Claim OwnershipISRA Academy Podcast
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Conversations with Muslim scholars and thinkers from ISRA Academy and beyond, who explore topics related to faith, spirituality, and the challenges of our time. They offer knowledge that is both accessible and enriching.
28 Episodes
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In this thought-provoking episode, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore the relationship between science and faith from an Islamic perspective. Does modern science challenge belief in God, or does it actually point towards His existence? Are science and religion truly in conflict, or can they complement one another? This discussion invites viewers to reflect on the relationship between faith and reason, shedding light on how Islam approaches this long-standing question.
Are you struggling with low energy, hunger pangs, or fatigue during Ramadan? The key to an easier fast might be what you eat before Ramadan even begins! In this video, we explore, with Mete Samci, how reducing carbohydrate intake before Ramadan can help your body transition into ketosis, making fasting easier.
In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr Sadeq Ansari speaks with Ovamir Anjum about the state of Islamic studies in modern universities, his motivation for translating a major work of Ibn Qayyim, and practical advice for students pursuing graduate studies in Islam. Prof Anjum also reflects on tensions between Western academic scholarship and traditional scholars, critiques a recent work by Joel Hayward, and concludes with an important message on navigating sectarianism with intellectual integrity and principled unity.
Are Heaven and Hell infinite and eternal? In this reflective conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi about how Islamic theology understands the nature of the Hereafter. They unpack the distinction between infinity and eternality, explore philosophical and theological questions about time, space, and continuity, and discuss how scholars have addressed concerns about eternal punishment in relation to a finite human lifespan.
Ramadan is more than just fasting from food and drink. It is a month of transformation — physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially. In this podcast episode, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi to explore the deeper dimensions of Ramadan and how this sacred month transforms the human soul and enhances connection with Allah.
In this insightful conversation, Dr Sadeq Ansari sits down with Shaykh Muntasir Zaman to explore how contemporary scholarship is reshaping the field of Hadith studies. From cutting-edge research methods to classical works that deserve renewed attention, this discussion challenges common assumptions and invites viewers to think more deeply about how Hadith is studied, analysed, and understood today.
In this thought-provoking podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin and Dr Omer Atilla Ergi discuss Neil deGrasse Tyson's argument: If God exists, how can He be both All-Powerful and All-Good, given the presence of suffering in the world? Drawing from Islamic teachings and theological insights, the discussion explores key questions about the nature of God, human free will, the purpose of trials, and the wisdom behind life's challenges. Join us as we delve into faith, reason, and spirituality, as we uncover a nuanced Islamic perspective on this age-old philosophical dilemma.
In this podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Prof Mehmet Ozalp to explore three Sunnahs of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) that guide us towards balanced and healthy eating. Together, they discuss how these timeless teachings are beneficial for physical well-being while fulfilling our responsibility towards our body.
In this podcast, the Dr Suleyman Sertkaya discusses the arrival of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in Madinah, tracing the events from his departure from Quba to the early foundations of the Madinan community.
The session explores how the Prophet’s (pbuh) camel, al-Qaṣwa, played a decisive role in determining the location of the Masjid al-Nabawi, the generosity of Abu Ayyub al-Anṣari in hosting the Prophet (pbuh), and the ethical considerations surrounding the land that belonged to two orphan brothers, Sahl and Suhayl.
In this episode, I sit down with Silma Ihram, Educational Consultant and founder of one of Australia’s earliest Islamic schooling initiatives, to reflect on her remarkable journey to Islam and her lifelong commitment to Islamic education.
What were the most critical steps taken by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in his very first year in Madinah and why do they matter so much?
In this podcast, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the foundational decisions made by the Prophet after the Hijrah, showing how Madinah was transformed from Yathrib into a morally, socially, and politically grounded community. Rather than viewing events in isolation, this talk situates the first year in Madinah within the broader chronology of the Sīrah, highlighting intention, strategy, and long-term vision.
In this episode, we explore a question many people quietly struggle with: If Allah already knows whether I will go to Paradise or Hell, why does He test me at all? This conversation unpacks a common misunderstanding about divine knowledge, destiny (qadar), and human responsibility.
In this episode, Prof Mehmet Ozalp and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore five Qur'anic proofs for the existence of the afterlife. While traditional Muslim scholarship often focused on revelation rather than rational arguments, the Qur'an itself offers proofs of life after death. Join us as we discuss these proofs and reflect on how they strengthen our understanding of the Hereafter.
Who is Dajjal, the great deceiver of the end times? Is he a literal being, or could he represent a system of deception and misguidance? In this video, we explore the different interpretations of Dajjal found in Islamic scholarship and thought. We also discuss how the concept of Dajjal connects to the return of Isa (AS) and the emergence of Yajuj and Majuj, offering a deeper understanding of Islamic eschatology.
Dr Mustafa Khattab, the translator of The Clear Quran, joins me to share the remarkable journey of translating the words of Allah. In this conversation, he reflects on what inspired him, the challenges he faced, the spiritual moments he experienced and the lessons we can all take from his path.
In this podcast, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya takes us on a detailed journey through the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) arrival in Quba, the construction of the first masjid (mosque) and the first khutbah (sermon).
Many know that Ta’if was one of the most painful moments in the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ but few know the deeper stories behind it. In this video, Sirah expert Dr Suleyman, goes beyond the surface to explore what made the journey to Ta’if significant. From walking out of Mecca on foot after a year of immense personal loss, to the heartbreaking rejection by the leaders of Ta’if, this podcast provides details you would not have known before. Also, why Ta'if? Listen to this podcast to find out the answers to these questions plus more.
In this enlightening conversation, Prof Mehmet Ozalp sits down with Dr Zuleyha Keskin to explore one of the most destructive yet often misunderstood emotions — hasad (envy). They discuss what envy truly is, how it differs from jealousy, and why it is considered a disease of the heart in Islamic spirituality. Drawing on Qur’anic insights and Prophetic teachings, they also unpack how envy manifests in daily life and share practical guidance on how to purify the heart from hasad and nurture genuine contentment.
The Year of Sorrow (Aam al-Huzn) was one of the most difficult and heartbreaking periods in the life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). In this year, he faced the devastating loss of his beloved wife, Khadijah (RA), and his protective uncle, Abu Talib. With their passing, he not only endured deep personal grief but also faced increased persecution in Makkah. This video provides detailed insight into these events along with lessons for us today.
In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi joins host Dr Zuleyha Keskin to explore the fascinating question: Is life a simulation? We trace the origins of simulation theory, examine its scientific and philosophical responses, and offer an Islamic perspective on this popular idea.
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