Renewing Religion

In this lesson of Renewing Religion, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, reflects upon the chapters from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya on sincerity, self-examination, meditation and reflecting on death. Ustadh Amjad begins with the chapter on sincerity, explaining that true sincerity can lead habits to be acts of worship if they are done with the right intentions. Many of the companions would actually hide a lot of their acts of good and worship so that they would ensure its sincerity. Thus sincerity is the defining factor of our actions that determine whether our actions will be accepted or not. The second chapter that is examined in this lesson is on self-examination. Ustadh Amjad mentions that many of the righteous would remember their mistakes years after so that it would push them to improve for the better. The Prophet, peace be upon him, says if you do not feel shame then do as you will. Here, he points to the importance of self-examination and understanding that all your actions have a consequence. Ustadh Amjad gives an overview of the chapter on the importance of meditation and reflection. Spending time in nature calms the soul and really allows our internal sounds to quiet so we can start to think about deeper matters. The second type of reflection that one should seek is reflecting on blessings and be thankful for them. The third is reflecting upon the nature of the world, life, death, and the hereafter. This allows a person to prepare for meeting their Lord. Lastly, reflecting upon death is the last chapter of the Ihya. Reflecting upon death forces people to get done now what they would have otherwise delayed. That is why the Prophet, peace be upon him, advises us to take advantage of our free time before we become busy. Imam Ghazali likens every breath one takes to a precious jewel because it can never be brought back once it is taken. The fruit of all this will be realized at the time of death if one has lived their life preparing for it then they will welcome it when the time comes but if they have lived their life headless of it they will be terrified of dying. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.

In this re-broadcast lesson of Renewing Religion, Shaykh Faraz gives an overview of the chapters on faith in Divine Oneness and trusting in Allah as well as the chapters on love, longing, and intimacy from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. Shaykh Faraz begins by explaining that knowing Divine Oneness in its true meaning entails certitude within your heart and trust and reliance upon Allah when it comes to dealing with all that happens. This begins by realizing that Allah is the necessary existence and everything else is dependent on Him. As such everything in existence is necessarily in a state of slavehood to Allah; this is the essence of Tawheed and understanding Divine Oneness. This understanding should lead one to complete reliance on Allah. Shaykh Faraz reminds us that reliance on Allah is not limited to times of difficulty rather it is only if one relies on Allah in all their times including those of ease can they truly rely on Him during times of difficulty. The Prophet, peace be upon him, says know Allah at the times of ease and He will know you in difficulties. You can know Allah both through the consciousness of Him and trust in Him. The action required to actualize this is to continually remember Allah in all of your actions and continually engage in words of remembrance. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin gives an overview of the chapters on patience and thankfulness, fear and hope, poverty, and abstinence from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. In this chapter, Imam Ghazali explains that faith is of two halves: half is patience and half is gratitude, and having certainty of Allah is the whole of faith. Ustadh Amjad explains that everything that one goes through in life is neither a blessing or punishment rather our response to it is what matters. That is why the Prophet would pray to Allah not to turn away His decree but to have gentleness in His decree. The next section of the lesson deals with the chapter on thankfulness. Allah says that if you are thankful then Allah will increase you. Ustadh Amjad advises that we should be especially thankful when we have things to complain about, turn to your numerous other blessings and be thankful for them. Ustadh Amjad then speaks to the chapter on fear and hope and explains that one should have a balance of both. On fear, he says that some of the most fearful people are the companions of the Prophet, particularly those that the Prophet had told them that they would enter Paradise. However, one should also have hope in Allah’s mercy. Remember that particularly when you sin and want to return to Allah. But one should never underestimate the gravity of their shortcomings and that should always push us to do better. Lastly, Ustadh Amjad speaks to the chapter on poverty and abstinence. Our deen advises us to have less, and the Prophet would often praise the poor people of the community. The Prophet would continually warn of worldliness. Ustadh Amjad counsels us to not be attached to the things of this world but attached to the things that one can do in this world that will yield results in the hereafter. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani gives an overview of the chapters on the condemnation of the Dunya; pride; conceit and delusion; and on repentance. These chapters are part of Imam Ghazali’s Ihya and a series of sessions on renewing religion. Shaykh Faraz begins by explaining that each person has a self that requires affirmation and that affirmation can manifest in the form of pride or delude oneself into thinking that you are doing well. It is common for people to be heavily concerned with the progression of their worldly matters and along with it with their selves, however, when it comes to matters of the deen they don’t feel the urgency and the need to change to improve. For that reason, the condemnation of the dunya in this chapter refers to everything that busies you from Allah. One should strive in this dunya but consider what you really need of this life to get you to the hereafter. Thus one should always remember the lowliness and fleetingness of this life and the vastness of the Hereafter in comparison. On pride and conceit, Imam Ghazali defines pride is to think oneself great and conceit is to be self-satisfied and impressed with oneself. Imam Ghazali explains that the basis of all damndest is pride because it is the original sin of Iblees (Satan) and that’s why we have to be very wary of it. As for arrogance, the signs of it are to look down on people and reject what is true. That is why the sunnah of the Prophet, peace be upon him, is grounded in humility, both in outward actions and inward consciousness. Shaykh Faraz advises that the best way to guard oneself against pride is to attribute all good in your life to Allah and praise Him for it. That stems from an understanding that you are a servant of Allah and every blessing you have is from Allah. The next vice Shaykh Faraz discusses is delusion and that refers to a satisfaction one has with themselves or their lives, it is a fake satisfaction that is fleeting and does not lead to contentment. One can fall into various types of worldly and religious delusions that are explained in the lesson. Shaykh Faraz recommends that one reads more on this topic in particular through Shaykh Nuh Keller’s Reliance of The Traveller book. The last portion of the lesson is devoted to the chapter on repentance. Repentance has three integrals: [1] leaving the sin [2] feel remorse for having sinned [3] have resolved to never return to it The fuel of repentance is having a good opinion of Allah and rejoicing in your return to the one you love. Allah has made repentance obligatory because it is mandatory to enter paradise unless you refuse it, so make it a habit to continually repent. Shaykh Faraz explains in the lesson the various levels of repentance that one can aspire to. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

In this re-broadcast lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Walead Mosaad, gives an overview of Imam Ghazali’s chapters on the condemnation of miserliness, love of wealth, status; and the condemnation of ostentation. These chapters fall in the third quarter of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum that focuses on the vices of person. All these vices are primarily about how one interacts with these things, wealth status, etc. Wealth in and of itself is not wrong, however, it can’t be all-consuming such that it distracts you from everything else. One of the principal objectives of zakat to force you to give something you love for the sake of Allah. Shaykh Walead counsels us to make a regular habit of taking stock of our shortcomings and identifying ways to improve upon them. One is either on a path of increase or decrease in their deen and iman and as such one should always strive to improve because if you stand still you will inevitably be on a downward trajectory. The nature of the world is that one is never satiated of it and thus one has to be content through other means that are not materialistic. The remedy to this is a combination of knowledge and practice, to be content in your heart with Allah’s decree, and to only be in need of Allah and that is the true wealth. Shaykh Walead explains that research has shown that one has a minimum threshold of needs that one needs to be fulfilled but beyond that, any additional wealth doesn’t make you happy. The chapter following that is on the condemnation of status and ostentation. How one is viewed by others is one of the most ingrained inclinations in a human and thus only those of truly high status are those who let go of their love of status and leadership. Seeking fame for the sake of fame has become central to our society today and that is blameworthy. Imam Ghazali comments that one should be famous only if Allah has made them known not through any effort or objective of their own. Shaykh Walead concludes with a reminder that first and foremost one should seek roots through cultivating ourselves and character. If then Allah decides that we should be known to others and for us to bear fruit and benefit to the community then that should be but one should not seek it out. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this re-broadcast lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Walead Mosaad, reviews the chapters on holding one’s tongue and condemnation of rancor and envy. These chapters are originally written by Imam Ghazali in his book Ihya Ulum al-Din. Shaykh Walead begins with the chapter on holding one’s tongue and the criteria for one should or should not speak. One should know that their speech is significant and has an effect. In addition, speech is not limited to what we say, but also what we propagate on social media. We have gotten into the habit of naming and shaming online in order to showcase that they’ve made a mistake. However, the sunnah of the Prophet was about having wisdom, and his speech was always measured. As such, we should follow his example and not what we have become used to in our cultures or current state of affairs. The Quran and Sunnah give us very vivid descriptions of the punishments people are given for the sins of the tongue because of the gravity of those actions in the eyes of Allah. Imam Ghazali lists the sins of the tongue from the least bad to the worst: [1] Talking about what doesn’t concern you. [2] Talk that is trivial or repetition of something that isn’t important [3] Talking about (or watching) sins even if one doesn’t partake in them [4] Aimless disputation and arguing about things that may in and of themselves wrong to argue about [5] Say something about someone that you feel has wronged you or taken your right but what you talk about is irrelevant to the situation [6] Trying to talk very poetically to get people’s attention [7] Using vulgar language [8] Damning and cursing others (even animals) [9] Singing songs with bad meanings [10] Joking excessively … there are 10 more mentioned in the chapter that was not covered in the lesson due to time constraints. The second chapter, Shaykh Walead reviews relates to the condemnation of rancor and envy. The desires of the human are divided into two types: appetites and anger. These desires are there to support a person’s survival. For this reason, anger can be both justified and unjustified. Unjustified anger stems from entitlement and ego when one isn’t recognized for that which they are deserving of that makes them angry. When that is left to fester it develops into enmity and envy. The cure to it is a combination of knowledge and practice. Knowing that this is wrong and harms you more than the other person. In addition, practicing patience and suppressing anger; there is great reward in that. Lastly, remember that anger and envy stem from an objection to Allah’s decree and Allah’s giving to you and to them. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this re-broadcast lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin gives an overview of three books from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya: Marvels of the Heart, Discipling the Soul, and Breaking Desires. Struggling against one’s lower self is an obligation that Allah talks about in the Quran, that whoever purifies their heart is successful and whoever doesn’t is at loss. The importance of this purification is displayed in the example of the Shaytan, despite his certitude of the existence of God, his lower self and ego still got the best of him and pushed him to disobey Allah. Ustadh Amjad explains that by treating the diseases of the heart it becomes purified and by leaving it to its devices it becomes ugly. The path to purifying the soul is through beautiful character and that is why the Prophet was sent to perfect noble character. In addition, there are some characters that are naturally innate to a person and others that need to be cultivated. So one should be mindful of their innate good characters and cultivate others that they might not have. Allah tells us that He sent us the Messenger to teach us the scripture and to purify us. As such the Prophet was able to teach the companions by example how to purify our souls and trained the companions on how to do so as well. This is exemplified most in the way the Prophet, peace be upon him, responded to his enemies and those who have wronged him with beautiful character. Ustadh Amjad reminds us that the path to beautiful character begins with small consistent steps that will lead to larger changes in character. The next book of Imam Ghazali’s is breaking the desire. Ustadh Amjad explains that this book can be summed up in not giving yourself everything it wants, even if that which is permissible. Such is the example of fasting, where one withholds from the permissible because of the command of God. Even then Imam Ghazali says that one should not give in to all it desires of food after you break your fast. Ustadh Amjad concludes by reminding us that it will be a struggle to control our desires but we must start from where we are at right now and work slowly towards change. Our nafs may resist that change but it is important to be in control of it and not let it be in control of you. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

In this re-broadcast lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin gives an overview of the chapter from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya on the etiquette of living and the prophetic mannerism. This chapter is the last in the section on worship and it details the main life skills that one should utilize on a daily basis. One of the most damaging things to a community is people following the outward actions of religion having bad character. This is due to the self’s inclinations when first seeking the spiritual path and for this reason, it is important to study and connect to the Prophet, peace be upon him. That is why Imam Ghazali says that having outward etiquette is a sign of having inward etiquette, and your deeds are the consequences of your character, and your etiquette is the sprinkles that come out of the knowledge of Allah; and the secret areas of the heart are the planting ground for good deeds, and the lights that are in the heart are the things that emanate on the limbs. Ustadh Amjad advises everyone to study the Prophetic character to understand his normative sunnah and exceptional situations. One of the most interesting aspects of the Prophet’s life is his character and habits at home because it is the most intimate and it is where a person’s true character manifests. For example, the Prophet, peace be upon him, never used a harsh word and never insulted any of the believers and he never cursed a woman or a servant with any form of curses. Imam Ghazali focuses part of the chapter on the way the Prophet, peace be upon him, dealt with his enemies and times of difficulty. Many times the Prophet asked the companions to have patience during times of great and grave injustices and the Prophet did not curse his people, instead, he asked Allah to guide them. The Prophet did not return to Mecca victorious except after 21 years of serious problems and injustices from the non-believers. Even after all that, the Prophet, peace be upon him, still forgave them. With that, the Prophet teaches us that even the worse of people need Allah and even the worst of people can change and become one of the best. Ustadh Amjad concludes with a reminder to always live the Prophetic character because that is what has the greatest impact on our interactions with others, not through our words but actions. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.     For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate   

In this re-broadcast lesson, Shaykh Faraz gives an overview of the chapter on spiritual music from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. In this chapter, the Imam’s reference to music is constrained only to spiritual music and should be understood as such for the remainder of the lesson. This is music that inspires to seek Allah and His messenger. Within the Islamic tradition, there is broad permissibility of singing. There are numerous examples of the companions singing spiritual poems as they dug trenches or during weddings. That is also the reason why the Prophet had his own poets. Thus there was a general understanding of the permissibility of spiritual singing. The Prophet also encourage beating the ‘duff’ at weddings. Conversely, however, many scholars believe that other musical instruments are not allowed within Islam. There are a minority of scholars that allowed music as long as the environment in which the music is, is not associated with other sinful acts such as dancing. Shaykh Faraz outlines in the lesson the etiquettes of listening to music: [1] Music is powerful so be cautious of what you listen to. Thus listen to music that inspires you to yearn for the Divine. [2] Actions are by their intentions, so you need to be clear as to why you are listening to something and what you hope to gain from it [3] There is a rich tradition in Islam of appreciating beauty and beautiful things. [4] The sunna of music is listening to that which praises Allah and Messenger or that which inspires one to turn to Allah and his messenger; or that which allows one to relax. Shaykh Faraz concludes by reminding us to uphold caution and stick to what is permitted to music and continue to listen to it with purpose and intention. Lastly, remember that the greatest of what you can listen to is the Quran. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcast lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives an overview of the chapter on enjoining the good and forbidding the evil from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. This chapter is divided into a number of topics: [1] the importance of enjoining the good and forbidding the evil [2] the conditions and etiquette of enjoining the good and forbidding the evil [3] the integrals of doing so. The Prophet, peace be upon him, said: “Whoever of you sees wrongdoing then let him change it with his hand. If he is not able to do so, then with his tongue. And if he is not able to do so, then let him feel it wrong with his heart. And that is the weakest of faith.” This hadith gives us an opportunity to understand the meanings of hadith from the text. The way this text has many lessons that have been derived from it by our scholars. In order to derive meaning from a text, one must first have an understanding of fiqh theory and principles. The application of the text must produce benefits because the whole religion brings upon benefit. In order for one to begin enjoining the good and forbidding the evil, one must first ask themselves these questions: [1] How sure am I of the legal ruling? [2] Is this a matter of difference between scholars? [3] If we believe it is definitely wrong, will be there be a benefit in discouraging it? Consider the probable consequences of your actions. [4] Can they understand what you will say? Should you then speak in detail or in summary? [5] Always begin with gentleness, wisdom, and being nice [6] Check your motives first, and if they are in any way egotistical then you should not enjoin good or forbid evil at that moment… Only then should one speak Shaykh Riad reminds us that this whole enterprise rests on having good character and that is dependent on a sound heart that is attached to Allah. This hadith can apply to all types of activism that one might want to undertake. Lastly, never think that your advice or doing is indispensable so if you feel like your intentions are not sound for what you are about to say or do, then do not do it. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

In this re-broadcast lesson, visiting scholar Shaykh Riad Saloojee, gives an overview of the chapter on the etiquettes of travel from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. The chapter begins by discussing the two types of travel, that of the body and that of the heart. Then, he continues to the purposes of travel, the etiquettes of travel, and lastly, the fiqh of travel. The traveling of the body is really just a means for the traveling of our hearts. There are various purposes and reasons that one should travel for including: [1] Breaking bad habits [2] Gaining knowledge [3] Spending time with scholars and the righteous [4] Witnessing the miracles of Allah’s creation [5] Leave an environment that is harmful [6] Pilgrimage, In addition, our religion is filled with instances of small journeying to Allah, such as having to leave one’s home to go to the mosque for congregational prayer or for Friday prayer. This is all for one to journey and to leave with the purpose of seeking Allah. The Prophet’s, peace be upon them, often journeyed as well to Allah, seeking Him. Of the meanings of the word of travel is that it unveils to one: their own faults and characteristics, how they handle tests, and how they treat others. Furthermore, it unveils to you various fruits of spiritual journeying to Allah. Shaykh Riad reminds us that spiritual journeying does not need the travel of the physical body. One should check on a daily basis how they are doing on their spiritual journey if they are moving forward or backward? Am I more attached to Allah, and less attached to worldly things on a daily basis? If one does not do this, then years will pass without us noticing that we have not changed anything in our spiritual journeying. Shaykh Riad concludes with a reminder that it is of the utmost importance for us to continually check if we have journeyed closer to Allah during Ramadan or if we have remained stagnant and to renew our intentions for the rest of the month. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcast class, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, gives an overview of Imam Ghazali’s chapter on the Etiquettes of Seclusion from the book Ihya Ulum al-Din. Shaykh Riad delves into the benefits and harms of seclusion that one should keep in mind. The benefits of seclusion: [1] Taking time to reflect and remember Allah, which leads to solace and connectedness of the heart with Allah [2] Saving oneself from being in situations of disobedience [3] Avoiding ostentation or doing actions of obedience for others instead of for Allah. [4] To be safe from disputation and partisanship [5] Being away from the harm that may a crew to me because I deal with people [6] Be away from the inclinations of wanting to please others or engage in worldly matters [7] Shields one from interacting with people who are ignorant and the possibility of not responding properly to them. The harms of seclusion or the benefits of interacting with others: [1] Learning knowledge and teaching others [2] Benefiting people with one’s time and resources [3] Taking benefit from people and earning a livelihood [4] Training oneself and disciplining oneself and character, and assisting others in that [5] Loneliness and missing out on companionship with others [6] The chance to earn reward and give others the chance to earn rewards Balancing between the two depends on who you are interacting with and what your intention is in both seclusion and in interacting with others. Thus one should aim for beneficial interaction and seclusion when necessary. Shaykh Riad reminds us that continuous interaction with others who are not righteous we will get used to seeing these acts of disobedience and it will become normalized. This also goes to interactions on social media or through television. Shaykh Riad concludes by advising us to pick a routine time for seclusion every day to engage in remembrance and in reflection. The recommendation is to take 5 min after every prayer. The more one does this the more patient one becomes with seclusion and the deeper your reflections will become. In addition, try to sit after fajr till sunrise because there is great reward in that. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcast lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives an overview of the Chapter on Duties of Brotherhood from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya. This chapter is divided into several sections: [1] The virtues of fraternal relations and brotherhood [2] Loving one another for the sake of Allah [3] How one should deal with and interact with people engaging in varying levels of disobedience [4] The criteria for choosing a companion [5] The rights that are due upon us vis a vis others. This lesson will focus on the first principles of character and its connection to the spiritual quest to Allah. The first question then is, what is character? Character is what one looks like on the inside, our internal image. Character is dependent on the beauty of one’s heart, and the fruits of a beautified heart is character. The Prophet, peace be upon him, was of the utmost character and he is our guide to the best of character. In fact, the Prophet, peace be upon him, says that the reason he was sent was to perfect our character. As such, whoever is better than you in character is better than you in deen. Shaykh Riad goes on to describe some of the characteristics of those with good character. Such as respect, patience, and truthfulness. Shaykh Riad concludes the lesson by reminding us that our societies and cultures are cultivated through the sum of our individual characters. The key to lifting our institutions and societies is to first begin by beautifying our individual characters. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as the blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcast lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives an overview of the Chapter on The Permissible and The Impermissible from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. The chapter is divided into the following sections: [1] the virtue of the permissible and the problems of the impermissible [3] the doubtful and how to judge and evaluate between them [4] the extent to which someone should question the gifts they’ve been given [5] what one should do when they have obtained unlawful wealth and would like to turn back to Allah. [6] the relationship between a person and power. In this lesson, Shaykh Riad focuses on the first section of the chapter: the virtue of the permissible and the problems of the impermissible. The Prophet, peace be upon him, tells us that actions are either lawful or unlawful and between the two there are doubtful matters, and whoever avoids doubtful matters are free and saved and whoever engages in doubtful matters is walking a difficult path in which they may fall into the impermissible. He continues to say, that every king has a sanctuary and the sanctuary of Allah in His Earth is His prohibitions; meaning that that is where we should not even come close to. Lastly, the Prophet, peace be upon him, says that in each body there is a morsel that if it were to be corrupt the whole body would too, and if it were to be healthy then the whole body would be too; that is the heart. With this the Prophet connects the action of the limbs to the impact it has on one’s spiritual heart. Conversely as well a sound spiritual heart will push one to the permissible as well. Shaykh Riad continues to explain that the permissible and impermissible actions have levels. In addition, lawful matters and unlawful matters can be dependent on their circumstances, so one needs to be smart and thoughtful in understanding the law and the circumstance. Shaykh Riad concludes by reminding us of the strength to engage in the halal and avoid the unlawful is derived not by intellectual understandings but through a sound heart and spiritual strength. The door to that is to continually engage in a lot of remembrance on a daily basis. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

In this re-broadcasted lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives a brief overview of the chapter on the etiquettes of Earning a Livelihood from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din. This chapter is divided into several sub-themes: [1] The virtue in earning your own livelihood [2] The fiqh of contracts or the laws that govern the earning livelihood [3] The idea of justice and equity in earning one’s livelihood [4] Excellence in acquiring livelihood [5] The connection between earning a livelihood and the afterlife. Shaykh Riad delves into each of the subsections explaining in overview what the main points relating to each are. Shaykh Riad concludes by reminding us that it is possible to have Allah in the background of our hearts with all that we do and that includes while we pursue our livelihoods. For this reason, Allah has given us a prayer to recite when entering the marketplace with a distinguished and high reward if one says it. That is because Allah wants us to remember Him in the places when most others would find it difficult to do so. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, gives an overview of the Chapter on the Etiquettes of Marriage by Imam Ghazali. Shaykh Riad delves into the spiritual meanings that can be observed during the marriage. Shaykh Riad begins with a beautiful quote that sums up the lesson “two bodies cannot connect in the same way that two souls can”. There are many material benefits to being married, but the real meaning is the connection of our hearts to Allah through it. However, before we come to marriage we need to have an understanding of ourselves. In addition, one should be aware not only of their spiritual self but of their nafs (lower self) as well, to understand my wants and needs in relation to that. Lastly, Imam Ghazali also speaks in the chapter about the fiqh of marriage which is important to learn prior to. There are three main verses of the Quran that the Prophet, peace be upon him, referenced in relation to marriage. All of these verses begin with “oh you who believe” or “oh people have consciousness (taqwa) of Allah”; that is to say that God-consciousness is at the center of any successful marriage and in the dealings between the couple. Conversely, as well, marriage is a way for one to attain greater God-consciousness (taqwa). Shaykh Riad reminds us to take marriage as a field of training for my character, one that exposes a person to their faults and shortcomings. As such, it is a great way for one to also grow their character and address their mistakes. Lastly, Shaykh Riad concludes with a reflection on thankfulness and Allah’s promise to increase one if they are thankful; Ramadan is a great time to be thankful and to use the bounties Allah gives us in a way that pleases him. Thus, while fasting, one should be grateful for their spouse, their children and for the love, they are blessed with. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcasted lesson, we are joined by visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, giving a brief overview of the Etiquettes of Eating chapter from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din. This is the first chapter in the second quarter of the book, which is on acts of worship. When the heart is in tawheed of Allah through remembrance and reflection then that heart becomes beautified by certain values like patience, such that our character is the image of our heart. This is important to remember because all the etiquettes of eating are the fruits of a beautified character. Shaykh Saloojee explains that this is the relationship between the first and second quarter of the book. Shaykh Riad asks, how then can one be engaged in remembrance when eating? [1] Mentioning Allah at the beginning and end of eating [2] Facing the food with gratitude and part of that gratitude is manifested in not wasting food [3] Thanking the host for being the means of feeding us and do not criticize the food. [4] Not to eat until satiation, or until one is full, and that takes patience to do that [5] Reflect about what you eat and the bounties Allah has provided you. [6] Have cleanliness in eating by washing your hand before and after as well as eating with three fingers. [7] Eating a morsel at a time, and having patience in chewing it before going on to the next. [8] Prefer others before yourself by feeding others and hosting others. [9] Have chivalry by recognizing the various cultures of those with whom you share food and respecting them. In addition, Shaykh Riad reflects on the etiquettes of eating during Ramadan, one must take extra care in fasting not just from food but from other spiritually harmful acts. For example, one should fast from materialism in general and not just from food. One should be careful at iftar as well, not to demolish their fast by forgetting about having the presence of heart when eating. In conclusion, Shaykh Riad reminds us of the importance of being generous in hosting others and be in the service of others by feeding them. The best example of this is the story of Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, that Shaykh Riad relays. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, reviews the tenth chapter of Ihya Ulum al-Din on spiritual routines. This chapter covers the daily supplications and remembrance one should engage in at various times. This chapter is the last of the first quarter of the Ihya Ulum al-Din, which is on worship. Imam Al-Ghazali begins the chapter describing life as a journey with only two endings, either paradise or hellfire. Ones that end their journey in paradise are those who arrive with a sound heart. A sound heart is characterized by two things, loving Allah and being attached to Him; knowing Allah and acting upon this knowledge of Him. The capital of this journey is time and for that is the most precious thing in this journey. Allah in his generosity has made remembrance varied so that one is not spiritually tired of it. The capital of life entails that one devote their time and energy consistently to remembrance, in its various forms. Imam Al-Ghazali then divides the chapter into various spiritual routines that one can engage in at various times of the day. Shaykh Riyad reminds us that it is vital for a person to have a “wird” or spiritual routine and daily acts of remembrance. In addition, one should plan their day around their spiritual routines so that they are at the center of importance in their day. Shaykh Riyad concludes with counsel to us to use the time during Ramadan to start adding spiritual routines to our day. For example, when waking up for suhoor spend 10 minutes before Fajr in supplication and then after praying Fajr spend some time after in remembrance. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcasted lesson, we are joined by visiting scholar Shaykh Riad Saloojee. Shaykh Riad reviews the ninth chapter of Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din on remembrance and supplication. This chapter is situated at the end of the first section of the book on acts of worship. One theme that runs through this chapter is manifested in the verse of the Quran: “oh you who have attained faith, be in Allah’s remembrance plentifully”. Divine remembrance is not restricted to any time or place, as such one should be in His remembrance all the time. Shaykh Riyad details the functions of the heart by which one engages in remembrance, to know Allah, to experience Him, and to will and desire to seek him. That is why divine remembrance is so important because it is the heart’s nourishment. Shaykh Riyad also speaks to the importance of supplication and the essence of dua' is the expression of one’s need, poverty, and desire for Allah. The gift of supplication is Allah allowing a person to be near to Allah in the closeness of asking. Supplication should free our will, reliance, and dependence from anything else but Allah. This chapter by Imam Al-Ghazali also has a comprehensive listing of the various supplications one should engage in throughout the day. Shaykh Riyad concludes by giving us practical steps of application: [1] set our goal: that we should struggle to have our heart perpetually in Divine remembrance and habitually engage in supplication. [2] Understand the importance of remembrance and supplication. [3] Ramadan is a great time to push ourselves to implement what we learn because it fits with our daily struggle to fast from all that is wrong and good is easy. Remember, the supplication of the fasting person is accepted. [4] Engage in remembrance after prayer and engage in remembrance whenever you have some time. [5] Make a commitment to engage in supplication for five minutes at a specific time on a daily basis. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcasted lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin reviews the chapter on the etiquette of reciting the Quran from Imam Al-Ghazali’s book Ihya Ulum al-Din. The Chapter goes through the outward etiquettes of recitation as well as the inward implications of those practices. Learning the Quran and teaching the Quran is not limited to teaching, but rather should extend to internalization of its virtues and meanings. The Prophet,( peace and blessings upon him) said: “the most virtuous of worship of my Ummah is the recitation of the Quran”. The virtues of reciting the Quran are many so one should strive to increase their recitation, especially during Ramadan. Ustadh Amjad explains in this lesson the 10 internal etiquettes of the recitation of the Quran: [1] Knowing the greatness of these words, their exaltedness, and their weightiness. [2] Having reverence for the One speaking. Part of that reverence is approaching the Quran in a state of purity. [3] Having the presence of heart and leaving internal conversations [4] Pondering the Quran [5] Understanding as you recite the Quran such that you achieve a deeper understanding as you read. [6] You remove from yourself things that prevent you from understanding, such as continually engaging in sins. [7] Know that Allah is talking to you [8] Being affected by the Quran, both by verses of punishment and reward. [9] Experience the Quran and this is of many levels [10] Absolve yourself from anything related to yourself. Such that anything you read about the people of righteousness you don’t think that this about you and when you read about people of evil that you don’t absolve yourself from their characteristics. In summary, Ustadh Amjad reminds us that the Quran is the greatest form of remembrance and worship so we must strive to increase our recitation and understanding of it. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate

In this re-broadcasted lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, reviews the chapter on Hajj from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din. Imam Al-Ghazali begins by outlining a general rule: that one cannot draw nearer to Allah except through letting go of their worldly attachments. Ustadh Amjad explains that Hajj, unlike any other form of worship, cannot be rationalized as to the meaning behind each of its actions. The only lesson that one can derive from Hajj is that you are a servant to Allah and you need to fulfill His commands. Imam Al-Ghazali outlines in this chapter the etiquettes that one must have during Hajj: [1] Yearning for the two Holy mosques: this yearning stems from an understanding that this is the House of God, placed for you to fulfill your servitude. The reward for which is gazing upon Allah in the Hereafter. [2] Buying the two garments of Ihram: then the person should remember that they will be buried in this clothing and even though you have put on these garments you might not actually make it to the Hajj but you will meet Allah in them. [3] Talbiyyah: At your service Oh Allah, I am at your service, at your service You have no partner, I am at your service. All praise and all blessings belong to You and everything in existence belongs to You, You have no partner. This is the worldly response to what Allah has asked you to do in the spiritual realm, it is a response to the call that Allah tasked Prophet Ibrahim with making for Hajj. [4] You should be fearful when you enter that you are not worthy but your hope should be greater than your fear. The fear should bring upon you humility and the hope reminds you of the generosity of Allah and His generosity is given to everyone. [5] At 'Arafah: when you see many people of various races, backgrounds and groups; that should remind you of the Day of Judgement, each comes with their Prophet. At the end of the day of A’rafah, Allah forgives all the people there and it is a sin to think that Allah has forgiven you. In conclusion, Ustadh Amjad reminds us to always think of Allah’s mercy is greater than our sin and that Allah is the most forgiving. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate    

In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz continues his review of Imam Ghazali’s Ihya with an overview of the chapter on fasting. Imam Al-Ghazali covers both the religious guidance related to fasting as well as the spiritual meanings of fasting. This is so that we can act with intent and understanding of why we engage in the worship that we do. Shaykh Faraz previews Imam Ibn ‘Ajiba’s tafsir of the Fatiha. In the verse “It is You alone we worship and it is You alone we depend upon” (إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ وإِيَّاكَ نَسْتَعِينُ). This verse outlines that we should only focus our intent on Allah alone when we engage in fasting. Furthermore, we should only rely on Allah to complete our fasts as well. Shaykh Faraz details in his talk the benefits of fasting: [1] One of the benefits of fasting weakens our mere humanness and the material world. Excessive eating and drinking makes heavy our attachment to the material world and the more the material world is real to us the more the subtle reality of spiritual meanings are veiled to us. [2] A second benefit is that it upholds the Divine characteristic of Al-Samadiyyah (Allah is free of all need). When we recognize our complete neediness to Allah through fasting we can also recognize the One who is free of all need. [3] It purifies and softens the heart. Fasting gets you to recognize your weakness which purifies and softens our hearts to turn to Allah. [4] Fasting facilitates feeling lowly and humbled and ridding oneself of arrogance. The lower self is not humbled by anything like hunger. [5] It breaks one’s desire for sin and diminishes the control of one’s lower self over them. Fasting restrains one from certain desires and facilitates refraining from certain sins. [6] Fasting facilitates one having more time for one to focus their time on the spiritual instead of the material. [7] Fasting directs one towards contemplation. [8] It is a shield from the Shaytan. Shaykh Faraz continues to explain that there are three levels of restraint that one can strive for while fasting: [1] Food and Drink [2] All the things that are displeasing to Allah [3] All the things that distract us from Allah Lastly, the lesson concludes with a reminder that the believer should seek to be with Allah even when they are with people, such that their heart is always busied with Allah no matter what else they are doing of worldly things. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate    

  In this re-broadcasted lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin gives an overview of the chapter on zakat (alms) and charity from the Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), the fifth chapter. He highlights the adab (etiquettes) of giving charity that Imam Al-Ghazali mentions in this chapter. Ustadh Amjad also emphasizes the importance of learning the fiqh (legal rulings) of giving zakat, as well as all the other actions of worship that are personally obligatory. Imam Ghazali says about zakat that it is one of the tests that Allah has placed for the believers. It is also one of the foundational pillars of Islam. Imam Ghazali then says that one of the wisdoms of the obligation of zakat, is because wealth is beloved to people. So sacrificing what is beloved for the sake of Allah is a sign and indication of loving Him. He then goes to outline the different levels of people who give charity. The highest level is to give everything for the sake of Allah Most High, unconditionally. At that level, Ustadh Amjad recounts the example of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him), who gave all of his wealth to the Prophet peace and blessings be upon him for the benefit of the Muslims. Ustadh Amjad then looks at some of the adab (etiquettes) that Imam Ghazali mentions about giving out zakat and charity. The first one he mentions is giving charity secretly, and the great merit in doing so. Giving charity in private is closer to sincerity and guards from falling it showing off and ostentation. He gives the example of Imam Ali Zain al-Abidin the great-grandson of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and how he used to personally carry money to the poor in the depths of the night. Another etiquette Ustadh Amjad highlights is to not destroy charity by holding oneself in favor over the person they gave the charity to. Allah says in the Quran that doing so nullifies the charity and hurts the receiver of charity. Imam Ghazali mentions that cure for this is for the one giving charity to see themselves as the ones being in need of help and favor by giving charity. Finally, Ustadh Amjad advises that when giving charity, one shouldn’t expect anything in return, and do it purely for the sake of Allah, as is mentioned in the Quran. He explains also that one shouldn’t fear decrease in wealth because of giving charity. Rather, the reality is that it is a means of increase and blessing in one’s wealth. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

In this rebroadcasted class, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin reviews the chapter on prayer from the Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), the fourth chapter. Imam Al-Ghazali emphasized the importance of both the outward and inward in prayer. This condition is in line with the purpose of prayer and that is the remembrance of Allah. Imam Al-Ghazali adds in his book that a condition of prayer to be in a state of awe, humility, and presence in prayer. This condition had not been previously included by the jurists in their detailing of the conditions of prayer. The Prophet, (peace, and blessings upon him), said: “Whoever’s prayer does not prevent them from vile things and bad things, they have not increased with Allah anything except distance.” The purpose of ibada (worship) is therefore taqwa. That is why one’s character needs to be inline with their outward performance of worship. Ustadh Amjad illustrates this point using various examples and stories of the companions and righteous people, may Allah be pleased with them. Imam Al-Ghazali continues to explain that every action within prayer has a purpose and the overarching goal is to have the utmost reverence of Allah through both the heart and the body. That is why during prostration one humbles the most honored part of our being, our face, to our Lord. Ustadh Amjad goes on to explain the two causes of distraction during prayer and their remedies: [1] Outward distractions that can be avoided by seeking out a quiet place. [2] Inward distractions that are more difficult to overcome. The way to deal with this is through preparation before beginning prayer by remembering the hereafter and standing before Allah and the severity of the outcome of that day. As well as freeing yourself of any worldly responsibilities prior to prayer so you are not rushed during prayer. Lastly, Ustadh Amjad reminds the audience that the main purpose of prayer is to bring you closer to Allah and remove the veils (of all worldly things) between you and Him. As such we need to free ourselves of the distractions and bring our hearts to be more present with Allah during prayer and if we do that our prayer will be transformative. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as a blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

In this re-broadcast episode, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin continues this series on  Imam Ghazali’s Ihya Uloom al-Din,  with an overview of the Book of the Mysteries of Purification. Imam Al-Ghazali highlights both the outward and inward importance of purification. Imam Al-Ghazali explains both the rulings of purification from a fiqh perspective and the inner secrets of purification. The chapter begins by describing that the Quranic verses and Hadiths that detail the benefits and rewards for purification. The purification that is intended here is at the basic level the purification of the limbs. However, purification has 4 degrees: [1] Purifying the outward from impurities and vile things. [2] Purifying your limbs from sins and corruption [3] Purifying the heart from blameworthy characteristics and destructive qualities [4] Purifying your innermost core of your being from everything other than the Exalted. The degrees described above correspond with the degrees of faith and a person will not be able to attain a higher level without attaining the one below it first. When one cleans their limbs they are purifying that which people see, as such, one should be ashamed of facing Allah without purifying your heart upon which Allah gazes. Lastly, Ustadh Amjad emphasizing that delving into the deeper levels of purification takes work and practice. As you work on these deeper levels of purification you will become someone who is always aware of being in the presence of Allah at all times. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Uloom al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as the blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

  In this re-broadcasted episode, Shaykh Faraz gives an overview of the second chapter from Imam Ghazali's Ihya Uloom al-Din, Foundations of Islamic Belief. Shaykh Faraz highlights what Muslims believe, how faith is nurtured, and the understanding of faith. He concludes with an example of the Prophetic through one of the narrated supplications of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Shaykh Faraz tells us that it is personally obligatory for every Muslim to know with clarity and certitude what is necessary to believe about Allah, His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), and the transmitted articles of belief. Shaykh Faraz then highlights the point Imam Ghazali makes about how faith is nurtured. He says that faith is not nurtured by mere study. Rather, it is nurtured by submission and by turning to Allah Most High in devotion. This is done through living faith in one's life, by acquiring virtuous traits and by ridding oneself of blameworthy traits. Then, Shaykh Faraz outlines the levels of faith. The first level is mere faith; accepting without understanding. The second level is faith with understanding. The third level is living faith with consciousness. In understanding and studying the proofs of Islamic beliefs, there is a strengthening of faith, Shaykh Faraz tells us.  Finally, Shaykh Faraz concludes with Prophetic supplication that portrays faith: (يا حي يا قيوم برحمتك أستغيث أصلح لي شأني كله ولا تكلني إلى نفسي طرفة عين) (Oh Living! Oh Sustaining! In Your Mercy do I seek urgent aid! Rectify all my affairs -- and do not leave me to myself for a blinking of an eye.) In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali's opus magnum, Ihya Uloom ud-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

  In this re-broadcasted lesson, Shaykh Faraz gives an overview of the first chapter from Imam Ghazali's Ihya Uloom al-Din, the chapter on knowledge. Shaykh Faraz explains Imam Ghazali's statement that "the purpose of religion is knowledge - knowing Allah". Shaykh Faraz further explains that all the forms of religion require knowledge. A believer needs to know how to submit to Allah, how to seek Allah, and how to be sincere and beloved to Allah. He also gives some definitions of knowledge, and which knowledge Imam Ghazali is referring to. Shaykh Faraz also discerns between knowledge which is personally obligatory and that which is communally obligatory. Finally, Shaykh Faraz highlights that knowledge is sought through adab. The fruits of knowledge is becoming a "Lordly scholar", who is able to turn their heart to Allah and help guide others to Allah as well. The great opportunity of knowledge is that it is the Prophetic inheritance. Action without knowledge is toil without fruit. Therefore, through knowledge one is able to fulfill the potential that Allah has created us for and called us to. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali's opus magnum, Ihya Uloom al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

  In this re-broadcast introductory episode, Shaykh Faraz gives us an overview of this new series in Ramadan: Renewing Religion. Throughout the month of Ramadan Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin and our other visiting scholars will be sharing with us a thematic overview of each of the 40 chapters in Imam Ghazali's Ihya Uloom al-Din (Renewing Religious Knowledge). This series will serve as the blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. The Ihya is broken down into four quarters: [1] devotion, [2] social responsibilities, [3] the destructive traits of character, and [4] the salvific virtues. For more SeekersGuidance podcast shows, visit seekersguidance.org/podcasts. Help SeekersGuidance reach millions around the world through reliable knowledge and guidance from qualified scholars, completely free: become a monthly supporter – www.seekersguidance.org/donate  

In this lesson of Renewing Religion, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, reflects upon the chapters from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya on sincerity, self examination, meditation and reflecting on death. Ustadh Amjad begins with the chapter on sincerity, explaining that true sincerity can lead habits to be acts of worship if they are done with the right intentions. Many of the companions would actually hide a lot of their acts of good and worship so that they would ensure its sincerity. Thus sincerity is the defining factor of our actions that determine whether our actions will be accepted or not. The second chapter that is examined in this lesson is that on self examination. Ustadh Amjad mentions that many of the righteous would remember their mistakes years after so that it would push them to improve to the better. The Prophet, peace be upon him, says if you do not feel shame then do as you will. Here, he points to the importance of self examination and understanding that all your actions have a consequence. Ustadh Amjad gives an overview of the chapter on the importance of meditation and reflection. Spending time in nature calms the soul and really allows our internal sounds to quiet so we can start to think about deeper matters. The second type of reflection that one should seek is reflecting on blessings and be thankful for them. The third, is reflecting upon the nature of the world, life, death and the hereafter. This allows a person to prepare for meeting their Lord. Lastly, reflecting upon death is the last chaper of the Ihya. Reflecting upon death forces people to get done now what they would have otherwise delayed. That is why the Prophet, peace be upon him, advises us to take advantage of our free time before we become busy. Imam Ghazali likens every breath one takes to a prescious jewel becuase it can never be brought back once it is taken. The fruit of all this will be realized at the time of death if one has lived their life preparing for it then they will welcome it when the time comes but if they have lived their life headless of it they will be terrified of dying. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/  

In this lesson of Renewing Religion, Shaykh Faraz gives an overview of the chapters on faith in Divine Oneness and trusting in Allah as well as the chapters on love, longing and intimacy from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. Shaykh Faraz begins by explaining that knowing Divine Oneness in its true meaning entails certitude within your heart and trust and reliance upon Allah when it comes to dealing with all that happens. This begins by realizing that Allah is the necessary existant and everything else is dependent on Him. As such everthing in existance is necesserily in a state of slavehood to Allah; this is the essence of Tawheed and understanding Divine Oneness. This understanding should lead one to complete reliance on Allah. Shaykh Faraz reminds us that reliance on Allah is not limited to times of difficulty rather it is only if one relies on Allah in all their times including those of ease can they truly rely on Him during times of difficulty. The Prophet, peace be upon him, says know Allah at the times of ease and He will know you in difficulties. You can know Allah both through consciousness of Him and trust in Him. The action required to actualize this is to continually remember Allah in all of your actions and continually engage in words of remembrance. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/  

In this lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, gives an overview of the chapters on patience and thankfulness, fear and hope, poverty and abstinence from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. In this chapter, Imam Ghazali explains that faith is of two halves: half is patience and half is gratitude and having certainty of Allah is the whole of faith. Ustadh Amjad explains that everything that one goes through in life is neither a blessing or punishment rather our response to it is what matters. That is why the Prophet would pray to Allah not to turn away His decree but to have gentleness in His decree. The next section of the lesson deals with the chapter on thankfulness. Allah says that if you are thankful then Allah will increase you. Ustadh Amjad advises that we should be especially thankful when we have things to complain about, turn to your numerous other blessings and be thankful for them. Ustadh Amjad then speaks to the chapter on fear and hope and explains that one should have a balance of both. On fear, he says that some of the most fearful people of are the companions of the Prophet, particularly those that the Prophet had told them that they would enter Paradise. However, one should also have hope in Allah’s mercy. Remember that particularly when you sin and want to return to Allah. But one should never underestimate the gravity of their shortcomings and that should always push us to do better. Lastly, Ustadh Amjad speaks to the chapter on poverty and abstinence. Our deen advises us to have less, and the Prophet would often praise the poor people of the community. The Prophet would continually warn of worldliness. Ustadh Amjad counsels us to not be attached to the things of this world but attached to the things that one can do in this world that will yield results in the hereafter. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, gives an overview of the chapters on condemnation of the Dunya; pride; conceit and delusion; and on repentance. These chapters are part of Imam Ghazali’s Ihya and a series of sessions on renewing religion. Shaykh Faraz begins by explaining that each person has a self that requires affirmation and that affirmation can manifest in the form of pride or delude oneself into thinking that you are doing well. It is common for people to be heavily concerned with the progression of their worldly matters and along with it with their selves, however, when it comes to matters of the deen they don’t feel the urgency and the need to change to improve. For that reason, the condemnation of the dunya in this chapter refers to everything that busies you from Allah. One should strive in this dunya but consider what you really need of this life to get you to the hereafter. Thus one should always remember the lowliness and fleetingness of this life and the vastness of the Hereafter in comparison. On pride and conceit, Imam Ghazali defines pride is to think oneself great and conceit is to be self satisfied and impressed with oneself. Imam Ghazali explains that the basis of all damndest is pride, because it is the original sin of Iblees (Satan) and that’s why we have to be very weary of it. As for arrogance, the signs of it is to look down on people and reject what is true. That is why the sunnah of the Prophet, peace be upon him, is grounded in humility, both in outward actions and inward consciousness. Shaykh Faraz advises that the best way to guard oneself from pride is to attribute all good in your life to Allah and praise Him for it. That stems from an understanding that you are a servant of Allah and every blessing you have is from Allah. The next vice Shaykh Faraz discusses is delusion and that refers to a satisfaction one has with themselves or their lives, it is a fake satisfaction that is fleeting and does not lead to contentment. One can fall into various type of worldly and religious delusion that are explained in the lesson. Shaykh Faraz recommends that one reads more on this topic in particular through Shaykh Nuh Keller’s Reliance of The Traveller book. The last portion of the lesson is devoted to the chapter on repentance. Repentance has three integrals: [1] leaving the sin [2] feel remorse for having sinned [3] have resolve to never return to it The fuel of repentance is having good opinion of Allah and rejoicing in your return to the one you love. Allah has made repentance obligatory because it is mandatory to enter paradise, unless you refuse it, so make it a habit to continually repent. Shaykh Faraz explains in the lesson the various levels of repentance that one can aspire to. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Walead Mosaad, gives an overview of Imam Ghazali’s chapters on condemnation of miserliness, love of wealth, status; and the condemnation of ostentation. These chapters fall in the third quarter of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum that focuses on the vices of person. All these vices are primarily about how one interacts with these things, wealth status, etc. Wealth in and of itself is not wrong, however, it can’t be all consuming such that it distracts you from everything else. One of the principal objectives of zakat to force you to give something you love for the sake of Allah. Shaykh Walead counsels us to make a regular habit of taking stock of our shortcomings and identifying ways to improve upon them. One is either on a path of increase or decrease in their deen and iman and as such one should always strive to improve because if you stand still you will inevitably be on a downward trajectory. The nature of the world is that one is never satiated of it and thus one has to be content through other means that are not materialistic. The remedy to this is a combination of knowledge and practice, to be content in your heart with Allah’s decree and to only be in need of Allah and that is the true wealth. Shaykh Walead explains that research has shown that one has a minimal threshold of needs that one needs to be fulfilled but beyond that any additional wealth doesn’t make you happy. The chapter following that is on the condemnation of status and ostentation. How one is viewed by others is one of the most ingrained inclinations in a human and thus only those of truly high status are those who let go of their love of status and leadership. Seeking fame for the sake of fame has become central to our society today and that is blameworthy. Imam Ghazali comments that one should be famous only if Allah has made them known not through any effort or objective of their own. Shaykh Walead concludes with a reminder that first and foremost one should seek roots through cultivating ourselves and character. If then Allah decides that we should be known to others and for us to bear fruit and benefit to the community then that should be but one should not seek it out.   In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.   Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Walead Mosaad, reviews the chapters on holding one’s tongue and condemnation of rancour and envy. These chapters are originally written by Imam Ghazali in his book Ihya Ulum al-Din. Shaykh Walead begins with the chapter on holding one’s tongue and the criteria for one should or should not speak. One should know that there speech is significant and has an effect. In addition, speech is not limited to what we say, but also what we propagate on social media. We have gotten into the habit of naming and shaming online in order to showcase that they’ve made a mistake. However, the sunnah of the Prophet was about having wisdom, and his speech was always measured. As such, we should follow his example and not what we have become used to in our cultures or current state of affairs. The Quran and Sunnah give us very vivid descriptions of the punishments people are given for the sins of the tongue because of the gravity of those actions in the eyes of Allah. Imam Ghazali lists the sins of the tongue from the least worst to the worst: [1] Talking about what doesn’t concern you. [2] Talk that is trivial or repetition of something that isn’t important [3] Talking about (or watching) sins even if one doesn’t partake in them [4] Aimless disputation and arguing about things that may in and of themselves wrong to argue about [5] Say something about someone that you feel has wronged you or taken your right but what you talk about is irrelevant to the situation [6] Trying to talk very poetically to get people’s attention [7] Using vulgar language [8] Damning and cursing others (even animals) [9] Singing songs with bad meanings [10] Joking excessively … there are 10 more mentioned in the chapter that were not covered in the lesson due to time constraints. The second chapter, Shaykh Walead reviews relates to the condemnation of rancour and envy. The desires of the human are divided into two types: appetites and anger. These desires are there to support a person’s survival. For this reason, anger can be both justified and unjustified. Unjustified anger stems from entitlement and ego, when one isn’t recognized for that which they are deserving of that makes them angry. When that is left to fester it develops into enmity and envy. The cure to it is a combination of knowledge and practice. Knowing that this is wrong and harms you more than the other person. In addition, practicing patience and suppressing anger; there is great reward in that. Lastly, remember that anger and envy stem from an objection to Allah’s decree and Allah’s giving to you and to them. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

  In this lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, gives an overview of three books from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya: Marvels of the Heart, Discipling the Soul, and Breaking Desires. Struggling against one’s lower self is an obligation that Allah talks about in the Quran, that whoever purifies their heart is successful and whomever doesn’t is at loss. The importance of this purification is displayed in the example of the Shaytan, despite his certitude of the existence of God, his lower self and ego still got the best of him and pushed him to disobey Allah. Ustadh Amjad explains that by treating the diseases of the heart it becomes purified and by leaving it to its devices it becomes ugly. The path to purifying the soul is through beautiful character and that is why the Prophet was sent to perfect noble character. In addition, there are some characters that are naturally innate to a person and others that need to be cultivated. So one should be mindful of their innate good characters and cultivate others that they might not have. Allah tells us that He sent us the Messenger to teach us the scripture and to purify us. As such the Prophet was able to teach the companions by example how to purify our souls and trained the companions how to do so as well. This is exemplified most in the way the Prophet, peace be upon him, responded to his enemies and those who have wronged him with beautiful character. Ustadh Amjad reminds us that the path to beautiful character begins with small consistent steps that will lead to larger changes in character. The next book of Imam Ghazali’s is breaking the desire. Ustadh Amjad explains that this book can be summed up in not giving yourself everything it wants, even if that which is permissible. Such is the example of fasting, where one withholds from the permissible because of the command of God. Even then Imam Ghazali says that one should not give in to all it desires of food after you break your fast. Ustadh Amjad concludes by reminding us that it will be a struggle to control our desires but we must start from where we are at right now and work slowly towards change. Our nafs may resist that change but it is important to be in control of it and not let it be in control of you. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/  

In this lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin gives an overview of the chapter from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya on the etiquette of living and the prophetic mannerism. This chapter is the last in the section on worship and it details main life skills that one should utilize on a daily basis. One of the most damaging things to a community is people following the outward actions of religion having bad character. This is due to the self’s inclinations when first seeking the spiritual path and for this reason it is important to study and connect to the Prophet, peace be upon him. That is why Imam Ghazali says that having outward etiquette is a sign of having inward etiquette; and your deeds are the consequences of your character; and your etiquette is the sprinkles that come out of the knowledge of Allah; and the secret areas of the heart are the planting ground for good deeds; and the lights that are in the heart are the things that emanate on the limbs. Ustadh Amjad advises everyone to study the Prophetic character to understand his normative sunnah and exceptional situations. One of the most interesting aspects of the Prophet’s life is his character and habits at home because it is the most intimate and it is where a person’s true character manifests. For example, the Prophet, peace be upon him, never used a harsh word and never insulted any of the believers and he never cursed a woman or a servant with any form of curses. Imam Ghazali focuses part of the chapter on the way the Prophet, peace be upon him, dealt with his enemies and times of difficulty. Many times the Prophet asked the companions to have patience during times of great and grave injustices and the Prophet did not curse his people, instead, he asked Allah to guide them. The Prophet did not return to Mecca victorious except after 21 years of serious problems and injustices from the non-believers. Even after all that, the Prophet, peace be upon him, still forgave them. With that the Prophet teaches us that even the worse of people need Allah and even the worst of people can change and become one of the best. Ustadh Amjad concludes with a reminder to always live the Prophetic character because that is what has the greatest impact in our interactions with others, not through our words but actions. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz, gives an overview of the chapter on spiritual music from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. In this chapter, the Imam’s reference to music is constrained only to spiritual music and should be understood as such for the remainder of the lesson. This is music that inspires to seek Allah and His messenger. WIthin the Islamic tradition there is a broad permissibility of singing. There are numerous examples of the companions singing spiritual poems as they dug trenches or during weddings. That is also the reason why the Prophet had his own poets. Thus there was a general understanding of the permissibility of spiritual singing. The Prophet also encourage beating the ‘duff’ at weddings. Conversely, however, many scholars believe that other musical instruments are not allowed within Islam. There are a minority of scholars that allowed music as long as the environment in which the music is, is not associated with other sinful acts such as dancing. Shaykh Faraz outlines in the lesson the etiquettes of listening to music: [1] Music is powerful so be cautions of what you listen to. Thus listen to music that inspires you to yearn for the Divine. [2] Actions are by their intentions, so you need to be clear as to why you are listening to something and what you hope to gain from it [3] There is a rich tradition in Islam of appreciating beauty and beautiful things. [4] The sunna of music is listening to that which praises Allah and Messenger or that which inspires one to turn to Allah and his messenger; or that which allows one to relax. Shaykh Faraz concludes by reminding us to uphold caution and stick to what is permitted to music and continue to listen to it with purpose and intention. Lastly, remember that the greatest of what you can listen to is the Quran. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence.

  In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives an overview of the chapter on enjoining the good and forbidding the evil from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. This chapter is divided into a number of topics: [1] the importance of enjoining the good and forbidding the evil [2] the conditions and etiquette of enjoining the good and forbidding the evil [3] the integrals of doing so. The Prophet, peace be upon him, said: “Whoever of you sees wrongdoing then let him change it with his hand. If he is not able to do so, then with his tongue. And if he is not able to do so, then let him feel it wrong with his heart. And that is the weakest of faith.” This hadith gives us an opportunity to understand the meanings of hadith from the text. The way this text has many lessons that have been derived from it by our scholars. In order to derive meaning from a text one must first have an understanding of fiqh theory and principles. The application of the text must produce benefit, because the whole religion is bring upon benefit. In order for one to begin enjoining the good and forbidding the evil, one must first ask themselves these questions: [1] How sure am I of the legal ruling? [2] Is this a matter of difference between scholars? [3] If we believe it is definitely wrong, will be there be a benefit in discouraging it? Consider the probable consequences of your actions. [4] Can they understand what you will say? Should you then speak in detail or in summary? [5] Always begin with gentleness, wisdom and being nice [6] Check your motives first, and if they are in any way egotistical then you should not enjoin good or forbid evil in that moment… Only then should one speak Shaykh Riad reminds us that this whole enterprise rests on having good character and that is dependent on a sound heart that is attached to Allah. This hadith can apply to all types of activism that one might want to undertake. Lastly, never think that your advice or doing is indispensable so if you feel like your intentions are not sound for what you are about to say or do, then do not do it. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, gives an overview of the chapter on the etiquettes of travel from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. The chapter begins by discussing the two types of travel, that of the body and that of the heart. Then, he continues to the purposes of travel, the etiquettes of travel and lastly, the fiqh of travel. The travelling of the body is really just a means for the travelling of our hearts. There are various purposes and reasons that one should travel for including: [1] Breaking bad habits [2] Gaining knowledge [3] Spending time with scholars and the righteous [4] Witnessing the miracles of Allah’s creation [5] Leave an environment that is harmful [6] Pilgrimage In addition, our religion is filled with instances of small journeying to Allah, such as having to leave one’s home to go to the mosque for congregational prayer or for Friday prayer. This is all for one to journey and to leave with the purpose of seeking Allah. The Prophet’s, peace be upon them, often journeyed as well to Allah, seeking Him. Of the meanings of the word of travel is that it unveils to one: their own faults and characteristics, how they handle tests, and how they treat others. Furthermore, it unveils to you various fruits of spiritual journeying to Allah. Shaykh Riad reminds us that spiritual journeying does not need the travel of the physical body. One should check on a daily basis how they are doing on their spiritual journey, if they are moving forward or backwards? Am I more attached to Allah, and less attached to worldly things on a daily basis? If one does not do this, then years will pass without us noticing that we have not changed anything in our spiritual journeying. Shaykh Riad concludes with a reminder that it is of the utmost importance for us to continually check if we have journeyed closer to Allah during Ramadan or if we have remained stagnant and to renew our intentions for the rest of the month. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this class, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, gives an overview of Imam Ghazali’s chapter on the Etiquettes of Seclusion from the book Ihya Ulum al-Din. Shaykh Riad delves into the benefits and harms of seclusion that one should keep in mind. The benefits of seclusion: [1] Taking time to reflect and remember Allah, which leads to solace and connectedness of the heart with Allah [2] Saving oneself from being in situations of disobedience [3] Avoiding ostentation or doing actions of obedience for others instead of for Allah. [4] To be safe from disputation and partisanship [5] Being away from the harm that may acrew to me because I deal with people [6] Be away from the inclinations of wanting to please others or engage in worldly matters [7] Shields one from interacting with people who are ignorant and the possibility of not responding properly to them The harms of seclusion or the benefits of interacting with others: [1] Learning knowledge and teaching others [2] Benefiting people with one’s time and resources [3] Taking benefit from people and earning a livelihood [4] Training oneself and disciplining oneself and character; and assisting others in that [5] Loneliness and missing out on companionship with others [6] The chance to earn reward and give others the chance to earn rewards Balancing between the two depends on who you are interacting with and what your intention is in both seclusion and in interacting with others. Thus one should aim for beneficial interaction and seclusion when necessary. Shaykh Riad reminds us that continuous interaction with others who are not righteous we will get used to seeing these acts of disobedience and it will become normalized. This also goes to interactions on social media or through television. Shaykh Riad concludes by advising us to pick a routine time for seclusion every day to engage in remembrance and in reflection. The recommendation is to take 5 min after every prayer. The more one does this the more patient one becomes with seclusion and the deeper your reflections will become. In addition, try to sit after fajr till sunrise because there is great reward in that. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives an overview of the Chapter on Duties of Brotherhood from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya. This chapter is divided into several sections: [1] The virtues of fraternal relations and brotherhood [2] Loving one another for the sake of Allah [3] How one should deal with and interact with people engaging in varying levels of disobedience [4] The criteria for choosing a companion [5] The rights that are due upon us vis a vis others This lesson will focus on the first principles of character and its connection to the spiritual quest to Allah. The first question then is, what is character? Character is what one looks like on the inside, our internal image. Character is dependent on the beauty of one’s heart, and the fruits of a beautified heart is character. The Prophet, peace be upon him, was of the utmost character and he is our guide to the best of character. In fact, the Prophet, peace be upon him, says that the reason he was sent was to perfect our character. As such, whomever is better than you in character is better than you in deen. Shaykh Riad goes on to describe some of the characteristics of those with good character such as respect, patience and truthfulness. Shaykh Riad concludes the lesson by reminding us that our societies and cultures are cultivated through the sum of our individual characters. The key to lifting our institutions and societies is to first begin by beautifying our individual characters. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives an overview of the Chapter on The Permissible and The Impermissible from Imam Ghazali’s Ihya. The chapter is divided into the following sections: [1] the virtue of the permissible and the problems of the impermissible [3] the doubtful and how to judge and evaluate between them [4] the extent to which someone should question the gifts they’ve been given [5] what one should do when they have obtained unlawful wealth and would like to turn back to Allah. [6] the relationship between a person and power In this lesson, Shaykh Riad focuses on the first section of the chapter: the virtue of the permissible and the problems of the impermissible. The Prophet, peace be upon him, tells us that actions are either lawful or unlawful, and between the two there are doubtful matters and whoever avoids doubtful matters is free and saved and whoever engages in doubtful matters is walking a difficult path in which they may fall into the impermissible. He continues to say, that every king has a sanctuary and the sanctuary of Allah in His Earth is His prohibitions; meaning that that is where we should not even come close to. Lastly, the Prophet, peace be upon him, says that in each body there is a morsel that if it were to be corrupt the whole body would to and if it were to be healthy then the whole body would be too; that is the heart. With this the Prophet connects the action of the limbs to the impact it has on one’s spiritual heart. Conversely as well a sound spiritual heart will push one to the permissable as well. Shaykh Riad continues to explain that the permissible and impermissible actions have levels. In addition, the lawful matters and unlawful matters can be dependent on their circumstances, so one needs to be smart and thoughtful in understanding the law and the circumstance. Shaykh Riad concludes by reminding us the strength to engage in the halal and avoid the unlawful is derived not by intellectual understandings but through a sound heart and spiritual strength. The door to that is to continually engage in a lot of remembrance on a daily basis. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee gives a brief overview of the chapter on the etiquettes of Earning a Livelihood from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din. This chapter is divided into several sub themes: [1] The virtue in earning your own livelihood [2] The fiqh of contracts or the laws that govern the earning livelihood [3] The idea of justice and equity in earning one’s livelihood [4] Excellence in acquiring livelihood [5] The connection between earning livelihood and the afterlife. Shaykh Riad delves into each of the subsection explaining in overview what the main points relating to each are. Shaykh Riad concludes by reminding us that it is possible to have Allah in the background of our hearts with all that we do and that includes while we pursuit our livelihoods. For this reason, Allah has given us a prayer to recite when entering the marketplace with a distinguished and high reward if one says it. That is because Allah wants us to remember Him in the places when most others would find it difficult to do so. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan2017. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, gives an overview of the Chapter on the Etiquettes of Marriage by Imam Ghazali. Shaykh Riad delves into the spiritual meanings that can be observed during marriage. Shaykh Riad begins with a beautiful quote that sums up the lesson “two bodies cannot connect in the same way that two souls can”. There are many material benefits to being married, but the real meaning is the connection of our hearts to Allah through it. However, before we come to marriage we need to have an understanding of ourselves. In addition, one should be aware not only of their spiritual self but of their nafs (lower self) as well, to understand my wants and needs in relations to that. Lastly, Imam Ghazali also speaks in the chapter about the fiqh of marriage which is important to learn prior to. There are three main verses of the Quran that the Prophet, peace be upon him, referenced in relations to marriage. All of these verses begin with “oh you who believe” or “oh people have consciousness (taqwa) of Allah”; that is to say that God consciousness is at the centre of any successful marriage and in the dealings between the couple. Conversely, as well, marriage is a way for one to attain greater God consciousness (taqwa). Shaykh Riad reminds us to take marriage as a field of training for my character, one that exposes a person to their faults and shortcomings. As such, it is a great way for one to also grow their character and address their mistakes. Lastly, Shaykh Riad concludes with a reflection on thankfulness and Allah’s promise to increase one if they are thankful; Ramadan is a great time to be thankful and to use the bounties Allah gives us in a way that pleases him. Thus, while fasting, one should be grateful for their spouse, their children and for the love they are blessed with. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekersguidance.org/podcasts/

In this lesson we are joined by visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, giving a brief overview of the Etiquettes of Eating chapter from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din. This is the first chapter in the second quarter of the book, which is on acts of worship. When the heart is in tawheed of Allah through remembrance and reflection then that heart becomes beautified by certain values like patience, such that our character is the image of our heart. This is important to remember, because all the etiquettes of eating are the fruits of a beautified character. Shaykh Saloojee explains that this is the relationship between the first and second quarter of the book. Shaykh Riad asks, how then can one be engaged in remembrance when eating? [1] Mentioning Allah at the beginning and end of eating [2] Facing the food with gratitude and part of that gratitude is manifested in not wasting food [3] Thanking the host for being the means of feeding us and do not criticize the food. [4] Not to eat until satiation, or until one is full; and that takes patience to do that [5] Reflect about what you eat and the bounties Allah has provided you. [6] Have cleanliness in eating by washing your hand before and after as well as eating with three fingers. [7] Eating a morsel at a time, and having patience in chewing it before going on to the next. [8] Prefer others before yourself by feeding others and hosting others. [9] Have chivalry by recognizing the various cultures of those with whom you share food and respecting them. In addition, Shaykh Riad reflects on the etiquettes of eating during Ramadan, one must take extra care in fasting not just from food but from other spiritually harmful acts. For example, one should fast from materialism in general and not just from food. One should be careful at iftar as well, not to demolish their fast by forgetting about having presence of heart when eating. In conclusion, Shaykh Riad reminds us of the importance of being generous in hosting others and be in the service of others by feeding them. The best example of this is the story of Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, that Shaykh Riad relays. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan/. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

 In this lesson, visiting scholar, Shaykh Riad Saloojee, reviews the tenth chapter of Ihya Ulum al-Din on spiritual routines. This chapter covers the daily supplications and remembrance one should engage in at various times. This chapter is the last of the first quarter of the Ihya Ulum al-Din, which is on worship. Imam Al-Ghazali begins the chapter describing life as a journey with only two endings, either paradise or hell fire. Ones that end their journey in paradise are those who arrive with a sound heart. A sound heart is characterized by two things, loving Allah and being attached to Him; and knowing Allah and acting upon this knowledge of Him. The capital of this journey is time and for that is the most precious thing in this journey. Allah in his generosity has made remembrance varied, so that one is not spiritually tired of it. The capital of life entails that one devote their time and energy consistently to remembrance, in its various forms. Imam Al-Ghazali then divides the chapter into various spiritual routines that one can engage in at various times of the day. Shaykh Riyad reminds us that it is vital for a person to have a “wird” or spiritual routines and daily acts of remembrance. In addition, one should plan their day around their spiritual routines so that they are at the centre of importance in their day. Shaykh Riyad concludes with council to us to use the time during Ramadan to start adding spiritual routines to our day. For example, when waking up for suhoor spend 10 minutes before Fajr in supplication and then after praying Fajr spend some time after in remembrance. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan/. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, we are joined by visiting scholar Shaykh Riad Saloojee. Shaykh Riad reviews the ninth chapter of Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din on remembrance and supplication. This chapter is situated at the end of the first section of the book on acts of worship. One theme that runs through this chapter is manifested in the verse of the Quran: “oh you who have attained faith, be in Allah’s remembrance plentifully”. Divine remembrance is not restricted to any time or place, as such one should be in His remembrance all the time. Shaykh Riyad details the functions of the heart by which one engages in remembrance, to know Allah, to experience Him and to will and desire to seek him. That is why divine remembrance is so important because it is the heart’s nourishment. Shaykh Riyad also speaks to the importance of supplication and the essence of duaa is the expression of one’s need, poverty and desire for Allah. The gift of supplication is Allah allowing a person to be near to Allah in the closeness of asking. Supplication should free our will, reliance and dependence from anything else but Allah. The chapter by Imam Al-Ghazali also has a comprehensive listing of the various supplications one should engage in throughout the day. Shaykh Riyad concludes by giving us practical steps of application: [1] set our goal: that we should struggle to have our heart perpetually in Divine remembrance and habitually engage in supplication. [2] Understand the importance of remembrance and supplication. [3] Ramadan is a great time to push ourselves to implementing what we learn because it fits with our daily struggle to fast from all that is wrong and good is easy. Remember, the supplication of the fasting person is accepted. [4] Engage in remembrance after prayer and engage in remembrance whenever you have some time. [5] Make a commitment to engage in supplication for five minutes at a specific time on a daily basis. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan/. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin reviews the chapter on etiquettes of reciting the Quran from Imam Al-Ghazali’s book Ihya Ulum al-Din. The Chapter goes through the outward etiquettes of recitation as well as the inward implications of those practices. Learning the Quran and teaching the Quran is not limited to teaching, but rather should extend to an internalization of its virtues and meanings. The Prophet, peace and blessings upon him said: “the most virtuous of worship of my Ummah is the recitation of the Quran”. The virtues of reciting the Quran are many so one should strive to increase their recitation especially during Ramadan. Ustadh Amjad explains in this lesson the 10 internal etiquettes of the recitation of the Quran: [1] Knowing the greatness of these words, their exaltedness and their weightiness. [2] Having reverence for the One speaking. Part of that reverence is approaching the Quran in a state of purity. [3] Having presence of heart and leaving internal conversations [4] Pondering the Quran [5] Understanding as you recite the Quran such that you achieve a deeper understanding as you read. [6] You remove from yourself things that prevent you from understanding, such as continually engaging in sins. [7] Know that Allah is talking to you [8] Being affected by the Quran, both by verses of punishment and reward. [9] Experience the Quran and this is of many levels [10] Absolve yourself from anything related to yourself. Such that anything you read about the people of righteousness you don’t think that this about you and when you read about people of evil that you don’t absolve yourself from their characteristics. In summary, Ustadh Amjad reminds us that the Quran is the greatest form of remembrance and worship so we must strive to increase our recitation and understanding of it. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcast/ In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin, reviews the chapter on Hajj from Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din. Imam Al-Ghazali begins by outlining a general rule: that one cannot draw nearer to Allah except through letting go of their worldly attachments. Ustadh Amjad explains that Hajj, unlike any other forms of worship, cannot be rationalized as to the meaning behind each of its actions. The only lesson that one can derive from Hajj is that you are a servant to Allah and you need to fulfill His commands. Imam Al-Ghazali outlines in this chapter the etiquettes that one must have during Hajj: [1] Yearning for the two Holy mosques: this yearning stems from an understanding that this is the House of God, placed for you to fulfill your servitude. The reward for which is gazing upon Allah in the Hereafter. [2] Buying the two garments of Ihram: then the person should remember that they will be buried in this clothing and even though you have put on these garments you might not actually make it to the Hajj but you will meet Allah in them. [3] Talbiyyah: At your service Oh Allah, I am at your service, at your service You have no partner, I am at your service. All praise and all blessings belong to You and everything in existence belongs to You, You have no partner. This is the worldly response to what Allah has asked you to do in the spiritual realm, it is a response to the call that Allah tasked Prophet Ibrahim with making for Hajj. [4] You should be fearful when you enter that you are not worthy but your hope should be greater than your fear. The fear should bring upon you humility and the hope reminds you of the generosity of Allah and His generosity is given to everyone. [5] At 'Arafah: when you see many people of various races, backgrounds and groups; that should remind you of the Day of Judgement, each comes with their Prophet. At the end of the day of A’rafah, Allah forgives all the people there and it is a sin to think that Allah has forgiven you. In conclusion, Ustadh Amjad reminds us to always think of Allah’s mercy as greater than our sin and that Allah is the most forgiving. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz continues his review of Imam Ghazali’s Ihya with an overview of the chapter on fasting. Imam Al-Ghazali covers both the religious guidance related to fasting as well as the spiritual meanings of fastings. This is so that we can act with intent and understanding of why we engage in the worship that we do. Shaykh Faraz previews Imam Ibn ‘Ajiba’s tafsir of the Fatiha. In the verse “It is You alone we worship and it is You alone we depend upon” (إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ وإِيَّاكَ نَسْتَعِينُ). This verse outlines that we should only focus our intent on Allah alone when we engage in fasting. Furthermore, we should only rely on Allah to complete our fasts as well. Shaykh Faraz details in his talk the benefits of fasting: [1] One of the benefits of fasting weakens our mere humanness and the material world. Excessive eating and drinking makes heavy our attachment to the material world and the more the material world is real to us the more the subtle reality of spiritual meanings are veiled to us. [2] A second benefit is that it upholds the Divine characteristic of Al-Samadiyyah (Allah is free of all need). When we recognize our complete neediness to Allah through fasting we can also recognize the One who is free of all need. [3] It purifies and softens the heart. Fasting gets you to recognize your weakness which purifies and softens our hearts to turn to Allah. [4] Fasting facilitates feeling lowly and humbled and ridding oneself of arrogance. The lower self is not humbled by anything like hunger. [5] It breaks one’s desire for sin and diminishes the control of one’s lower self over them. Fasting restrains one from certain desires and facilitates refraining from certain sins. [6] Fasting facilitates one having more time for one to focus their time on the spiritual instead of the material. [7] Fasting directs one towards to contemplation. [8] It is a shield from the Shaytan. (For an answer to the question of whether the Shaytan is chained during Ramadan: http://seekershub.org/ans-blog/2009/09/08/chaining-of-the-devils-in-ramadan/) Shaykh Faraz continues to explain that there are three levels of restraint that one can strive for while fasting: [1] Food and Drink [2] All the things that are displeasing to Allah [3] All the things that distract us from Allah Lastly, the lesson concludes with a reminder that the believer should seek to be with Allah even when they are with people, such that their heart is always busied with Allah no matter what else they are doing of worldly things. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin gives an overview of the chapter on zakat (alms) and charity from the Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), the fifth chapter. He highlights the adaab (etiquettes) of giving charity that Imam Al-Ghazali mentions in this chapter. Ustadh Amjad also emphasizes the importance of learning the fiqh (legal rulings) of giving zakat, as well as all the other actions of worship that are personally obligatory. Imam Ghazali says about zakat that it is one of the tests that Allah has placed for the believers. It is also one of the foundational pillars of Islam. Imam Ghazali then says that one of the wisdoms of the obligation of zakat, is because wealth is beloved to people. So sacrificing what is beloved for the sake of Allah is a sign and indication of loving Him. He then goes to outline the different levels of people who give charity. The highest level is to give everything for the sake of Allah Most High, unconditionally. At that level, Ustadh Amjad recounts the example of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him), who gave all of his wealth to the Prophet peace and blessings be upon him for the benefit of the Muslims. Ustadh Amjad then looks at some of the adaab (etiquettes) that Imam Ghazali mentions about giving out zakat and charity. The first one he mentions is giving charity secretly, and the great merit in doing so. Giving charity in private is closer to sincerity and guards from falling it showing off and ostentation. He gives the example of Imam Ali Zain al-Abidin the great grandson of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and how he used to personally carry money to the poor in the depths of the night. Another etiquette Ustadh Amjad highlights is to not destroy charity by holding oneself in favour over the person they gave the charity to. Allah says in the Quran that doing so, nullifies the charity and hurts the receiver of charity. Imam Ghazali mentions that cure for this, is for the one giving charity to see themselves as the ones being in need of help and favour by giving charity. Finally, Ustadh Amjad advises that when giving charity, one shouldn’t expect anything in return, and do it purely for the sake of Allah, as is mentioned in the Quran. He explains also that one shouldn’t fear decrease in wealth because of giving charity. Rather, the reality is that it is a means of increase and blessing in one’s wealth. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this class, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin reviews the chapter on prayer from the Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), the fourth chapter. Imam Al-Ghazali emphasized the importance of both the outward and inward in prayer. This condition is in line with the purpose of prayer and that is remembrance of Allah. Imam Al-Ghazali adds in his book that a condition of prayer to be in a state of awe, humility and presence in prayer. This condition had not been previously included by the jurists in their detailing of the conditions of prayer. The Prophet, peace and blessings upon him, said: “Whoever’s prayer does not prevent them from vile things and bad things, they have not increased with Allah anything except distance.” The purpose of i’bada (worship) is therefore taqwa. That is why one’s character needs to be inline with their outward performance of worship. Ustadh Amjad illustrates this point using various examples and stories of the companions and righteous people, may Allah be pleased with them. Imam Al-Ghazali continues to explain that every action within prayer has a purpose and the overarching goal is to have the utmost reverence of Allah through both the heart and the body. That is why during prostration one humbles the most honored part of our being, our face, to our Lord. Ustadh Amjad goes on to explain the two causes of distraction during prayer and their remedies: [1] Outward distractions that can be avoided by seeking out a quiet places. [2] Inward distractions which are more difficult to overcome. The way to deal with this is through preparation before beginning prayer by remembering the hereafter and standing before Allah and the severity of the outcome of that day. As well as freeing yourself of any worldly responsibilities prior to prayer so you are not rushed during prayer. Lastly, Ustadh Amjad reminds the audience that the main purpose of prayer is to bring you closer to Allah and remove the veils (of all worldly things) between you and Him. As such we need to free ourselves of the distractions and bring our hearts to be more present with Allah during prayer and if we do that our prayer will be transformative. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Ulum al-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this episode, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin continues this series on  Imam Ghazali’s Ihya Uloom ud-Din,  with an overview of the Book of the Mysteries of Purification. Imam Al-Ghazali highlights both the outward and inward importance of purification. Imam Al-Ghazali explains both the rulings of purifications from a fiqh perspective and the inner secrets of purification. The chapter begins by describing that the Quranic verses and Hadiths that detail the benefits and rewards for purification. The purification that is intended here is at the basic level the purification of the limbs. However purification has 4 degrees: [1] Purifying the outward from impurities and vile things. [2] Purifying your limbs from sins and corruption [3] Purifying the heart from blameworthy characteristics and destructive qualities [4] Purifying your inner most core of your being from everything other than the Exalted. The degrees described above correspond with the degrees of faith and a person will not be able to attain a higher level without attaining the one below it first. When one cleans their limbs they are purifying that which people see, as such, one should be ashamed of facing Allah without purifying your heart upon which Allah gazes. Lastly, Ustadh Amjad emphasizing that delving into the deeper levels of purification takes work and practice. As you work on these deeper levels of purification you will become someone who is always aware of being in the presence of Allah at all times. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali’s opus magnum, Ihya Uloom ud-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this epoisode, Shaykh Faraz gives an overview of the second chapter from Imam Ghazali's Ihya Uloom ud-Din, Foundations of Islamic Belief. Shaykh Faraz highlights the what Muslims believe, how faith is nurtured and the understanding of faith. He concludes with an example of the Prophetic through one of narrated supplications of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Shaykh Faraz tells us that it is personally obligatory for every Muslim to know with clarity and certitude what is necessary to believe about Allah, His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), and the transmitted articles of belief. Below are some resources of courses and a podcast on Islamic beliefs, provided by SeekersHub. All resources are free of charge. Shaykh Faraz then highlights the point Imam Ghazali makes about how faith is nurtured. He says that faith is not nurtured by mere study. Rather, it is nurtured by submission and by turning to Allah Most High in devotion. This is done through living faith in one's life, by acquiring virtuous traits and by ridding oneself of blameworthy traits. Then, Shaykh Faraz outlines the levels of faith. The first level is mere faith; accepting without understanding. The second level is faith with understanding. The third level is living faith with consciousness. In understanding and studying the proofs of Islamic beliefs, there is a strengthening of faith, Shaykh Faraz tells us. He highlights the following resources through SeekersHub (all free): Courses [1] Understanding Islamic Beliefs: Dardir's Kharida Explained [2] Ghazali's Foundations of Islamic Beliefs http://seekershub.org/home/course-catalog-t12017/#beliefs [3] Allah's Beautiful Names Explained http://seekershub.org/home/course-catalog-t12017/#livingreligion Podcast Why Islam is True http://seekershub.org/podcast/names/why-islam-is-true/ Shaykh Faraz then clarifies the relationship between iman (faith) and islam (submission). He tells us how they intertwine and intersect and their different levels. Finally, Shaykh Faraz concludes with Prophetic supplication that portrays faith: (يا حي يا قيوم برحمتك أستغيث أصلح لي شأني كله ولا تكلني إلى نفسي طرفة عين) (Oh Living! Oh Sustaining! In Your Mercy do I seek urgent aid! Rectify all my affairs -- and do not leave me to myself for a blinking of an eye.) In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali's opus magnum, Ihya Uloom ud-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz gives an overview of the first chapter from Imam Ghazali's Ihya Uloom ud-Din, the chapter on knowledge. Shaykh Faraz explains Imam Ghazali's statement that "the purpose of religion is knowledge - knowing Allah". Shaykh Faraz further explains that all the forms of religion require knowledge. A believer needs to know how to submit to Allah, how to seek Allah, and how to be sincere and beloved to Allah. He also gives some definitions of knowledge, and which knowledge Imam Ghazali is referring to. Shaykh Faraz also discerns between knowledge which is personally obligatory and that which is communally obligatory. Finally, Shaykh Faraz highlights that knowledge is sought through adab. The fruits of knowledge is becoming a "Lordly scholar", who is able to turn their heart to Allah and help guide others to Allah as well. The great opportunity of knowledge is that it is the Prophetic inheritance. Action without knowledge is toil without fruit. Therefore, through knowledge one is able to fulfill the potential that Allah has created us for and called us to. In this brief overview of Imam Ghazali's opus magnum, Ihya Uloom ud-Din (Renewing the Religious Sciences), this series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/

In this introductory episode, Shaykh Faraz gives us an overview of this new series in Ramadan: Renewing Religion. Throughout the month of Ramadan Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin and our other visiting scholars will be sharing with us a thematic overview of each of the 40 chapters in Imam Ghazali's Ihya Uloom ud-Din (Renewing the Religious Knowledges). This series will serve as blueprint for how the believer can bring to life their religion. It will aim to help the believer to not just practice the form of the religion properly, but to also practice it with excellence. The Ihya is broken down into four quarters: [1] devotion, [2] social responsibilities, [3] the destructive traits of character, and [4] the salvific virtues. Join our Ramadan 2017 program: #RamadanRenewal, in-person at SeekersHub Toronto or online through the SeekersHub Global platform. For more details, visit: http://seekershub.org/ramadan. Checkout all of the SeekersHub podcasts by visiting http://seekershub.org/podcasts/