Imam Tom Weekly, a Yaqeen podcast
Yaqeen Institute
An Islamic podcast that breaks down the ideologies that are challenging Islam today, and works to re-center an authentic Islamic worldview.How do you know that what you believe is Islamically sound? Every belief and opinion is rooted in one particular worldview or another. Sometimes these worldviews are so ingrained in our society that they are difficult to detect, let alone challenge.Islam has better ways than other worldviews to address the issues currently facing us, from theological issues such as the ways we imagine God, to social issues such as sexuality and gender identity, to political issues and everything in between.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 23, 2025 • 17min
Why Some Scholars Critique Resistance | Focal Point with Imam Tom Facchine
Imam Tom explores why some scholars prioritize order over justice, revealing how Western philosophy has shaped this tendency. He discusses the concept of perennialism, critiquing its preference for personal piety over activism. The podcast highlights the consequences of romanticizing hierarchy, contrasting aesthetic traditions with the messy struggle for justice. Additionally, it delves into how these views can depoliticize issues like Palestine and serve state interests. Ultimately, Imam Tom calls for a return to integrity and the Islamic obligation for solidarity.
10 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 21min
The Real Story of Christopher Columbus | Focal Point with Imam Tom Facchine
Delve into the controversial legacy of Christopher Columbus, unraveling the darker truths of his actions documented in his own writings. Explore how his genocidal policies led to widespread violence and societal collapse. Discover the complexities of his celebration in America, especially relating to Italian-American identity and anti-immigrant sentiment. Imam Tom encourages a reassessment of symbols, urging listeners to prioritize truth over tribal loyalty, and highlights the importance of adapting to moral accountability.
16 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 17min
The Hidden Bias in Every History Book | Focal Point with Imam Tom Facchine
Imam Tom Facchine dives deep into the Historical Critical Method, revealing its biases and origins rooted in 19th-century thought. He challenges the notion of historical objectivity, arguing that it sidelines the divine and unseen elements crucial to understanding history. The contrast between ancient beliefs and Enlightenment theories is explored, highlighting how modern historiography often reduces humanity to mere materialism. Facchine urges listeners to critically engage with how sacred histories are displaced by dominant narratives and to embrace a more holistic view of truth.
Sep 23, 2025 • 10min
Representation Isn’t Working. Here’s Why. | Focal Point with Imam Tom Facchine
Explore the complexities of Muslim representation in today’s media and politics. Imam Tom challenges the idea that visibility is always beneficial, discussing how it can perpetuate tokenism and harmful stereotypes. He questions the value of representation in roles that don’t align with community values. Historical examples illustrate how co-optation undermines genuine empowerment. The emphasis shifts to the importance of principled leadership and building strong, independent institutions over mere symbolic victories.
Sep 16, 2025 • 24min
Israel’s Link to U.S. Anti-Terror Policy | Focal Point with Imam Tom Facchine
U.S. anti-terror laws date back to the 1960s. Why were they created? And who do they really protect—American citizens or Israeli interests? Imam Tom Facchine unpacks the biases in U.S. anti-terror policy and how the definition of terrorism is manipulated and weaponized against Muslims globally.
17 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 30min
How Colonialism Hijacked the Muslim World | Focal Point with Imam Tom Facchine
European colonialism profoundly altered the Muslim world, reshaping borders and dismantling Islamic institutions. The discussion highlights how colonial tactics exploited local systems and religious minorities, complicating perceptions of Islam. It examines the manipulation of Islamic law by colonial powers and the long-term impacts on contemporary societies. The need for self-sustaining community structures, moving away from dependence on government, is also emphasized, calling for collective investment in Islamic knowledge and resilience.
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 5min
How Islam Completed what Christianity Began | Imam Tom Facchine and Paul Williams
Imam Tom Facchine sits down with Paul Williams from Blogging Theology for a conversation on truth, God, Christianity, liberalism, identity, and how Islam reframes it all.
Jun 17, 2025 • 37min
The Multi-Million Dollar War on Islam | Focal Point with Imam Tom Facchine
Dive into the intricate web of Islamophobia, where financial motives and political agendas drive fear. Discover how misinformation is strategically weaponized by self-proclaimed experts and organizations. The discussion unravels the myth of anti-Islam narratives, spotlighting key players profiting from division. Insightful strategies emerge for the Muslim community to confront rising hostility, emphasizing the need for genuine engagement and dismantling harmful stereotypes. It's a deep look at the orchestrated efforts to shape perceptions around Islam.
Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 21min
Musk's Take, Columbia's Skunk Surprise, Islamic Unity, and India's Ram Revelation | Imam Tom Live
Rawda Fawaz, an attorney from Cair/Columbia University, brings sharp insights into the challenges pro-Palestinian activists face on campus, including controversial incidents involving former Israeli soldiers. The conversation delves into Elon Musk's views on Gaza, raising ethical concerns about public figures' stances. Fawaz also highlights the complexities of Islamic unity amidst oppression and addresses the troubling Islamophobic incidents linked to the Ram Temple in India. Together, these discussions illuminate the intersection of activism, faith, and identity.
Jan 17, 2024 • 1h
Michigan Mosques Say NO! Also, the DC Protest, ICJ, and Pre-Fajr Habits | Imam Tom Live
Join Imam Tom Live this week as we discuss what happened over the past seven days. From Joe Biden having trouble visiting Michigan because no Masjids in the state were willing to host him, to the incredible turnout in DC protesting the Gaza Genocide, there is a lot to cover. Plus, the ICJ hearings, habits that you can add to your pre-Fajr routine, and we continue to read the book "The Myth of Religious Violence." Make sure to ask your questions in the chat to participate live!
