Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq

The Love of Jāh Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Sunday 6th March 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/Ru5qbzctpqY The talk explores the concept of Jāh (fame, rank, and recognition) and its deep-rooted presence in human nature. The talk explains that Jāh is distinct from arrogance—while arrogance is the belief in one's superiority, Jāh is the craving for attention, recognition, and influence, even in those who are otherwise humble. This desire for status is a subtle yet dangerous aspect of the love of dunyā (worldly life), making it one of the last spiritual diseases to leave the heart. Even scholars and saints, despite renouncing material wealth, often struggle with the temptation of position and authority. The talk highlights how human desires evolve—once basic needs like food, shelter, and security are met, people seek entertainment, power, and recognition, leading to the ultimate craving for influence over others. This is rooted in the soul’s connection to greatness, but when misdirected, it manifests as seeking status in this world rather than in the Hereafter. The talk emphasizes that true greatness belongs to Allah alone, citing a ḥadīth qudsī where Allāh declares that anyone who competes for His majesty will be cast into Hell. The Quran warns against the distraction of chasing worldly status, and historical examples—including the betrayal of Ali (r.a.) and Hasan (r.a.)—illustrate how followers are fickle and unreliable. Even great scholars and pious individuals, such as Imam Khalid ibn Ma’dan and Imam Abu Alia, actively avoided public recognition to protect their sincerity. The Sahaba, including Umar (r.a.) and Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (r.a.), discouraged being followed, recognizing that fame is both a humiliation for the followers and a trial for the leader. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - What is Jāh? - Scholars & saints struggling with Jāh - The progression from basic needs to Jāh - The soul's connection to greatness - The love of influence and followers - Examples of scholars & sahabah avoiding Jāh - The temporary nature of status & tragic examples - Seeking contentment in faith ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X: https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Reflections on Sūrat al-Jumuʿah Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 26th November 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/qtL1kBC9mvM The talk provides an in-depth reflection on Surat al-Jumu'ah, particularly its final verses, which emphasize the significance of Jumu'ah Salah and proper conduct during it. The talk explains the Quranic command to hasten to the remembrance of Allāh and leave off trade, highlighting that Jumu'ah prayer takes precedence over all worldly affairs. A historical discussion follows on the adhan for Jumu'ah, explaining that during the Prophet’s ﷺ time, there was only one adhan, but Caliph Uthman (r.a.) introduced a second due to Medina’s population growth. The importance of attending the khutbah with full concentration and avoiding distractions is stressed, as the khutbah is considered part of the prayer. Listeners are reminded that talking during the khutbah, even to correct someone, nullifies its reward. The etiquette of bringing children to the masjid is also discussed, with an emphasis on ensuring they do not disrupt the congregation. The talk elaborates on the balance Islam strikes between worship and work, noting that while trading and labour must cease during Jumu'ah, they are permissible and even encouraged afterward. Unlike other religious traditions where holy days are days of complete rest, Islam allows trade and economic activity after prayer, demonstrating its practical and balanced approach. The importance of arriving early, maintaining discipline, and respecting the masjid’s sacredness is emphasized, along with the virtues of walking to Jumu'ah calmly rather than rushing. The talk concludes with a reminder that Jumu'ah should not be treated as a routine task but as a weekly opportunity for spiritual renewal, reinforcing that true success lies in prioritizing Allāh’s remembrance over worldly gains. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Understanding the adhan for Jumu'ah - The importance of attending the khutbah - The etiquette of Jumu'ah prayer - The role of the khutbah - Proper conduct when attending Jumu'ah - What happens after Jumu'ah salah? - Balancing worship and work ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X: https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 5 of 5 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 29th October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/9H9huDnFpKQ The talk provides a detailed tafsir of the final verses of Surat al-A'la, focusing on the true meaning of success as defined by Allāh. The talk explains that success in Islam is not measured by wealth, status, or worldly achievements but by self-purification, remembrance of Allāh, and devotion to prayer. The verse “Indeed, he has succeeded who purifies himself” is analysed deeply, highlighting that purification extends beyond physical cleanliness to include spiritual, moral, and emotional purification. The discussion references Surat Ash-Shams, where Allāh swears by creation to emphasize the importance of nurturing the soul. The talk also warns about the deception of wealth and material possessions, reinforcing that true ownership is only what a person consumes, wears out, or gives in charity, as mentioned in a ḥadīth of the Prophet ﷺ. The lecture further explores how wealth, children, and worldly pursuits are mere tests (fitna), and preferring this life over the Hereafter is a common but grave mistake. The Quran reminds believers that while people chase temporary success, "The Hereafter is better and everlasting." The talk shares the reflection of Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, who admitted that even the Sahaba struggled with prioritizing the Hereafter. The talk concludes by emphasizing that true success lies in faith, charity, remembrance of Allāh, and devotion in prayer, as echoed in various Quranic verses. The Adhan (call to prayer) itself reminds believers that success is found in Salah, reinforcing that spiritual success leads to eternal rewards, while worldly gains are fleeting and ultimately left behind for others. The talk concludes with a powerful reminder on self-accountability—that rather than blaming others, one must question their own sincerity and effort in seeking knowledge. Even Iblis will declare on Judgment Day that he only invited people to sin, and they accepted willingly. Thus, true benefit from the Quran and prophetic teachings requires faith, humility, and an eagerness to seek and apply knowledge. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Recap of verses 1-13 - Verse 14: "Indeed has succeeded he who has purified" - Various markers of success - Purification from the love of wealth - The burden of wealth and giving in charity - Protection from greed of the soul - Things that nourish the soul - Verses on the afterlife being better ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X: https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 4 of 5 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 15th October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/dtiTdZOmTVw This talk focuses on the importance of admonition and its conditions. The talk explains that the Prophet ﷺ was commanded to remind people, but only if the reminder would be beneficial, emphasizing that not everyone is receptive to guidance. True benefit comes to those who possess taqwa (God-consciousness), humility, and sincerity in seeking knowledge. The talk highlights the spiritual barriers that prevent people from accepting guidance, such as arrogance, sinfulness, and a lack of sincerity. The story of Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum, a blind companion, is discussed in detail, where Allāh corrected the Prophet ﷺ for prioritizing influential leaders over a sincere seeker. This serves as a lesson that true guidance is for those who actively seek it, not those who feel self-sufficient. The talk also stresses that guidance cannot be forced, even by the Prophet ﷺ himself, as ultimate acceptance depends on a person's willingness and effort. The role of spiritual purity and wudu (ritual purification) is highlighted through a hadith where improper purification affected even the Prophet’s recitation during Salah. The talk concludes with a powerful reminder on self-accountability—that rather than blaming others, one must question their own sincerity and effort in seeking knowledge. Even Iblis will declare on Judgment Day that he only invited people to sin, and they accepted willingly. Thus, true benefit from the Quran and prophetic teachings requires faith, humility, and an eagerness to seek and apply knowledge. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Prerequisites for benefiting from a reminder - Prerequisite: True faith & fear of Allāh - Prerequisite - Possessing intelligence - Prerequisite - Sincere talab (seeking knowledge) & humility - Ilm compared to rain - The Prophet's experience with Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum - Removing filth from the heart - The Prophet ﷺ experiencing difficulty in recitation - Summary of verses 10-13 ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X: https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 3 of 5 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 8th October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/wjG6ZOsNROs The talk provides an in-depth tafsīr (exegesis) of Sūrat al-Aʿlā, focusing on the divine assurance given to the Prophet ﷺ regarding the preservation of the Quran. It begins with a recap of previously discussed verses and transitions into the meaning of, "We will make you recite, so you shall not forget" (87:6). The talk explains how the Prophet ﷺ initially feared forgetting the revelation and would hasten to recite alongside Jibril (a.s.). Allāh reassured him that the Quran’s memorization, recitation, and explanation were divinely protected. Several aḥadīth, including narrations from Abdullah ibn Abbas (r.a.), illustrate how the Prophet ﷺ received revelation and how the method of Quranic recitation remains unchanged since its revelation. The miraculous preservation of the Quran, both in wording and recitation, is highlighted as a divine phenomenon, contrasting it with the natural evolution of human languages over time. The lecture further explores human forgetfulness, divine will, and the Prophet’s human experience in receiving revelation. Instances where the Prophet ﷺ temporarily forgot verses are discussed, emphasizing that such moments were part of human nature and divine wisdom rather than flaws. The talk draws parallels between the Prophet’s recitation and contemporary Quranic memorization techniques, explaining how mutual revision (mudārasah) during Ramaḍān between the Prophet ﷺ and Jibril (a.s.) set the precedent for modern-day Quranic revision. The session concludes by reaffirming Allāh’s perfect knowledge of the seen and unseen, explaining the ease provided by divine guidance, and stressing that religious obligations, though seemingly challenging, become natural when embraced with sincerity and understanding. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Revision of the Quran by the Prophet ﷺ - Musalsal ḥadīth on receiving revelation - The Quran coming from Allāh - Recitation of the Quran despite difficulties - Shaykh Anwar Shāh al-Kashmīrī and his memory - The infinite knowledge of Allāh ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X: https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 2 of 5 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 1st October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/hhvUije9lyQ The talk begins by introducing Sūrat al-Aʿlā, highlighting its significance as an often-recited chapter in prayers such as Jumuʿah, Eid, and Witr. The Sūrah, an early Makkan revelation, emphasizes glorifying Allāh and recognizing His supreme authority. The phrase “Sabbih” is explored in depth, illustrating how it signifies both praise and the disassociation of Allah from any imperfection. The talk references multiple Quranic verses and prophetic traditions to reinforce the importance of exalting Allāh. Additionally, examples from the stories of Prophet Yūnus (a.s.) and Prophet ʿĪsā (a.s.) are mentioned to show how divine glorification is used in moments of trial and clarification of truth. The discussion also touches on false beliefs, particularly how pagan gods were flawed, unlike Allāh, who is beyond any defect. The latter part of the talk focuses on Allāh’s perfection in creation and guidance. An explanation is presented on how Allāh creates, perfects, and provides instinctual guidance to all beings, citing examples from nature, such as animals, birds, and the intricate structure of DNA. The cycle of life and death is reflected upon, with a Quranic analogy of green pastures turning into dry stubble, emphasizing the transient nature of life. Human free will and responsibility are also discussed, stressing that Allāh has provided guidance, but individuals must choose their path wisely. The talk concludes by reminding listeners of the necessity of understanding and applying the message of the Sūrah in daily life, ensuring that their actions align with the glorification and submission to Allāh. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - The importance of tasbīḥ - The challenges faced by the Prophets (a.s) - The Qur'an's approach to addressing falsehood - The best forms of ḍhikr (Remembrance of Allāh) - The benefits and wisdom of tasbīḥ - Verses inviting people to reflect on creation - The ultimate message of this Sūrat ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X: https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 1 of 5 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 17th September 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/TnKEOKHHano The talk begins by introducing Sūrat al-Aʿlā, highlighting its significance as an often-recited chapter in prayers such as Jumuʿah, Eid, and Witr. The Sūrah, an early Makkan revelation, emphasizes glorifying Allāh and recognizing His supreme authority. The phrase “Sabbih” is explored in depth, illustrating how it signifies both praise and the disassociation of Allah from any imperfection. The talk references multiple Quranic verses and prophetic traditions to reinforce the importance of exalting Allāh. Additionally, examples from the stories of Prophet Yūnus (a.s.) and Prophet ʿĪsā (a.s.) are mentioned to show how divine glorification is used in moments of trial and clarification of truth. The discussion also touches on false beliefs, particularly how pagan gods were flawed, unlike Allāh, who is beyond any defect. The latter part of the talk focuses on Allāh’s perfection in creation and guidance. An explanation is presented on how Allāh creates, perfects, and provides instinctual guidance to all beings, citing examples from nature, such as animals, birds, and the intricate structure of DNA. The cycle of life and death is reflected upon, with a Quranic analogy of green pastures turning into dry stubble, emphasizing the transient nature of life. Human free will and responsibility are also discussed, stressing that Allāh has provided guidance, but individuals must choose their path wisely. The talk concludes by reminding listeners of the necessity of understanding and applying the message of the Sūrah in daily life, ensuring that their actions align with the glorification and submission to Allāh. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Revelation context and recitation in salah - The various uses of the word subḥān - Performing tasbīḥ throughout the day - The word buhtān - Migrations in the animal kingdom - The flightpaths of bees ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X: https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Preaching Piety Part 1 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 2nd April 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/mcpUcvDwuic This series continues the theme of naṣiḥah, whereby a person's advice should begin from within before spilling out to others. Advice should not be treated as an absolute concept since not everyone will agree on the same thing. Sincerity is part of giving advice and a person should not try to enforce their own opinion in a matter of valid disagreement. The talk starts by explaining the hadith that a true Muslim is one whose tongue and hand others remain safe. This shows the importance of us protecting others from our own ill. It is explained that every human carries pain which is often shifted onto others, most commonly found through verbal abuse. This does not necessarily have to be done openly, but the believers are warned in the Quran about the harms of speaking ill about others in their private conversations. Neighbours are especially mentioned as a group that should feel safe from our ill and it is emphasised that we should only have relationships with people if they are in good. The talk further explains that our thinking in times of fitnah should focus on protecting others from our ill rather than thinking that we are better than them. Thereafter, the hadith on who is a penniless person is explained, with a focus on how we must revisit our concept of "penniless". Other concepts that have been revisited in the Quran and hadith, such as “a strong person” are also explained. Some of the topics contained in this talk: - Best examples of giving advice - Giving "advice" in psychology - Qualifications of the one giving advice - Time and place when giving advice - Not imposing our view on others - Three verses quoted by Abdullah ibn Abbas *This talk took place just after lockdown and was open to a limited audience* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Preaching Piety Part 2 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 9th April 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/DEkgmN77HSI This series continues the theme of naṣiḥah, whereby a person's advice should begin from within before spilling out to others. Advice should not be treated as an absolute concept since not everyone will agree on the same thing. Sincerity is part of giving advice and a person should not try to enforce their own opinion in a matter of valid disagreement. *This talk took place just after lockdown and was open to a limited audience* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Saving Others from Oneself Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 5th March 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/DtRHbijVWWQ The talk starts by explaining the hadith that a true Muslim is one whose tongue and hand others remain safe. This shows the importance of us protecting others from our own ill. It is explained that every human carries pain which is often shifted onto others, most commonly found through verbal abuse. This does not necessarily have to be done openly, but the believers are warned in the Quran about the harms of speaking ill about others in their private conversations. Neighbours are especially mentioned as a group that should feel safe from our ill and it is emphasised that we should only have relationships with people if they are in good. The talk further explains that our thinking in times of fitnah should focus on protecting others from our ill rather than thinking that we are better than others. Thereafter, the hadith on who is a penniless person is explained, with a focus on how we must revisit our concept of "penniless". Other concepts that have been revisited in the Quran and hadith, such as “a strong person” are also explained. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Protecting people from our tongue before our hands - Protecting others in our private conversations - Neighbours should feel safe from us - Focus on ourselves and spare others from our pain - Be good or remain silent - Who is the penniless person? - Removing harm from the path of others *This talk took place just after lockdown and was open to a limited audience* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

al-Bukhārī Completion Ceremony 2022 Final speech delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 30th September 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/xnI7rT9LoIU Al Kawthar Academy hosts its al-Bukhārī completion ceremony to commemorate graduation from the seven-year intensive ʿĀlimiyyah course. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Reason for being called a 'Bukhārī' graduation - The technicality of Ṣaḥīh al-Bukhārī - Being selective about the verses of the Quran - The ultimate goal of the Quran - The first ḥadīth of al-Bukhārī and the final chapter - Misunderstandings in religion - The sacrifices of our ʿulamā - The fame and end of Imām Bukhārī - Recitation of the final ḥadīth and dua ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Giving Advice (Naṣīḥah) Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 26th February 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/h3oujjEyuz8 We are often presented with the opportunity to give advice to others. How and when we give this advice is vital as it may be considered unsolicited by the receiving party. This topic falls under the wider meaning of "al-dīn al-naṣīḥah". Two types of advice to others are identified: solicited and unsolicited. Regarding the first type, it is deemed an obligation to respond to a request for advice without wriggling out of it. Aḥādīth that enumerate the rights of a Muslim over another are quoted for this reason and expounded on. The exception on giving advice is when the person fears insincerity or lack of wisdom in his advice, in which case it is better to decline. The importance of sincerity is even more emphasized for unsolicited advice. Positive examples of unsolicited advice are mentioned to be that of the prophets of Allah and Jarīr ibn Abdullah r.a. The importance of advising with knowledge and softness as well as being respectful of other opinions is mentioned. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Solicited advice and unsolicited advice - Instruction to give advice and not to avoid the responsibility of giving advice - Sincerity in giving advice and qualities of the advice giver - Jarīr ibn Abdullah r.a. giving unsolicited advice - Importance of knowledge when giving advice - Manner of giving advice *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Seeking Advice (Naṣīḥah) Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 19th February 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/Nqh9fySBJkc We seek advice in order to help us make informed decisions. What are the qualities and characteristics we should look for when choosing someone to take advice from? A good advice giver is said to encompass the wider meaning of nasihah; including being a sincere well-wisher. He should be like the one whom one can narrate dreams to, identified in the hadith as being a 'beloved' or 'intelligent' person. On the other hand, caution is given against taking advice from friends. These friends, often giving dismissive advice, or even playing out their own fancies in their advices. As for the seeker of advice, he should be sincere; having an open mind and a clear objective with his consultation. The talk furthermore identifies istikharah as being a dua seeking good from Allah and that this should be done at the side of istisharah from the creation. Istikharah is said to be different from superstitious pre-Islamic practises and void of seeking dreams etc. Towards the end of the talk, the three A’s for dealing with situations (amend, accept and abandon) are expounded upon. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Who to seek advice from and the definition of a ḥabīb and labīb - Problems caused by wrong advice - Superstitions before Islam - How to ensure sincerity when seeking advice - Acting on the advice of friends - The method of istikhārah - Importance of taking naṣīḥah from the people of naṣīḥah - The 3 A's (Amend, Abandon, Accept) *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Religion is Naṣīḥah Part 2 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 12th February 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/aXczi-glDVE The famous ḥadīth of Tamīm al-Dārī is often translated as, "Religion is advice." However, there is more to the meaning of these words than a simple translation. What exactly is 'naṣīḥah' and how can it be applied to Allāh, His Prophet ﷺ and the believers? This talk continues from the first part of the series and focuses on the latter part of the ḥadīth of Tamīm al-Dārī, especially regarding showing naṣīḥah to the leaders and laity alike. An understanding is presented on how naṣīḥah should be shown to the leaders and why it is so important. This is supported by a number of aḥādīth. The talk then briefly explains the philosophy of wealth in Islām and how a believer should generate and spend their own wealth. Wishing well for others and being sincere to them are part of the rights every Muslim should carry out. A stellar example of this is how Jarīr ibn ʿAbdullāh al-Bajalī was sincere in his belief and would always want what’s best for others. The talk concludes by explaining how voluntary work is good for a person and how it should also serve as a reminder for the believers for them to be thankful for the blessings of Allāh. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - A brief history of Kūfah - The khuṭbah of Jarīr ibn ʿAbdullāh al-Bajalī in Kūfah - Naṣīḥah for the leaders and the laity - Generating wealth for oneself & the 3 philosophies of wealth in Islām - Etiquette of asking questions - Three things that purify the heart - Jarīr ibn ʿAbdullāh al-Bajalī giving bayʿah to the Prophet ﷺ - Being genuine to all believers - Finding joy in serving others *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Religion is Naṣīḥah Part 1 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 15th January 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/rP049YNdlQE The famous ḥadīth of Tamīm al-Dārī is often translated as, "Religion is advice." However, there is more to the meaning of these words than a simple translation. What exactly is 'naṣīḥah' and how can it be applied to Allāh, His Prophet ﷺ and the believers? This talk details the word naṣīhah beyond its common, but partial translation of 'advice'. The word 'nuṣḥ' is explained; including its meaning of extracting pure honey, and several verses in the Qurān containing derivatives of the word are mentioned. Previous prophets, including the Prophet ﷺ exercised nuṣḥ in all conditions and examples of these are explained in this talk. Thereafter the talk explains 'naṣīḥah to Allāh' and how it entails placing Allāh above all else and not being in a deceitful relationship with Him. The sincere believers who remained behind at the battle of Tabūk are mentioned as positive examples. Furthermore, our duties to Allāh’s book are said to be similar to the Prophet’s ﷺ duties as mentioned in Surat al-Jumu’ah. Towards the end of the talk, five of our duties to the Prophet ﷺ are extracted from verses of the Qurān. Naṣīḥah to the Muslims leaders and laity is also mentioned, but very briefly. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - The ḥadīth of Tamīm al-Dārī about naṣīḥah - Meaning of naṣīḥah - The Prophets having nusḥ for their nations - Antonyms of naṣīḥah - Naṣīḥah for Allāh - Background of naṣīḥah in Sūrat al-Tawbah - Our duty to the book of Allāh - Our duty to the Prophet ﷺ - Naṣīḥah for other believers *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

The Prophet's ﷺ Gratitude Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 4th December 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/MYUhLiZhE2I The Prophet ﷺ was a leading example when showing gratitude towards the creation and the Creator. Many du'ā uttered by the Prophet ﷺ include words of gratitude to Allāh and he would often pray excessively for those who carried out favours for him. This talk starts by establishing that it is a command of Allāh that we acknowledge Him and that gratitude is a manifestation of that acknowledgement. It shows how previous prophets showed gratitude and how the Prophet ﷺ was told to follow in their footsteps. The Prophet's ﷺ gratitude to Allāh is shown by his ‘ibādah, the wording of his du'ā and his dhikr, all of which are mentioned to be connected to gratitude. Thereafter the gratitude of the Prophet ﷺ to the creation is mentioned, including his genuine generosity. Several examples show how the Prophet ﷺ showed gratitude to the ṣaḥābah and even non-Muslims and enemies for kind actions. The talk emphasises the need to reciprocate favours of other humans, even if by making du'ā' for them. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Worship of Allāh connected to shukr - Du'ā beginning with the praise of Allāh - The Prophet's ﷺ habit of sleeping - Irrational fear of poverty - Sincere du'ā for others - The Prophet's ﷺ du'ā for others - Gratitude towards non-Muslims - Description of the Prophet ﷺ in earlier scriptures *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Ungrateful to the Creation: Ungrateful to the Creator Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 6th November 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/Ba_1Gnt-ipA Gratitude is an important part of our lives which should not only be shown to the Creator, but also to the creation. Many aḥādīth emphasise the need to express gratitude towards others and how this can be done is explained in this talk. The first step is identified as expressing verbal gratitude and making du’ā’ for the person. But even before that, it is emphasized that we must develop the ability to recognize favours in the first place. This is because ingratitude, and the selfishness it stems from, is part of human nature. A number of verses of the Qur’ān are cited to show this ingratitude, as well as real life examples of human self-entitlement, even in religious matters. All of this occurs despite being recipients of other people’s favours. Simple deeds such as smiling and pouring water from a jug are mentioned as acts of charity and how these can be a form of gratitude themselves. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Importance of gratitude towards creation - How “JazākAllāhu khayrā” is different from “Thank you” - Ingratitude and self-entitlement towards one's parents - Selfishness in religion - Stories of ingratitude - Smiling being an act of charity - Selflessness of animals - All of us are recipients of favours *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Gratitude Part 2 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 30th October 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/HHNTt61nhwY Gratitude can be shown in every part of our daily life; from the food we eat, to the health and wealth that Allah has blessed us with. This two-part series explores a variety of blessings we should be grateful for, how to express gratitude and the dangers of ingratitude. This talk starts by emphasising our fundamental blessings such as food and health and how one should not equate their differing degrees of blessings to their own good deeds, or lack thereof. Rather both Allah's giving and withholding are a test and thus two sides of the same coin. Also, being tested in mental health should be seen without stigma, in the same way as when a person is tested in physical health. Ahadith and verses of the Quran are quoted to show pious individuals being grateful to Allah for their good deeds rather than ascribing them to themselves. A sense of satisfaction for ones deeds is described as being different from having impermissible pride over them. Gratefulness is also connected to other positive spiritual traits – sabr and contentment – whilst ingratitude is said to go hand-in-hand with stinginess. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Blessing of food - The blessing of our eyes - Speech impediment of Musa a.s - How can we be grateful? - Grateful for our good deeds - The truthfulness of Ka'b ibn Malik - Connection of ingratitude and stinginess - Worldly benefits of gratitude *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Gratitude Part 1 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 9th October 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/iyCUFViNH5o Gratitude can be shown in every part of our daily life; from the food we eat, to the health and wealth that Allah has blessed us with. This two-part series explores a variety of blessings we should be grateful for, how to express gratitude and the dangers of ingratitude. This talk begins with the connection between ingratitude and disbelief and how these are explained with examples from the Quran. Ingratitude towards other people and the origin of the word 'kufr' are explained in this context. The talk also emphasises our many blessings, including the gift of life itself, and how well-off we are compared to many others. Gratitude is explained to be part of a healthy lifestyle also by worldly practitioners; having a positive impact on one's mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health. The negative consequences of ingratitude, such as envy, are contrasted to this. Gratitude and patience are mentioned to be two sides of the same coin; giving the same reward which can be utilised in all the situations of a believer. In the end of the talk, guidance (hidāyah) is put forth as being the greatest gift of all. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - Connection between ingratitude and disbelief - The meaning of 'kufr' - Grateful for the gift of life - Gratitude being a healthy lifestyle - The gift of time - Positive effects of shukr *This talk took place during the coronavirus pandemic and the Academy was not open to the public.* ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Five Traits of Hypocrisy: A Commentary on the Prophetic ﷺ Ḥadīth Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 14th February 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/8btJV4hutIg Various traits of hypocrisy are understood at face value. However, many of these traits stem deeper than their outward appearance. This talk aims to explore the roots of these traits and what believers should do to avoid them. The talk starts by enumerating five traits of hypocrisy from two main ḥadīth on the topic. Lying, being the first of the traits of hypocrisy, is placed in the wider context of the person being false of character – of which speech is just a part. This, as opposed to ṣidq, which denotes the person being true, something praised in several verses of the Qur’ān. It is shown how lying can cause a person's character to become false and the consequences of lying are described as being destructive. This includes destroying relationships, barakah and reducing ones blessings in trade. Worldly gain from lying is said to be short-term but with a graphic punishment described for it in the hereafter. Falsehood is also identified as being the basis from which the remaining four traits of hypocrisy stem. When discussing these traits, differentiation is made between promises and pledges; the breaking of each forming a separate trait. The trait of betrayal of trust is described to include both material as well as non-material trusts, such as private conversations. The last trait described is that of sinning in disputes. Disagreement is explained to be unavoidable, the importance being to disagree honourably; by not being foul-mouthed nor extending the disagreement to other things and people. Find out in this talk how various traits of hypocrisy are mentioned in the Qurān and aḥādīth. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Two main ḥadīth on traits of hypocrisy - Religion is Naṣīḥah - Meaning of aḥzāb and the Siege of Madīnah - Meaning of kadhib (Lying) - The Story of Masjid al-Ḍirār - Destructive Nature of Lying - Truth Being Profitable in the Long Term - Saḥābah Narrating Dreams to the Prophet ﷺ ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************