The Thinking Muslim

Donate to our charity partner Baitulmaal here:http://btml.us/thinkingmuslim - Please do remember that charity never reduces our rizq and gives Barakah to our wealth. Help us expand our Muslim media project here: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipThe Australian government has announced a general election, including elections to its lower house. Its Labour government has grown tired in office and, particularly important for Muslims, has colluded to enable a genocide in Gaza. In both the UK and America, Muslim and conscientious voices worked together to hold the government to account for what has been the worst crime in decades. Will Australia’s Muslim community build upon its newfound resilience and unity and work with allies to punish those responsible for Gaza at the ballot box. Today, we have a very special guest. Senator Fatima Payman is a Senator in the Australian upper house for Western Australia. In June 2024, she was the first in her party since 1988 to cross the floor over a vote on Palestine’s statehood. By July, she resigned over the government’s policy on genocide—having been suspended by PM Anthony Albanese. Although Fatima is not up for re-election this time, these coming elections may be another extremely important test for Muslims in the West and their commitment to their ummah and justice.We all know how difficult it has been for food and essential supplies to reach the beleaguered people of Gaza. This, Insha'Allah, is changing. We have partnered with a charity, Baitulmaal, because now, more than ever, there is a need not only in Gaza but also in Turkish controlled Northern Syria and in all the places we routinely talk about in this program where our ummah is subject to abject poverty. We have chosen this charity because Baitulmaal is a non-profit with people on the ground who organize well-thought-out projects and serve the most needy.You can also support The Thinking Muslim through a one-time donation: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/DonateListen to the audio version of the podcast:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vXiAjVFnhNI3T9Gkw636aApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-thinking-muslim/id1471798762Sign up to Muhammad Jalal's newsletter: https://jalalayn.substack.comPurchase our Thinking Muslim mug: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/merchFind us on:Twitter: https://twitter.com/thinking_muslimFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Thinking-Muslim-Podcast-105790781361490Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingmuslimpodcast/Telegram: https://t.me/thinkingmuslimBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thinkingmuslim.bsky.socialHost: https://twitter.com/jalalaynHost IG: https://www.instagram.com/jalalayns/Website Archive: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Kamal Abu Zahra, a lecturer in Islamic studies and contemporary fiqh expert, joins to discuss the emotional and spiritual struggles faced by believers, especially in light of the Palestinian crisis. He explores the concept of divine assistance, contrasting it with human efforts, and how faith can flourish even in despair. The conversation highlights the importance of patience, the conditions for receiving Allah's help, and the need for the Ummah to engage actively in social justice. It emphasizes that trials can lead to spiritual growth and resilience.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Avi Shlaim, an eminent Jewish historian and author of 'Genocide in Gaza', delves into the intricate history of Zionism and its colonial roots. He examines Britain and America’s complicity in the Israeli state’s violent actions against Palestinians, sparking a reevaluation of Western policies. Shlaim highlights key historical events, critiques the Oslo Accords' failures, and emphasizes the need for alternative media to combat injustice. His deep insights challenge listeners to rethink the narrative surrounding the ongoing conflict.

In this compelling conversation, journalist Abubaker Abed, who hails from Gaza, shares his heart-wrenching letter addressing the suffering of his people. He calls on the Muslim community to recognize their responsibility during Eid celebrations, urging solidarity rather than mere charity. The discussion vividly contrasts the joy of Eid with the backdrop of devastation in Gaza, prompting listeners to reflect on the deeper implications of their actions. Abed's powerful messages challenge audiences to advocate for accountability and support in meaningful ways.

Dr. Khalid El-Awaisi, an Associate Professor of Islamic History and expert in Islamic Jerusalem Studies, discusses the importance of re-centering Bait ul Maqdis in Muslim spirituality. He emphasizes the need for a shift from individualism during Ramadan to collective responsibility for community justice. The conversation explores the interplay between personal worship and activism, urging listeners to engage with global issues, especially regarding Gaza and Al-Aqsa. Dr. El-Awaisi advocates for unity within the Ummah and encourages reflection on our roles as agents of change.

Dive into the essence of Ramadan, where spirituality intertwines with activism, inspiring modern Muslims to advocate for justice. Explore the rich tapestry of Muslim identity, shaped by diverse interpretations and cultural influences. The discussion tackles misconceptions about Islam, shedding light on its core values and principles. Gain insights into the complexities of being a Muslim today, balancing cultural, spiritual, and social dimensions while embracing one's identity.

The discussion highlights the alarming state of leadership in the Muslim world, depicting many rulers as complicit in ongoing injustices. It emphasizes the need for collective action to awaken communities from complacency. Historical references are made to galvanize a sense of responsibility and challenge the status quo. The dialogue calls for a revitalization within the Muslim community to confront current crises, particularly the Palestinian struggle, and urges listeners to engage critically with systemic issues.

This Ramadan, support an alternative Muslim media platform rooted in faith, thought, and enlightened activism. Your donation is an investment in Sadaqah Jariyah, bringing you rewards that will last long after this life. Become a monthly member today and be part of The Thinking Muslim’s sacred mission. Become a member here:https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipOr give your one-off donation: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/donateThere has been what can only be described as an intense disinformation campaign in recent days regarding Syria. If we were to believe it, there exists an unholy alliance of the American right, Assadists, Iranian propagandists, and Russian trolls who argue the new Syrian government is intent on eradicating minorities in the western coastal cities and towns of Syria. Much of this has been driven by naked propaganda to undermine the new liberated Syria. However, is there any truth in the claims that civilians have been caught up and perhaps even targeted in reprisals as forces attempt to deal with a pro-Assad insurgency? And how should we understand the demands of Israel, which has suddenly become the protectors of the Druze in the south? Are we poised to see sectarianism used as an excuse to destabilise the new Syria?To assist us in untangling fact from fiction, we have Hussam Ayloush on the show. He is the CEO of the California chapter Cair (Council on American Islamic Relations) and hails from Damascus, Syria. You can find Hussam Ayloush here:X: https://x.com/HussamAAlso, for the past 16 months, we all know how difficult it has been for food and essential supplies to reach the beleaguered people of Gaza. This, Insha'Allah, is changing. We have partnered with a charity, Baitulmaal, because now, more than ever, there is a need not only in Gaza but also in Turkish controlled Northern Syria and in all the places we routinely talk about in this program where our ummah is subject to abject poverty. We have chosen this charity because Baitulmaal is a non-profit with people on the ground who organize well-thought-out projects and serve the most needy.To donate to their Critical Aid campaign, please visit the link on our screen now and in the description. To donate to Baitulmaal's Critical Aid campaign, please visit: http://btml.us/thinkingmuslim - Please do remember that charity never reduces our risk and gives Barakah to our wealth. Let me remind all viewers that to help us continue to engage critical thought at this time, Please consider becoming a Member: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipYou can also support The Thinking Muslim through a one-time donation: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/DonateListen to the audio version of the podcast:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vXiAjVFnhNI3T9Gkw636aApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-thinking-muslim/id1471798762Sign up to Muhammad Jalal's newsletter: https://jalalayn.substack.comPurchase our Thinking Muslim mug: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/merchFind us on:Squarespace Membership: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipTwitter: https://twitter.com/thinking_muslimFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Thinking-Muslim-Podcast-105790781361490Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingmuslimpodcast/Telegram: https://t.me/thinkingmuslimBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thinkingmuslim.bsky.socialHost: https://twitter.com/jalalaynHost IG: https://www.instagram.com/jalalayns/Website Archive: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur, President of the World Kashmir Freedom Movement, passionately discusses the forgotten plight of Kashmir. He highlights the historical roots of the conflict stemming from colonial legacies and emphasizes the resilience of Kashmiris amidst ongoing oppression. Thakur draws parallels between Kashmir and other global struggles, urging solidarity from the Muslim community. He calls for awareness, action to support vulnerable orphans, and the importance of alternative Muslim media in reshaping narratives around this overlooked struggle.

In this intriguing conversation, Professor SherAli Tareen, a religious studies expert and author, unpacks the tumultuous political landscape of Pakistan. He discusses the implications of Imran Khan's imprisonment and the military's tightening grip on power. Tareen sheds light on the brain drain affecting the country and the plight of its youth. The episode delves into the delicate balance of power, the potential for societal change, and the role of alternative media in fostering political activism within the Muslim community.