Quran Talk

300 episodes — Page 4 of 6

Ep 164Equality vs. Equity

Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/qurantalk Quran Talk Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/qurantalk Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/

Dec 10, 202031 min

Ep 151Choice and Fairness

Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E8ahrB Quran Talk Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/qurantalk Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/

Sep 3, 202021 min

Ep 150Bigotry Is Not A Virtue

Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E8ahrB Quran Talk Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/qurantalk Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/

Aug 30, 202022 min

Ep 149China and The Three Gorges Dam (Perception of Nature vs. Reality of Nature)

Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E8ahrB Quran Talk Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Video Notes: https://qurantalkblog.com/2020/08/25/china-and-the-perception-of-nature-vs-reality-of-nature/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/qurantalk Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/

Aug 27, 202022 min

Ep 148Where is Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa?

Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Quran Talk Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E8ahrB Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/qurantalk Notes: https://qurantalkblog.com/2020/08/20/the-true-location-of-the-al-aqsa-mosque/ Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

Aug 24, 202012 min

Ep 147God is Physical

Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Quran Talk Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw Quran Talk YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E8ahrB Quran Talk Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/qurantalk Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/

Aug 20, 202016 min

Ep 146Light From Men vs. Light From God

App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Spotify : https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E8ahrB Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/

Aug 13, 202018 min

Ep 145A Tale of Two Communities

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Aug 6, 202026 min

Ep 144Quran Talk - Yesterday

Podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Spotify : https://spoti.fi/30MB7Nw YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E8ahrB Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Quran Talk Blog: https://qurantalkblog.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org

Jul 31, 202024 min

Ep 143Child Marriage

Subscribe to the podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Blog: https://quranstudy19.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com https://quranstudy19.com/2020/07/15/nikah-siri-secret-marriage/

Jul 22, 202012 min

Ep 142BLM and The Religion of Wokeism

Quran Study App: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Blog: https://quranstudy19.com/ Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

Jul 16, 202023 min

Ep 141Free Speech, Cancel Culture, and the Manipulation of Language

Subscribe to the podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Quran Study App on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Blog: https://quranstudy19.com/ Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

Jul 9, 202027 min

Ep 140Abraham, Circumcision & Quran

Jul 1, 202043 min

Ep 139BLM vs Black Lives Matter

Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran translation website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/grid Blog: https://quranstudy19.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

Jun 26, 202054 min

Ep 138Localism

Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Blog: https://quranstudy19.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

Jun 17, 202020 min

Ep 137Justice in Society

Jun 9, 202022 min

Ep 136Metric By Which We Judge

Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Quran Study Blog:https://quranstudy19.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

Jun 2, 202019 min

Ep 135Algorithms For Life

Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

May 26, 202014 min

Ep 134Quran: Top 10 Mistranslated Verses

Subscribe to the podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Website: https://www.quranstudyapp.com/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

Dec 20, 201933 min

Ep 133Quran Burning, Muslim Hypocrisy & China

Subscribe to the podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com What should be our response to Quran Burning - Norway? [6:68] If you see those who mock our revelations, you shall avoid them until they delve into another subject. If the devil causes you to forget, then, as soon as you remember, do not sit with such evil people. [6:69] The righteous are not responsible for the utterances of those people, but it may help to remind them; perhaps they may be saved. [5:57] O you who believe, do not befriend those among the recipients of previous scripture who mock and ridicule your religion, nor shall you befriend the disbelievers. You shall reverence GOD, if you are really believers. [4:140] He has instructed you in the scripture that: if you hear GOD's revelations being mocked and ridiculed, you shall not sit with them, unless they delve into another subject. Otherwise, you will be as guilty as they are. GOD will gather the hypocrites and the disbelievers together in Hell. [109:0] In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful [109:1] Say, "O you disbelievers. [109:2] "I do not worship what you worship. [109:3] "Nor do you worship what I worship. [109:4] "Nor will I ever worship what you worship. [109:5] "Nor will you ever worship what I worship. [109:6] "To you is your religion, and to me is my religion.” [87:9] Therefore, you shall remind; perhaps the reminder will benefit. [87:10] The reverent will take heed. [87:11] The wicked will avoid it. [60:8] GOD does not enjoin you from befriending those who do not fight you because of religion, and do not evict you from your homes. You may befriend them and be equitable towards them. GOD loves the equitable. [60:9] GOD enjoins you only from befriending those who fight you because of religion, evict you from your homes, and band together with others to banish you. You shall not befriend them. Those who befriend them are the transgressors. [2:256] There shall be no compulsion in religion: the right way is now distinct from the wrong way. Anyone who denounces the devil and believes in GOD has grasped the strongest bond; one that never breaks. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient. When can we fight? [2:190] You may fight in the cause of GOD against those who attack you, but do not aggress. GOD does not love the aggressors. [2:191] You may kill those who wage war against you, and you may evict them whence they evicted you. Oppression is worse than murder. Do not fight them at the Sacred Mosque (Masjid), unless they attack you therein. If they attack you, you may kill them. This is the just retribution for those disbelievers. [2:192] If they refrain, then GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful. [2:193] You may also fight them to eliminate oppression, and to worship GOD freely. If they refrain, you shall not aggress; aggression is permitted only against the aggressors. Even if we are being oppressed the first response is to get up and move [9:38] O you who believe, when you are told, "Mobilize in the cause of GOD," why do you become heavily attached to the ground? Have you chosen this worldly life in place of the Hereafter? The materials of this world, compared to the Hereafter, are nil. [4:97] Those whose lives are terminated by the angels, while in a state of wronging their souls, the angels will ask them, "What was the matter with you?" They will say, "We were oppressed on earth." They will say, "Was GOD's earth not spacious enough for you to emigrate therein?" For these, the final abode is Hell, and a miserable destiny. [4:75] Why should you not fight in the cause of GOD when weak men, women, and children are imploring: "Our Lord, deliver us from this community whose people are oppressive, and be You our Lord and Master.” https://apnews.com/b3769b3b2bcc43c8b68826c144cbc447 Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry says it has summoned Norway’s ambassador to convey the deep concern of the government and Pakistani people over the recent burning of Islam’s holy book by a Norwegian man that was caught on video. In Saturday’s statement, the ministry said: “Such actions hurt the sentiments of 1.3 billion Muslims around the world.” The statement demanded action against the person in the city of Kristiansand who desecrated the Quran at an anti-Islam rally last week. Pakistan’s reaction comes after video surfaced on social media showing a non-Muslim man burning the book. Meanwhile https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/ap-exclusive-629-pakistani-girls-sold-brides-china-67561510 629 Pakistani girls sold as brides to China The list gives the most concrete figure yet for the number of women caught up in the trafficking schemes since 2018. https://www.wsj.com/articles/pakistan-gives-a-pass-to-chinas-oppression-of-muslims-11570142866 Foreign observers estimate that hundreds of thou

Dec 11, 201931 min

Ep 132Quran Talk - Mountains as Stabilizers

Subscribe to the podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com [13:3] He is the One who constructed the earth and placed on it mountains and rivers. And from the different kinds of fruits, He made them into pairs - males and females. The night overtakes the day. These are solid proofs for people who think. [88:17] Why do they not reflect on the camels and how they are created? [88:18] And the sky and how it is raised. [88:19] And the mountains and how they are constructed. [88:20] And the earth and how it is built. The distance to the center of the Earth is 6,371 kilometers (3,958 mi), Earth's inner core is the innermost geologic layer of the Earth. It is primarily a solid ball with a radius of about 1,220 kilometres (760 miles), which is about 20% of the Earth's radius. We have no samples of the Earth's core available for direct measurement, but from analysis of seismic waves and the magnetic field the inner core is believed to be composed of an iron–nickel alloy with some other elements. The temperature at the inner core's surface is estimated to be approximately 5700 K (5430 °C or 9806 °F), which is about the temperature at the surface of the Sun. Earth's outer core is a fluid layer about 2,400 km (1,500 mi or 40% of Earth’s radius) thick and composed of mostly liquid iron and nickel. Its outer boundary lies 2,890 km (1,800 mi) beneath Earth's surface. The transition between the inner core and outer core is located approximately 5,150 km (3,200 mi) beneath the Earth's surface. Earth’s mantle: The mantle is the mostly-solid bulk of Earth's interior. The mantle lies between Earth's dense, super-heated core and its thin outer layer, the crust. The mantle is about 2,900 kilometers (1,802 miles 40% of Earth’s radius) thick, and makes up a whopping 84% of Earth's total volume. Humans have drilled over 12 kilometers (7.67 miles) in the Sakhalin-I. In terms of depth below the surface, the Kola Superdeep Borehole SG-3 retains the world record at 12,262 metres (40,230 ft) in 1989 and still is the deepest artificial point on Earth. The Earth's crust is a thin shell on the outside of the Earth, accounting for less than 1% of Earth's volume. The Earth's crust ranges from 5–70 kilometres (3.1–43.5 mi) in depth. Because Earth’s crust are less dense than the mantle below, both types of crust "float" on the mantle. Mountains Moving Continental drift The Earth has 7 major plates. Each of these plates float onto of the Earth’s mantle. Each year each plate moves about an inch. When these plates collide into one another the plate that is stronger moves below and the plate that is weaker moves on top. Then over millions of years this accumulation in moving causes the formation of mountains. Mountains are waves of stone - their time horizon is much longer and move much slower [27:88] When you look at the mountains, you think that they are standing still. But they are moving, like the clouds. Such is the manufacture of GOD, who perfected everything. He is fully Cognizant of everything you do. [79:30] He made the earth egg-shaped. 79 30 1 وَالْأَرْضَ And the earth wal-arḍa ا ر ﺽ 79 30 2 بَعْدَ after baʿda ب ع د 79 30 3 ذَٰلِكَ that dhālika ذ ل ك 79 30 4 دَحَاهَا spread it / made it egg-shaped. daḥāhā د ح و The root for the word has predominately two meanings: the first meaning is of an egg, but specifically an ostrich egg. The word دَحَاهَا / dahaha in Arabic comes from the word for an egg, but specifically an ostrich egg. The Earth is not a perfect sphere it is an Oblate Spheroid, where the north and south pole are slightly compressed and the equator is slightly expanded. What kind of an ostrich did the Arabs at the time of the revelation of the Quran have among them? It was called the Arabian ostrich (also known as the Syrian ostrich) that sadly went extinct in the early 20th century. But luckily for us one of these eggs was discovered and preserved. It was as a gift the poet C.M. Doughty gave to archeologist T.E. Lawrence. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p030vqx5 https://twitter.com/nhm_oology/status/576067708837605376 Egg yolk = core, egg white = mantle, shell = crust The second meaning of the root دَحَاهَا / dahaha means: to spread, stretch, expand, I equate this to the description of the tectonic plates of the earth. That God is giving us two pieces of information about the earth, one is its shape, the other is it’s make up. When people describe the plate tectonics of the Earth they describe it like an egg that is cracked with its shell bumping into one another. Mars Without the fragmentation of the crust of the Earth through plate tectonics the only mountains we would of had would be volcanoes. The tallest mountain in our Solar System is on Mars. It is called Mount Olympus (72,000 ft) twice as t

Dec 6, 201925 min

Ep 131Wisdom - The Things That Never Change

Subscribe to the Quran Talk podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Check out video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Knowledge / Wisdom / Understanding [2:269] He bestows wisdom upon whomever He chooses, and whoever attains wisdom, has attained a great bounty. Only those who possess intelligence will take heed. Proverbs 8: 10 Receive my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. 11 For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her. Proverbs 16:16 How much better to acquire wisdom than gold; to gain understanding is more desirable than silver. What is wisdom? [31:12] We have endowed Luqmãn with wisdom: "You shall be appreciative of GOD." Whoever is appreciative is appreciative for his own good. As for those who turn unappreciative, GOD is in no need, Praiseworthy. [31:13] Recall that Luqmãn said to his son, as he enlightened him, "O my son, do not set up any idols beside GOD; idolatry is a gross injustice.” [31:16] "O my son, know that even something as tiny as a mustard seed, deep inside a rock, be it in the heavens or the earth, GOD will bring it. GOD is Sublime, Cognizant. [31:17] "O my son, you shall observe the Contact Prayers (Salat). You shall advocate righteousness and forbid evil, and remain steadfast in the face of adversity. These are the most honorable traits. [31:18] "You shall not treat the people with arrogance, nor shall you roam the earth proudly. GOD does not like the arrogant showoffs. [31:19] "Walk humbly and lower your voice—the ugliest voice is the donkey's voice.” But there is one other key to wisdom: If information was all we need six pack abs and millionaires [62:5] The example of those who were given the Torah then failed to uphold it is like the donkey carrying great works of literature. Miserable indeed is the example of people who rejected GOD's revelations. GOD does not guide the wicked people. Knowledge without action is useless Knowledge like wealth is a provision meaning that it is allocated strictly by God to His servants [34:39] Say, "My Lord is the One who controls all provisions; He increases the provisions for whomever He chooses from among His servants, or reduces them. Anything you spend (in the cause of God), He will reward you for it; He is the Best Provider.” We used to hoard stuff now many of us hoard knowledge - as if I just read one more book, listen to one more podcast, read one more article or tweet then I will be complete. It never ends are apatite for information is endless. Hoarding in Arabic means the continuous pursuit for more things. The only thing we should be continuously pursuing for our entire lives is righteousness and attempting to gain God’s favor because this is the only thing that will matter in the Hereafter Like anything else - if we are unappreciative of the knowledge God gave us then He may take it back. [17:85] They ask you about the revelation. Say, "The revelation comes from my Lord. The knowledge given to you is minute." [17:86] If we will, we can take back what we revealed to you, then you will find no protector against us. We think that wisdom comes with knowing more, but the only thing that comes with knowing more is responsibility. Knowledge is just like wealth the more we have the more we are responsible for The Rich Believer is Better than the Poor Believer [16:75] GOD cites the example of a slave who is owned, and is totally powerless, compared to one whom we blessed with good provisions, from which he gives to charity secretly and publicly. Are they equal? Praise be to GOD, most of them do not know. [16:76] And GOD cites the example of two men: one is dumb, lacks the ability to do anything, is totally dependent on his master—whichever way he directs him, he cannot produce anything good. Is he equal to one who rules with justice, and is guided in the right path? [58:11] O you who believe, if you are told, "Please make room," you shall make room for each other to sit. GOD will then make room for you. If you are asked to get up and move, get up and move. GOD raises those among you who believe, and those who acquire knowledge to higher ranks. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do. What is the difference between one who has knowledge and doesn’t use it and one who doesn’t have knowledge - nothing in their actions but everything regarding their responsibility We are each responsible for what we know But God’s tests have nothing to do with what we know, it is about what we do with the knowledge that he has given to us. Knowing a lot and doing nothing is far worse than knowing nothing. God doesn’t judge you by how much you know He judges you by what you do with the knowledge you have Jesus parable of the talents Matthew 25:14–30 Difference between Wisdom and Understanding

Nov 8, 201926 min

Ep 130False Prohibitions in Islam: Are Pirates Haram?

Subscribe to the Quran Talk podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Check out video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com [29:68] Who is more evil than one who fabricates lies and attributes them to GOD, or rejects the truth when it comes to him? Is Hell not a just retribution for the disbelievers? [6:150] Say, "Bring your witnesses who would testify that GOD has prohibited this or that." If they testify, do not testify with them. Nor shall you follow the opinions of those who reject our revelations, and those who disbelieve in the Hereafter, and those who stray away from their Lord. [7:32] Say, "Who prohibited the nice things GOD has created for His creatures, and the good provisions?" Say, "Such provisions are to be enjoyed in this life by those who believe. Moreover, the good provisions will be exclusively theirs on the Day of Resurrection." We thus explain the revelations for people who know. There are so many things that Muslims have prohibited that has no basis in the Quran. Dogs The common belief among Muslims is that dogs are haram. They base this on a number of Hadith that make the following claims: That angels do not enter homes where there is a dog or angle That it is not only prohibited to keep a dog for anything other than guarding livestock or farm work, but if you do you will have you good deeds taken away from you That the saliva of a dog is najis (unclean) and if it touches a utensil it must be washed 7 times That if a dog, donkey, or women walk in front of someone who is doing Salat that it nullifies one’s Salat. Do any of these claims have any merit according to the Quran? Dogs occur three times in the Quran and each time debunks each of the previous claims [5:4] They consult you concerning what is lawful for them; say, "Lawful for you are all good things, including what trained dogs and falcons catch for you." You train them according to GOD's teachings. You may eat what they catch for you, and mention GOD's name thereupon. You shall observe GOD. GOD is most efficient in reckoning. When a dog hunts does it use its paws or mouth to catch the food? Obviously it uses its mouth. Therefore this verse lets us know that God is telling us it is okay to eat the food that hunting dogs catch with us with their mouths. Meaning that there is no prohibition around the saliva of a dog. There is a difference between choice and prohibition In a choice someone can choose to do something - in a prohibition we are indicating that if we do something we will be committing a sin Video with kids sharing an ice cream with a dog. I find that gross, you might not, but by no means is that a sin. Sleepers of the Cave [18:18] You would think that they were awake, when they were in fact asleep. We turned them to the right side and the left side, while their dog stretched his arms in their midst. Had you looked at them, you would have fled from them, stricken with terror. When the Quran uses the term “we” as in “we turned them to the right side and the left side” this means that the angels participated. So the angels entered their sanctuary despite the fact that there was a dog clearly sleeping among them. [18:22] Some would say, "They were three; their dog being the fourth," while others would say, "Five; the sixth being their dog," as they guessed. Others said, "Seven," and the eighth was their dog. Say, "My Lord is the best knower of their number." Only a few knew the correct number. Therefore,do not argue with them; just go along with them. You need not consult anyone about this. In these verses, God is emphasizing that it is not important how many there were but that there was a dog with them sleeping with them in the cave. Was the dog doing farm work or guarding livestock - no. Petting Dogs [7:176] Had we willed, we could have elevated him therewith, but he insisted on sticking to the ground, and pursued his own opinions. Thus, he is like the dog;whether you pet him or scold him, he pants.Such is the example of people who reject our proofs. Narrate these narrations, that they may reflect. If it is prohibited to touch dogs then this would be a very strange example. [3:78] Among them are those who twist their tongues to imitate the scripture, that you may think it is from the scripture, when it is not from the scripture, and they claim that it is from GOD, when it is not from GOD. Thus, they utter lies and attribute them to GOD, knowingly. Is it Prohibited For Women to Show Their Hair in Public? The word hijab in the context of dress code does not exist in the Quran. What are the dress code for the women according to the Quran? [24:31] And tell the believing women to subdue their eyes, and maintain their chastity. Theyshall not reveal any parts of their bodies / adornments (zīnatahunna), except that which is necessar

Nov 1, 201933 min

Ep 129Joseph

Subscribe to the Quran Talk podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Check out video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/QuranStudy19/ Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com [12:7] In Joseph and his brothers there are lessons for the seekers. Dream #1 - Humility When Joseph was explaining his dream to his father Jacob, there is a slight subtlety that is in the verse that is showing Joseph’s humility. The verse reads: [12:4] Recall that Joseph said to his father, "O my father, I saw eleven planets, and the sun, and the moon; I saw them prostrating before me.” Notice that Joseph didn’t say: "O my father, I saw eleven planets, and the sun, and the moon prostrating before me.” This repeating of “I saw” appears to be a hesitation in telling his father what he saw, and shows Joseph’s humility even at a young age, that despite what he witnessed in his dream he was not boasting. And think who was Joseph’s father? Jacob (Israel) one of God’s prophets, who was among the most righteous. The thought of telling his own father a prophet of God that in his dream he saw the solar system prostrating before him he was apprehensive to tell him. As children, it is easier to be humble. [16:78] GOD brought you out of your mothers' bellies knowing nothing, and He gave you the hearing, the eyesight, and the brains, that you may be appreciative. As children, everyone seems bigger than us, smarter than us, more accomplished and respected than us. But what happens when we become older? Dream #2 - Arrogance When Joseph was in prison we see the following interaction he had with his prison mates [12:36] Two young men were in the prison with him. One of them said, "I saw (in my dream) that I was making wine," and the other said, "I saw myself carrying bread on my head, from which the birds were eating. Inform us of the interpretation of these dreams. We see that you are righteous." [12:37] He said, "If any food is provided to you, I can inform you about it before you receive it. This is some of the knowledge bestowed upon me by my Lord. I have forsaken the religion of people who do not believe in GOD, and with regard to the Hereafter, they are really disbelievers. [12:38] "And I followed instead the religion of my ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We never set up any idols beside GOD. Such is the blessing from GOD upon us and upon the people, but most people are unappreciative. [12:39] "O my prison mates, are several gods better, or GOD alone, the One, the Supreme? [12:40] "You do not worship beside Him except innovations that you have made up, you and your parents. GOD has never authorized such idols. All ruling belongs to GOD, and He has ruled that you shall not worship except Him. This is the perfect religion, but most people do not know. [12:41] "O my prison mates, one of you will be the wine butler for his lord, while the other will be crucified— the birds will eat from his head. This settles the matter about which you have inquired." [12:42] He then said to the one to be saved "Remember me at your lord." Thus, the devil caused him to forget his Lord, and, consequently, he remained in prison a few more years. [61:2] O you who believe, why do you say what you do not do? [61:3] Most abominable in the sight of GOD is that you say what you do not do. [47:30] If we will, we can expose them for you, so that you can recognize them just by looking at them. However, you can recognize them by the way they talk. GOD is fully aware of all your works. [3:159] It was mercy from GOD that you became compassionate towards them. Had you been harsh and mean-hearted, they would have abandoned you. Therefore, you shall pardon them and ask forgiveness for them, and consult them. Once you make a decision, carry out your plan, and trust in GOD. GOD loves those who trust in Him.* [20:114] Most Exalted is GOD, the only true King. Do not rush into uttering the Quran before it is revealed to you, and say, "My Lord, increase my knowledge." Dream #3 - Confidence The King's Dream [12:43] The king said, "I saw seven fat cows being devoured by seven skinny cows, and seven green spikes (of wheat), and others shriveled. O my elders, advise me regarding my dream, if you know how to interpret the dreams." [12:44] They said, "Nonsense dreams. When it comes to the interpretation of dreams, we are not knowledgeable." [12:45] The one who was saved (from the prison) said, now that he finally remembered, "I can tell you its interpretation, so send me (to Joseph).” Joseph Interprets the King's Dream [12:46] "Joseph my friend, inform us about seven fat cows being devoured by seven skinny cows, and seven green spikes, and others shriveled. I wish to go back with some information for the people." [12:47] He said, "What you cultivate during the next seven years, when the time of harvest comes, leave the grains in their spikes, e

Oct 18, 201931 min

Ep 128Salat (Contact Prayer) According to Quran

Subscribe to the Quran Talk podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Check out video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Food for the soul Every day we feed our bodies with breakfast lunch and dinner. We know that in order to be healthy it is essential to eat meals. But what are we feeding our souls? God has designated for us the meal for our souls through our Salat, our Contact Prayer, but unlike a meal for our body our souls are metaphorically disjoined from our body. When we miss a meal we feel the pangs of hunger, but when we don’t feed our souls their designated meals we don’t realize the suffering we are putting on our souls. And the extent to the damage will be seen on the day of Judgment when we discard these worldly bodies garments and all that is left is our souls our real selves. We will see that some souls on that Day have been nourished and have grown tremendously while other souls were completely neglected and starving this whole time on Earth. [101:6] As for him whose weights are heavy. [101:7] He will lead a happy (eternal) life. [101:8] As for him whose weights are light. [101:9] His destiny is lowly. [7:8] The scales will be set on that day, equitably. Those whose weights are heavy will be the winners. [7:9] As for those whose weights are light, they will be the ones who lost their souls, as a consequence of disregarding our revelations, unjustly. [23:99] When death comes to one of them, he says, "My Lord, send me back. [23:100] "I will then work righteousness in everything I left." Not true. This is a false claim that he makes. A barrier will separate his soul from this world until resurrection. [23:101] When the horn is blown, no relations among them will exist on that day, nor will they care about one another. [23:102] As for those whose weights are heavy, they will be the winners. [23:103] Those whose weights are light are the ones who lost their souls; they abide in Hell forever. [74:40] While in Paradise, they will ask. [74:41] About the guilty. [74:42] "What brought you to this retribution?" [74:43] They will say, "We did not observe the contact prayers (Salat). [74:44] "We did not feed the poor. [74:45] "We blundered with the blunderers. [74:46] "We disbelieved in the Day of Judgment. [74:47] "Until certainty came to us now.” The Salat is absolutely essential for our salvation in the Hereafter. While it is possible to live off snacks through other forms of worship practices the Salat are the essential meal for the sol. [75:26] Indeed, when (the soul) reaches the throat. [75:27] And it is ordered: "Let go!" [75:28] He knows it is the end. [75:29] Each leg will lay motionless next to the other leg. [75:30] To your Lord, on that day, is the summoning. [75:31] For he observed neither the charity, nor the contact prayers (Salat). [75:32] But he disbelieved and turned away. [75:33] With his family, he acted arrogantly. [75:34] You have deserved this. [75:35] Indeed, you have deserved this. [107:1] Do you know who really rejects the faith? [107:2] That is the one who mistreats the orphans. [107:3] And does not advocate the feeding of the poor. [107:4] And woe to those who observe the contact prayers (Salat)— [107:5] who are totally heedless of their prayers. Importance of Salat [2:3] who believe in the unseen, observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and from our provisions to them, they give to charity. [2:45] You shall seek help through steadfastness and the Contact Prayers (Salat). This is difficult indeed, but not so for the reverent (الْخَاشِعِينَ / khāshiʿīna = humble / reverent) , [2:177] Righteousness is not turning your faces towards the east or the west. Righteous are those who believe in GOD, the Last Day, the angels, the scripture, and the prophets; and they give the money, cheerfully, to the relatives, the orphans, the needy, the traveling alien, the beggars, and to free the slaves; and they observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat); and they keep their word whenever they make a promise; and they steadfastly persevere in the face of persecution, hardship, and war. These are the truthful; these are the righteous. Key Purpose of Salat God speaking to Moses: [20:114] “I am GOD; there is no other god beside Me. You shall worship Me alone, and observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) to remember Me. Allahu Akbar [29:45] You shall recite what is revealed to you of the scripture, and observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), for the Contact Prayers prohibit evil and vice. But the remembrance of GOD (through Salat) is the most important objective. GOD knows everything you do. 29 45 15 وَلَذِكْرُ and surely the remembrance of waladhik'ru ذ ك ر 29 45 16 اللَّهِ God (is) l-lahi ا ل ه 29 45 17 أَكْبَرُ greatest. akbaru ك ب ر What is Salat? Consistently in the Quran the world Salat (الصَّلَاةَ) is paired with the Arabic word “يُقِيمُون

Sep 27, 201951 min

Ep 127Rocks, Black Holes, and Quasars

Subscribe to the Quran Talk podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Check out video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com [2:50] Recall that we parted the sea for you; we saved you and drowned Pharaoh's people before your eyes. 2 50 6 وَأَغْرَقْنَا and we drowned wa-aghraqnā غ ر ق 2 50 7 آلَ (the) people (of) āla ا و ل 2 50 8 فِرْعَوْنَ Pharaoh fir'ʿawna ف ر ع 2 50 9 وَأَنْتُمْ while you wa-antum ا ن ت م 2 50 10 تَنْظُرُونَ [you all] were looking. tanẓurūna ن ظ ر [2:51] Yet, when we summoned Moses for forty nights, you worshiped the calf in his absence, and turned wicked.* [2:52] Still, we pardoned you thereafter that you may be appreciative. [2:55] Recall that you said, "O Moses, we will not believe unless we see GOD, physically." Consequently, the lightning struck you, as you looked. 2 55 11 فَأَخَذَتْكُمُ So [it] seized you / struck you fa-akhadhatkumu ا خ ذ 2 55 12 الصَّاعِقَةُ the thunderbolt l-ṣāʿiqatu ص ع ق 2 55 13 وَأَنْتُمْ while you wa-antum ا ن ت م 2 55 14 تَنْظُرُونَ [you all] were looking. tanẓurūna ن ظ ر [2:56] We then revived you, after you had died, that you may be appreciative. Children of Isreal saw all the same miracles as Pharoah, they even looked as Pharoah and his troops were drowned yet despite this they refused to believe. Then God struck them down as they looked, but unlike Pharoah God revived them (resurrected) after their death. Yet despite all this God continued to bless them yet they continued to disbelieve and be unappreciative. [2:57] We shaded you with clouds (in Sinai), and sent down to you manna and quails: "Eat from the good things we provided for you." They did not hurt us (by rebelling); they only hurt their own souls. Lack of Confidence in God: They Refuse to Enter Jerusalem [2:58] Recall that we said, "Enter this town, where you will find as many provisions as you like. Just enter the gate humbly (sajdeh), and treat the people nicely. We will then forgive your sins, and increase the reward for the pious." [2:59] But the wicked among them carried out commands other than the commands given to them. Consequently, we sent down upon the transgressors condemnation from the sky, due to their wickedness. [5:24] They said, "O Moses, we will never enter it, so long as they are in it. Therefore, go—you and your Lord —and fight. We are sitting right here." [5:25] He said, "My Lord, I can only control myself and my brother. So allow us to part company with the wicked people." [5:26] He said, "Henceforth, it is forbidden them for forty years, during which they will roam the earth aimlessly. Do not grieve over such wicked people." [2:60] Recall that Moses sought water for his people. We said, "Strike the rock with your staff." Whereupon, twelve springs gushed out therefrom. The members of each tribe knew their own water. Eat and drink from GOD's provisions, and do not roam the earth corruptingly. Israel Rebels [2:61] Recall that you said, "O Moses, we can no longer tolerate one kind of food. Call upon your Lord to produce for us such earthly crops as beans, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions." He said, "Do you wish to substitute that which is inferior for that which is good? Go down (ih’biṭū) to Egypt, where you can find what you asked for." They have incurred condemnation, humiliation, and disgrace, and brought upon themselves wrath from GOD. This is because they rejected GOD's revelations, and killed the prophets unjustly. This is because they disobeyed and transgressed. 2 61 31 اهْبِطُوا Go down [you all] (to) ih'biṭū ه ب ط 2 61 32 مِصْرًا Egypt miṣ'ran م ص ر See this same word used repeatedly towards Satan when he refused to prostrate and follow God’s command, and also towards Adam when he approached the tree. [2:35] We said, "O Adam, live with your wife in Paradise, and eat therefrom generously, as you please, but do not approach this tree, lest you sin." [2:36] But the devil duped them, and caused their eviction therefrom. We said, "Go down (ih’biṭū) as enemies of one another. On Earth shall be your habitation and provision for awhile.” 2 36 1 فَأَزَلَّهُمَا Then made both of them slip (*duped) fa-azallahumā ز ل ل 2 36 2 الشَّيْطَانُ the devil l-shayṭānu ش ط ن 2 36 3 عَنْهَا from it, ʿanhā ع ن 2 36 4 فَأَخْرَجَهُمَا and he evicted both of them fa-akhrajahumā خ ر ج 2 36 5 مِمَّا from what mimmā م م ا 2 36 6 كَانَا they [both] were kānā ك و ن 2 36 7 فِيهِ in [it]. fīhi ف ي 2 36 8 وَقُلْنَا And we said, waqul'nā ق و ل 2 36 9 اهْبِطُوا "Go down [you all], ih'biṭū ه ب ط 2 36 10 بَعْضُكُمْ some of you* baʿḍukum ب ع ﺽ 2 36 11 لِبَعْضٍ to some others (*one another) libaʿḍin ب ع ﺽ 2 36 12 عَدُوٌّ (as) enemy; ʿaduwwun ع د و 2 36 13 وَلَكُمْ and for you walakum ل 2 36 14 فِي in fī ف ي 2 36 15 الْأَرْضِ the earth (is) l-arḍi ا ر ﺽ 2 36 16 مُسْتَقَرٌّ a resting place (habitation) mus'taqarrun ق ر ر 2 36 17 وَمَتَاعٌ and a provision wamatāʿun م ت ع 2 36 1

Sep 20, 201926 min

Ep 126How Was Thamud Annihilated?

Subscribe to the Quran Talk podcast: https://apple.co/2lLnsFE Check out video notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com How was Thamud Annihilated? 5 communities annihilated (أَهْلَكْ / ahlak) by God in one single event. Transgressed so far from the right path there was no coming back These communities rejected the 3 M’s: messenger, the message, and the miracle People of Noah People of Hud People of Saleh People of Lot People of Shu'aib The annihilation of these communities are mentioned consistently in this order in Suras: 7, 11, and 26. [14:9] Have you not heard about those before you—the people of Noah, 'Ãd, Thamûd, and others who came after them and known only to GOD? Their messengers went to them with clear proofs, but they treated them with contempt and said, "We disbelieve in what you are sent with. We are skeptical about your message; full of doubt.” Death of any disbeliever is annihilation [6:6] Have they not seen how many generations before them we have annihilated? We established them on earth more than we did for you, and we showered them with blessings, generously, and we provided them with flowing streams. We then annihilated them because of their sins, and we substituted another generation in their place. [10:13] Many a generation we have annihilated before you when they transgressed. Their messengers went to them with clear proofs, but they refused to believe. We thus requite the guilty people. [8:54] Such was the case with the people of Pharaoh and others before them. They first rejected the signs of their Lord. Consequently, we annihilated them for their sins. We drowned Pharaoh's people; the wicked were consistently punished. People of Noah / flood People of Hud / Ad / storm People of Saleh / Thamud ? People of Lot / Sodom / shower of rocks People of Shu’aib / Midyan / quake In this episode want to take a closer look at what exactly annihilated the people of Saleh. [7:78] Consequently, the quake annihilated them, leaving them dead in their homes. [51:43] In Thamûd (there is a lesson). They were told, "Enjoy temporarily.” [51:44] They rebelled against the command of their Lord. Consequently, the lightning struck them as they looked. Saleh was a messenger sent to Thamud. [26:141] Thamûd disbelieved the messengers. [26:142] Their brother Sãleh said to them, "Would you not be righteous? [26:143] "I am an honest messenger to you. [26:144] "You shall reverence GOD, and obey me. [26:145] "I do not ask you for any wage; my wage comes only from the Lord of the universe. [26:146] "Do you suppose you will be left forever, secure in this state? [26:147] "You enjoy gardens and springs. [26:148] "And crops and date palms with delicious fruits. [16:112] GOD cites the example of a community that used to be secure and prosperous, with provisions coming to it from everywhere. But then, it turned unappreciative of GOD's blessings. Consequently, GOD caused them to taste the hardships of starvation and insecurity. Such is the requital for what they did. People of Sheba Sura 34 [34:15] Sheba's homeland used to be a marvel, with two gardens on the right and the left. Eat from your Lord's provisions, and be appreciative of Him—good land, and a forgiving Lord. [34:16] They turned away and, consequently, we poured upon them a disastrous flood, and we substituted their two gardens into two gardens of bad tasting fruits, thorny plants, and a skimpy harvest. [34:17] We thus requited them for their disbelief. Do we not requite only the disbelievers? [34:18] We placed between them and the communities that we blessed other oases, and we secured the journey between them: "Travel therein days and nights in complete security." [34:19] But they (turned unappreciative and) challenged: "Our Lord, we do not care if You increase the distance of our journeys (without any stations)." They thus wronged their own souls. Consequently, we made them history, and scattered them into small communities throughout the land. This should provide lessons for those who are steadfast, appreciative. [26:149] "You carve out of the mountains luxurious mansions. [26:150] "You shall reverence GOD, and obey me. [26:151] "Do not obey the transgressors. [26:152] "Who commit evil, not good works." [7:74] "Recall that He made you inheritors after 'Ãd, and established you on earth, building mansions in its valleys, and carving homes from its mountains. You shall remember GOD's blessings, and do not roam the earth corruptingly.” Al-Hijr [29:38] Similarly, 'Ãd and Thamûd (were annihilated). This is made manifest to you through their ruins. The devil had adorned their works in their eyes, and had diverted them from the path, even though they had eyes. [15:80] The people of Al-Hijr disbelieved the messengers. [15:81] We gave them our revelations, but they disregarded them. [15:82] They used to carve secure homes out of the

Sep 13, 201923 min

Ep 125Hypocrites

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com The Righteous [2:3] who believe in the unseen, observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and from our provisions to them, they give to charity. [2:4] And they believe in what was revealed to you, and in what was revealed before you, and with regard to the Hereafter, they are absolutely certain. [2:5] These are guided by their Lord; these are the winners. 2. The Disbelievers [2:6] As for those who disbelieve, it is the same for them; whether you warn them, or not warn them, they cannot believe. [2:7] GOD seals their minds and their hearing, and their eyes are veiled. They have incurred severe retribution. 3. The Hypocrites [2:8] Then there are those who say, "We believe in GOD and the Last Day," while they are not believers. [2:9] In trying to deceive GOD and those who believe, they only deceive themselves without perceiving. [2:10] In their minds there is a disease. Consequently, GOD augments their disease. They have incurred a painful retribution for their lying. [2:11] When they are told, "Do not commit evil," they say, "But we are righteous!" [2:12] In fact, they are evildoers, but they do not perceive. [2:13] When they are told, "Believe like the people who believed," they say, "Shall we believe like the fools who believed?" In fact, it is they who are fools, but they do not know. [2:14] When they meet the believers, they say, "We believe," but when alone with their devils, they say, "We are with you; we were only mocking." [2:15] GOD mocks them, and leads them on in their transgressions, blundering. [2:16] It is they who bought the straying, at the expense of guidance. Such trade never prospers, nor do they receive any guidance. [11:16] It is they who gave up their share in the Hereafter, and, consequently, Hell is their lot. All their works are in vain; everything they have done is nullified. Like the owners of the garden who were so absolutely sure of their harvest (68:18, 68:25) Why are the hypocrites so despised by God? [4:145] The hypocrites will be committed to the lowest pit of Hell, and you will find no one to help them. Someone who disbelieves at least is being honest where they stand, but someone who is a hypocrite is a bad example for the group by which they claim to represent. If Bernie Madoff was a bank robber he would have had more respect than claiming to be a financial investor and robbing people of billions of dollars, at least with a crook they are not hiding what they are. A hypocrite repels people from the faith by setting a bad example under the guise of belief. [47:1] Those who disbelieve and repel from the path of GOD, He nullifies their works. [47:32] Those who disbelieve and repel from the path of GOD, and oppose the messenger after the guidance has been manifested for them, will never hurt GOD in the least. Instead, He nullifies their works. [47:34] Those who disbelieve and repel from the path of GOD, then die as disbelievers, GOD will never forgive them. What is the traits of a hypocrite & How do we identify hypocrisy (this applies both in ourselves and in others)? [47:29] Did those who harbor doubts in their hearts think that GOD will not bring out their evil thoughts? [47:30] If we will, we can expose them for you, so that you can recognize them just by looking at them. However, you can recognize them by the way they talk. GOD is fully aware of all your works. 1. They harbor doubts about God A disbeliever doesn’t “harbor doubt” they simply disbelieve. But a hypocrite they “harbor doubt” and they feed that doubt rather than trying to eliminate it. This is different than a believer. A believer may have doubt but rather than feeding that doubt they try to eliminate it (2:260). [22:53] He thus sets up the devil's scheme as a test for those who harbor doubts in their hearts, and those whose hearts are hardened. The wicked must remain with the opposition. [2:14] When they meet the believers, they say, "We believe," but when alone with their devils, they say, "We are with you; we were only mocking." 2. They manifest their doubt by trying to make the believers doubt God’s promise [63:8] They say, "If we go back to the city, the powerful therein will evict the weak (and we will be victimized)." (They should know that) all dignity belongs to GOD and His messenger, and the believers. However, the hypocrites do not know. [8:49] The hypocrites and those who harbored doubt in their hearts said, "These people are deceived by their religion." However, if one puts his trust in GOD, then GOD is Almighty, Most Wise. The Battle of the Parties [33:12] The hypocrites and those with doubts in their hearts said, "What GOD and His messenger promised us was no more than an illusion!” [33:13] A group of them said, "O people of Yathrib, you cannot attain victory; go back." Others made up excuses to the

Sep 6, 201945 min

Ep 124Petra vs. Mecca

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Dan Gibbons - The Sacred City of Mecca - Have we Got it Wrong? | TRACKS The prophet was actually from Petra therefore Hajj and the Ka’bah are in Petra The place of the Ka’aba was had thriving in agriculture The Quran describes as the town of the Sacred Masjid as the “mother of cities” therefore this could not be Mecca as Mecca back then was a barren desert and not a major trading location as is depicted in some Hadith The one occurrence of Mecca in the Quran is potentially a misspelling and was probably originally spelled with a b as opposed to a m. Findings based on Hadith and his claims of some of the earliest Mosque that the Qibla points to Petra and not Mecca. Mecca is the town that contains the Ka’bah known as the Sacred House in the Quran. It was established by Abraham and Ishmael. Abraham [2:124] Recall that Abraham was put to the test by his Lord, through certain commands, and he fulfilled them. (God) said, "I am appointing you an imam for the people." He said, "And also my descendants?" He said, "My covenant does not include the transgressors." [2:125] We have rendered the shrine (the Ka'aba) a focal point for the people, and a safe sanctuary. You may use Abraham's shrine as a prayer house. We commissioned Abraham and Ismail: "You shall purify My house for those who visit, those who live there, and those who bow and prostrate.” [3:95] Say, "GOD has proclaimed the truth: You shall follow Abraham's religion—monotheism. He never was an idolator." [3:96] The most important shrine established for the people is the one in Becca; a blessed beacon for all the people. [48:24] He is the One who withheld their hands of aggression against you, and withheld your hands of aggression against them in the valley of Mecca, after He had granted you victory over them. GOD is Seer of everything you do. Valley of Weeping? The assumption that Becca means Petra is based on false information Root = of Becca = ب ك ك crowding together of people; lacking water; breaking of the neck The belief that the root means "weeping" is a knwon misunderstanding it originated from the Greek translation of Hebrew of Psalms 84, where the Greek translation assumed a similar-sounding word בכה (bakhá) “weeping” and translated ἐν τῇ κοιλάδι τοῦ κλαυθμῶνος "valley of weeping” in Greek as opposed to “valley of Bakka”.) Hajj in the Bible Psalm 84 1 How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. 3 Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young— a place near your altar, Lord Almighty, my King and my God. 4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. 5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. 6 As they pass through the Valley of Baka… Root = ب ك ي = weep or cry [48:24] He is the One who withheld their hands of aggression against you, and withheld your hands of aggression against them in the valley of Mecca, after He had granted you victory over them. GOD is Seer of everything you do. Mother of Cities أُمَّ الْقُرَىٰ = umma l-qura = mother of the cities / mother of all cities [6:92] This too is a blessed scripture that we have revealed, confirming the previous scriptures, that you may warn the most important community* and all those around it. Those who believe in the Hereafter will believe in this (scripture), and will observe the Contact Prayers (Salat). [42:7] We thus reveal to you an Arabic Quran to warn the central community and all around it, and to warn about the Day of Summoning that is inevitable. Some will end up in Heaven, and some in Hell. Abraham literally means the father of multitude. Abraham from Hebrew אַבְרָהָם אַב (aḇ, “father of”) + הֲמוֹן (hăˈmōn, “multitude of”) Genesis 22:17 I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. This was his name despite having no children until he was into his 86 years old with Ishmael [22:27] "And proclaim that the people shall observe Hajj pilgrimage. They will come to you walking or riding on various exhausted (means of transportation). They will come from the farthest locations.” The humility of Mecca as God’s house is that it historically was stripped from any vanity. That over +10 million people converge to Mecca each year for Hajj. [12:21] The one who bought him in Egypt said to his wife, "Take good care of him. Maybe he can help us, or maybe we can adopt him." We thus established Joseph on earth, and we taught him the interpretation of dreams. GOD's command is always done, but most people do not know. مَكَّنَّا = we established م ك ن = to be strong, have power, hold high rank or authority, be i

Aug 30, 201923 min

Ep 123Dietary Prohibitions

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com [16:116] You shall not utter lies with your own tongues stating: "This is lawful, and this is unlawful," to fabricate lies and attribute them to GOD. Surely, those who fabricate lies and attribute them to GOD will never succeed. [2:172] O you who believe, eat from the good things we provided for you, and be thankful to GOD, if you do worship Him alone. [2:173] He only prohibits for you the eating of animals that die of themselves (without human interference), blood, the meat of pigs, and animals dedicated to other than GOD. If one is forced (to eat these), without being malicious or deliberate, he incurs no sin. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful. [16:115] He only prohibits for you dead animals, blood, the meat of pigs, and food which is dedicated to other than GOD. If one is forced (to eat these), without being deliberate or malicious, then GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful. [6:145] Say, "I do not find in the revelations (wahy) given to me any food that is prohibited for any eater except: carrion, running blood (مَسْفُوحًا (masfūḥan) = poured forth), the meat (وَلَحْمُ) of pigs, for it is contaminated, and the meat of animals blasphemously dedicated to other than GOD." If one is forced (to eat these), without being deliberate or malicious, then your Lord is Forgiver, Most Merciful. Carrion [5:3] Prohibited for you are animals that die of themselves, blood, the meat of pigs, and animals dedicated to other than GOD. (Animals that die of themselves include those) strangled, struck with an object, fallen from a height, gored, attacked by a wild animal—unless you save your animal before it dies ذَكَّيْتُمْ (dhakkaytum = you made fit for food / you slaughtered for food) —and animals sacrificed (ذُبِحَ) on altars. Also prohibited is dividing the meat through a game of chance; this is an abomination. Today, the disbelievers have given up concerning (the eradication of) your religion; do not fear them and fear Me instead. Today, I have completed your religion, perfected My blessing upon you, and I have decreed Submission as the religion for you. If one is forced by famine (to eat prohibited food), without being deliberately sinful, then GOD is Forgiver, Merciful. ذُبِحَ = dhubiḥa = sacrificed without the intention of it being food 2:49, 14:6, 28:4 - Children of Israel 27:21 - Solomon to the Hoopoe 37:102,107 - Abraham and Ishmael Meat vs. the Fat [6:146] For those who are Jewish we prohibited animals with undivided hoofs; and of the cattle and sheep we prohibited the fat, except that which is carried on their backs, or in the viscera, or mixed with bones. That was a retribution for their transgressions, and we are truthful. 4. Animals dedicated to other than God. Note it doesn’t say animals dedicated to “other than God” as opposed to “not to God” أُهِلَّ - Uhilla - that which is dedicated at the time of slaughter What if some food was dedicated to other than God can we eat it? [5:103] GOD did not prohibit (Bahirah) livestock that begets certain combinations of males and females, nor (Sa’ibah) livestock liberated by an oath, nor (Wasilah) the one that begets two males in a row, nor (Hami) the bull that fathers ten. It is the disbelievers who invented such lies about GOD. Most of them do not understand. Don’t give powers to the idol worshipers and their innovations The action is prohibited not the food itself Dividing the meat through a game of chance. [6:138] They said, "These are livestock and crops that are prohibited; no one shall eat them except whomever we permit," so they claimed. They also prohibited the riding of certain livestock. Even the livestock they ate, they never pronounced GOD's name upon them (as they sacrificed them). Such are innovations attributed to Him. He will surely requite them for their innovations. [22:36] The animal offerings are among the rites decreed by GOD for your own good. You shall mention (zikr) GOD's name on them while they are standing in line. Once they have fallen dead (are offered for sacrifice), you shall eat therefrom and feed the poor and the needy. This is why we subdued them for you, that you may show your appreciation. Altars of Idols & Intoxicants [5:90] O you who believe, intoxicants, and gambling, and the altars of idols, and the games of chance are abominations of the devil; you shall avoid them, that you may succeed. We must mention God’s name before we eat. [6:118] You shall eat from that upon which GOD's name has been pronounced (zikr), if you truly believe in His revelations. [6:119] Why should you not eat from that upon which GOD's name has been mentioned (zikr)? He has detailed for you what is prohibited for you, unless you are forced. Indeed, many people mislead others with their personal opinions, without knowledge. Your Lord is fully aware of the transgressors

Aug 23, 201922 min

Ep 122Anger Management

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Example of Adam and Eve [7:19] "As for you, Adam, dwell with your wife in Paradise, and eat therefrom as you please, but do not approach this one tree, lest you fall in sin." [7:20] The devil whispered to them, in order to reveal their bodies, which were invisible to them. He said, "Your Lord did not forbid you from this tree, except to prevent you from becoming angels, and from attaining eternal existence." [7:21] He swore to them, "I am giving you good advice.” [20:117] We then said, "O Adam, this is an enemy of you and your wife. Do not let him evict you from Paradise, lest you become miserable. [20:118] "You are guaranteed never to hunger therein, nor go unsheltered. [20:119] "Nor will you thirst therein, nor suffer from any heat." [20:120] But the devil whispered to him, saying, "O Adam, let me show you the tree of eternity and unending kingship." All Satan needs to do for us to sell our soul is to convince us to sin. Sin is anything that goes against what God tells us [2:41] You shall believe in what I have revealed herein, confirming what you have; do not be the first to reject it. Do not trade away My revelations for a cheap price, and observe Me. God commands us to submit (Muslim / Islam / Submitter / Submission) [26:198] If we revealed this to people who do not know Arabic. [26:199] And had him recite it (in Arabic), they could not possibly believe in it. There are two kinds of people in the world: submitters and objectors [13:15] To GOD prostrates everyone in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly, and so do their shadows in the mornings and the evenings. [3:134] who give to charity during the good times, as well as the bad times. They are suppressors of anger, and pardoners of the people. GOD loves the charitable. [43:37] They avoid gross sins and vice, and when angered they forgive. What does it mean to be a submitter? To believe that God is doing everything and being joyful about it :) That nothing happens that is outside of God’s control [10:61] You do not get into any situation, nor do you recite any Quran, nor do you do anything, without us being witnesses thereof as you do it. Not even an atom's weight is out of your Lord's control, be it in the heavens or the earth. Nor is there anything smaller than an atom, or larger, that is not recorded in a profound record. [56:57] We have created you, if you could only believe! [56:58] Have you noted the semen that you produce? [56:59] Did you create it, or did we? [56:60] We have predetermined death for you. Nothing can stop us— [56:61] from substituting new generations in your place, and establishing what you do not know. [56:62] You know about the first creation. Do you not remember? [56:63] Have you noted the crops you reap? [56:64] Did you grow them, or did we? [56:65] If we will, we can turn it into hay. Then you will lament: [56:66] "We lost. [56:67] "We are deprived." [56:68] Have you noted the water you drink? [56:69] Did you send it down from the clouds, or did we? [56:70] If we will, we can make it salty. You should be thankful. [56:71] Have you noted the fire you ignite? [56:72] Did you initiate its tree, or did we? [56:73] We rendered it a reminder, and a useful tool for the users. [56:74] You shall glorify the name of your Lord, the Great. Why do we get angry? Injustice There is only injustice for those who do not believe in the Hereafter [72:13] "'When we heard the guidance, we believed therein. Anyone who believes in his Lord will never fear any injustice, nor any affliction. [3:140] If you suffer hardship, the enemy also suffers the same hardship. We alternate the days of victory and defeat among the people. GOD thus distinguishes the true believers, and blesses some of you with martyrdom. GOD dislikes injustice. Impatience [17:11] The human being often prays for something that may hurt him, thinking that he is praying for something good. The human being is impatient. [17:12] We rendered the night and the day two signs. We made the night dark, and the day lighted, that you may seek provisions from your Lord therein. This also establishes for you a timing system, and the means of calculation. We thus explain everything in detail. Gravitational Constant : 6.67408 × 10^-11 m3 kg-1 s-2 (fine tune 1 part in 10^15) The rate at which the universe expands fine tuned to one 1 in 10^55 [34:36] Say, "My Lord is the One who controls all provisions; He grants the provisions to whomever He wills, or reduces them, but most people do not know.” [34:39] Say, "My Lord is the One who controls all provisions; He increases the provisions for whomever He chooses from among His servants, or reduces them. Anything you spend (in the cause of God), He will reward you for it; He is the Best Provider.” [42:27] If GOD increased the provision for

Aug 16, 201923 min

Ep 121Unity - International Community of Submitters Conference 2019

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com The one sin that God will not forgive if maintained until death [4:48] GOD does not forgive idolatry, but He forgives lesser offenses for whomever He wills. Anyone who sets up idols beside GOD, has forged a horrendous offense. [30:31] You shall submit to Him, reverence Him, observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and—whatever you do—do not ever fall into idol worship. [30:32] like those who divide their religion into sects; each party rejoicing with what they have. Some submitters want to divide but in an attempt to avoid being an idol worshiper they label individuals that they deem as hypocrites as “no longer being believers” [4:94] O you who believe, if you strike in the cause of GOD, you shall be absolutely sure. Do not say to one who offers you peace, "You are not a believer," seeking the spoils of this world. For GOD possesses infinite spoils. Remember that you used to be like them, and GOD blessed you. Therefore, you shall be absolutely sure (before you strike). GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do. [2:272] You are not responsible for guiding anyone. GOD is the only one who guides whoever chooses (to be guided). [28:56] You cannot guide the ones you love. GOD is the only One who guides in accordance with His will, and in accordance with His knowledge of those who deserve the guidance. How to Deal With the Hypocrites [4:88] Why should you divide yourselves into two groups regarding hypocrites (among you)? GOD is the one who condemned them because of their own behavior. Do you want to guide those who are sent astray by GOD? Whomever GOD sends astray, you can never find a way to guide them. [4:89] They wish that you disbelieve as they have disbelieved, then you become equal. Do not consider them friends, unless they mobilize along with you in the cause of GOD. If they turn against you, you shall fight them, and you may kill them when you encounter them in war. You shall not accept them as friends, or allies. "I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong." Frederick Douglass [6:52] And do not dismiss those who implore their Lord day and night, devoting themselves to Him alone. You are not responsible for their reckoning, nor are they responsible for your reckoning. If you dismiss them, you will be a transgressor. [10:99] Had your Lord willed, all the people on earth would have believed. Do you want to force the people to become believers? Disbelievers use force and intimidation while believers use logic and reason [20:71] He said, "Did you believe in him without my permission? He must be your chief; the one who taught you magic. [7:88] The arrogant leaders among his people said, "We will evict you, O Shu'aib, together with those who believed with you, from our town, unless you revert to our religion." He said, "Are you going to force us? [3:7] He sent down to you this scripture, containing straightforward verses—which constitute the essence of the scripture—as well as multiple-meaning or allegorical verses. Those who harbor doubts in their hearts will pursue the multiple-meaning verses to create confusion الْفِتْنَةِ [l-fit’nati] (division / disputes), and to extricate a certain meaning تَأْوِيلِهِ [tawī-lihi] ( interpretation / determination). None knows the true meaning thereof except GOD and those well founded in knowledge. They say, "We believe in this—all of it comes from our Lord." Only those who possess intelligence will take heed. Example of the Samarian [7:150] When Moses returned to his people, angry and disappointed, he said, "What a terrible thing you have done in my absence! Could you not wait for the commandments of your Lord?" He threw down the tablets, and took hold of his brother's head, pulling him towards himself. (Aaron) said, "Son of my mother, the people took advantage of my weakness, and almost killed me. Let not my enemies rejoice, and do not count me with the transgressing people." [20:92] (Moses) said, "O Aaron, what is it that prevented you, when you saw them go astray, [20:93] "from following my orders? Have you rebelled against me?" [20:94] He said, "O son of my mother, do not pull me by my beard and my head. I was afraid that you might say, 'You have divided the Children of Israel, and disobeyed my orders.’ " [20:95] He said, "What is the matter with you, O Samarian?" [20:96] He said, "I saw what they could not see. I grabbed a fistful (of dust) from the place where the messenger stood, and used it (to mix into the golden calf). This is what my mind inspired me to do." [20:97] He said, "Then go, and, throughout your life, do not even come close. You have an appointed time (for your final judgment) that you can never evade. Look at your god that you used to worship; we will burn it and throw it into the sea, to stay down there forever.” [7:155] Mos

Aug 9, 201926 min

Ep 120Human Potential & The Single Cause Fallacy

Subscribe to the podcast: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com [35:37] They will scream therein, "Our Lord, if you get us out of here, we will work righteousness, instead of the works we used to do." Did we not give you a life-long chance, with continuous reminders for those who would take heed? Did you not receive the warner? Therefore, taste (the consequences). The transgressors will have no one to help them. Straw that broke the camels back [3:155] Surely, those among you who turned back the day the two armies clashed have been duped by the devil. This reflects some of the (evil) works they had committed. GOD has pardoned them. GOD is Forgiver, Clement. Messenger deviate we would have stopped the revelation to him [12:24] She almost succumbed to him, and he almost succumbed to her, if it were not that he saw a proof from his Lord. We thus diverted evil and sin away from him, for he was one of our devoted servants. [17:73] They almost diverted you from the revelations we have given you. They wanted you to fabricate something else, in order to consider you a friend. [17:74] If it were not that we strengthened you, you almost leaned towards them just a little bit. [17:75] Had you done that, we would have doubled the retribution for you in this life, and after death, and you would have found no one to help you against us. Garment of righteousness to protect from sin [16:81] And GOD provided for you shade through things which He created, and provided for you shelters in the mountains, and provided for you garments that protect you from heat, and garments that protect when you fight in wars. He thus perfects His blessings upon you, that you may submit. [7:36] O children of Adam, we have provided you with garments to cover your bodies, as well as for luxury. But the best garment is the garment of righteousness. These are some of GOD's signs, that they may take heed. [7:196] (Say) “GOD is my only Lord and Master; the One who revealed this scripture. He protects the righteous. [3:173] When the people say to them, "People have mobilized against you; you should fear them," this only strengthens their faith and they say, "GOD suffices us; He is the best Protector." [3:174] They have deserved GOD's blessings and grace. No harm ever touches them, for they have attained GOD's approval. GOD possesses infinite grace. History of Joseph becoming the Treasurer of Egypt How did Joesph behave when these events took place in his life? Every day we have a choice do we want to draw closer to God or farther away Our outcomes are not about a single decision but a ripple effect of the millions of decisions we make throughout our life Can’t control the winds but we can adjust the sails Just like a no one drop makes an ocean or one grain of sand makes a beach no life is made from one single decision, but instead from a multitude of decisions we make throughout a life Colin O’Brady on December 26, 2018 he became the first person to cross Antartica alone without any assistance. 54 days 930 miles walking. Hiked 12 hours a day pulling ~400lbs on his sleds. Climbed ice bridges, pushed through climbing snow and had to endure temperatures as low as -80 degrees Fahrenheit. [13:11] Shifts (of angels) take turns, staying with each one of you—they are in front of you and behind you. They stay with you, and guard you in accordance with GOD's commands. Thus, GOD does not change the condition of any people unless they themselves make the decision to change. If GOD wills any hardship for any people, no force can stop it. For they have none beside Him as Lord and Master. When is the best time to plant a tree? [8:53] GOD does not change a blessing He has bestowed upon any people unless they themselves decide to change. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient. Example of Pharaoh [20:43] "Go to Pharaoh, for he transgressed. [20:44] "Speak to him nicely; he may take heed, or become reverent.” Pharaoh had the potential to be good, he chose to become arrogant [23:46] To Pharaoh and his elders, but they turned arrogant. They were oppressive people. [10:75] Then we sent after them Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh and his group, with our proofs. But they turned arrogant; and were transgressing people. [Jonah 10:90] We delivered the Children of Israel across the sea. Pharaoh and his troops pursued them, aggressively and sinfully. When drowning became a reality for him, he said, "I believe that there is no god except the One in whom the Children of Israel have believed; I am a submitter." [10:91] "Too late! آلآنَ For you have rebelled already, and chose to be a transgressor. [10:92] "Today, we will preserve نُنَجِّيكَ your body, to set you up as a lesson for future generations." Unfortunately, many people are totally oblivious to our signs. [4:81] Not acceptable is the repentance of those who commit sins until death comes to them, then say, "Now I

Aug 3, 201930 min

Ep 119Death of Jesus

Subscribe to the podcast: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com [3:54] They plotted and schemed, but so did GOD, and GOD is the best schemer. [3:55] Thus, GOD said, "O Jesus, I am terminating your life, raising you to Me, and ridding you of the disbelievers. I will exalt those who follow you above those who disbelieve, till the Day of Resurrection. Then to Me is the ultimate destiny of all of you, then I will judge among you regarding your disputes. [4:157] And for claiming that they killed the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, the messenger of GOD. In fact, they never killed him, they never crucified him—they were made to think that they did. All factions who are disputing in this matter are full of doubt concerning this issue. They possess no knowledge; they only conjecture. For certain, they never killed him. [4:158] Instead, GOD raised him to Him; GOD is Almighty, Most Wise. God controls life and death [3:156] O you who believe, do not be like those who disbelieved and said of their kinsmen who traveled or mobilized for war, "Had they stayed with us, they would not have died or gotten killed." GOD renders this a source of grief in their hearts. GOD controls life and death. GOD is Seer of everything you do. [2:258] Have you noted the one who argued with Abraham about his Lord, though GOD had given him kingship? Abraham said, "My Lord grants life and death." He said, "I grant life and death." Abraham said, "GOD brings the sun from the east, can you bring it from the west?" The disbeliever was stumped. GOD does not guide the wicked. [2:259] Consider the one who passed by a ghost town and wondered, "How can GOD revive this after it had died?" GOD then put him to death for a hundred years, then resurrected him. He said, "How long have you stayed here?" He said, "I have been here a day, or part of the day." He said, "No! You have been here a hundred years. Yet, look at your food and drink; they did not spoil. Look at your donkey—we thus render you a lesson for the people. Now, note how we construct the bones, then cover them with flesh." When he realized what had happened, he said, "Now I know that GOD is Omnipotent." Human beings can try to kill a body but unless God wills that person will not die [2:73] We said, "Strike (the victim) with part (of the heifer)." That is when GOD brought the victim back to life, and showed you His signs, that you may understand. Sleepers of the Cave [18:18] You would think that they were awake, when they were in fact asleep. We turned them to the right side and the left side, while their dog stretched his arms in their midst. Had you looked at them, you would have fled from them, stricken with terror. [18:25] They stayed in their cave three hundred years, increased by nine.* *The difference between 300 solar years and 300 lunar years is nine years. Sleep as death [6:60] He is the One who puts you to death during the night, and knows even the smallest of your actions during the day. He resurrects you every morning, until your life span is fulfilled, then to Him is your ultimate return. He will then inform you of everything you had done. The Real Death [6:61] He is Supreme over His creatures, and He appoints guards to protect you. When the appointed time of death comes to any of you, our messengers put him to death without delay. [6:62] Then everyone is returned to GOD, their rightful Lord and Master. Absolutely, He is the ultimate judge; He is the most accurate reckoner. Death of a Disbeliever [23:99] When death comes to one of them, he says, "My Lord, send me back. [23:100] "I will then work righteousness in everything I left." Not true. This is a false claim that he makes. A barrier will separate his soul from this world until resurrection. Everyone dies in the worldly sense [55:26] Everyone on earth perishes. [55:27] Only the presence of your Lord lasts. Possessor of Majesty and Honor. [3:144] Muhammad was no more than a messenger like the messengers before him. Should he die or get killed, would you turn back on your heels? Anyone who turns back on his heels, does not hurt GOD in the least. GOD rewards those who are appreciative. [39:30] You (Muhammad) will surely die, just like they will die. [34:14] When the appointed time for his death came, they had no clue that he had died. It was not until one of the animals tried to eat his staff, and he fell down, that the jinns realized that he was dead. They thus realized that if they really knew the unseen, they would have stopped working so hard as soon as he died. [2:133] Had you witnessed Jacob on his death bed; he said to his children, "What will you worship after I die?" They said, "We will worship your god; the god of your fathers Abraham, Ismail, and Isaac; the one god. To Him we are submitters.” Is the death off a believer and a disbeliever the same? [45:21] Do those who work evil expect that we

Jul 24, 201926 min

Ep 118Professor James Tour - From Molecules to Cells

Jul 6, 201957 min

Ep 117Sectarianism & Division

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com The one sin that God will not forgive if maintained until death [4:48] GOD does not forgive idolatry, but He forgives lesser offenses for whomever He wills. Anyone who sets up idols beside GOD, has forged a horrendous offense. Do not divide [30:31] You shall submit to Him, reverence Him, observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and—whatever you do—do not ever fall into idol worship. [30:32] like those who divide their religion into sects; each party rejoicing with what they have. [42:13] He decreed for you the same religion decreed for Noah, and what we inspired to you, and what we decreed for Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: "You shall uphold this one religion, and do not divide it." The idol worshipers will greatly resent what you invite them to do. GOD redeems to Himself whomever He wills; He guides to Himself only those who totally submit. Do Not Dismiss the Believers [6:52] And do not dismiss those who implore their Lord day and night, devoting themselves to Him alone. You are not responsible for their reckoning, nor are they responsible for your reckoning. If you dismiss them, you will be a transgressor. [4:94] O you who believe, if you strike in the cause of GOD, you shall be absolutely sure. Do not say to one who offers you peace, "You are not a believer," seeking the spoils of this world. For GOD possesses infinite spoils. Remember that you used to be like them, and GOD blessed you. Therefore, you shall be absolutely sure (before you strike). GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do. [60:9] GOD enjoins you only from befriending those who fight you because of religion, evict you from your homes, and band together with others to banish you. You shall not befriend them. Those who befriend them are the transgressors. [5:57] O you who believe, do not befriend those among the recipients of previous scripture who mock and ridicule your religion, nor shall you befriend the disbelievers. You shall reverence GOD, if you are really believers. The idol worshipers must be the ones to turn away - the believers try to stay together. We invite [16:125] You shall invite to the path of your Lord with wisdom and kind enlightenment, and debate with them in the best possible manner. Your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path, and He knows best who are the guided ones. [3:64] Say, "O followers of the scripture, let us come to a logical agreement between us and you: that we shall not worship except GOD; that we never set up any idols besides Him, nor set up any human beings as lords beside GOD." If they turn away, say, "Bear witness that we are submitters.” [3:23] Have you noted those who were given part of the scripture, and how they are invited to uphold this scripture of GOD, and apply it to their own lives, then some of them turn away in aversion? [2:136] Say, "We believe in GOD, and in what was sent down to us, and in what was sent down to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac, Jacob, and the Patriarchs; and in what was given to Moses and Jesus, and all the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction among any of them. To Him alone we are submitters." [2:137] If they believe as you do, then they are guided. But if they turn away, then they are in opposition. GOD will spare you their opposition; He is the Hearer, the Omniscient. [2:138] Such is GOD's system, and whose system is better than GOD's? "Him alone we worship.” [41:33] Who can utter better words than one who invites to GOD, works righteousness, and says, "I am one of the submitters"? [41:34] Not equal is the good response and the bad response. You shall resort to the nicest possible response. Thus, the one who used to be your enemy, may become your best friend. [41:35] None can attain this except those who steadfastly persevere. None can attain this except those who are extremely fortunate.[41:36] When the devil whispers an idea to you, you shall seek refuge in GOD. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient. Why so much fragmentation and infighting in communities If I don’t agree with someone on everything then I reject them completely Only God Can Guide [28:56] You cannot guide the ones you love. GOD is the only One who guides in accordance with His will, and in accordance with His knowledge of those who deserve the guidance. [5:105] O you who believe, you should worry only about your own necks. If the others go astray, they cannot hurt you, as long as you are guided. To GOD is your ultimate destiny, all of you, then He will inform you of everything you had done. [40:28] A believing man among Pharaoh's people, who was concealing his belief, said, "How can you kill a man just for saying, 'My Lord is GOD,' and he has shown you clear proofs from your Lord? If he is a liar, that is his problem, and if he is truthful, you benefit from his promises. Surely, GOD does not guide a

Jun 28, 201939 min

Ep 116Obey God and obey the messenger

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com “Obey God and obey the messenger” or some rendition of this occurs in some 25 instances in the Quran. Quran is the only legitimate Hadith [45:6] These are GOD's revelations that we recite to you truthfully. In which Hadith other than GOD and His revelations do they believe? [77:50] Which Hadith, other than this, do they uphold? [12:111] In their history, there is a lesson for those who possess intelligence. This is not fabricated Hadith; this (Quran) confirms all previous scriptures, provides the details of everything, and is a beacon and mercy for those who believe. Quran is the only source we have that is fully detailed - it is a complete book and contains examples of everything [6:114] Shall I seek other than GOD as a source of law, when He has revealed to you this book fully detailed? Those who received the scripture recognize that it has been revealed from your Lord, truthfully. You shall not harbor any doubt. [6:115] The word of your Lord is complete, in truth and justice. Nothing shall abrogate His words. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient. [18:54] We have cited in this Quran every kind of example, but the human being is the most argumentative creature. [39:27] We have cited for the people every kind of example in this Quran, that they may take heed. [17:89] We have cited for the people in this Quran all kinds of examples, but most people insist upon disbelieving. [30:58] Thus, we have cited for the people in this Quran all kinds of examples. Yet, no matter what kind of proof you present to the disbelievers, they say, "You are falsifiers." Before the Quran was complete Muhammad was their walking talking Quran. Messenger to not just the gentiles but also the Jews and the Christians If the command was strictly to follow only God the people of the previous scripture would not take that to follow the new revelations given to the prophet. [5:15] O people of the scripture, our messenger has come to you to proclaim for you many things you have concealed in the scripture, and to pardon many other transgressions you have committed. A beacon has come to you from GOD, and a profound scripture. Nowhere in the Quran do we hear obey Muhammad. [18:110] Say, (O Muhammed) "I am no more than a human being like you.... Muhammad the man was fallible [34:50] Say “If I go astray, I go astray because of my shortcomings, and if I am rightly guided it is due to the revelation I receive from my Lord.” Frowned [80:1] He (Muhammad) frowned and turned away. [80:2] When the blind man came to him. [80:3] How do you know? He may purify himself. [80:4] Or he may take heed, and benefit from the message. [80:5] As for the rich man. [80:6] You gave him your attention. [80:7] Even though you could not guarantee his salvation. [80:8] The one who came to you eagerly. [80:9] And is really reverent. [80:10] You ignored him. Prohibition [66:1] O you prophet, why do you prohibit what GOD has made lawful for you, just to please your wives? GOD is Forgiver, Merciful. Captives [8:67] No prophet shall acquire captives, unless he participates in the fighting. You people are seeking the materials of this world, while GOD advocates the Hereafter. GOD is Almighty, Most Wise. [8:68] If it were not for a predetermined decree from GOD, you would have suffered, on account of what you took, a terrible retribution. Stay Behind [9:42] If there were a quick material gain, and a short journey, they would have followed you. But the striving is just too much for them. They will swear by GOD: "If we could, we would have mobilized with you." They thus hurt themselves, and GOD knows that they are liars. [9:43] GOD has pardoned you: why did you give them permission (to stay behind), before you could distinguish those who are truthful from the liars? Even Muhammad was commanded to obey the messenger Zaid [33:36] No believing man or believing woman, if GOD and His messenger issue any command, has any choice regarding that command. Anyone who disobeys GOD and His messenger has gone far astray. [33:37] Recall that you said to the one who was blessed by GOD, and blessed by you, "Keep your wife and reverence GOD," and you hid inside yourself what GOD wished to proclaim. Thus, you feared the people, when you were supposed to fear only GOD. When Zeid was completely through with his wife, we had you marry her, in order to establish the precedent that a man can marry the divorced wife of his adopted son. GOD's commands shall be done. [33:38] The prophet is not committing an error by doing anything that is made lawful by GOD. Such is GOD's system since the early generations. GOD's command is a sacred duty. [33:39] Those who deliver GOD's messages, and who reverence Him alone, shall never fear anyone but GOD. GOD is the most efficient reckoner. The distinction between the man

Jun 21, 201918 min

Ep 115Instinct and Morality

Subscribe to the podcast and notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/ Quran translation on iOS:https://apple.co/2C1YGXj Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com Debating with an Atheist If you debate with an atheist one of the core arguments they try to make it to try to prove that God is not Most Gracious, Most Merciful, All Powerful or Most Just I think this is a really interesting indication that they even in their disbelief know that for God to exist he would have to be Most Gracious, Most Merciful, All Powerful or Most Just Rather than even entertaining that God may not be these things they know to their core that God would HAVE to possess these qualities? What does that tell you about human nature? Monotheism natural instinct [30:30] Therefore, you shall devote yourself to the religion of strict monotheism. Such is the natural instinct placed into the people by GOD. Such creation of GOD will never change. This is the perfect religion, but most people do not know. *30:30 Recognizing God ALONE as our Lord and Master is a natural instinct. We are born into this world with such an instinct. See 7:172-173 and Appendix 7. We know deep down instinctively who God is. [7:172] Recall that your Lord summoned all the descendants of Adam, and had them bear witness for themselves: "Am I not your Lord?" They all said, "Yes. We bear witness." Thus, you cannot say on the Day of Resurrection, "We were not aware of this." [7:173] Nor can you say, "It was our parents who practiced idolatry, and we simply followed in their footsteps. Will You punish us because of what others have innovated?" [7:174] We thus explain the revelations, to enable the people to redeem themselves. In order to know God, we need to be able to differentiate between good and evil [91:7] The soul and Him who created it. [91:8] Then placed innate knowledge what is evil and what is good. فَأَلْهَمَهَا = fa-al-ham-aha Root = ل ه م = laham = natural instinct, divine inspiration, innate knowledge Migration Short Story “The fact that our heart yearns for something Earth can't supply is proof that Heaven must be our home.” C.S. Lewis I have a desire for food because food exists I have a desire for sleep because sleep exists I have a desire for love because love exists I have a desire for forgiveness because forgiveness exists I have a desire for God because God exists Universal yearning Look at all cultures and people - Even claim that humans are hard wired to believe in God Why do people search for atonement when they do something wrong Feel bad for what they have done - do they do that to please God these are instinctive qualities When someone does not feel these things we call them arrogant or anti-social or a psychopath What is the definition of religion There is a debate in academic circles about what is the definition of religion. Recently BBC ran a series of articles about this topic. And I couldn’t help notice that their definition of religion vs. culture were completely interchangeable. In the Quran the Arabic word for religion is the same word as judgement Deen = religion يَوْمِ الدِّينِ. = Yawm edeen - Day of Judgment Therefore our religion is the metric by which we judge Universal Morality There is a debate among atheist and believers is there such thing in universal morality (objective morality) or is all morality purely subjective (non-universal) If someone does not believe in a universal law giver then there is no universal morality, and therefore what is moral is just a mere opinion and purely subjective. And if you follow this argument to its limits it means there may be conditions where torturing an innocent child could be a moral act. The only reason we can say that there is universal morality that under no conditions would such an act in our world ever be justified as moral is if we believe in a God who established the laws. [55:7] He constructed the sky and established the law. [55:8] You shall not transgress the law. [55:9] You shall establish justice; do not violate the law. The Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness….” unalienable: unable to be taken away from or given away by the possessor. If you believe what is legal means that it is moral then let’s look at what was considered legal in the past and ask yourself was this moral? Or the greek practice of pedophilia (aka pederasty) is perfectly moral because their culture at the time accepted it https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pederasty If you don’t stand for something you will fall for anything Hypocrites wants to change the definition of righteousness [11:12] You may wish to disregard some of that which is revealed to you, and you may be annoyed by it. [2:8] Then there are those who say, "We believe in GOD and the Last Day," while the

Jun 15, 201926 min

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Quran Talk

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