve spent a lot of energy and attention on addressing Islamophobia when we see it in the media or in politics, and rightly so! But what about the Islamophobic sentiments that exist within our own community?
We’ve experienced the most incredible Ramadan this year and we are still feeling the spiritual energy and rejuvenation from all of our efforts. Yet, as we celebrate our victory, in our peripheries we sense that Shaitan has been let loose upon the earth again and he is targeting the believers in these days. His aim is to topple all that we’ve built in the previous month, but we will not let him, and we have the prophetic recipe to prevent the plotting of iblis and to extend the life of Ramadan through the rest of the year.
In this final Friday of the month, we continue our exploration of the special acts of worship of Ramadan. Today we investigate the constant partner of prayer, and the twin sister of fasting! Despite this status, it is an act of worship that often goes overlooked and neglected. Today we explore Zakah and the wider category of Sadaqah. We ask Allah to make all of us capable of performing this ’ibadah this Ramadan and for many Ramadans to come.
As we continue our journey through this blessed month of Ramadan, we seek to understand the special acts of worship that are so associated to this season. Today we explore an act which is considered among the most honored of deeds, akin to life, a source of peace, and so much more! Today we explore Dhikr, the remembrance and mention of Allah (swt).
The beautiful month of Ramadan is the most blessed time of the year, not only because of its acts of worship, community gatherings and spiritual enlightenment, but also because its supposed to inspire and inform habits that we can retain the rest of the year. This year, as we examine the Good life, we will focus in the khutbas of Ramadan on the acts of worship that we can carry over with us beyond Ramadan. Today inshaa’ Allah, we will talk about Qiyam. What is it? How is it performed? And how different is it from Tahajjud? And what can we learn from the Qiyam of Ramadan that will stay with us year round? Join us today to lean more, inshaa’ Allah.
We are only days from the month of Ramadan and so many of us are feeling a rush of emotions! We are overjoyed that the month is so near, yet anxious because we have not prepared enough. We are energized by the prospect of growth in this month, but weary of the difficult year that we’ve had. We are hopeful that this will be a month of return, but fearful that we are still not sure if we will make it, or worse, that we will make it and not benefit. On this final jumaa before Ramadan, we will remember the experience of the early Muslims and their very first Ramadan of fasting.
Slavery is one of the most abhorrent things to any of us. People today would reject the idea that they are slaves to any person or entity, yet simple observation of our behaviors and habits may suggest otherwise. If slavery is that we are compelled to act at the command of an owner, isn’t it possible that some may have lived in that slavery so long that they see nothing wrong with it? Is it possible that we have enslaved ourselves to something in this life? How can we recognize this enslavement? How can we free ourselves from it?
Separation is one of the great anxieties of this life and one of the greatest sources of our pain and grief. Some fear it so much that they refuse to let themselves love. And those who have loved ones dread nothing more than to lose a loved one. Yet, the ultimate separation of death is inevitable. Fortunately that separation does not have to be forever! As we learn from our faith: we will be with those whom we love. So who will we be with in the life to come? Which reunions are you looking forward to? And will one of them be a reunion with the one who taught us how to be reunited?
March is officially designated as Women’s History Month and some of the greatest women in history are the women of Islam, such as Khadija (r). When Rasulullah (saw) returned from his first encounter with angel Jibreel, he asked to be covered, but what he was in most need of at that moment was sincere and trustworthy advice. He received that advice from our mother Khadija (r). Whenever we are in a critical moment in our lives we want to know that the people who are around us, working with us and advising us are the best and most reliable. So what does it mean to us that many of those in that the Messenger trusted, peace and blessings be upon him, were women?
By the virtues that Islam instills in us, we are honest and hard working people. We are people who plan and and prepare our very best efforts in all that we do, knowing that Allah (swt) takes interest in every action. So how should we react when all of our planning and efforts seem to have been in vain? How should we respond when the best of our knowledge has pointed one way, yet our circumstances have taken us in the complete opposite direction? How did God’s Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, react to such disappointment? Is it possible that we hate something and it is better for us? Join us today at jumaa to learn more!
In the minds of many, Issra and Miraj was a miracle. After all, it was an extraordinary event in which the Messenger (pbuh) traveled to Jerusalem and ascended to heaven to make an audience with the Divine. But a miracle has certain characteristics that were absent in that incredible journey. As we remember Issra and Miraj this month of Rajab, we seek insights from the Quran as to the underlying wisdom behind this event, and how it remains relevant to this day. Join us at Jumaa today to learn more.
We’ve all heard the phrase “go big or go home” in the context of sports and competitions. Even at work or in social settings, this attitude seems to have become widespread in our culture. We’ve convinced ourselves that somethings value is directly associated with it’s grandeur and scale. We even see this in attitude among the faithful. When someone wishes to increase in piety, he feels that he has to do something spectacular, while others give up on piety because they feel that they aren’t ready to “go big”. Yet our tradition and our prophet (saw) teach us a very different approach to developing a true connection with Allah (swt). Join us today at Jumaa to learn more, inshaa’ Allah.
The Messenger (pbuh) was an orphan. This is a known fact. But being an orphan comes with a painful set of struggles: lack of support, lack of mentorship and nurturing and lack of guidance. Many orphans often lose their sense of direction, and develop feelings of anger, frustration and indifference. They constantly yearn for love and affection. Who was the woman that provided the Messenger (pbuh) with all the care he needed until she saw him mature to adulthood to be the incredible man he was? And how does that woman inform our awareness of the world, especially during Black History Month? Join us today at Jumaa to learn more, inshaa’ Allah.
The reign of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (r) was exactly what the Ummah needed for the turmoil and difficulty it would see in the months that followed the passing of Rasulullah (saw). During that time, Umar ibn al-Khattab (r) played the role of his closest advisor and friend. Often people view these two men as opposites and associate opposite stereotypes to both, but there is so much more to learn about them and their relationship. Today, as we mark the passing of Abu Bakr (r) and the ascendence of Umar (r) to the position of Khalifa, we explore the lessons that are often missed.
Reading the story of the migration of Prophet Muhammad (saw) and Abu Bakr (r) always elicits great emotions! It is a heroic story like so many of the stories from the seerah, and one that highlights an essential quality of Islam: a problem solving spirit. You may have heard the notion in a self-help podcast or at a training workshop somewhere, but for Muslims this notion is one rooted in spirituality. Today we remember this spirit and seek to make it a part of the good life that we seek from Allah (swt).
While free will is from the many blessings our Lord has bestowed upon us, sometimes we have to make very difficult choices in life. At times we are forced to choose between competing priorities, the greater good, or even the lesser evil. Sometimes we are even confronted with choosing between the things we love in this life and the principles of faith the guide us to the next. So how would you decide if one day you were confronted with the choice between all that you’ve built and the Messenger of God (pbuh)? Are you prepared to make the right choice?
Are we simply the consequences of our genetic makeup or the products of our environment? Are our qualities and habits due to our nature, or are they developed and nurtured over time? These questions have been at the core of some of the most important debates in philosophy throughout human history. The consequences of such debates have reverberated through every other aspect of social and political life! Today, we ask seek answers to this question, not for scholastic exercise, but from the prophetic tradition. God’s Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, speaks to this debate and provides us with answers that speak to our very soul. Join us today at Jumaa to learn more!
There is so much we look forward to in the coming year. We hope to travel and visit family, we hope for health and security, we hope to be back at our masajid soon, praying shoulder to shoulder. Folks have already started planning for summer trips and family gatherings once they get the vaccine! One thing that we must plan for with even more vigor and enthusiasm is the coming month of Ramadan! Today we are less than 100 days away from that special season and today we discuss a 90 day plan to get ready for Ramadan. O Allah, bring us to Ramadan, and bring us together in Ramadan at our masjid.
Rasulullah (saw) tells us, "there is such an hour on Friday that if any Muslim makes dua in it, his dua will definitely be accepted.” Today is not only the first day of the year but also it’s first jumaa. What we hoping to see from life in 2021? As we set our gaze on the coming year, the challenges of the previous year still linger in our peripheries. Many will spend the year seeking to make up for lost time and amass those things they missed in the prior year. In their scramble to erase the loss of last year, they may also neglect its lessons. What kind of life should we be praying for on this very first jumaa of the year?
The holiday season, like so many other aspects of American culture, has both good and bad in it. On the one hand we see a spirit of kindness, service and familial piety. On the other we see major theological issues coupled with the a corporate holiday that co-opts the sentiment of so many people in order to drive up sales. This year, as many families spend the winter break at home, many questions about participating in Christmas traditions is acceptable. If we are not careful, we may let the little things that seem innocuous separate us from our Islamic identity and culture. Join us at Jumaa to learn more!
Sometimes we ask questions with sincerity, and in the pursuit of the truth we find ourselves discovering wonderful facts about God’s creation. But sometimes questions are posed with no regard for truth whatsoever. Questions may be used to sow the seeds of doubt in people's hearts. Questions may be used to excuse oneself from taking necessary actions. Questions may even be used to imply blame and attack the character of others without evidence. We saw such insincere skepticism directed towards the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), and we continue to see this illness impact our community today. How can we treat this illness? Join us at Jumaa to learn more.
In the constant flux of this world, those who stand steadfast behind the truth will naturally see days of great triumph and also days of great suffering. On some days it may seem that falsehood and evil have gained the upper hand and those shortsighted among us might cry out and wonder why we must struggle if we are on the path of truth. But in the Qur’an, Allah (swt) reveals to us that the clashing of truth and falsehood is by His design and degree. Perhaps the very storms and fires that allow falsehood to rise will be the same mechanisms by which it is washed away like filth.
From the many names of Allah (swt) is His name ash-Shakoor, often translated as The Appreciative. But hidden in the meaning is also that Allah (swt) is the One who multiplies the rewards. We see this in action all around us. Our opportunities multiply beyond our ability to take them. Blessings multiply around us beyond our ability to count them. Allah’s favors are abundant and even in gratitude and thanks to Him, we utilize the words of praise and thanks that He teaches us in the Qur’an. Today we connect with Allah (swt), the Multiplier of reward and blessings.
“Elections have consequences” as the saying goes, and certainly that idea has been on our mind in this season of elections and inauguration. But for the Muslim community, there was an election in our history that was far more consequential than any in the modern day: the election of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq, May Allah be pleased with him. On that occasion he stood before the people and delivered the most powerful inaugural address in history. Join us today as we remember his words and reflect on them today.
Every prophet and messenger was sent by God with a miracle that served as evidence of their mission. The miracle of Islam that accompanied Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, was the Qur’an. But how many Muslims today are unable to access and understand this miracle? The fact of the matter is that the Qur’an was revealed exclusively in Arabic and, while this miraculous text is still among us today, too many of us are completely disconnected from it by a language barrier. Have we neglected the true value of the language that God chose when He spoke to us? Should we reassess our treatment of Classical Arabic?
Since the very beginning of his prophet's mission, Rasulullah (saw) had his detractors and naysayers. Some of them simply avoided his call for personal gain but some took it upon themselves to become his enemies and attack his very character. But we all know that Allah plans even as the evildoers plan. Those attacks and attempts at character assassination fell flat during the prophet’s life and they continue to unravel, hundreds of years later. That is because of one core description of the prophet, mentioned even in the Qur’an by God Himself. He, peace and blessings be upon him, is a mercy to all the realms.
A gift can say so much about both the giver and the recipient. Some gifts are a surprise while others are expected. A gift can be how we say “I’m sorry”, “thank you” or “I love you”. When the recipient makes use of the gift, it honors the giver and demonstrates their appreciation. As we focus this month on the life of our beloved prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, we realize that he is also a gift to the believers! What does Allah (swt) tell us through this incredible gift of Rasulullah? How can we honor this gift and demonstrate our appreciation? Join us today to find out.
In the Qur’an, Allah (swt) speaks directly to Rasulullah (saw) when He says “Did He not find you orphaned, then sheltered you? And find you lost, then guide you? And find you in need, then enriched you?” In these early Qur’anic verses, Allah (swt) set the expectation for optimism that Prophet Muhammad embodied for the rest of his life and his mission, peace and blessings be upon him. He had a special way of seeing through the immediate pain of any circumstance and gaze upon the satisfaction that would come with God’s relief and aid. It is this infectious spirit of optimism that drove his followers to build the world’s greatest civilization despite their humble beginnings in the desert. It is this spirit of hope and faith that inspires us to call him the Great Optimist (saw).
Throughout history and even in our communities today we see those select few who have surpassed others in greatness. We see those who go above and beyond and they achieve what most people think is impossible. We look at those people and we recognize that they are the best of us. We celebrate their achievements and benefit greatly from their efforts! The quintessential example of this is the great companion and knight of Islam, Khalid ibn al-Walid! When we visit the story of Khalid, we recognize the signs of his greatness even before he accepted Islam. We start to realize why the Messenger said “The best of you in the days of ignorance are the best of you in Islam”.
In surat an-Noor, Allah (swt) makes a statement about marriage that almost sounds like a command! He says “Marry the singles among you!” but today we as a community are experiencing a marriage crisis. There are of course the challenges that couples face, and the unfortunately high rates of divorce in our society, but even more significant is the number of obstacles that prevent young Muslims from finding a spouse and fulfilling this established sunnah of Rasulullah (saw). Marriage is one of the most powerful relationships that anyone could ever experience in this life. It both reveals who you truly are and it becomes a powerful force for change and growth, but all of this requires that we unshackle the tradition of marriage and revive healthy marriages in our community.
It’s a “dog eat dog world” they say and only the fittest survive. Such notions are used to justify all kinds of unethical and untenable behaviors! So when someone is reminded that Islam teaches us حياء (often translated as modesty) they become skeptical. How can we practice such a virtue in a world where timidity and modesty are punished and boldness and flamboyance are rewarded? We forget that even Allah (swt) practices حياء and God is never in a position of weakness. So what does this virtue truly mean and what does it teach us about how we should be have in the face of a world filled with challenges?
Why can’t Allah just reveal Himself to us? How are we supposed to believe in what we can’t see? How can I be sure that Allah (swt) actually intervenes in my life? These are the kinds of questions that arise when someone becomes blind to the endless blessings from God that surround us! But Allah (swt) responds to this line of inquiry by reminding us of one of His 99 names: Al-Dhahir, The Manifest. Today we explore how Allah is more Manifest in our lives than we may realize.
What is the most important struggle (jihad) of our lives? The struggle that will define us. The struggle that will guide us through every other challenge. Scholars have shared a variety of perspectives on the greatest jihad, but in Surat al-Furqan we find that Allah (swt) gave is a significant clue. Is it possible that if we can succeed in that greatest jihad, we may find solutions and guidance for all of the other challenges we face as a community?
In the midst of the most monumental challenges, and catastrophic events, that will bend the will of the most tenacious of men, Islam teaches us to cling to Allah’s hope, keep our heads high and see the cup half full. The hadith of the man who plants the supplant while the events of Day of Judgment unfold, has inspired generations and impacted the behavior of Muslims throughout history. How can this hadith inform our decisions today, when it seems to the unwitting that we are surrounded with nothing but turmoil? Join us today as we journey into the mind of this positive man, who against all odds plants a tree, knowing with near certainty that it will have no chance of growth.
In the Qur’an Allah (swt) describes Surat Yusuf as the best of stories, not for its entertainment value, but for its endless lessons and teachings. In one moment of that story we learn about the distress of a prophet and a father, Yaqub (as), and we are reminded about the seriousness of mental distress. Are there lessons in the Qur’an about how we can approach such a serious matters? Are there remedies and preventative methods that rooted in our tradition?
The story of bani Israel is enumerated throughout the pages of the Qur’an — God Himself choses to tell us their story in His sacred words! Among the most remarkable elements of the story is that these people experienced utter oppression by the most brutal of tyrants and also witnessed the greatest king to ever walk the earth rise from among them. Today we explore these two historical facts to understand what makes it possible for a people to go through such a complete transformation? How can we ourselves experience such a transformation? Could the day of ’Ashura be exactly what we need?
The story of bani Israel is enumerated throughout the pages of the Qur’an — God Himself choses to tell us their story in His sacred words! Among the most remarkable elements of the story is that these people experienced utter oppression by the most brutal of tyrants and also witnessed the greatest king to ever walk the earth rise from among them. Today we explore these two historical facts to understand what makes it possible for a people to go through such a complete transformation? How can we ourselves experience such a transformation? Could the day of ’Ashura be exactly what we need?
Exactly 1442 years today, the Ansaar of Medinah sang some of the most beautiful lyrics ever conceived to celebrate the coming of Muhammad (pbuh) to their town and pronounce boundless love for their prophet. The Prophet’s migration from Mecca to Medina marked the designation of the Hijri calendar, and heralded a new era for Islam and the world. The nasheed “Talaa’ al-Badr alayna” is about a lot more than a catharsis, however. What does an ancient song teach us about life and the living? How could a beautiful hymn of love and praise for The Prophet instruct us on how to find meaning in our modern experience?
As the journey of life continues, and as the challenges mount, believers try to find solace in the fact that this world is not the end of all things. If one strives to do good, honors God, family and the Ummah of Muhammad (pbuh), Jannah will inshaa’ Allah be the ultimate reward. But is Jannah really the true prize? What other reward on the Day of Judgment will surpass Jannah in every sense and provide the believers with the most monumental feelings of happiness and content they ever experienced? How does Surat Younus describe the moment at which man will experience the summit of spiritual and intellectual satisfaction, at once?
With most of the world unable to physically attend the blessed pilgrimage, Hajj this year is unlike any other. We may not be among the ones physically attending Hajj this year, but there is still much to be done! Maintaining the elevated, spiritual standards of the Hajjaj, adopting their mental state and (virtually) being in tune with motions of Hajj. Allah’s mercy and reward can be extended to those who cannot physically attend Hajj - how? Join us at 12:45 P.M. to hear more at our weekly Friday Spiritual Talk!
The recent spike in COVID-19 cases in many parts of the United States is at once surprising and expected. It is surprising to many that the most wealthy nation on earth with the most expansive health care system is now the global epicenter of this pandemic. Yet we are not shocked considering how irresponsible the average American has been in taking precautions to prevent the spread. Somehow our society has turned wearing a mask into a symbol of political affiliation rather than medical precaution.
Next to the word Deen, no other word in the Islamic tradition brings warmer feelings to our hearts than the word Ummah. The notion that one belongs to a nation that surpasses time and space, that is not bound by geographical boundaries, language or ethnicity, where people are unified by their worldview and sense of mission. But do we really know what the Ummah is? What it represents? And how far it expands? What does the concept of Ummah mean for us Western Muslims today as we pledge allegiance to Western flags? What instructive value does the “Ummah” bring to our modern struggles for equality and social justice?
At times, we want to take it a bit easy. Sometimes we need a break or a little vacation after a period of serious hard work or a great achievement! But what if that little break ends up undoing all the efforts we’ve made and the hard work we've put in? Today we examine one of the most powerful prophetic traditions: going above and beyond with the extra mile!
It has been reported that the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “The best you can ever ask Allah is to ask Him for Aafiyah!“ In times when we’re surrounded by insurmountable challenges, eating away at our physical, mental, and spiritual health, seeking the protection of the Creator becomes an often forgotten remedy that many neglect. What is Aafiyah? And what can it do to preserve us from pandemics, mental health crises, and the erosion of faith?
Ask any Muslim and they’ll tell you that Islam’s rituals and guidelines are grounded in a deeper moral code that we learn from the Qur’an and Sunnah. When taught properly, that morality settles in our hearts and whenever we see something wrong, we can feel it even if we are not sure what to call it. Islamic morality compels each of us to work for the restoration of justice. Throughout our history, this deep morality has given rise to institutions that have sought to restore justice and right wrongs at a systemic level. So for Muslims in America, what cause does our morality compel us pursue? Have we felt that moral awakening in our hearts or are we still dormant with the comforts of life?
In the Qur'anic paradigm, طغيان, tyranny is one of the most destructive forces that man has ever wielded. He reminds us that our duty is to confront this corruption in any way that we can. But what would happen to a people who do not stand up to the tyrants and to the systems that create injustice? What are the consequences to remaining silent and accepting the status quo? As for those who refuse to remain idle in the face of tyranny, what example can we draw from Muslims of the past who made it their mission to dismantle the systems of injustice?
As the country descends into turmoil, and the historic lack of leadership, the search for divine guidance becomes of paramount importance. How can we engage in the cause of social justice full-throttle in the most effective way, while maintaining the boundaries of the Deen?
From over 120,000 prophets and messengers that Allah (SWT) sent to humanity, only 5 are designated in the Quran as أولوا العزم, or possessors of resilience. Their lives and legacies epitomized the concept of Himmah in its clearest and most effective form. What made the stories of Noah, Ibrahim, Moussa, Eissa and Muhammad unique to make them deserving of this incredible station? As we embark upon the year of resilience, what lessons do we need learn from their lives to enhance our Himmah? Join us today at Jumaa to lean more.
Summer is either a time of great joy or unabated boredom! Many take advantage of this time to connect with God and family, learn more skills and catch up on social and family obligations. Others just let their summer blow away like dust specs. For a few, summer is a time in which grievous sins are committed. As our summer begins, what guidance does the Quran provide for us to have the best summer ever inshaa' Allah? How does Luqman the Wise carry the key to an exciting summer experience? From where can we derive guidance to create an airtight summer mission statement?
Imam Azeez talks about the importance of remaining steadfast on the road to God and gives us some tips to help us achieve that.