SeekersHub's Free Islamic Podcast

In lesson five of Imam Ghazali's Beginning of Guidance Explained, Shaykh Faraz begins Imam Ghazali's description of how to structure one's day according to the Prophetic sunna, from waking to sleep.

The sunnas of waking are covered, and many of the wisdoms related to spiritual routines, discipline, and God-consciousness are explained.

Key properiety (adab) of seekers of knowledge are also touched upon.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

[Register--for free--to get access to past lessons, lesson handouts for notes, a class forum, and related resources -- SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs ]

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In this session with the radio show "Muslim Perspectives", Shaykh Faraz discusses the central verse of the first chapter of the Qur'an, The Opening (Al Fatiha), which we recite everyday in every prayer.

This chapter is not simply the opening of the Qur'an, but also an opening for us of closeness and relating to Allah. Listen on for what verse it is, and what it signifies.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani teaches regular classes at SeekersHub Toronto, some of which are also broadcasted live online. For details, see: www.seekershub.org/programs

SeekersHub Toronto (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Imam Ghazali's first chapter of his classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya).

Here, Imam Ghazali explains the central importance of the obligatory acts (fara'id) and then the recommended actions (sunnas).

Shaykh Faraz explains the different types of obligatory actions--the personally obligatory and the societal obligations; the outward obligations and the inward obligations; the directly obligatory and the indirectly obligatory.

The principles of prioritizing one's religious actions, with consistent, gradual, sustainable action, are clarified.

Imam Ghazali mentions the famous "hadith of electhood" in which the way of drawing closer to Allah is summarized. Shaykh Faraz explains some of the central lessons of this hadith, including the highest aims of a believer: closeness to Allah; attaining unto the love of Allah; and gnosis (experiential knowledge) of Allah.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Imam Ghazali's introduction to his classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya).

Imam Ghazali differentiates in this section between the seeker who benefits from their knowledge; the one who doesn't benefit; and the one who destroys themselves through their knowledge. Shaykh Faraz explains the characteristics of each type, and some contemporary cautions for seekers of knowledge & the spiritual path.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Imam Ghazali's introduction to his classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya).

Here, Imam Ghazali emphasizes that for knowledge to fulfill its transformative potential--and for it to be a proof for you and not against you--it must be acted upon with submission and sincerity to Allah Most High.

Ghazali warns seekers of knowledge against knowledge that doesn't benefit nor transform one's relationship with Allah Most High.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains that there are two main "ways" in Islamic spirituality--the way of fear and the way of thankfulness--and how Imam Ghazali represents the latter. The need for balance and awareness of context and circumstance in one's spiritual and religious life are emphasized.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In this opening class in explanation of Imam Ghazali's classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the purpose of Imam Ghazali's text and teachings.

The central theme of this work is transformative knowledge: beneficial knowledge being knowledge that results in action that leads to transforming one's relationship with Allah Most High and spiritual realization.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani gives a brief biography of Imam Ghazali, explaining why he was known as the "Proof of Islam" (Hujjat al-Islam), and some of the distinguishing characteristics of his scholarship.

A useful thematic overview of Beginning of Guidance is given.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In lesson two of his commentary of Imam Busiri's Poem of the Mantle (Qasida Burda), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the opening three lines of the Burda.

These lines express the poet's sense of loss in love, and the pains of yearning and passion. This opening is characteristic of classical Arabic poetry, which often begins with mention of sorrow and yearning for a beloved that has parted.

This class is held on Thursday evenings, 7.30 pm Eastern, at SeekersHub Toronto, and broadcast live online. For details, see: www.seekershub.org/programs

SeekersHub Toronto (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In lesson one of his commentary of Imam Busiri's Poem of the Mantle (Qasida Burda), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the importance of the praise of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), and introduces the text and author.

He explains how the very name of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) means "the most praise and most praiseworthy," and gives some of the reasons why the Qasida Burda was accepted throughout the centuries across the Muslim world--and commented upon by leading Islamic scholars.

Over the next few weeks, this class will provide a line by line commentary and explanation of this blessed poem. [ Class is held on Thursday evenings, 7.30 pm Eastern. SeekersHub Classes: www.seekershub.org/programs ]

Recorded at SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Video of the lesson: http://youtu.be/pWPEYC_S0UM (full)

A radio interview with Dr Umar F. Abd-Allah, on Muslim Perspectives - a radio program broadcasted on WTOR 770AM Toronto on Saturdays between 3 and 4 pm (streamed on the internet live at www.eawaz.com).

In this interview Dr Umar made some observations and prescriptions for the Ummah with relevance to our role as Canadian Muslims in the context of sustaining a community of believers in our space and time.

Dec 07/2011: Dr. Umar speaks at Lote Tree Learning and Resource Centre - http://lotetree.ca - about the importance of continuity and community wherever muslims live, citing historical examples from different parts of the world.

SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org), is an Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

For the latest on Dr. Umar Abd-Allah's tour, please visit http://seekershub.org/2011/11/16/seekershub-hosts-dr-umar-faruq-abd-allah-december-2011/

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Dr. Umar gives a rich, engaging commentary on the aphorisms (hikam) of Ibn Ata'illah, which are one of the greatest summaries of authentic Islamic spirituality (tawassuf/sufism), grounded in deep understanding of the Qur'an and Sunna and mainstream understanding of Islam.

Recorded at SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

For the latest on Dr. Umar Abd-Allah's tour, please visit http://seekershub.org/2011/11/16/seekershub-hosts-dr-umar-faruq-abd-allah-december-2011/

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani relates and explains Umm Ma`bad's Description of the Prophet at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org).

During the migration from Mecca to Medina, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and Abu Bakr stopped at the dwelling place of Umm Ma`bad, an elderly lady. She was amazed by the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk), and described him beautifully to her husband. Imam al-Iraqi conveys this in his 1,000-line poem about the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace):

She said regarding him with the tongue of a describer / Luminous of face, manifestly radiant
In his form, with no blemish nor protruding stomach / Indeed, nor feebleness
Wide-eyed, with long eyelashes / With slight curves
His neck was long & high, a handsome man / His voice was strong--completely beautiful
His beard was full, his eyebrows were arched & full / The most pleasing of people when close, and most virtuous
The most beautiful & radiance of people from distance / When he spoke, his voice would rise and reach
Likewise, dignity would envelop him when silent / His speech was like stringed pearls
With distinguished words, not excessive / Sweet in his expressions, without blameworthy brevity
Neither excessively tall, nor overlooked due to shortness / Rather, he would be considered great
Due to his radiant appearance and honour / His companions would surround him, with deference
If commanded, they would hasten to obey / If he spoke, they were attentive out of respect
Thus, he was served by his companions / For they hastened to obey him and accompany him
He didn’t frown nor criticize / This is how Umm Ma`bad described him

See also: http://sheikhynotes.blogspot.com/2009/01/umm-mabuds-description-of-messenger-of.html

This class on {Perfect Beauty: the Prophet Described} is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Monday evenings (7-8.30 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, al-Muhaymin (the Guardian), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, al-Aziz (the Tremendous/the Triumphant), from the works of Imam Zarruq & Imam Qushayri on the 99 Names of Allah.

Dr. Umar F. Abd-Allah comments on the class, and then shares some insights on the Hajj. He closes with an answer on how to balance keenness to share beneficial knowledge with others and having permission to do so--reminding us of the Prophetic way of striving to gain knowledge, live knowledge, be transformed by knowledge, to exemplify knowledge, and to convey knowledge to others in the best and most beautiful of ways.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern).

For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/ You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Recorded at SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org):: Shaykh Faraz Rabbani in his weekly class on Allah's Most Beautiful Names, discusses the Divine Name "Al Aziz". Dr. Umar Abd-Allah shares his comments as well.

Dr. Umar F. Abd-Allah is at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) for the entire month of December. See: http://seekershub.org/2011/11/16/seekershub-hosts-dr-umar-faruq-abd-allah-december-2011/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, al-Mu'min (the Faithful), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani of SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) explains lessons for the new Islamic year from the hadith related by Sufyan ibn Abd Allah, who asked the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), "O Messenger of Allah, tell me regarding Islam something I cannot ask anyone besides you." He said, "Say: I believe in Allah--and then remain upright." [Related by Muslim]

This Friday sermon (khutba) was delivered in Milton, ON, as part of SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) community outreach.

عن أبي عمرو ، وقيل أبي عمرة ؛ سفيان بن عبد الله الثقفي رضي الله عنه ، قال : قلت : يا رسول الله ! قـل لي في الإسـلام قـولا لا أسـأل عـنه أحــدًا غـيـرك ؛ قـال : ( قــل : آمـنـت بـالله ، ثـم اسـتـقم ). رواه مسلم

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, as-Salam (the Peace), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykha Noura Shamma, a distinguished visiting scholar, gave an inspiring and memorable lesson on the way of the Companions--and their passionate love for Allah and the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him)--through stories of famous and less-famous Companions.

This lesson was delivered at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) on Saturday, November 19, 2011.

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) is a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Names, al-Malik and al-Quddus (the Master & the Pure), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

In the fifth lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Names, al-Rahman and al-Rahim (the All-Merciful and the Compassionate), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.
This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

In the fourth lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name "Allah," from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, the Executive Director of SeekersHub (http://www.seekershub.org) and Educational Director of SeekersGuidance (http://www.seekersguidance.org) was invited to deliver the Friday Prayers Sermon on October 28, 2011 at St. James Park – the site of the Occupy Toronto movement.

The following is taken from the closing remarks of the sermon:

Seven Counsels in Closing:

1. Be steadfastly committed to justice and excellence in your own life: fulfill the rights of God and God’s creation, with sincerity, concern, and excellence of character.
2. Be particularly careful about the rights of your parents, spouse/partner, children–then family, friends, neighbours, and community–then those wronged (whoever/whatever).
3. Ignore mass media: focus on becoming an informed citizen–so that you can seek, spread, and safeguard justice and excellence–the beautiful balance.
4. Money matters: look carefully at how you spend your money… make ethical, informed choices–promoting justice and excellence…
5. Time matters: don’t become a mere consumer… consuming products and entertainment and infotainment. “Two blessings many lose out on: health and free time.” – Spend your time in seeking justice and excellence… family, friends, neighborhood, society….
6. Your life matters: don’t just be a slave in the corporate jungle… seek to make your work a promotion of justice & excellence; work of benefit and meaning. Work with purpose. Relate with purpose. From our tradition: working on one’s own terms…
7. Do this for God; do this seeking Mercy; do this out of sincere concern….

What do we seek? Balance of Justice (`adl) and Excellence (ihsan). That is what makes life beautiful.

And indeed God is Beautiful, and loves Beauty.

In the third lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani covers an overview of the relationship between the Names and Attributes of Allah, and explains the classical understanding of the Essential Attributes of Allah. He then explains how all the Divine Names return in their meaning to these Essential Attributes, based on Imam Ghazali's work on the 99 Names.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

In the second lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani covers Imam Zarruq's introduction, on key investigations related to the Divine Names:

* The different types of Divine Attributes
* What it means to "encompass" the Divine Names
* How one relates to the Divine Names: memorizing, mentioning, knowing, connecting, and characterizing.

The Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk) said, "Allah has 99 Names... whoever encompasses them shall enter Paradise."

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

The greatest expression of one's faith, is the intensity of one's love for Allah and His Messenger, peace be upon him. Shaykh Faraz discusses this in more detail during a gathering of rememberance of God and celebration of His beloved Prophet, at SeekersHub Toronto (http://www.SeekersHub.org).

For a detailed programs listing at SeekersHub, please see http://www.seekershub.org/programs

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a Qur'anic verse (7.199) in which Allah Most High calls the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) to the highest of virtues. This is also a summary of the virtues of the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk).

"Be easygoing; call to the good; and turn away from the ignorant." [Qur'an, 7.199]

This is from the Qualities of the Believers series taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org)

This class is taught on Friday evenings at SeekersHub. See: http://seekershub.org/programs/

In this lesson delivered at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) Shaykh Faraz Rabbani introduces the author (Shaykh Ahmad Zarruq) of one of the best concise works on the 99 Names of Allah. Then, he covers the author's introduction, in which key introductory issues related to understanding the Divine Names are explained by Imam Zarruq.

The Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk) said, "Allah has 99 Names... whoever encompasses them shall enter Paradise."

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani and Shaykh Yahya Rhodus address the attendees at SeekersHub's fundraising dinner.

Shaykh Faraz addresses the question "What is SeekersHub?", and Shaykh Yahya discusses sustaining new beginnings in our lives and communities through contemplation on the Prophetic Way and how it can invigorate us and our communities.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic verse on leaving all sin [Qur'an, 6.120]--outward & inward, manifest & hidden, clear & subtle.

Allah Most High says, "Leave outward sin and inward..." [Qur'an, 6.120]

This is part of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org)--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Umar al-Yafi b. Muhammad al-Husayni was born in the city of Yafa (Jaffa) in Ottoman Palestine in 1759/1173. He was a Ḥanafī who had a deep knowledge of Islamic Law (fiqh), hadith, Arabic grammar, and morphology. He was also a great spiritual guide who had a profound impact on the lives of the great many who were transformed by his teachings. He expressed much of his divine love and wisdoms in the many lines of poetry he composed, which were later collected by his students in what became known as Diwan al-Yafi.

Amongst his most famous compositions is the short prayer for rain below. In a region where water is scarce and rain is considered a blessing whose abundance or scarcity correlates with the good actions and sins of the community, this composition became sung far and wide.

Perhaps, what has distinguished this poem over others is the deep humility and sense of submission to God conveyed in Shaykh al-Yāfī’s plea, “If you are the Helper of only those who are obedient, who will then help those [of us] who are sinful? The mercy of the Most-Merciful is absolute without any restrictions. If none could hope for Your provision other than those who are obedient on Your path, in whom can those [of us] who disobey You seek refuge? For, You are the Guide for those who are astray.”

If the elite who have devoted their entire lives to God implore Him as such, we are reminded of how much more we are utterly dependent on God’s mercy and guidance.

------

Taken from http://www.nursacredsciences.com/

A full writeup, along with the complete text and an excellent translation, may be found at: http://www.nursacredsciences.com/shaykh-umar-al-yafis-supplication-for-rain/

The verse on believers' intense love of Allah (Qur'an, 2.165) being their distinguishing characteristic is explained by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani from the Tafsir of Ibn `Ashur (al-Tahrir wa'l Tanwir)--a 20th Century tafsir that is accepted as one of the greatest Qur'anic commentaries ever written.

The meanings of love, godhead, and yearning are brought out, with reference to other classical commentaries and scholarly works.

This is part of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org)--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani continues commenting on the verse on "intense love of Allah" (Qur'an, 2.165), this time from the tafsir of Imam al-Alusi, the great 19th Century jurist and exegete from Baghdad.

This is lesson 24 of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught b Shaykh Faraz at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic verse on believers' "intense love for Allah" (2.165) from the brilliant commentary of one of the foremost Islamic theologians & Qur'anic exegetes, Imam Fakhr al-Din al-Razi--who brings out beautiful nuances from the verse.

This is lesson 24 of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a verse (2.165) on "intense love for Allah" as being one of the distinguishing characteristic of true believers. This verse is explained over the next few lessons, from a number of classical Qur'anic commentaries. In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz looks at the explanations of two great Andalusian scholars--Imam Qurtubi & Imam Ibn Juzayy.

"Among the people are those who take other than Allah as partners with Him. They love them as Allah should be loved . But those who believe are more intense in love for Allah." [Qur'an, 2.165]

This is the 23rd lesson of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org)--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

In the first Eid khutba at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains that the central lesson of Ramadan--learned through the fasting, prayer, recitation of Qur'an, and other spiritual acts in the month--is seeking closeness to Allah.

It is this meaning of seeking closeness that we celebrate and express thankfulness for on the day of Eid, and which we must strive to nurture past Ramadan, in all our actions of devotion & life.

It is through realizing our neediness to Allah that we can attain this closeness; and it is only through this realization that we can be truly thankful & find purpose in life.

SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) is a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the sunnas of Eid: [1] the sunna of worship on the night before Eid; [2] the sunnas before Eid prayer; [3] some of the sunnas of the Eid prayer itself; and [4] having a post-Ramadan spiritual plan.

Taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a Qur'anic verse (6.32) on the reality of worldliness as being mere play and idling--and that true life is life of the Hereafter. The meaning of "dunya" is explained as not being this life itself but, rather, worldliness--namely, being attached to worldly matters in ways that entail disobedience, disadvantage, or distance from Allah and the Next Life. The meanings of true intelligence (`aql) are discussed...

“What is worldly life except for play & idling? Indeed, the Next Abode is better for those mindful. Will you not understand?” [Qur’an: 6.32]

This is lesson 22 of the series on Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an, taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a Qur'anic verse (5.119) on the consequences of being true, and the tremendous reward & success entailed by this virtue. The reality of sincerity (ikhlas) and being true (sidq) are explained, from the explanation of great spiritual masters such as Ibn Ajiba and Qushayri.

“Allah says: This is the day when the true will benefit from their trueness. They shall have Gardens under which rivers flow, residing there forever. Allah is pleased with them, & they with Him. This is great victory.” [Qur’an, 5.119]

This is lesson 21 of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur’an" taught at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic verse (5.35) on "seeking the means to Him" (wasila). The reality of taking means (tawassul) is explained, in its various forms permitted in the Qur'an and Sunna. The believers' clarity that the Giver is Allah, while means are taken out of seeking from Him is explained. This also repels claims of some of our attitudinally-divergent brethren who would condemn mainstream Muslim practices with sound basis in Qur'an and Sunna as "shirk" (worship of other than Allah).

“Believers! Be mindful of Allah & seek the means to Him. And strive in His path in order that you be truly successful.” [Qur’an: 5.35]

This is lesson 20 of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic verses 4.174-175 on holding fast to Allah through belief nurtured by the clear proof & light of the Qur'an--as a means to be guided to Him on a straight path.

The verses:
“O people, there has come to you a clear proof from your Lord, & We have sent down to you a manifest light.

"So those who believe in Allah & hold fast to Him, He will admit them to mercy & bounty from Himself--& will guide them to Himself on a straight path.” [Qur’an, 4:174-175]

This is class 19 of the series on Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an, taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani.

Sidi Nader Khan (www.naderkhan.com) sings Imam Busiri's powerful Qasida Muhammadiyya in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and his distinguishing qualities.

This is from a SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org) webinar hosted at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) during Ramdan 2011.

You can see the videos from the webinar at: http://youtu.be/v9BXjEsb8uY

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic verse (4.135) on standing unwaveringly for justice & truth, even if it is against oneself. He explains the beautiful balance that true justice requires, and how it must be upheld on firm foundations of Mercy and sincere concern for the good--for oneself, others, and creation, for the sake of God.

“Believers! Stand unwaveringly in justice, as witnesses for Allah--even against yourselves or parents & relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not whims, lest you not be just. If you distort or refuse, indeed Allah is ever-aware of what you do.” [Qur’an, 4.135]

This is lesson 18 of the lessons on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur’an." These free public lessons are taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Qur'an: 4.125, on turning completely to Allah in submission; living true religion: the upright way of Prophet Abraham (peace and blessings be upon him), the way upheld and exemplified by the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk)--a way of excellence & electhood.

“Who is more excellent in religion than one who submits themselves entirely to Allah, upholding excellence, and follows the way of Ibrahim the upright? And Allah took Ibrahim as a dear friend.” [Qur’an, 4.125]

This is Lesson 17 of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) in Toronto--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a verse on the characteristics of blessed gatherings (Qur'an: 4.114), and clarifies why "there is no good in much of their private conservation." Key Prophetic sunnas of speech and relationships are explained

“There is no good in much of their private conversation--except for those who enjoin charity or that which is right or mending relations between people. Whoever does this seeking Allah’s pleasure, We shall give them great reward.” [Qur’an: 4.114]

This is lesson 16 of the lessons on "Characteristics of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) in Toronto--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic call (4.103) to consistent remembrance & prayer--and the importance for seeking presence of heart with Allah in one's remembrance & prayer.

“If you complete the prayer, then remember Allah standing, sitting, and on your sides. Then, when you are at rest, establish prayer. Prayer has been prescribed for believers at specific times.” [Qur’an: 4.103]

This is lesson 15 of the Qualities of the Believers in the Qur’an series, taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org)

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic guidance on excellence in greeting (Qur'an, 4.86), and what this expresses of concern and care for others, and what it promotes of strong social relations.

“If you are greeted with a greeting, then respond with better than it, or return it. Indeed, Allah records all things.” [Qur’an, 4.86]

Taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org) in Toronto, Canada.

This is lesson 14 of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an."

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org) and SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) explains "Consequences of Obeying Allah & His Messenger," in lesson 13 of the series on Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an. An explanation of Qur’an, 4.69-70.

“Whoever obeys Allah & the Messenger, these are the ones whom Allah has bestowed favour of the prophets, the veracious, martyrs & the righteous. And excellent are these as companions.

"This is bounty from Allah , & sufficient is Allah as Knower.” [Qur’an, 4.69-70]

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains verses (Qur'an: 4.57-59) on the reward, importance, and command to fulfill trusts (amana) and to uphold (justice). These two central Islamic virtues are explained, with practical examples of how these are tested in our daily lives.

“Those who believe & do righteous deeds, We shall admit into Gardens under which rivers flow, dwelling therein forever. There, they shall have purified spouses, and We shall admit them to a deepening shade.

“Verily, Allah commands you to fulfill trusts to whom they are due. And if you judge between people, to judge with justice.

"Excellent indeed is what Allah admonishes you with. Surely, Allah is Seeing & Hearing.” [Qur’an, 4.57-58]

This is the 12th lesson of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an."

These lessons were delivered at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains verses from Surat al-Nisa' (4.13-14) on the limits of Allah and obeying Allah and the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him); the wisdom and benefit of limits; the reality of obedience (ta`a) and what it expresses.

"These are Allah’s limits. Whoever obeys Allah & His Messenger will be admitted by Him to Gardens under which rivers flow, abiding there eternally--& this is tremendous success.

And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger & transgresses His limits - He will put them into the Fire, abiding there eternally, & they will have humiliating punishment. [Qur'an, 4.13-14]

This is the 11th lesson of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an."

These lessons were delivered at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains what repentance Allah is most likely to accept--and unacceptable repentance, in explanation of Qur'an, 4.17-18:

"“Repentance is accepted by Allah only for those who do wrong in ignorance & then repent right away. It is these to whom Allah will turn in forgiveness. Allah is ever Knowing & Wise...

“Repentance is not for those who do bad deeds until death comes to them & they say, "Indeed, I have repented now," or of those who die in rejection of faith. For them We have prepared painful punishment.” [Qur’an, 4.17-18]

This is the 10th lesson of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an."

These lessons were delivered at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

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