The Thinking Muslim
Muhammad Jalal
A platform for the elevation of thinking and a call to enlightened action.Linktreehttps://linktr.ee/thinkingmuslimpodcastSupport Our WorkBecome a member: Sustain the podcast with a monthly contribution and enjoy exclusive benefits - https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipMake a one‑time donation: Help us continue producing high‑quality content - https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/donateStay ConnectedNewsletter - Subscribe to host Muhammad Jalal’s reflections and show updates - https://jalalayn.substack.comMerchandise: Grab our signature Thinking Muslim mug - https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/merchFollow UsWebsite & archive: https://www.thinkingmuslim.comX (Twitter): https://x.com/thinking_muslimLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-thinking-muslim/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Thinking-Muslim-Podcast-105790781361490Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingmuslimpodcast/Telegram: https://t.me/thinkingmuslimConnect with the HostX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/jalalaynInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jalalayns/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 16, 2025 • 11min
Dr Tareq Al-Suwaidan – ‘I Believe Young People Will Change the World’
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Tareq Al-Suwaidan, a renowned Muslim author and historian, emphasizes the transformative power of youth in shaping society. He draws inspiration from the Prophet Muhammad’s encouragement of young leaders, illustrating this with examples like Usama ibn Zayd and Ali ibn Abi Talib. Dr. Al-Suwaidan explores the historical significance of young companions in early Islam and the critical role mentorship plays in developing ethical leaders. He urges listeners to recognize the potential of the younger generation to drive impactful change.
11 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 16min
Gaza is Shaking MAGA - Charlie Kirk to Marjorie Taylor Greene with James Bell
James Bell, a Texas-based Catholic campaigner and Trump supporter, shares fresh insights on the MAGA movement's evolving stance on Israel. He discusses how younger conservatives are questioning long-held U.S. commitments and critiques of foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East. Bell reflects on the broader implications of Gaza's significance in right-wing discourse and highlights how generational changes are reshaping political engagement. His perspective merges theological reflections with a call for compassion towards oppressed groups, showcasing a profound shift in American political dynamics.
Sep 10, 2025 • 13min
The Scholars That Have Become Mouthpieces for the UAE with Dr Farah El-Sharif
Dr. Farah El-Sharif, a scholar specializing in Islamic tradition and ethics, discusses the alarming trend of scholars aligning with oppressive regimes, particularly the UAE. She emphasizes how this complicity undermines the integrity of the Islamic tradition, especially in times of crisis like the violence in Gaza. Dr. El-Sharif calls for accountability among religious figures, urging them to prioritize justice over proximity to power. Her insights challenge listeners to reflect on the moral responsibilities of scholars in today's world.
40 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 18min
Gaza: Are US Muslims Doing Enough? | Dr. Omar Suleiman
In an insightful conversation, Imam Omar Suleiman, a prominent scholar and advocate, discusses the moral responsibilities of American Muslims regarding the Gaza crisis. He explores the reluctance of the community to engage in activism and highlights the importance of personal and collective action. The discussion delves into the ethical implications of the U.S. role, emphasizing the need for unity among Muslims and the significance of supporting prisoners. Suleiman calls for empathy, solidarity, and building alliances with non-Muslim communities to address global injustices.
Sep 4, 2025 • 38min
Sumud: A Global Resilience for Gaza | Muhammad Nadir Al Nuri and Ashraf Khoja
Muhammad Nadir Al Nuri, an organizer of the Global Sumud Flotilla, and Ashraf Khoja from its Logistics Committee share their inspiring mission to break the siege on Gaza. They discuss the flotilla's formation, featuring over 80 ships and 1,000 participants from across the globe, emphasizing solidarity and collective action. The conversation reveals the challenges faced, including bureaucratic obstacles, and highlights the resilience of the people in Gaza, focusing on the concept of 'sumud'—patience and determination in the face of adversity.
8 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 1h 20min
Can Money Buy Happiness? Advice from an Islamic Finance Insider | Umer Suleman
Umer Suleman, Chief Risk Officer at Wahed, dives deep into the bond between money and happiness from an Islamic perspective. He reveals how true fulfillment comes from contentment rather than wealth alone. The conversation sheds light on the ethics of Islamic finance versus traditional banking, emphasizing the harm of interest and the importance of community well-being. Umer discusses strategic philanthropy, urging the Muslim community to focus on meaningful giving and the ethical implications of wealth, all while navigating the complexities of modern capitalism.
16 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 1h 29min
The Medina Model: Islam’s Blueprint for Muslims in the West | Dr. Sohail Hanif
Dr. Sohail Hanif, CEO of the National Zakat Foundation and lecturer at Cambridge Muslim College, discusses how Muslims in the West can build resilient communities inspired by the Medinan model established by Prophet Muhammad. He emphasizes the importance of collective institutions, ethical leadership, and inclusivity, especially in women's roles. The conversation also explores zakat's historical significance and its modern implications, advocating for meritocracy and collaboration to foster a cohesive Muslim identity that actively engages with societal challenges.
28 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 18min
Reform or Revolution: The Future of Islam & Politics | Dr Uthman Badar
Dr. Uthman Badar, a lecturer at Western Sydney University, dives into the tension between reform and revolution in Islam. He discusses how to balance quick reforms with long-term ideals, using the revolutionary life of Prophet Muhammad as a guide. Historical examples from Turkey and Syria illustrate the challenges of reformism versus ideological purity. Badar calls for strategic compromise in political actions while navigating the complexities of Islamic governance in a secular world, emphasizing moral dilemmas faced by the Muslim community today.
21 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 1h
Centuries Ahead: Islam’s Mental Health Revolution with Dr Rania Awaad
Dr. Rania Awaad, a Clinical Professor at Stanford and co-founder of Maristan, brings a unique insight into mental health that intertwines Islamic traditions with modern psychiatry. She discusses how life’s challenges can be better navigated through a holistic approach that incorporates spirituality, emphasizing the importance of faith in therapeutic practices. Dr. Awaad critiques contemporary mental health methods, examining the impacts of capitalism on wellness. She advocates for revitalizing historical healing models to support mental and spiritual resilience in today's world.
17 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 51min
Gaza: How The Mainstream Media Laundered the Truth | Hamza Yusuf
Hamza Yusuf, an independent investigative journalist, delves into the shifting narratives surrounding the Gaza genocide. He discusses the erosion of trust in traditional media and the growing power of social media in amplifying Palestinian voices. Yusuf critiques how legacy outlets have historically framed the conflict, often sanitizing Israeli actions, and underscores the urgent need for accountability in journalism. He emphasizes the significance of grassroots activism and public protests in reshaping perceptions and pushing for justice.
