Azeem Muhammad is an American Muslim comedian celebrated for his role in the groundbreaking comedy tour, 'Allah Made Me Funny'.   Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Azeem talks candidly about growing up in difficult circumstances as an introverted young man who loved to read. His life was shaped by the rise of hip-hop and gangster rap. His attempt to become a drug dealer was short-lived due to the strong guiding presence of his mother.   Azeem’s life was turned around in an instant when he saw Louis Farrakhan on TV, leading him to join the Nation of Islam. From that point on, a journey of self-discovery and discipline unfolded, intertwined with his pursuit of comedy.   Azeem shares his experiences of providing entertainment to Western Muslims in the aftermath of 9/11, shedding light on the complexities of belonging and acceptance, particularly for Black Muslims within the broader Muslim community.   Join us as we delve into Azeem's story of resilience, transformation, and the power of laughter in navigating life's challenges.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life and childhood.Struggling to fit in as a child. Feelings of loneliness and abandonmentRacismGangster rap and hip-hopGang cultureBecoming a drug dealerLouis Farrakhan and conversion to Nation of IslamBecoming a MuslimGlobal comedy tour ‘Allah Made Me Funny’Showing Western Muslims how to laughSacrificesBalancing work and home lifeLegacy #comedy #muslimcomedy #noi #nationofislam #farrakhan #AllahMadeMeFunny #islam #humour #muslim #racism #funny   USEFUL LINKS - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Azeem Muhammad https://azeemcomedy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/azeemcomedy/ https://www.facebook.com/AzeemComedy/ https://twitter.com/AzeemComedy   - Allah Made Me Funny https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allah_Made_Me_Funny   === SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

A captivating and thought-provoking conversation with esteemed Muslim thought leaders. In this episode, we are honoured to host a panel featuring prominent Islamic scholar Shaykh Ruzwan Mohammed, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain Zara Mohammed, and seasoned media relations strategist Osama Saeed. Together, they engage in an enriching dialogue covering a wide spectrum of topics, offering insights and perspectives that promise to broaden your understanding and stimulate critical thinking.  Topics discussed include #gaza #palestine #islamophobia #muslims #israel #antisemitism #muslimleadership #media #piersmorgan #mainstreammedia #theoryofchange In this episode: 0:00:00 Introductions 0:02:00 How has the Gaza war affected you? 0:03:00 How has the Gaza war affected you? (Zara) 0:05:19 How has the Gaza war affected you? (Osama) 0:08:07 How has the Gaza war affected you? (Shaykh Ruzwan) 0:13:10 Has there been an effective response from the UK Muslim community ? 0:31:17 Zara's experience of the Muslim community after travelling to 300 organisations 0:36:09 Mosques, Imams and Vision 0:37:30 UK versus USA Imams and Mosques 0:38:00 A solution to the Palestine conflict 0:40:05 Who should Muslims vote for in the UK and USA ? Has the UK Labour party lost the Muslim vote? 0:44:00 Muslims engaging in politics 0:47:25 Has the push for Muslims to be involved in politics in the West been a waste of time? 0:55:00 Osama's Theory of Change for peace in Palestine - the art of persuasion  0:56:55 Joe Biden and Israel 1:00:55 Shaykh Ruzwan: The community inflicting this is a traumatised community 1:01:33 Normalisation of Israel by Saudi Arabia, UAE and other countries 1:04:00 Muslim countries and their position 1:06:53 What do Non-Muslims think of the Muslims? 1:10:10 What does NOT change? Example of Amazon 1:11:44 What has Zara learnt about the Media Machine?  1:15:23 Zara's response to "Do you condemn Hummus?" 1:17:08 Should Zara appear on the Piers Morgan show? Osama's advice from a media relations expert 1:20:22 The Muslims need a Message. Tackling Islamophobia. Anti-Semitism. What needs to happen? What do Muslims have to offer? 1:23:30 Politicians and Food banks. A loss of dignity 1:25:25 Shaykh Ruzwan's 'controversial' views on the media, Muslim messaging, communication, Muslims in the civic space, Islamophobia and the Prophetic example 1:30:30 Challenges of bringing on board Islamic Scholars to address current issues such as Islamophobia 1:36:00 Solving Zara's dilemma - how to get the right Islamic Scholars involved? 1:38:24 An alternative solution to Islamophobia - examples from the LGBT community. Pride, Stonewall and the Rainbow 1:41:25 The reality of Muslims being victimised and attacked 1:46:05 A question of courage. Come out of your echo chamber 1:47:40 Are there intelligent Muslims forming a vision and long-term strategy for Muslims in the UK? 1:53:57 Concluding messages Recorded 31 January 2024   USEFUL LINKS - SHAYKH RUZWAN MOHAMMED Regarded as one of the foremost Islamic scholars in the West.  Desert Island Gems interview: https://youtu.be/HuoEr_L_KXw https://www.isyllabus.org/teachers/ https://www.iidr.org/people/21-ruzwan-mohammed/   - ZARA MOHAMMED Award-Winning Leadership Strategist, Public Speaker & Consultant Regarded amongst the most influential women in the UK today. https://twitter.com/ZaraM01 https://www.instagram.com/zara_m02 https://zara-mohammed.com/   - OSAMA SAEED Director of comms, policy and campaigns at Shelter Former Amnesty International's comms director Former Al Jazeera Media Network's head of comms https://osamabhutta.scot/ https://uk.linkedin.com/in/osamasbhutta https://instagram.com/osamasbhutta https://twitter.com/osamasbhutta   === SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

*NOTE -  This episode discusses suicide. If you are affected by suicide or are worried about someone, please see the links at the end of these show notes*   Muslims die by suicide too.   This may be an uncomfortable reality for many within religious communities but is an important issue for us to discuss. Research suggests that discussing suicide does not make it more likely but may actually help people get the right support.   My guest is Professor Rory O’Connor, a Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Glasgow who has been working on suicide research for over 25 years. As the head of the Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory at the University of Glasgow, President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, and Past President of the International Academy of Suicide Research, Professor Rory brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation.   As well as contributing to BBC documentaries on the subject, his award-winning book “When it is darkest: Why people die by suicide and what we can do to prevent it” addresses the common questions, myths and misunderstandings surrounding suicide.   In this interview, Professor Rory not only shares leading research on the topic but also opens up about his personal experiences of losing people to suicide. This episode aims to foster understanding, dispel myths, and encourage dialogue around a critical issue affecting communities worldwide.   In this episode, we discuss: How to talk about suicideWhy Rory wrote the bookPatterns of suicide throughout our lifetimeSuicide in menImportance of sleepUnderstanding deliberate self-harm and suicideCoping with the loss of a loved oneThe unpredictability of griefWhy people die by suicide – the Integrated Motivational-Volitional (IMV) modelAdvice if you have suicidal thoughtsSocial media and news guidelinesFaith, religiosity and suicideSuicide in Muslim countries and around the worldIs suicide preventable?Helping those who are suicidalWhat are the signs someone may be suicidal?Developing a safety planA Muslim parent’s story of losing his child by suicide   USEFUL LINKS   - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Professor Rory O’Connor https://twitter.com/suicideresearch https://suicideresearch.info/ https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/healthwellbeing/staff/roryoconnor/ https://www.instagram.com/oconnor_roryc   Trustee & Podcast Host, MQ Mental Health Research https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/category/mq-open-mind-podcast/   President, International Association for Suicide Prevention https://www.iasp.info/our_team/rory-oconnor/   Past President, International Academy for Suicide Research https://suicide-research.org/   - Book When it is darkest: Why people die by suicide and what we can do to prevent it Professor Rory O’Connor https://amzn.eu/d/deKVide   - Article A Muslim parent’s story of losing his child by suicide https://inayatscorner.wordpress.com/2021/07/15/goodbye-to-my-dear-son-adam-salih/ https://inayatscorner.wordpress.com/2022/07/06/my-son-adam-suicide-one-year-on/   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com ===== **GETTING HELP IF YOU ARE SUICIDAL** Support is available. Inshallah things will get better so do not feel you have nowhere to turn. Here are some options to consider.   1-Call or text a helpline Supports in UK – Note services may vary depending on where you live   - Samaritans: For everyone Call 116 123 Email jo@samaritans.org   - Muslim Youth Helpline: Faith and culturally sensitive support by phone, live chat, WhatsApp or email. We offer non-judgemental, confidential support 7 days a week, 365 days a year including bank holidays and Eid. https://myh.org.uk/   - Papyrus: Prevention of young suicide HOPELINE247 Call 0800 068 41 41 Text 07860 039967 Email pat@papyrus-uk.org   - Shout Crisis Text Line: For everyone Text "SHOUT" to 85258   - YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: For people under 19 Text "YM" to 85258   - Worldwide: Please contact support in your country.   Find A Helpline - International Association for Suicide Prevention https://findahelpline.com/i/iasp https://www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts/   2-Talk to someone you trust This could be a friend or family member.   3-Contact a health professional In the UK, you can, Call your GP Call the NHS 111 or 999 if it is an emergency

Preacher Moss is a distinguished American comedian, writer, and educator, best known for his pivotal role as the founder of the groundbreaking comedy tour, 'Allah Made Me Funny.' This tour played a crucial role in boosting the confidence of Muslims worldwide in the aftermath of the events of 9/11 in 2001. Collaborating with fellow comedians Azhar Usman, Mo Amer, and Azeem Muhammad, Preacher Moss embarked on a journey that not only entertained but also served as a source of empowerment.   Beyond his success in the stand-up comedy realm, Preacher Moss's talents extended to writing for renowned figures such as Damon Wayans and George Lopez. Despite achieving trailblazing success as an American Muslim comedian, Moss, often referred to as the O.G. (Original Gangster), deliberately resisted the allure of mainstream comedy career opportunities, steadfast in his commitment to uphold his faith without compromise.   Born into a Christian family in Washington DC in the 1960s, Moss's formative years were shaped by the harsh realities of racism. His parents, both civil rights activists, embody the spirit of change—his father a Black Panther, and his mother having crossed paths with Martin Luther King Jr.   As a Sunni Muslim, Preacher Moss was inspired by Imam Warith Deen Muhammad but also benefited from the discipline and self-dignity espoused by the Nation of Islam.   Delving into his unique perspective, Preacher Moss shares his experiences of being Black within the Muslim community, shedding light on how he navigated the challenges of racism within this diverse group.   His story not only entertains but also serves as a platform for fostering understanding and unity. Listen in as Preacher Moss opens up about his unique journey, offering valuable insights and inspiring anecdotes that transcend the boundaries of comedy.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life and childhood. Growing up in an active civil rights household.Racism as a childBecoming a MuslimOrigins and strategy behind ‘Allah Made Me Funny’Muslim comedians in the mainstreamComedy mentor Dick GregoryImam Warith Deen Muhammad and the Nation of IslamPersonal sacrificesMeeting Muhammad Ali #comedy #muslimcomedy #AllahMadeMeFunny #islam #humour #muslim #racism   USEFUL LINKS   - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Preacher Moss https://preachermoss.com/my-story https://www.instagram.com/preachermoss https://twitter.com/PreacherMOSS https://www.facebook.com/preachermoss https://www.youtube.com/@PreacherM1   - Allah Made Me Funny https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allah_Made_Me_Funny   - Interview with Brother Ali (Travelers Podcast) https://youtu.be/iX9__GYxkv8?si=UKO6gPcXVGxZgALr https://youtu.be/9iRZ3XRcPPo?si=p_jNPSuxP9CKwFX3   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

Shaykh Ruzwan is one of the foremost Islamic scholars in the West. Hailing from Glasgow, Scotland (UK), Shaykh Ruzwan obtained a degree in Geopolitics and Arabic before leaving to study in Turkey in the 1990s. He went on to study in numerous Middle Eastern countries including Yemen and Syria. Shaykh Ruzwan graduated from the prestigious Mahad al-Fat’h Islamic Law College in Damascus with a distinction of merit, achieving overall first position in his year of graduation from the college.   On his return to the UK, he authored the iSyllabus Islamic Studies curriculum which has been taught to over 7000 students in 15 cities for more than 10 years. Since the pandemic, it has moved online and now has a global audience.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life and childhoodDifficulty reading at a young ageInvolvement in street violenceStudying in Glasgow, Turkey, Cairo, Yemen and DamascusLife as a student in the Middle EastDeveloping a ground-breaking English Islamic studies programme for a Western audiencePersonal sacrificesImpact on physical healthCharacter and personalityLegacyRelaxation, humour and leisure   #isyllabus #islamic #islamicstudies #islam #quran #education #muslim   USEFUL LINKS - Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Biographies of Shaykh Ruzwan https://www.isyllabus.org/teachers/ https://www.iidr.org/people/21-ruzwan-mohammed/   - iSyllabus Islamic Studies programme https://www.isyllabus.org/ https://www.facebook.com/iSyllabus/ https://www.instagram.com/isyllabus/ https://youtube.com/@iSyllabus/   https://isyllabusforschools.org/   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/

Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool is one of the few Muslim global politicians that has been largely successful in balancing politics and faith. His formative years growing up in the South African apartheid system led him to become involved in student politics in the 1980s. Due to his political activism, he was imprisoned by the apartheid regime. He went on to become a close friend and colleague of Nelson Mandela. He held positions of senior political office in South Africa and became the South African ambassador to USA from 2010-2015, spearheading a response to anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia. For those unfamiliar with the history of apartheid in South Africa, Ambassador Ebrahim describes what it was like. Key milestones include Nelson Mandela’s release from prison in 1990 after 27 years. He went on to become the President of South Africa in 1994.   In this episode, we discuss: Formative early life experiences growing up in an apartheid systemStudent politicsSurviving in prison with a programme of Quran studyAnti-Muslim hatred and IslamophobiaMuslim leadership in the WestMuslim politicians balancing faith issuesNavigating politics, slavery, Islamophobia and LGBTBalancing responsibilities to wife, family and home life during political officePersonal sacrifice   USEFUL LINKS Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   Article on Islamophobia (2010) from Arches Quarterly magazine ‘South African Muslims Over Three Centuries: From the Jaws of Islamophobia to the Joys of Equality’ Link to article   Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ambassadorasool   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/

Peter Sanders is a world-renowned photographer of the Muslim world. If you don’t recognise his name, you will have definitely seen his photos. Born in the 1940s in London, he became a professional photographer and took iconic pictures of Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones and many more bands of the 1960s. After becoming a Muslim, he took the early photos of the Hajj and has been taking photos ever since. Brother Peter Sanders has produced books which contain photos that will take your breath away.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life in LondonBecoming a photographerThe 1960s and 70sBecoming a MuslimArt and Culture in IslamThe art of spiritualityBritish Muslim identityIconic photosMeeting saints and sagesSacrifice   USEFUL LINKS Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   Websites including photo galleries https://petersanders.com/ https://www.theexemplars.com/ https://www.artofintegration.co.uk/   Books The Art of IntegrationIn the Shade of the TreeA visit to the ProphetMeeting with MountainsSeek Knowledge even in ChinaExemplars for our time Available from https://petersanders.com/product-category/books/     Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petersandersphotos/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petersandersphotos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/petersanders_   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/

Dr Hany El-Banna is the founder of Islamic Relief, the global Muslim charity started in the 1980s. He is a legend in the Muslim ummah – a true visionary. He eventually left the charity he founded but remains as active as ever travelling the world to inspire and train individuals.   The interview was recorded during Dr Hany’s visit to Glasgow, Scotland as part of a film festival showing a documentary about his life. It is a must watch film – see link below.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life in EgyptLife as a medical doctorMarriageStarting Islamic Relief3 key life decisions (1) leaving Cairo age 27 (2) leaving Medicine age 45 (3) leaving Islamic Relief age 58Being a failureCritical views of Muslim CharitiesSacrificePersonal developmentBeing a visionaryGrowth of organisations beyond the vision of the founderLegacy   USEFUL LINKS   Watch this episode on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   Documentary - Hany El-Banna: The man behind a major global charity (Al Jazeera World) https://youtu.be/nDBtIOXjJIs   Dr Hany Links Youtube (2800+ videos): https://www.youtube.com/@hanyelbanna-2162 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theflyingdoctor Twitter: https://twitter.com/drhanyelbanna   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/

Ashur Shamis is a Libyan who lived in exile for decades in the UK during the reign of Gaddafi. He set up an opposition party at the risk to his own life. His student days in the UK were formative and he provides an insight into the Muslim community in the 1960s, especially within Universities.   He is well known for translating a number of works into English, including co-translating volumes of In the Shade of the Quran by Sayyid Qutb.   Topics discussed in this episode: My relationship with Malcolm XEarly life growing up in LibyaDeveloping a relationship with the QuranEncountering ‘In the Shade of the Quran’ by Sayyid QutbIslamic Societies and FOSIS (Federation of Student Islamic Societies)Sayyid Qutb, Milestones and In the Shade of the QuranThe roots of Islamic activism in the UK (1960s+)Do Muslims read enough?Muslim students todayBeing placed on Gaddafi’s liquidation listWitnessing the assassination of his friendOpposing Gaddafi and accepting his life will be in dangerReflections on the Arab SpringSouth Africa and the legacy of Imam Abdullah HaronAdvice on deepening our relationship with the Quran   Interview recorded 8 March 2020.   USEFUL LINKS   About Ashur http://ashurshamis.com/personal/about-ashur/   The Colonel’s Stray Dogs (Trailer) https://youtu.be/WxRs6DmLAUY   In the Shade of the Quran https://www.kubepublishing.com/collections/vendors?q=Sayyid%20Qutb&contributorID=100063   Imam Abdullah Haron https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdullah_Haron   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

PART 3 - Question & Answer session Panelists: - Shaykh Abdul Aziz Ahmed: World renowned scholar and educationalist based in Glasgow. https://www.facebook.com/abdul.azizahmed.906 - Saiqa Naz: Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) https://twitter.com/saiqa_naz - Dr Aman Durrani: Consultant Psychiatrist based in Glasgow   Questions: Is mental illness associated with punishment from God?Mind, Body and SoulImportance of BreathingStruggling to implement the CBT model – the value of a therapistThe spiritual path – Ilm (knowledge), Amal (action), Haal (state)Is OCD due to Shaytan, your Nafs or a psychological coping mechanism?Using medication to treat your mental health   Mental health and wellbeing is such an important and relevant issue affecting all of us, our friends and our families. This episode is a recording of an event held in Glasgow, Scotland in July 2018 called "Coping with Stress and Anxiety - a practical approach from a spiritual and psychological perspective".   VIDEO Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yPhQax5p4sc   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

PART 2 - The Psychological (CBT) Perspective Speaker: Saiqa Naz is a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) https://twitter.com/saiqa_naz   Topics covered by Saiqa: CBT modelProblem solving techniqueImpact of negative thoughtsCoping skills for managing stressIdentifying signs of stress and anxietyCauses of stressWorked exampleDifferentiating real and hypothetical worries   Mental health and wellbeing is such an important and relevant issue affecting all of us, our friends and our families. This episode is a recording of an event held in Glasgow, Scotland in July 2018 called "Coping with Stress and Anxiety - a practical approach from a spiritual and psychological perspective".   VIDEO Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Tw9lXRidjUE   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

Mental health and wellbeing is such an important and relevant issue affecting all of us, our friends and our families. This episode is a recording of an event held in Glasgow, Scotland in July 2018 called "Coping with Stress and Anxiety - a practical approach from a spiritual and psychological perspective".   PART 1 - The Spiritual Perspective Speaker: Shaykh Abdul Aziz Ahmed. A world renowned scholar and educationalist based in Glasgow. I interviewed him on this podcast episode #25 - Desert Island Gems. https://www.facebook.com/abdul.azizahmed.906   Shaykh Abdul Aziz focuses his discussion on The relationship between culture and religionMuslim tendencies to focus on supernatural forces to explain mental illnessAnxiety as a gateway to other mental health difficultiesShaykh Abu Zayd al-Balkhi - a 9th century polymath who wrote about mental and psychological disorders. The book in English is widely available "Abu Zayd al-Balkhi’s Sustenance of the Soul: the Cognitive Behavior Therapy of a Ninth Century Physician" (ISBN:1565645995)Dealing with Negative and positive thoughtsArabic terms and concepts of anxiety and sadnessProphetic traditions   VIDEO Watch the video on Youtube: https://youtu.be/009FiMOU69s   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

This episode was recorded on the night before Eid and at the conclusion of the Cradle2Grave series. We decided to have a slightly different format with a panel of interesting guests including Islamic scholar Shaykh Amer Jamil, broadcaster and fundraiser Naeem Raza, medical doctor and GP Dr Nadeem Bhatti, Islamic finance expert Omar Shaikh, university graduate and Radio Ramadhan presenter Rameez Mahmood and my co-host Umran Amin. It was a light hearted discussion but also one where we reflected about our own stage in life. It is a longer episode but having listened to it again in 2022, there is so much that is still relevant. We hope it brings a smile to your face. Our topics included The (alleged?) origin of croissants!What people call Dr BhattiOrganising a charity cycle from Scotland to SyriaDriving to Pakistan from BritainShaykh Amer’s travelsThe pursuit of knowledgeAnecdote about Shaykh RuzwanCareersMeeting Muhammad AliNurturing role models and having courageThe lost practice of WaqfIslamicising and Muslimifying everythingEid prayer times in GlasgowQuiz amongst the panellistsWho would you like to have dinner with?What advice would you give your younger self?Seeing Asian people on British TV for the first timeNaeem and his midlife crisis   ABOUT THE SERIES This episode followed the Cradle2Grave series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman and Umran.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

As we release this episode in January 2022 from Scotland, there are only a few months to go before we welcome Ramadhan again inshallah. This episode was recorded as a conclusion to our Cradle 2 the Grave series and focused on maintaining the spiritual high of Ramadhan throughout the whole year. However the topics discussed with Shaykh Amer Jamil are relevant to our spiritual journey and struggle all year round and not necessarily just for Ramadhan. Shaykh Amer Jamil provides guidance on topics such as, Making dua on completion of the QuranThe Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr)The process of reflectionDhikr and Fikr - Remembrance and ReflectionCreating the right environment for spiritual reflectionImam Ghazali’s advice on MuhasabahMaintaining positive habitsTawbah (Repentance)Shaykh Amer’s most memorable Ramadhan’s around the world6 fasts of ShawwalGiving charity throughout the yearBeneficial and harmful acts on Eid daySpending Eid day aloneMoon-wars over the day of Eid   ABOUT THE SERIES This episode followed the Cradle2Grave series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman and Umran.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

In this episode of Cradle2Grave, we discuss the topic of death and how to prepare for it and how to manage when we are in this situation. We cover a number of topics including: Why Shaykh Amer started his popular courses on preparing for deathWhat to do when a loved one is in the last stages of their lifeShould you visit people in hospital at the end of their life?What is the process when someone dies ? For example, getting the death certificate and arranging the funeralThe morning of the janazah and burialAre post mortems permissible?Organ donationShould the burial be done abroad?Having a headstone at the gravePlacing flowers at the graveIs there such a thing as a good or bad death?What deaths would be considered as martyrdom?Ghusl of the deceasedReciting quran and dhikr once the person has diedShowing the face of the deceasedThe souls journey after deathThe questioning in the grave and the barzakh (interspace)How should family and friends deal with their lossIs reading the Quran for the deceased permissible?Offering condolences   ABOUT THE SERIES Cradle2Grave is a series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The topics we discuss include  MarriageParentingChildhood abuseOld ageDeath Unfortunately the first episode on Birth has been lost due to technical issues.   The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman and Umran.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

As we come towards the end of our Cradle 2 the Grave series, we discuss many issues that face us in old age and towards the end of our lives.   We discuss various topics with Shaykh Amer including Preparing for old age and retirementAre elderly people a burden on others?Can Muslim elders actively help the community with their experience and wisdom?Attitudes and responsibilities towards elderly parentsLonelinessDementiaInheritance and willsEnd of life care - including palliative care and hospicesEuthanasia   ABOUT THE SERIES Cradle2Grave is a series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The topics we discuss include  MarriageParentingChildhood abuseOld ageDeath and bereavement Unfortunately the first episode on Birth has been lost due to technical issues.   The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman and Umran.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

*IMPORTANT Self-care message* This episode is a sensitive one and it may be difficult to listen to for some people. Therefore please do look after yourself and make sure you reach out for help & support if it evokes some difficult emotions and feelings.   The topic is childhood abuse.  The Muslim community is not immune to being affected by physical, emotional and sexual childhood abuse and it is imperative we understand, recognise and deal with abuse when it happens. For too long it has been brushed under the carpet, as it has been done in wider society.   We discuss various topics with Shaykh Amer including Speaking up and addressing the problem of abuseHow to deal with abuse when it happens in religious circles and institutionsHow to cope as an adult when you have been abused as a childProtecting our young people and future generations   ABOUT THE SERIES Cradle2Grave is a series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The topics we discuss include  MarriageParentingChildhood abuseOld ageDeath and bereavement Unfortunately the first episode on Birth has been lost due to technical issues.   The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   Sister Samiah is an Educational Psychologist and she shares her professional expertise on the topic.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

In this episode, we discuss what to do if you are in an unhappy or coercive marriage. Forced marriages and domestic abuse are two issues prevalent in many communities, including the Muslim community. Shaykh Amer Jamil helps us navigate culture versus religious practices, and offers practical advice. Topics addressed include Definitions, terminology and languagePosition statement by Imams and scholars on domestic abuseBalancing respect and obedience to parentsEmotional blackmail from parentsWho needs to consent to a marriage? What about the wali (guardian)?Cultural practices versus what Islam saysWhen a person coerces their spouse with intimacyMarrying a Sunni/ShiaWhat about the Quranic verses on ‘lightly beating’ your wife?   RESOURCES mentioned in this episode What Islam Really Says About Domestic Abuse (2007) – Booklet by Shaykh Amer Jamil and MWRC Imams against forced marriage (2015) - Statement   ABOUT THE SERIES Cradle2Grave is a series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The topics we discuss include  MarriageParentingChildhood abuseOld ageDeath and bereavement Unfortunately the first episode on Birth has been lost due to technical issues.   The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman and Abdul Wadood.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

Following on from the last episode in the Cradle2Grave series on MARRIAGE, we discuss PARENTING. Shaykh Amer Jamil shares his advice on topics including: The famous quote of 7, 7, 7Obtaining a rounded education with school and madrassahWhen are young people subject to Islamic obligationsTeenagersTalking to children about the ‘Birds and the Bees’Children, technology and the online worldMaintaining modesty onlinePositive parenting tips   ABOUT THE SERIES Cradle2Grave is a series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The topics we discuss include  MarriageParentingChildhood abuseOld ageDeath and bereavement Unfortunately the first episode on Birth has been lost due to technical issues.   The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman and Umran.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

In this episode, we discuss What to look for in a spouse?Dealing with differing family expectations of an 'ideal spouse'Should you delve into your spouse's past behavioursPersonalitiesPrenuptialsLiving with the in-laws and when to move outShould dad's change nappies?!Announcing an engagementIntimacy in marriageDivorce   ABOUT THE SERIES Cradle2Grave is a series discussing how Muslims can navigate important life events from the moment we are born to the time when we leave this earth. The topics we discuss include  MarriageParentingChildhood abuseOld ageDeath and bereavement Unfortunately the first episode on Birth has been lost due to technical issues.   The series was originally broadcast in Ramadhan 2017 on Radio Ramadhan Glasgow https://www.rr365.co.uk   GUESTS AND HOSTS Hosted by Dr Aman and Umran.   Shaykh Amer Jamil (https://www.amerjamil.com) is a Scottish-born Islamic Scholar and co-founder of iSyllabus UK (https://www.isyllabus.org) , an educational institute that has taught 7000+ students across 15 UK cities over the last 10 years. He is a specialist in Islamic family law and provides guidance and support for those experiencing family and marital difficulties at Unity Family Services (https://www.unityfamily.co.uk). He has been described as one of the Scotland’s most prominent and respected Muslim thinkers by the Scottish media.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.   KEEP IN TOUCH Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ Facebook: muslimcentric Instagram: muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: @muslimcentric YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric