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
6 snips
Sep 27, 2020 • 36min
Zaynab Bint Muhammad (saw): The First Daughter (ra)
Explore the life of Zaynab bint Muhammad, the beloved daughter of the Prophet. Discover her trials navigating familial duty and personal love. Her challenging marriage, marked by uncertainty, shaped her resilient spirit. Delve into the poignant story of her tragic reunion with her husband and the impact of her legacy.
8 snips
Sep 16, 2020 • 48min
Lubaba Bint Al-Harith: The First Woman After Khadijah (ra)
Discover the life of Lubaba bint al-Harith, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in early Islamic history. Her familial ties and personal sacrifices shaped the trajectory of the Muslim community. Learn about her courageous embrace of Islam following Khadijah and her influential legacy through her son, Abdullah ibn Abbas. Delve into her role during significant events like the battle of Badr and the emotional hurdles she faced, all while protecting her loved ones and standing firm in her faith.
Sep 10, 2020 • 22min
Al-Arqam Ibn Abil Arqam: The House of Islam
Discover the pivotal role of a young man from a powerful tribe who transformed his home into a sanctuary for early Muslims. Uncover the stories of Ammar and Suhaib, whose visits to this secret gathering sparked their journeys into Islam. The podcast reveals how this often-overlooked figure laid the foundation for one of the world's greatest movements, showcasing his influence and the importance of community in the formation of early Islamic beliefs.
8 snips
Sep 3, 2020 • 44min
Suhaib Al Rumi (ra): From Persia, to Rome, to Paradise
Dive into the captivating life of Suhaib al Rumi, who transformed from a wealthy trader into a devoted believer. Discover his extraordinary journey from kidnapping to conversion and his deep bond with Prophet Muhammad. Explore themes of sacrifice and resilience among early Muslims, alongside the profound rewards of faith, culminating in the promise of Paradise. Reflect on powerful stories of perseverance and the ultimate joy of witnessing Allah, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of early Islamic history.
9 snips
Aug 26, 2020 • 59min
Bilal Ibn Rabah (ra): The Voice of Certainty
Whether he was under a stone in the hot desert, or on top of the Kaaba, no man called out more truthfully “One God” and ascended in rank like Bilal.Sign up here to get notes sent straight to your inbox.
Aug 19, 2020 • 44min
Khabbab Ibn Al Aratt (ra) - Under Burning Hot Coals
Discover the remarkable life of Khabbab Ibn Al Aratt, the first to publicly embrace Islam despite facing brutal torture. Listen as his inspiring journey of resilience and strength unfolds, highlighting the struggles of early Muslims. Delve into his background as a skilled swordsmith and witness the courage that defined his fight for faith. This narrative brings to light a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in Islamic history, inspiring listeners to reflect on the power of belief in the face of adversity.
Aug 12, 2020 • 39min
Sumayyah (ra): The First Martyr
Explore the inspiring journey of Sumayyah bint al-Khayyat, the first martyr in Islam, who demonstrated unwavering faith in the face of brutal persecution. Discover her incredible legacy and the resilient spirit she embodied during the early struggles of Muslims in Mecca. Her story highlights the themes of sacrifice and justice, reminding listeners of the power of belief and the courage to stand up against oppression. Unearth the profound impact of her sacrifices on the early Islamic community.
Aug 6, 2020 • 50min
Zayd Ibn Al Haritha (ra): Loved and Liberated
Discover the incredible journey of Zayd Ibn Haritha, a key companion of the Prophet Muhammad, and the essence of love intertwined in their relationship. Explore Zayd's tragic beginnings, from being kidnapped to becoming the first freed slave to embrace Islam. His story showcases the emotional strength and sacrifice found in deep bonds. Reflect on how love, as portrayed through Zayd's life, embodies a powerful form of worship that leaves a lasting legacy in early Islamic society.
Aug 4, 2020 • 1h 1min
Abu Bakr (ra) - Part 3: There Will Never Be Another One
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was keen to remember and honor “the firsts” for their support, suffering, and sincerity. Abu Bakr’s (ra) honor surpassed everyone’s, including that of Umar ibn al Khattab (ra). He surpassed everyone by a distance that no one could ever catch up to. His status is sanctified as the first after the prophets. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said the sun has never risen or set on anyone, after the prophets, that is better than Abu Bakr, and that he will be the first to enter Paradise in his nation.Sign up here to get notes sent straight to your inbox.This episode was first recorded on Feb. 28, 2020 and is being re-released in audio format.
13 snips
Jul 30, 2020 • 60min
Abu Bakr (ra) - Part 2: Setting His Own Standards
Abu Bakr’s (ra) character is best described by the words of Ali (ra), “he is the first to every good”. Abu Bakr (ra) was the ultimate trendsetter, the fastest to do the good deed. In Episode 10 of The Firsts, Sh. Omar Suleiman continues to talk about Abu Bakr (ra) and his elevation in the pursuit of good. The standards that he set and the inspiration that he had to achieve the good deed can motivate us to set our own goals and place higher standards on ourselves and our actions.Sign up here to get notes sent straight to your inbox.This episode was first recorded on Feb. 12, 2020 and is being re-released in audio format.
