The Mohamed Ghilan Podcast

Commentary on subjects intersecting between religion, philosophy, science, society and culture

Ramadan is a Proof Against Us 04/02/2025

Ramadan is a Proof Against Us Ramadan is a time in which we exercise our agency in a way unlike the rest of the year. We approach it with deliberate intent, set goals, reorient ourselves and rearrange our priorities to make our relationship with Allah our primary concern. In a way, we're establishing a proof against ourselves, demonstrating our capacity to choose Allah over dunya. The question we should ponder on is how can we exercise this agency in an effective way against the pulls of our lower self. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/35972835

Post Ramadan Reflections 04/12/2024

Post Ramadan Reflections Ramadan is a special time of the year in which we as Muslims engage in an act of worship that's like no other. In contrast to all other acts of worship, fasting is an intimate act that cannot be witnessed or confirmed by anyone other than Allah. It's a secret between the servant and their Lord. Being granted permission by Allah to engage in this intimate act of drawing nearer to Him should bring us all to a pause to reflect on what that means in terms of our status with Allah. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/30796263

Imanophobia and the Adoption of Aesthetic Sensibility by Muslims 03/24/2024

Imanophobia and the Adoption of Aesthetic Sensibility by Muslims As Muslims have become increasingly integrated into social justice movements and the entertainment industry, many prominent figures are taking actions that align with the dominant ideology in these spheres. Despite their apparent unrelatedness, a common theme runs through Muslim hijabi Instagram influencers taking off their hijabs, comedians mocking Islamic practices like the dua, and political allegiances made in the name of combating Islamophobia. In this episode, the distinction made by the late Algerian sociologist and philosopher Malek Bennabi between aesthetic and moral sensibilities as they manifest in the lived experience of the Western European and the Muslim is used as a framework to understand the current trends observed among Muslims in the West. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/30518668

Jerusalem is Worth Nothing…and Everything! 02/05/2024

Jerusalem is Worth Nothing…and Everything! What is Jerusalem worth? What kind of attachment does being a Muslim entail to the Holy Land? The recent announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump that recognizes Jerusalem as the official capital of Israel has created massive outcries and lamentations over the grim prospects for peace. However, from a spiritual and Quranic standpoint, much good has come out from this announcement. We just need to have the right perspective to see it. Topics discussed in this episode include the status of Jerusalem in Islam and the attitude a Muslim should adopt with regards to their relationship to the Holy Land. Hamas: Resistance, Terrorism, & Anti-Semitic Charters Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/29810613

The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) | Part 3 of 3 08/31/2023

The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) | Part 3 of 3 The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) is a poem composed by the great Tunisian scholar Yusuf ibn Muhammad at-Tawozari at-Tilimsanī (d. 1119 AD/513 AH). He was known for his mastery of the various Islamic sciences but his erudition and rhetorical abilities became his defining feature to the degree that he was known as ibn an-Nahawi (Son of the Grammarian). al-Munfarijah is one of the most famous poems recited in North Africa and generally in the Islamic world. ibn an-Nahawi composed it in response to a request from his family who were living under an oppressive ruler. Ever since this poem has been taken up by Muslims and it became widely known for its efficacy. The poem is a combination of applied theology, spiritual counseling, and prayer. Reciting this poem in times of difficulty with a proper understanding of its meanings is known to bring relief. This 3-part series was recorded at Mīzān Avenue in Sydney, Australia on August 12, 2018. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27900330

The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) | Part 2 of 3 08/31/2023

The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) | Part 2 of 3 The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) is a poem composed by the great Tunisian scholar Yusuf ibn Muhammad at-Tawozari at-Tilimsanī (d. 1119 AD/513 AH). He was known for his mastery of the various Islamic sciences but his erudition and rhetorical abilities became his defining feature to the degree that he was known as ibn an-Nahawi (Son of the Grammarian). al-Munfarijah is one of the most famous poems recited in North Africa and generally in the Islamic world. ibn an-Nahawi composed it in response to a request from his family who were living under an oppressive ruler. Ever since this poem has been taken up by Muslims and it became widely known for its efficacy. The poem is a combination of applied theology, spiritual counseling, and prayer. Reciting this poem in times of difficulty with a proper understanding of its meanings is known to bring relief. This 3-part series was recorded at Mīzān Avenue in Sydney, Australia on August 12, 2018. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27900291

The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) | Part 1 of 3 08/31/2023

The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) | Part 1 of 3 The Reliever (al-Munfarijah) is a poem composed by the great Tunisian scholar Yusuf ibn Muhammad at-Tawozari at-Tilimsanī (d. 1119 AD/513 AH). He was known for his mastery of the various Islamic sciences but his erudition and rhetorical abilities became his defining feature to the degree that he was known as ibn an-Nahawi (Son of the Grammarian). al-Munfarijah is one of the most famous poems recited in North Africa and generally in the Islamic world. ibn an-Nahawi composed it in response to a request from his family who were living under an oppressive ruler. Ever since this poem has been taken up by Muslims and it became widely known for its efficacy. The poem is a combination of applied theology, spiritual counseling, and prayer. Reciting this poem in times of difficulty with a proper understanding of its meanings is known to bring relief. This 3-part series was recorded at Mīzān Avenue in Sydney, Australia on August 12, 2018. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27900240

The Illusion of Controlling Destiny 08/24/2023

The Illusion of Controlling Destiny This episode is a sneak peak into our weekly live sessions at Al-Andalus Academy's Halaqa series where we're currently engaging in the study of Sidi ibn 'Atā-illah's Kitab at-Tanwīr (The Book of Illumination). In this session, wel delve into three reasons that should compel us to dropping the measure alongside Allah ﷻ. These revolve around the understanding that our attachment to the measure is borne out of an illusion that not only do we have control over our outcomes for ourselves, but also that we know best what's good for ourselves. This notion is what Sidi ibn 'Atā-illah seeks to unveil for us so can confront the ways in which we delude ourselves and in turn distance ourselves from Allah. An interesting open discussion followed the section covered in this session where the teachings for Sidi ibn 'Atā-illah were put into real life scenarios, showing how application of these principels can transform one's journey through this world and draw them nearer to Allah ﷻ. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27839070

On Sleep 08/11/2023

On Sleep Humans spend one third of their lives sleeping. It's one of the most conserved behaviours in nature, which speaks to a crucial role it plays in survival. Yet, much of the popular discussion on sleep follows a reductive approach that focuses on its import in the physical realm whilst completely ignoring the metaphysical realities behind it. Sleep is described in the Quran as a sign of God, as well as affirming its role as a restorative process. A discussion on sleep is deficient, and can even be miseading in its implications if it only addresses its physiology and excludes its spirituality. Topics discussed in this episode include: Why we sleep The circadian cycle of sleep and wakefulness The stages and physiological changes of sleep The spiritual dimension of sleep The sleep of the Beloved ﷺ The nature of dreams Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27727215

Living with Purpose 07/16/2023

Living with Purpose What is the point of what you do? Whether it’s educational, career, or business pursuits, life is filled with transitions that end with the ultimate transition from this stage of our existence to the next. As we pass from this world we take nothing with us, and when we meet the angels in the grave we get hit with the reality that none of our titles, accolades, and material wealth meant anything in and of themselves. Arriving at this realization before our death can trigger an existential crisis. This is not a matter of addressing our specific purpose, but a matter of answering the larger question of life’s purpose. Topics addressed in this episode include the conception of Islam as a state of being as opposed to a religion, what makes humans different from animals, and the Quranic conception of how knowledge of God is attained. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27476727

The Road to Spiritual is Physical 06/21/2023

The Road to Spiritual is Physical The body is a sacred trust from God and similar to other material possessions we have under our care in this world we will be asked about how we took care of it. How we physically look is a manifestation of how we treat our bodies, and how we treat our bodies manifests in our mindset and how we conduct our lives. All this has a direct impact on our spiritual development. Topics addressed in this episode include the relationship between the impact of stress on the brain and physical exertion, the importance of exercise and eating habits, and life lessons learned in the gym. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27223611

The Grace in Deprivation 06/14/2023

The Grace in Deprivation The Illumination in Dropping the Measure is a text by Sidi ibn 'Atā-illah in which he expounds on the belief in the Divine Decree. In a way, it can be viewed as a commentary on the Hadith of ibn 'Abbās RA where the Beloved ﷺ affirms for him that what is written will pass, regardless of what the entire world tries to do. This is the second text we cover for Sidi ibn 'Atā-illah after having completed his Hikam (aphorisms). In this episode I share the audio recording of one of our live weekly sessions at Al-Andalus Halaqa where I present a translation and commentary on this important work. Here, we read the section covering the ten ways the knowers of Allah are able to be patient and remain tranquil in the face of afflictions. To join the live weekly sessions go to Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27146562

I Was Blessed With Her Love 06/11/2023

I Was Blessed With Her Love Lady Khadijah RA was the first and while alive the only wife of the Beloved ﷺ. Their relationship was of immense significance and the love the Beloved ﷺ had for her did not diminish with her passing. Lady Aisha RA said she was never jealous of any of the wives of the Beloved ﷺ as she was of Lady Khadijah RA despite having never met her. In this episode are highlights about Lady Khadijah RA and lessons to be drawn from her marriage and relationship with the Beloved ﷺ. The closing track is titled Natawassal bil Hubaba, which means we seek an intercession by the beloved woman, and it’s in reference to our mother Lady Khadija RA. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27107283

On Toxic Masculinity 06/05/2023

On Toxic Masculinity What is toxic masculinity? And how does it manifest in marriages and intimacy? How did the social conditioning of men lead to this? These questions form the points of discussion in this episode dedicated to Muslim men. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/27044499

What is Spiritual Abuse? 05/14/2023

What is Spiritual Abuse? The relationship dynamic between the teacher and student, the religious leadership and community, between parents and their children, or even between spouses can fall into spiritually toxic patterns. The challenge is in knowing when spirituality becomes a weapon of abuse as opposed to a path to connecting with God. Topics addressed in this episode include the nature of abuse, how spiritual abuse can be identified, what are the parameters of a spiritually healthy vs a spiritually abusive leadership, and how to know when a teacher is not helping you establish your relationship with the Divine. Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/26831910

Prohibitions of the Tongue (6 of 6) 05/09/2023

Prohibitions of the Tongue (6 of 6) Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/26786502

Prohibitions of the Tongue (5 of 6) 05/09/2023

Prohibitions of the Tongue (5 of 6) Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/26786418

Prohibitions of the Tongue (4 of 6) - Ruling on Music 05/09/2023

Prohibitions of the Tongue (4 of 6) - Ruling on Music Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/26786352

Prohibitions of the Tongue (3 of 6) 05/09/2023

Prohibitions of the Tongue (3 of 6) Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/26786286

Prohibitions of the Tongue (2 of 6) 05/08/2023

Prohibitions of the Tongue (2 of 6) Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/26786127

Prohibitions of the Tongue (1 of 6) 05/08/2023

Prohibitions of the Tongue (1 of 6) Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/26773788

Died Suddenly and the Visual Assault on Reason 12/27/2022

Died Suddenly and the Visual Assault on Reason Join Al-Andalus Academy at Instagram Facebook Twitter Articles cited in the episode: /episode/index/show/1fc91c9a-d4a1-40a0-856d-836accde3df9/id/25435914

The Mohamed Ghilan Podcast

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