Moody Imams, Cat Jealousy & Qur'anic Scholarship: A Conversation with Shaykh Qamar Ilyas al-Madani

In this deeply insightful episode, we’re joined by Shaykh Qamar Ilyas al-Madani — one of the few globally recognised translators of the Quran and a teacher of scholars — for a candid conversation on leadership, character, and community in the modern age.

From growing up in Birmingham to navigating marriage counselling cases, Shaykh Qamar shares hard-earned wisdom on the emotional and intellectual demands of being an imam today. We also explore the immense responsibility of translating the Quran — and whether simply knowing Arabic is enough to do it justice.

Topics include:

• What makes a good imam (and a bad one)

• Teaching with compassion & relatability

• Public speaking & social media influence

• Unique challenges of Quran translation

• Real-life marriage issues from the counselling chair

• Approaching divine text beyond literal language

An eye-opening conversation with one of the few scholars entrusted to translate the Quran — blending depth, humour, and practical advice for anyone involved in community work or spiritual learning.