The Firsts
Yaqeen Institute
The Firsts: The Forerunners of Islam is the series that visits trailblazers of the ummah. Those that rise to the occasion, and inspire a generation. Host Sh. Dr. Omar Suleiman dives into the stories of the giants who were the first of their kind in this world, and distinguished in the next. Listen in to revive the personalities buried in history.Let’s meet the Firsts. This series is brought to you by Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research. We aim to make academic and Islamically-credible scholarship mainstream through accessible resources such as infographics, animations, podcasts, learning materials, and more. Visit www.yaqeeninstitute.org or download the Yaqeen app from the app store to continue dismantling doubts, nurturing conviction, and inspiring contribution, one truth at a time.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 8min
Al-Baraa ibn Aazib (ra): He Described the Grave in Detail
Experience the vivid memories of Al-Baraa ibn Aazib, who met the Prophet at just ten years old. He shares breathtaking descriptions of the Prophet's radiance, his teachings on compassion, and the impactful battles they fought together. Discover miraculous events like the overflowing well at Hudaybiyyah and Al-Baraa's steadfastness during ambushes. Delve into the profound hadith about the soul’s journey after death, showcasing Al-Baraa's legacy of courage, devotion, and his role in teaching prophetic practices.
Nov 27, 2025 • 32min
Umayr ibn Sa’d (ra): First in Salah and Battle
He was just a boy — yet Allah revealed a verse of the Qur’an verse to defend him. This is the story of Umayr ibn Sa‘d (ra), who chose truth over family when his guardian uttered words of disbelief. Surah al-Tawbah (9:74) confirmed his honesty: “They swear by Allah they did not say it… but they did say a word of disbelief.” Praised by Umar (ra) as “one of a kind”, Umayr (ra) grew into a man of justice, humility, and integrity, reminding the Muslims that the wall of Islam is justice and its gate is truth.
Nov 25, 2025 • 58min
Zayd ibn Al-Arqam (ra): Exposer of Hypocrites
Zayd ibn al-Arqam (ra) — the companion whose truth was confirmed by revelation. Raised by the poet-warrior Abdullah ibn Rawaha (ra), he grew up among the earliest Ansar, too young to fight at Badr and Uhud but chosen to guard Madinah.His courage exposed the hypocrisy of Abdullah ibn Ubayy ibn Salul — a moment so powerful that Surah al-Munafiqun was revealed to confirm his words. From patience through blindness to the miracle of his sight restored, Zayd’s life embodies sincerity, steadfastness, and divine honor.He went on to narrate many core hadiths about prayer, du‘a, and purity — teachings we practice every day.
8 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 17min
Fatima bint Qays (ra): She Preserved Hadiths About Dajjal and Divorce
Explore the fascinating life of Fatima bint Qays, a woman of beauty and intellect who played a pivotal role in Islamic history. Hear about her significant narrations on Dajjal and her experiences during her divorce, highlighting social challenges for refugee women. Discover her marriage to Usama ibn Zayd, and how it elevated her status among the elite. Her home hosted crucial discussions about leadership in the ummah, showcasing her influence in shaping legal principles and traditions. Fatima's legacy continues to resonate in the community.
10 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 1h 22min
Usama ibn Zayd (ra): The Prophet ﷺ’s Chosen Grandson
Discover the fascinating story of Usama ibn Zayd, the Prophet's chosen grandson, who was enveloped in love and shaped by unique familial ties. Explore why his name stirred controversy and how he rose through adversity. Learn about his pivotal role in major military campaigns and his defense of Aisha’s honor. With tales of personal encounters and prophetic affection, uncover the legacy of a man who successfully navigated challenges, commanded armies, and upheld justice in times of social upheaval.
16 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 26min
Abdullah ibn Amr (ra): The One Who Preserved The Sunnah
Explore the remarkable journey of Abdullah ibn Amr, a late convert to Islam who tirelessly pursued knowledge, eventually gaining permission to record the Prophet's teachings. Discover his extensive writings that contributed to hadith transmission and how he balanced scholarly pursuits with practical life. Learn about his moderate approach to worship, his acts of generosity, and his insights during civil strife. This inspiring narrative highlights Abdullah's unwavering commitment to preserving the Sunnah and his significant role in Islamic history.
11 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 7min
Urwa ibn az-Zubayr (ra): The First Muslim Historian
Urwa ibn az-Zubayr’s journey illustrates the power of knowledge over political ambition. Amidst political turmoil, he chose to pursue scholarship, becoming a leading historian in Madinah. His close relationship with Aisha provided him unique insights into the Prophet’s life. Despite personal loss and trial, including a leg amputation during prayer, Urwa remained devoted to learning and charity. His commitment to recording the seerah left a lasting legacy, influencing future scholars and emphasizing the value of faith and patience in a tumultuous world.
10 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 1h 27min
Abdullah ibn az-Zubayr (ra): The Defender of Mecca
Explore the impactful life of Abdullah ibn az-Zubayr, born into a remarkable family during early Islamic history. Discover his bravery, strength, and devotion, highlighted through touching anecdotes and his dedication to worship. Delve into his role in protecting Uthman and standing against the tyrannical authority of Yazid. The podcast also emphasizes the themes of sacrifice and faith during the brutal siege of Mecca, wrapping up with a poignant prayer for resilience and unity, echoing the struggles of those in Gaza.
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 37min
Abdullah ibn Umar (ra): The Prophet’s ﷺ Shadow
He walked exactly where the Prophet ﷺ walked. Abdullah ibn Umar (ra) lived a life of unmatched devotion, preserving every detail of the Sunnah, refusing positions of power, and embodying humility, generosity, and principle. Discover the story of the last major Companion in Mecca and the man whose love for the Prophet ﷺ shaped every step he took.
9 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 19min
Qutham ibn Abbas (ra): The Prophet’s ﷺ Lookalike
Discover the fascinating life of Qutham ibn Abbas, known for his striking resemblance to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Explore the deep familial ties within early Islam and hear anecdotes that shed light on their connections. Learn about Qutham's crucial role in carrying Islam to places like Samarqand and how he shaped Islamic history. This conversation reveals not just a man who looked like a prophet, but a pivotal figure whose legacy continues to resonate.
