Loving And Living The Quran

As-salāmu alaykum! Welcome to another episode of Loving and Living the Qur'an. In today’s episode, we dive into our fifth lecture from the Muharram series, focusing on "Finding Peace in an Imperfect World: Balancing Acceptance, Action, and Hope." Join us as we explore the concept of tawakkul (trust in Allah) and how it can transform our approach to life's challenges. We'll discuss practical steps to cultivate this trust amidst modern anxieties and uncertainties. Learn how to balance your efforts with faith and how to find inner peace even when things seem out of control. We also touch on previous topics such as contentment and practical practices for a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your understanding of tawakkul or simply looking for some spiritual guidance, this episode is for you. Have questions or suggestions? Email us at livingthequran786@gmail.com, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at livingthequran.org. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards practical spir

As-salāmu alaykum! Welcome back to Loving and Living the Quran. In this episode, we dive into our series on "Finding Peace in an Imperfect World," recorded during our Muharram sessions. Today, we’re exploring the practice of contentment and how it ties into our quest for inner peace. We’ll reflect on why contentment is so elusive in today’s world of constant comparison and materialism. From the Qur'anic perspective to practical tips, we’ll discuss how to cultivate a sense of peace and satisfaction, regardless of what we have or don’t have. Join us as we unpack: The concept of contentment and its importance in achieving peace. The impact of materialism and social comparison on our happiness. Practical ways to develop a contented heart and mind. Don’t forget to email us your thoughts and suggestions at livingthequran786@gmail.com, and sign up for our newsletter at livingthequran.org to stay updated with our latest episodes. Thank you for tuning in!

As salāmu alaykum and welcome back to Loving and Living the Quran! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the third part of our Muharram series, exploring "Finding Peace in an Imperfect World: Balancing Acceptance, Action, and Hope." We’re continuing our journey of reflection and practical spirituality, focusing on how we can find inner peace amidst the chaos of modern life. Join us as we unravel the Qur'anic concepts of peace, from the idea of Salam to the deeper meanings of Sakina and contentment. We’ll discuss how understanding these teachings can help us navigate our personal challenges and build a toolkit for real, lasting peace. Got thoughts or suggestions? Drop us a line at livingthequran786@gmail.com, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss an episode. Thank you for tuning in, and may peace and blessings be upon you all!

In this episode of 'Loving and Living the Qur'an,' recorded from live sessions held in Muharram 2024, the focus is on finding peace amidst worldly distractions by balancing acceptance, action, and hope. Key discussions revolve around the importance of intentions, the nature of distractions as outlined in verse 20 of Surah Hadid, and insights from Imam Ali about life's lessons. The episode also delves into modern concepts of happiness, the psychological impact of material advancements, and how negative emotions and struggles affect mental health. Practical advice is given on managing these emotions, the role of divine guidance, and how shifting focus from personal happiness to virtuous living can transform lives. 00:00 Introduction to Loving and Living the Qur'an 00:52 Setting Intentions and Understanding Distractions 03:09 Exploring Modern Mental Health 04:34 The Paradox of Progress and Happiness 11:57 Eudaimonia vs. Hedonia: Understanding True Happiness 20:43 The Modern Pursuit of Happiness 21:21 Therapy Tr

Welcome to Loving and Living the Quran, a podcast dedicated to practical spirituality for modern Muslims. In this series, we reflect on finding peace in an imperfect world, recorded live during the Muharram sessions of July 2024. The majalis serve to honor Bibi Sayyeda Zahra, providing a unique opportunity for us to give rather than receive, in a community where support and introspection are central. Our actions begin with intentions, echoing the teachings of our prophets. By consciously setting intentions daily, especially during significant months like Muharram and Ramadan, we align ourselves spiritually and transform our lives. Topics Discussed: Balancing Acceptance and Action: We explore how intention shapes our behavior, fostering an environment where every attendee supports and respects one another, embodying the teachings of Zahra. Standing Up to Injustice: In today's turbulent times, it's crucial to emulate Imam Hussain's courage to fight against injustice and spread his message of peace beyond se

As We Wrap Up The Blessed Month Of Ramadan, We May Be Feeling A Mix Of Emotions: A Tinge Of Sadness At The Ending Of The Month Of Blessings, Mercy And Forgiveness, A Sense Of Relief That We Were Able To Fast And Pray [And That We Can Eat Again!] And Maybe Some Regret That We Did Not Or Could Not Do More During The Blessed Minutes And Hours Of This Sacred Month Of Allah [Swt] When We Were His Guests. Many of us have been deeply impacted by the news from Palestine and our sense of helplessness to stop the atrocities. Please let us remind ourselves that we have the huge weapon of Dua at our disposal. And though the month of Ramadan may be coming to an end and our eyes may not water quite so much at every Sahoor and Iftar, thinking of our brothers and sisters starving while we are blessed with an abundance of food and drink at our tables, we cannot and must not forget that we have an ongoing duty to do what little we can which includes turning to Him in prayer to ease their plight and to grant them peace and free

Yesterday we reflected on a truth about this life from the Quran: that life is full of challenges. Today, let us look at a promise of Allah [swt] that gives us confidence that we have what it takes to succeed in these challenges and find our way through these distresses.  At the end of Chapter 2, Sura Al-Baqara the Quran tells us: Allah does not task any soul [impose a duty on, place a burden on] beyond its capacity. [2:286]  This brief selection from a longer verse suggests many important points of reflection: The word Quran uses for soul is “Nafs”, the struggling part of ourself. The part that struggles to be better and yearns to actualize.  In order not to burden us beyond our capacity or capability, He knows what that capacity is. So many times when we are facing challenges, they seem insurmountable and we feel completely overwhelmed and inadequate to deal with them. At times like these, it is important to remind ourselves of this verse. Even if we are unsure of our own potential, He is in His infinite kn

  Today’s reflection is from Sura Balad where Allah [swt] says: Certainly We have created man to be in distress. [90:4]   In this verse, Allah [swt] uses the word kabad for distress. Scholars explain that the word kabad which originally means intensity, also signifies 'a disease in the liver of a person’ and is used for any trouble and misery.   This verse spells out a truth about the human experience during this plane of existence: from the time the human embryo is conceived it will go through difficult stages with pain and toil until the time it is born, and even from then on; during his childhood, the period of his adolescence, and through his mature and senior years, he is and will be faced with many kinds of challenges, stresses and distresses.    The problem, though is that even though Allah [swt] has explained this to us in the Quran, we human beings expect something different. We LOVE comfort and luxury and are deeply attached to the idea of a life of stability and ease. We feel entitled to such a tro

In Verse 39 of Sura Najm, Allah says: And that man shall have nothing but what he strives for. (Holy Quran 53:39) For today’s verse, I could not find a better title than the Urdu phrase: Harkat mein barkat, meaning there is blessing in movement/striving. One of the principles of life, taught by experience and by Divinity, is that human beings get what they strive towards. It is important to note that what the Quran is telling us is that our outcome will be in accordance with our striving. The Arabic word sa’ā which is used literally means to walk fast, to run almost, to walk with effort. It is used to denote hard work and effort as this means moving ahead fast on the path. It is interesting to note that it does not say that man will have nothing but in accordance to his actions, rather in accordance to the efforts behind his actions. What this means is that it the intention and effort behind the action that counts.  This is quite different to our experience in the material world. Here we are told that winning

Today’s reflection is from Chapter 23, Sura Muminum where the Holy Quran says: "It is they who hasten to every good work and these who are foremost in them." [23:61]   In this verse and a couple of verses preceding it, Allah [swt] points out a few qualities of the believers. One of their qualities that they “hasten to do good deeds”. This desire is borne out of a desire to please Allah [swt] and drives them to take quick action towards worthy causes and goals.    The word the Quran uses is yusāri‘ūna which signifies “racing” towards good actions. It is interesting that while hurry or haste is not considered a virtue, when the haste is in racing towards goodness and virtuous action, it becomes an act of virtue.    Why is haste recommended in doing good works? Imam Bāqir (as) explains: “When you think of doing something good, rush to do it immediately for verily you do not know what could happen later [to prevent you from doing it]” (The Scale of Wisdom, H. 4002).   In other words, as we have experienced many a

Today’s reflection is verse 9 from Chapter 62, Sura Juma, when Allah [swt] addresses the believers and says:   O you who believe! when the call is made for prayer on Friday, then hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off trading; that is better for you, if you know. [62:9]   4 important points are made in this verse: 1.    When the call for the Friday congregational prayers is made, rush to attend to it  In other words, answer the call and join the congregation as soon as possible. 2.    Leave trading and other worldly distractions at this time Trading and business are particularly mentioned as the time for Juma prayers in right in the middle of the work day and these are also the main distractions for those in the marketplace. Of course, it applies to other distractions as well which stop us from joining the congregation on time 3.    This is better for you 4.    If only you knew Allah is reminding us that human beings are short sighted and are often unaware of the bigger picture or what lies beyond o

Continuing with this verse from Sura Ale Imran:  So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in [some of] the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him]. (Quran 3:159) The final part of the verse advises the Holy Prophet [saw] that once you have decided on a matter, have tawwakul or trust in Allah and ends by saying that Allah loves those who rely upon Him.  Scholars explain that “when you are resolved” or “when you have decided” means that once the step of consultation or decision on his own has been taken, then he should then make his attitude one of trust in God, not in human deliberations In the Quran, tawakkul is used for a state when man exclusively places his hope and trust upon Allah (swt).    Scholars explain that a person who has tawakkul takes action and makes

Continuing with this verse from Sura Ale Imran:  So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in [some of] the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him]. (Quran 3:159) After appreciating the Prophet [saw] for being lenient with his companions who disobeyed him, the Holy Prophet [saw] is advised to consult his companions.  Scholars explain that in this verse, “consult them” refers to strategies of war, since the Prophet by definition would not consult them in matters of revelation or in laws and commands decided by Allah (swt).  The Holy Prophet (saw) often consulted his family and companions. He would consult on military strategy from those who were in the trenches. He also established the seeking of counsel as a role model and encouraged it to nurture the wisdom and insi

For the next couple of days, we will inshallah explore the following verse from Sura Ale Imran:  So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him]. (Quran 3:159) There is so much to discuss and learn from in this verse. Today, let us give a bit of background and discuss the segment: So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them. This verse refers to the Holy Prophet(saw)’s demeanor with his companions after the disaster on the battlefield of Uhud.   In the battle, Muslims in the Prophet Muhammad's (saw) army defended themselves against the raiding Quraish army. The Mus

Here is today's reflection from the Quran: In Sura Maida, the Quran whilst talking about whom to take as a Wali, says: Your Wali is only Allah, His Apsotle, and the faithful of those who keep up prayers and give alms while they bow. [Quran 5:55] As we commemorate the occasion of the martyrdom of Imam Ali (as), let us reflect on this verse to remind us of his position as various scholars from all schools of Islamic thought concur that this verse was revealed in response to an act of Imam Ali [as]. Before we begin reflecting on the verse, let us examine a key word in this verse which is Wali: The word Walī in Arabic has various meanings in English, a friend, protector, guardian, leader, one whom a follower inclines to, to name a few.  Although it can mean friend, in the context of this verse, Scholars argue that it means something more than an ordinary friend. Scholars explain that it is not possible that Allah would tell us to befriend only those who have these two specific qualities. Therefore, they explain,

Sura Maidah verse two says: O, You who believe . . . help one another in goodness and piety. [5:2] Cooperating with others in goodness is one of the basic principles for a society build on spiritual and ethical values. When people of faith work together, they motivate and provide encouragement and enthusiasm for each other. The energies of the universe synchronize to further a cause which is thus initiated. Why?  1.     The law of synergy: All of us have different and complementary talents. When we cooperate and work together as a team, we create synergy, which is an interaction of multiple elements to produce a result greater than the sum of their individual effects.  To put it simply, when two people combine different talents to cooperate on a worthy project, their efforts produce the equivalent not of four people but rather the work of twenty two or more. This is simply the scientific law of synergy which is apparent in the world of nature [such as the flight of geese]. Every act of goodness, no matter how

The verses we have been considering the last few days lay out the qualities of His special servants or the Ibad ur Rahman, some of which are the following:   They are those who: Are humble in their demeanour [25:63] Do not engage with the ignorant [25:63] Worship at night [25:64] Seek forgiveness continuously [25:65] Avoid falsehood and vanity [25:72] Attend to His communication [27:73] Adopt balance in your spending [25:67] Pray for family and future generations [25:74] Verse 76 of Sura Furqan goes on to say: It is they who shall be rewarded with the lofty abode for having been patient/constant, and they will be met therein with salutations and [greetings of] peace.   People such as this whose knowledge, speech, thought, power, and writing all function for guiding people to the path of the Truth are paragons and examples of the humane society. They are counted as examples for pious persons. They are like guiding lights and lamps in deserts and seas, which call those who are lost to them and save them from fa

And they who say, “Our Lord! Grant us in our spouses and our offspring the joy [comfort, coolness, delight] of our eyes and make us imams [leaders] for the God-conscious” [25:74]   The last quality mentioned of the Ibad ur Rahman is that they have a fervent prayer consisting of two parts:    Firstly for Allah [swt] to grant them delight in their closest relationships of marriage and children and secondly to make them leaders amongst the God-conscious people.    This is such a beautiful supplication that we can all commit to memory!   The word that the Quran uses “Qurrata ayun” is challenging to translate into English. One explanation is that these are “tears of joy” or deep delight in your spouses and progeny. Scholars explain that  “coolness of the eyes” is understood to be of a spiritual nature, not mere worldly enjoyment of children and spouses [which in itself is a beautiful gift]. In other words, seeing your children following your values and the path that you have taught them. What the Ibad ur Rahman ar

Continuing with painting a portrait of the Ibrad ur Rahman, verse 73 of Chapter 25, Sura Furqan points to another characteristic of these sincere believers:    [25:73] and they who, when they are reminded of the signs of their Lord, fall not deaf and blind against them   Scholars explain that the “falling deaf and blind” refers to the act of falling down, to snore, to droop down as if the person were bored or inattentive, or did not wish to see or hear or pay attention. In other words, it is ignoring or being inattentive to the message being conveyed.    The Quran mentions spiritual deafness and blindness in other places and reminds us that we can have eyes and ears but still be deaf and blind.    Truly God-conscious are those who are deeply desirous of understanding the message, and therefore "listen to it with wide-awake ears and look into it with seeing eyes". Because they are connected to the All Compassionate and trust that all instructions of come from Him are for their ultimate benefit, they are eager

Today’s reflection is from Sura Furqan and over the next few days, we will look at selections from verses 63-76 in Chapter 25 Sura Furqan, where the Quran talks about the qualities of Ibad ur Rahman or the Servants of the Most Merciful.    The verse reads: The servants of the Compassionate are those who walk humbly upon the earth, and when the ignorant address them, say, “Peace.”   The word “ibad” which is usually translated as “servants” or “slaves” means so much more than that. An Abd  is  in  essence,  one  who  is  so  aligned  to  the  wishes  of  the  Master  that  he  has  no  wish  or  no  self  of  his  own.  From  head  to  toe,  he  is  enslaved  to  the  wishes  of  the  one  whom  he  serves. And whom does he serve: The Rahman or the Most Compassionate and most merciful.   It is interesting to note that previously in this Sura, when the disbelievers had been told to submit to the Rahman, they mocked the Holy Prophet [saw] by asking “What is the Ar Rahman?”. In these verses, it is almost as if All