

Omar Suleiman
Muslim Central
Imam Omar Suleiman is the Founder and President of the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research and a professor of Islamic Studies at Southern Methodist University. He’s also the resident scholar of the Valley Ranch Islamic Center, and Co-Chair of Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square, a multi-faith alliance for peace and justice.
Originally from New Orleans, LA, he began his journey of traditional Islamic learning in the year 2000 and has spent years studying in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Malaysia, etc. Upon becoming certified in various traditional sciences, he completed a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic law, a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, a Master’s degree in Islamic Finance, a Master’s Degree in Political History, and is in the process of completing his PhD from the International Islamic University of Malaysia in Islamic Thought and Civilization.
His career started in his hometown of New Orleans where he served as the Imam of the Jefferson Muslim Association in New Orleans for 6 years and directed the ICNA Relief “Muslims for Humanity” Hurricane Katrina Relief effort. It was in this time that he was noted on a national level as being a strong advocate of community service, interfaith dialogue, and social justice. He co-founded the East Jefferson Interfaith Clergy Association and was awarded for his outstanding civic achievement by the Mayor and City Council of New Orleans in 2010.
He then moved to Dallas and became the Resident Scholar of the Valley Ranch Islamic Center in 2013 and more recently, Co-Chair of Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square. In Dallas, he has been a noted leader and voice for peace, and has partaken as a representative of the Muslim Community in many city functions. He has since been a guest at various national functions to share his experiences in community building.
Shaykh Omar most recently founded the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research which is a think tank that focuses on instilling conviction based on Islamic texts, and producing contribution. He also founded M.U.H.S.E.N (Muslims Understanding and Helping Special Education Needs), a nonprofit umbrella organization serving the community to establish a more inclusive “Special Friendly” environment for our Brothers & Sisters of all Disabilities.
Originally from New Orleans, LA, he began his journey of traditional Islamic learning in the year 2000 and has spent years studying in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Malaysia, etc. Upon becoming certified in various traditional sciences, he completed a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic law, a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, a Master’s degree in Islamic Finance, a Master’s Degree in Political History, and is in the process of completing his PhD from the International Islamic University of Malaysia in Islamic Thought and Civilization.
His career started in his hometown of New Orleans where he served as the Imam of the Jefferson Muslim Association in New Orleans for 6 years and directed the ICNA Relief “Muslims for Humanity” Hurricane Katrina Relief effort. It was in this time that he was noted on a national level as being a strong advocate of community service, interfaith dialogue, and social justice. He co-founded the East Jefferson Interfaith Clergy Association and was awarded for his outstanding civic achievement by the Mayor and City Council of New Orleans in 2010.
He then moved to Dallas and became the Resident Scholar of the Valley Ranch Islamic Center in 2013 and more recently, Co-Chair of Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square. In Dallas, he has been a noted leader and voice for peace, and has partaken as a representative of the Muslim Community in many city functions. He has since been a guest at various national functions to share his experiences in community building.
Shaykh Omar most recently founded the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research which is a think tank that focuses on instilling conviction based on Islamic texts, and producing contribution. He also founded M.U.H.S.E.N (Muslims Understanding and Helping Special Education Needs), a nonprofit umbrella organization serving the community to establish a more inclusive “Special Friendly” environment for our Brothers & Sisters of all Disabilities.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Oct 25, 2025 • 17min
Was It Really Worth It Re-Evaluating What We Fight Over
Exploring the chaos in Gaza and Sudan, insightful reflections reveal how greed distorts human crises into opportunities. A prophetic hadith warns of wealth’s worthlessness before Judgment Day, illustrating greed’s catastrophic effects on relationships and society. Listeners are challenged to assess the value of their arguments and material pursuits, advocating forgiveness over ego. Personal introspection on greed is emphasized, with a call to align values with spiritual priorities. The conversation culminates in a vision of paradise, urging actions that foster connection and gravitate towards true fulfillment.

Oct 25, 2025 • 13min
1 Scholar vs 1000 Worshippers - Why
Explore the compelling relationship between worship and knowledge as a scholar's impact outshines that of many worshippers. Discover how true Islamic virtue emphasizes learned knowledge over credentials. Learn about the ripple effect of teaching and guiding others, which can dramatically reduce negative influences in society. Delve into the importance of sharing wisdom online and offline to dispel misconceptions about Islam. Reflect on the sacrifices made by scholars and martyrs, bridging worship, knowledge, and community responsibility.

Oct 22, 2025 • 1h 8min
The Firsts - Al-Baraa Ibn Aazib - Ra With The Prophet In The Trenches
Explore the life of Al‑Bara ibn Azib, a crucial yet lesser-known companion of the Prophet. Discover his vibrant early encounters with Islam and his fascinating family background. Hear vivid descriptions of the Prophet’s appearance and character as Al‑Bara recounts their handshake and the etiquette lessons learned. Experience the thrill of history through Al‑Bara’s battles and his role in significant events like Khandaq and Hudaybiyyah. Witness his commitment to teaching and the profound spiritual insights he gathered throughout his life.

Oct 22, 2025 • 4min
WorldS Biggest Gaza Mural
Discover the rapid creation of a massive mural in support of Gaza, completed in just a weekend and gaining global visibility. Participants share the project's scale, highlighting about 250 murals and partnerships worldwide. Senegalese artists emphasize unity and solidarity through art. The emotional toll of civilian suffering is explored, questioning how art can address trauma. The need to engage with daily images of conflict and the power of Murals for Gaza to inspire action are passionately discussed.

24 snips
Oct 18, 2025 • 17min
Why The QurAn Says Little About DajjāL And The Future
Omar Suleiman delves into the paralyzing effect of anxiety about the future, particularly regarding current crises. He questions the absence of Dajjal in the Qur'an, suggesting this omission belittles his significance. The discussion emphasizes the Quran as guidance rather than a prophetic roadmap, urging a focus on building resilience and learning from historical lessons. Highlighting the Day of Judgment, he stresses the importance of moral reform and verification in an age of deception. Closing with prayers for the oppressed, he reinforces hope and unity founded on divine teachings.

Oct 15, 2025 • 32min
The Firsts - Umayr Ibn Sa’D - Ra The Young Man Who Exposed His Father
Discover the inspiring journey of Umair ibn Sa'd, a young man whose integrity shone through adversity. Hear how his orphanhood and strong faith shaped his dedication to truth. Witness the moral dilemma he faced when exposing his guardian, an act that led to an important revelation in the Quran. Learn about his military service and governance philosophy that emphasized justice and accountability. His legacy highlights the importance of sincerity over hypocrisy, leaving a lasting impact on history.

9 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 27min
When The War Ends For Gaza And For You
Omar Suleiman explores the intricate relationship between hardship and ease, especially in the context of Gaza. He discusses what it means to be a people tested and questions the implications of brief pauses in conflict. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their emotional responses to Gaza's brief relief, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and memory. He draws parallels between Quranic teachings and the Prophet's life, urging a communal remembrance of blessings amidst trials. The message concludes with prayers for Gaza and a call for justice.

Oct 8, 2025 • 58min
Zayd Ibn Al-Arqam - Ra Exposer Of Hypocrites The Firsts
Dive into the life of Zayd ibn Al-Arqam, an early Medinan Muslim and a prominent companion. Discover how he navigated the tricky waters of hypocrisy within his community, particularly his encounters with Abdullah ibn Ubayy. Zayd’s courageous decision to report slander against the Prophet led to divine vindication. Explore the battles he fought, his scholarly contributions, and his deep bond with the Prophet, even in his later years. Zayd’s journey is filled with lessons on faith, truth, and resilience.

8 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 9min
Oct 7 Inside Gaza 2 Years Of Genocide Gaza Diarie
A medic grapples with the pain of witnessing suffering while tied to a company involved in it. Discussions highlight the moral duty to empathize and act transcending religious identity. Physicians reflect on their humanitarian roles, emphasizing gratitude despite the challenges. Community resilience shines as worshippers hold prayers in tents among destruction. Observers underscore the dignity of patients and collective suffering during Ramadan. A call for peace and justice resonates as Palestinian Christians plead for equality amidst ongoing conflict.

Oct 7, 2025 • 13min
Car Accidents Drowning and Natural Deaths as Martyrs
Exploring the profound meaning of martyrdom, the discussion highlights three scholarly categories and their legal implications. Omar connects modern tragedies like car accidents to historical teachings on martyrdom. He reflects on deaths by fire, childbirth, and those defending their faith or family, emphasizing the inclusivity of these categories. Intention plays a crucial role in gaining martyr rewards, even for peaceful deaths. The conversation wraps with a heartfelt message of hope for the martyrs of Gaza, urging reliance on divine mercy.


