Loving and Living the Quran
When life doesn’t go as planned, our natural instinct is often to look outward—to blame someone or something else for our pain or problems. But what if blame is actually holding us back from healing, growth, and true wellbeing? In today’s episode, we explore the seductive nature of blame and how it functions as a defense mechanism that protects us from uncomfortable emotions like guilt, shame, or vulnerability. Drawing from the Quran, teachings of the Ahlul Bayt (as), and insights from modern psychology, we uncover how blame traps us in emotional stagnation—while responsibility sets us...
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In today’s episode, we explore a powerful truth from the Quran about wellbeing: that real change begins from within. While we often wait for external circumstances to shift, the Quran teaches us to focus on what is in our control—our mindset, our actions, and our choices. Drawing from Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:11), “Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves,” we reflect on how transformation starts internally. This verse is a call to take agency over our lives instead of surrendering to powerlessness or blame. We unpack how our...
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Today's reflection is adapted from the introduction to the book Calling on the Merciful, which features excerpts from the supplications taught by the Beloveds of Allah [swt]. Episode Summary: In this episode, we reflect on the beautiful invitation and promise from Allah [swt] in Surah Ghafir [40:60]: وَقَالَ رَبُّكُمُ ادْعُونِي أَسْتَجِبْ لَكُمْ "And your Lord says: Call upon Me, I will answer you." This verse is a powerful reminder of our constant need for connection with the Divine. Despite our illusions of self-sufficiency, our hearts long for the...
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In this episode, we reflect on the profound message of Surah Taghabun, verse 11: وَمَن يُؤْمِن بِاللَّهِ يَهْدِ قَلْبَهُ وَاللَّهُ بِكُلِّ شَيْءٍ عَلِيمٌ “… and whoever believes in Allah, He guides aright his heart; and Allah is Cognizant of all things.” [64:11] Life is full of crossroads, difficult decisions, and overwhelming choices, making it hard to find clarity and direction. In today’s world, we often turn to self-help books, mentors, or online influencers, yet find ourselves more confused than before. This episode...
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As we continue to deepen our relationship with the Divine, today’s episode explores one of the most profound promises Allah (SWT) makes in the Quran: “Whoever puts their trust in Allah, He is sufficient for them.” (Quran 65:3) This verse from Surah Talaq reminds us that true peace and security come from relying on Allah. But what does it mean to truly have tawakkul (trust in God)? How do we balance action with faith? And how can we strengthen our trust in Him when faced with uncertainty, hardship, or fear? Join us as we dive into: ✅ The meaning of tawakkul and its two-step process of...
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In this episode, we explore the third essential aspect of developing our relationship with Allah: submission to Him. If we truly recognize and reciprocate Allah’s love and have awe of His greatness, submission becomes a natural and fulfilling choice rather than a burden. We begin with the powerful Quranic verse from Surah Al-Baqarah (2:112), which highlights that true submission leads to becoming a Muhsin (a doer of good) and attaining a state of peace, free from fear and grief. This peace is not just a reward in the Hereafter but something we can experience in this life as well. Yet, in the...
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In this episode, we continue our exploration of developing a deep connection with Allah by focusing on khashyah (خشية)—awe of Allah. Often mistranslated as fear, khashyah is a reverence that comes from knowledge, reflection, and love rather than anxiety over punishment. We begin by reflecting on Surah Az-Zumar (39:23), where Allah describes how the hearts of those who truly fear Him soften upon hearing His words. Unlike khauf (fear), khashyah transforms the soul, bringing both awe and serenity. We also delve into the psychological benefits of awe, drawing from modern research that...
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Episode Summary: In our journey toward fostering well-being, we must recognize and nourish our innate need for connection with the Divine. Over the next three days, we will explore three key aspects of developing a meaningful relationship with Allah: 1. Love of Allah 2. Awe of Allah 3. Submission to Allah Today, we begin with **Love of Allah**—the foundation upon which a sincere and fulfilling relationship with Him is built. Key Takeaways: The Power of Love: Love attracts us, deepens connections, and transforms devotion into a soul-fulfilling relationship rather than mere obligations....
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Rest Your Heart in His Remembrance [13:28] Episode Summary: In our constant search for peace and happiness, we often turn to material success, relationships, achievements, and self-care. However, true and lasting peace can only be found in the remembrance of Allah. In this episode, we explore the profound wisdom of Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:28): "Those who believe and whose hearts are set at rest by the remembrance of Allah; now surely by Allah's remembrance are the hearts set at rest." This verse teaches us that the tranquility (itminan) we seek is achieved by connecting with As-Salam, the Source...
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"Know Your Fitrah" [30:30] Episode Summary: What brings us true well-being, peace, and happiness? The answer lies in understanding our fitrah—our innate nature as created by Allah. In this episode, we reflect on Surah Ar-Rum (30:30), where Allah tells us that human beings are created with a natural disposition that inclines toward truth, justice, and beauty. However, most people remain unaware of this divine compass within them. We explore the two key concepts in this verse: Hanif – Turning away from misguidance and inclining toward the oneness of God. Fitrah – The pure, God-given...
info_outlineWhen life doesn’t go as planned, our natural instinct is often to look outward—to blame someone or something else for our pain or problems. But what if blame is actually holding us back from healing, growth, and true wellbeing?
In today’s episode, we explore the seductive nature of blame and how it functions as a defense mechanism that protects us from uncomfortable emotions like guilt, shame, or vulnerability. Drawing from the Quran, teachings of the Ahlul Bayt (as), and insights from modern psychology, we uncover how blame traps us in emotional stagnation—while responsibility sets us free.
Through powerful examples like the contrasting responses of Prophet Adam (as) and Shaytan, we discover two radically different mindsets: one that leads to growth and forgiveness, and another that leads to arrogance and destruction.
Tune in to learn:
- Why blame feels good in the moment—but harms us in the long run
- The psychology behind projection and self-serving bias
- What the Quran and Ahlul Bayt (as) teach us about emotional responsibility
- The difference between reacting like a Prophet vs. reacting like Shaytan
- Practical reflection questions to move from blame to empowerment
Quranic Reflections:
- Surah Al-A’raf 7:23 – “Our Lord! We have wronged ourselves…”
- Surah Al-Anbiya 21:87 – “Surely I am of those who wronged themselves.”
- Surah Al-Hijr 15:39 – “My Lord, because You have put me in error…”
Hadith Highlights:
- Imam Ali (as): “The blamer should not blame anyone but himself.”
- Imam Ali (as): “Beware of making excuses, for they are the companions of failure.” (Ghurar al-Hikam)
Reflection Prompts:
- What part of this situation might I be avoiding responsibility for?
- How does blame protect me from feeling uncomfortable emotions?
- What is one small action I can take today to reclaim my power?
Takeaway:
Blame may offer temporary relief, but it blocks long-term transformation. Choosing responsibility—even in small ways—aligns us with the Prophetic path, brings us closer to Allah, and invites real inner peace.