Shorts

The loss of modesty (hayā) correlates directly with a decline in faith (īmān). This internal restraint, a natural human quality instilled by God, protects individuals from immoral acts. When this protective barrier is removed through sin, such as adultery, internal restrictions dissolve, leading to unrestrained behavior and a visible deterioration of character. The natural human quality of modesty is an integral part of faith; its absence reveals inner corruption, much like the discharge from a festering wound.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

60

The Quran was revealed over a period of twenty-two years, equivalent to approximately 610-632 CE. The initial revelations were short verses, with many of the shortest surahs appearing first. The revelation occurred gradually, piece by piece. The commonly stated twenty-three-year period refers to the lunar calendar, while modern understanding often relies on the solar calendar.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

77

This lecture explores the historical development and varying scholarly opinions regarding the Taraweeh prayer. It details how the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) practiced Taraweeh, focusing on the practice of eight rak'ats followed by Tahajjud. The discussion highlights the practice established during the Caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab, which introduced twenty rak'ats performed immediately after Isha prayer with a single Imam. The lecture clarifies that the four major schools of Sunni Islamic jurisprudence – Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali – concur with the practice established by Umar. It also addresses the differing views of the Ahl-e-Hadith, who maintain the original practice of eight rak'ats. The lecture emphasizes the importance of adhering to the Sunnah of the Prophet and the rightly guided Caliphs, as well as the scholarly consensus on the practice of twenty rak'ats, which is observed in the two holy mosques of Mecca and Medina. The lecture also acknowledges Ahmad ibn Hanbal as a prominent scholar and the importance of his Musnad.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

122

This lecture emphasizes the importance of humility and righteous actions as essential components of faith. True believers do not boast or consider themselves superior. Instead, they recognize themselves as part of the larger Muslim community and maintain a humble disposition. Just as a fruit-laden branch bends low, those blessed with good deeds should exhibit modesty. Condescension towards others negates the impact of one's message. The speaker advocates for hating sin, not the sinner, recognizing that individuals struggling with wrongdoing are in need of compassion and treatment, not condemnation. True believers show empathy and understanding towards those who err, understanding them as patients in need of care.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

53

This lecture explores the spiritual state of having one’s heart opened by God for Islam, contrasting it with the darkness of spiritual hardness. It highlights that divine guidance illuminates the heart, providing inner understanding and a connection with God. Those who reject this guidance and whose hearts become hardened against remembrance of God face destruction and are clearly astray. The lecture emphasizes that a receptive heart is essential for faith and spiritual growth, while a hardened heart leads to misguidance and ultimate loss.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

87

The speaker addresses a concern raised by his wife regarding his beard. He clarifies that growing a beard is a commandment of the Prophet Muhammad, following the practice of all prophets. He emphasizes the Prophet’s directive to trim the mustache and grow the beard, urging adherence to this sunnah with the expectation that acceptance will follow gradually. The discussion highlights the religious significance of beard growth as an act of obedience and a means of aligning oneself with the traditions of the prophets.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

73