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
Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 4min
Hakim ibn Hizam (ra): When Money Stops Mattering
The nephew of Khadijah (ra) and a core figure in the decade prior to the Prophet ﷺ receiving revelation. He held out on Islam because of his worldly focus, yet eventually embraced Islam and a new focus on the hereafter.
Sep 16, 2024 • 47min
Urwa ibn Masud (ra): The Chief Who Resembled Isa (as)
A noble leader with a striking presence, he initially resisted the call of Islam and was a chief negotiator from Quraysh to the Prophet ﷺ in Hudaybiyyah. But when Islam entered his heart, he sought to lead his people to faith and lost his life in the process.
Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 4min
Mothers of the Prophet ﷺ: Amina and Halima al-Sa’diyya
Delve into the significant roles of Amina and Halima in shaping the early life of the Prophet ﷺ. Hear about the struggles Amina faced as a young widow and the blessings Halima's nurturing brought. Explore miraculous events from his childhood and the emotional reconnection with his sister Shayma. Their stories reveal profound lessons about love, loss, and the enduring bonds of motherhood, showcasing an intimate glimpse into the foundations of a leader's character.
Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 19min
The Most Honored Man By The Prophet ﷺ
If you saw him in Madinah, you would be taken aback by how he was honored by the Prophet ﷺ and the companions like no other human being, and if you heard him speak then you would know he was special. The last uncle of the Prophet ﷺ and a blessed connection for this Ummah.
Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 7min
When Allah Guided the Children of Abu Lahab
The only enemy of the Prophet ﷺ mentioned by name in the Quran, yet his own children became Muslim and would read about their father’s punishment. The incredible story of the believing children of the Prophet ﷺ's uncle and how he received them.
Jun 3, 2024 • 53min
Ikrimah ibn Abi Jahl (ra): The Pious Son of Pharoah
Learn about Ikrimah ibn Abi Jahl, a loyal companion of the Prophet Muhammad, whose journey from villainy to virtue is filled with intense battles, defiance, forgiveness, and redemption. Discover his inspiring story of selflessness and martyrdom in the Battle of Yarmulq, showcasing themes of sacrifice, bravery, and divine destiny.
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.
