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
Jun 3, 2024 • 59min
The Prophet ﷺ’s Brother: Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith (ra)
In this podcast, Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith, the first cousin of the Prophet ﷺ, is discussed. The intriguing topics covered include his close relationship with the Prophet, his betrayal and resentment towards Islam, his conversion to Islam, and the heartwarming reconciliation with the Prophet. The podcast delves into the complex emotions of shame, forgiveness, and redemption, showcasing the profound transformation of Abu Sufyan from a bitter enemy to a devoted companion.
Jun 3, 2024 • 1h 16min
Abu Sufyan ibn Harb (ra): Forgiving the Enemy
Explore the transformation of Abu Sufyan ibn Harb from a fierce opponent of the Prophet to a strategic leader embraced by forgiveness and given a position of leadership. Learn about his background, family ties, business dealings, and involvement in battles like the Battle of Badr. Discover the themes of revenge, mercy, and redemption as Abu Sufyan navigates his journey from resistance to acceptance of Islam, showcasing the complexities of forgiveness and redemption in early Islamic interactions.
May 7, 2024 • 1h 8min
Amr ibn al-As (ra): His Wicked Father & “Better” Brother
The podcast explores the family dynamics of Amr ibn al-As, focusing on his father's opposition to the Prophet Muhammad and his brother Hisham's early companionship. It delves into the challenges faced by the Prophet, conversion stories of the brothers, and Hisham's heroic leadership in battles. The narrative showcases themes of family struggles, redemption, humility, and martyrdom in service of Islam.
May 7, 2024 • 1h 19min
Amr ibn al-As (ra): From Rafah to Egypt
Discover the transformation of Amr ibn al-As, from opposing the Prophet in battles to spreading Islam to Egypt and Gaza. Explore his strategic prowess, diplomatic negotiations in Abyssinia, and his journey from persecutor to believer. Learn about his conquests in Palestine and Egypt, showcasing his tactical brilliance and fair treatment of locals.
Apr 16, 2024 • 1h 11min
Khalid ibn al-Walid (ra): The Legendary Military General
Learn about Khalid ibn al-Walid, the revered 'Sword of Allah', and his strategic brilliance in spreading Islam worldwide. Explore his evolution from a nonbeliever to a successful commander under Prophet Muhammad's guidance. Discover his triumphs against the Persians and Romans, showcasing his fearlessness and devotion to the Ummah. Delve into his legacy as a military genius and unmatched commander, leaving behind an enduring impact on history.
Oct 9, 2023 • 1h 14min
Khalid ibn al-Walid (ra): Becoming the Sword of Allah
The story of how a feared enemy of Islam became it's greatest general.
Oct 3, 2023 • 58min
Abu Saeed al Khudri (ra): The Jewel of Madinah
He was given the lofty title of the Mufti of Madinah for his rare combination of Hadith and Fiqh. He narrates over 1000 ahadith from the Prophet ﷺ, and lived a long life of devotion all in his home city of Madinah.
Sep 28, 2023 • 1h 1min
Saeed ibn Amir (ra): Haunted by Murder
He was a pious governor in Islam who would repent to Allah after witnessing the crucifixion of Khubayb (ra). How did Saeed and other companions who participated in the massacres of Bi'r Mauna and Al Rajee find their way back to Allah after such horrific actions?
Sep 28, 2023 • 51min
Rabiah ibn Kab (ra): The Prophet’s Companion in Jannah
He fell in love with the Prophet ﷺ at first sight, lived in his blessed shadow until he died, and was promised his blessed companionship eternally in Paradise.
Sep 11, 2023 • 51min
Khubayb ibn Addiy (ra): A Prisoner of Many Miracles
Khubayb (ra) is a man of many tragic firsts in Islam. But his story is also filled with many lessons of perseverance, ethics, and sincerity even in the midst of desperation. And for that Allah would bestow miracles upon him that no other companion would encounter.
