Jumah Nights 🔭

Featuring Sheikh Mohammed Al-Hilli, Dr. Sayed Rehan Naqvi & Hassan QadriHosted by Mohamed Ali OkeraTimeless Resilience - An After Maghrib Show 2025The Inaugural After Maghrib LIVE Event, held at the Millfield Theatre in London, UK. This powerful session delves into the depths of Islamic governance when taking Imam Ali (as) as an example. Discover how this legacy was passed down from the Imams of Ahlulbayt, all the way till the present day—exploring how different perspectives affect our viewpoints today.

Quit while you're ahead!In this video, which is intended to be an outro to Jumah Nights; brother Mohamed Ali wanted to take the opportunity to summarise what the goals & objectives of Jumah Nights were, and why this project has finally come to an end. If you have benefited from any of the episodes, please keep the brother in your prayers and pray for him to be given more opportunities to serve!

In this engaging and light-hearted yet impactful conversation, we dive into topics that resonate deeply with the younger generation. From the power of language—bridging Urdu and English in our rituals—to the artistry in eulogy composition and the complexities of poetry, we examine how these elements continue to shape Azadari in a multicultural world. We also explored the relatability of traditional practices like chest-beating, the challenges of connecting across cultural differences, and how we can carry the essence of Azadari forward in a way that speaks to the modern soul.

Navigating Shi'a Tradition in the Modern World as Youth In this episode of Jumah Nights, we dive deep into the challenges and inspirations of balancing Shia traditions with modern life as a young person. Our guest, Kumeil Rizwan, brings his unique perspective and insights on various aspects of our faith, including the importance of Azadari, the experience of migration, and the value of Hawza studies in shaping one's spiritual journey. From the role of mourning rituals in preserving identity to understanding how young people navigate the decision to move for religious study, this conversation is packed with thought-provoking reflections and practical advice.

In this episode of Jumah Nights, we delve into the timeless significance of Karbala and its continued relevance in the modern world. Our special guest, Shaykh Ahmed Haneef, joins us to explore how the tragedy of Karbala serves as a guiding light in confronting the injustices and atrocities we witness today. Together, we reflect on the importance of maintaining a Hussaini identity and ideology, standing up for truth, justice, and resisting oppression. How can we embody the spirit of Imam Hussain (AS) in our everyday lives? What lessons does Karbala offer for today's struggles?

The Relationship of Tawhid to Ma'arif of Ahlulbayt Join us in our second head-to-head discussion with the respected Sayyid, Dr Rehan Naqvi in which we explore the depths of the Philosophy of Tawhid. We discuss a number of points including discussions surrounding the essence of Allah, the distinction between different attributes of Allah (being essential attributes and attributes of action), the Muhammadan Reality (Haqiqah al-Muhammadiyah) and the layers in which Tawhid should be understood within!

Join us in our first head-to-head discussion with the respected Shaykh, Imran Damani in which we explore the depths of the Philosophy of Ghayba (Occultation). We discuss a number of points relating to the wisdom, aims, and objectives of the Occultation of Imam al-Mahdi (as) as well as pondering on how we can prepare for his return and to be from the successful supporters of the Imam.

Join us this week, where Br. Mohamed Ali discusses the concept of al-Khidma al-Hussainiya in some depth, drawing inspiration from Ziyarat 'Ashura to come to conclusions. We discussed the aims and objectives of the Hussaini service along with the barriers that exist with relation to the service currently, while focusing on how we can use the literature of Ahlulbayt (as) to improve our service towards them!

This week we begin a new series, presented by Br. Mohamed Ali coming up to the day of Arba'een - relating to the service of Imam al-Hussain (as). How do we define the objectives and aims of this service in light of the Qur'an and Sunnah, and how should we understand this topic and ponder about it to improve ourselves in this service?

An overview of Kitab Sulaym b. Qays

An overview of Tafsir Imam al-Askari Join us this week where we examine the classical text of Qur'anic Exegesis which is the book referred to as “Tafsīr al-Imām al-'Askari” which is a book that has been met with a lot of controversy in academic circles. We discuss the benefits, authenticity and content of the book in a very general manner. Make sure you stay tuned for the final episode of our series next week!

This week, Br. Mohamed Ali goes through a historical overview of Kamal al-Din - and discusses a short biography of Shaykh al-Saduq. We also discuss the mystical aspects surrounding al-Saduq and his book of Hadith whereby he has a dream in which he sees Imam Mahdi. We aim to use these episodes to increase our understanding with relation to the Imam of our time this Muharram, in following the footsteps of Imam Hussain.

Join us this week on Jumah Nights with Br. Mohamed Ali, where we examine the classical book of Hadith by Muhammad b. Ibrahim al-Nu'mani called Kitab al-Ghaibah. We discuss the author, historicity, issues he faced, how he wrote this book and how he structured it to our benefit today. This series aims to provide basic overviews of some of our classical works of Hadith to enable the viewer to connect to the intellectual treasures of the Ahlulbayt during this Muharram.

An overview of the history surrounding al-Kafi & Shaykh al-Kulayni Join us this week on Jumah Nights with Br. Mohamed Ali where we start a new series about the history of the classical compilations of Hadith. In an attempt to encourage ourselves as Shi'a, in increasing our knowledge in relation to the classical Hadith books; we start this week off with a small biography of Sheikh al-Kulayni and a brief overview about his book al-Kafi. Make sure you stay tuned for this series as it will be very interesting!

Join us this week with Br. Mohamed Ali on Jumah Nights, where we employ some of the principles we've discussed in the previous episodes to reflect upon and conduct a Tadabbur session surrounding Surah al-Fatiha, where we take a look at the depth and multiple layers of the Qur'an in practice. It's important to note and reiterate that this we are not presenting this as Tafsir, but as an episode where we can share our reflections on the chapter, while going through some of the works of Tafsir together!

Join us this week on Jumah Nights with Br. Mohamed Ali where we explore the principles of Tanzil & Ta'wil which are crucial in determining and ensuring that the Qur'an remains relevant in all times and eras. This concept is one that isn't given its due importance, however with its understanding we're able to draw teachings from the Qur'an that we would not have been able to without them. It is only through the event of Ghadeer that we are able to learn and understand these principles, otherwise the Qur'an becomes an outdated book!

Join us this week on Jumah Nights with Brother Mohamed Ali where we explore the co-dependency of the Qur'an and build on Hadith al-Thaqalayn where we try to establish from the narrations of the Prophet and Ahlulbayt, peace be upon them - that the exegesis of the Qur'an has been made exclusive towards the Ahlulbayt to teach. We learn also that there are principles that the Ahlulbayt taught in order for us to be able to understand the Qur'an, and we go through some of them very briefly. Please make sure you stay up to date with this very important series, where next week we have a very important episode about the principles of the Qur'an!

A discussion about the co-dependency of the Qur'an, and discussing the Huruf al-Muqata'aat (disconnected letters) This week on Jumah Nights, we continue the series in relation to the Tafsir of the Qur'an and we explore how the Qur'an itself asks us to engage with it in understanding its verses and intent. We discuss the disconnected letters which are the beginning of 29 chapters of the Qur'an, along with the architectural system surrounding the ambiguous verses of the Qur'an. We also ask the fundamental question: "Where is the Tafsir of Rasulullah in today's day and age?!" - to be part of our journey of getting closer to the Qur'an, make sure you stay tuned for the episodes to come as well so that you can get a complete picture in relation to our series!

A discussion surrounding the Tafsir of the Basmalah. We are back this week on Jumah Nights with Mohamed Ali who is starting a new series in relation to the Tafsir of the Qur'an. In line with the Divine Wisdom of Allah (swt) beginning His Book in His Name, we take some time to explore the Basmalah (bismillahir rahmanir raheem) from linguistic, exegetical and narration-based angles to better understand the introduction to the Qur'an! As always, this series aims to give the basic tools of being able to start our journey towards understanding the Qur'an while not aiming to present an exegesis as such. Join us on this journey of 5 episodes in the coming weeks towards the Qur'an & the Ahlulbayt!

This week on Jumah Nights, brother Mohamed Ali reads out an open letter from himself to the ABSOC presidents, attendees and associated individuals in the next academic year. It details a vision and blueprint from the Qur'an and Sunnah as to how we should work to improve our university societies in being able to recognise the greater mission of the Imam of our time. As this is the final episode of the ABSOC blueprint series, make sure you stay tuned for the Qur'anic Tafsir episodes which will be released soon!

Join us this week on Jumah Nights with Mohamed Ali, where we discuss the history of university societies that were established in Northern America and Western Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. We conduct a comparison of the aims & objectives set out by these societies in their value in comparison to societies that we have set up in universities as Shi'a. Brother Mohamed Ali also speaks briefly about himself, and his own experiences in university ABSOCs and ISOCs having been involved in both societies at a committee level!

Part 1/3 of series: "Setting a blueprint for our ABSOCs"

Join us this week on Jumah Nights as we speak about the importance of belief on the Day of Judgement, and short reflections about three important aspects of the Day of Judgement which are: relationships, knowledge and Wilayah on the Day of Judgement! This is the end of the series about “Death & Barzakh” and insha'Allah Jumah Nights will be back soon with some more thought provoking content soon, make sure you stay tuned!

Join us this week on Jumah Nights where we carry on our series in relation to death, and we discuss the potential outcomes of the Barzakh. A lot of the time we hear about the punishment of the grave, but it's very rare that we hear about the different ranks one can be in Barzakh and how these ranks are represented - and that is what we would like to discuss this week! Make sure you stay tuned for the coming episode also, where we will be completing our series with a final episode insha'Allah.

Join us this week on Jum'ah Nights where we begin a new series in relation to the process of death; firstly discussing the state of Ihtidhar & the removal of the soul. Make sure you're tuning in for all the episodes so that the picture is clear in the end!

Join us this week for a very exciting episode, where we discuss the infamous question always asked of the Shi'a where we are asked to provide a clear verse in the Qur'an about the concept of Imamah. Brother Mohamed Ali goes through the discussion with regards to this question in academic depth and presents verses from the Shi'a perspective.

Join us this week on Jumah Nights where we discuss the concept of Istighatha, where the Imams are directly asked for them to grant our needs! Is this a concept we can find in the Qur'an, authentic Sunnah and in the supplications of Ahlulbayt? Make sure you listen to the end to get a good overview of the entire topic!

Join us this week on Jumah Nights, where brother Mohamed Ali discusses the concept of al-Wilayah al-Takwiniyah (creational authority) for the Imams of Ahlulbayt, may peace and blessings be upon them. We attempt to discuss this from a number of angles: rational & scientific, Qur'anic, report-based and learning from our visitational supplications. This episode aims to be a balanced and eye-opening overview around the concept of creational authority away from the usual polemical and polarising arguments that are made.

With a lot of controversy always going around in relation to the status of the Imams and questions being asked in relation to their knowledge - this week, Mohamed Ali goes through the verses of the Qur'an and the classical books of Hadith to see how we can give a basic overview of how to come to a conclusion in relation to Knowledge of The Unseen and whether it is restricted to Allah (swt) or not?

Part 2 of 2 - Ghulu & Shi'ism Join us for a two part study alongside brother Mohamad Ali as we look into the various conclusions being made today by preachers around us, where these accusations stem from and who we should be taking our knowledge from today.

Ghulu in Shia History

Explore this week's insights in our third and final episode in relation to the reappearance, where we discuss the events that occur during the reappearance of our Imam. We discuss the Qur'an and the Hadith in relation to those who will fight against the Imam, and try to find a middle path where we can find a way to avoid being part of these groups. Join us as we explore the importance of accurate knowledge to prevent unintentional opposition against Imam al-Mahdi. Stay informed and vigilant on the path to recognizing the true leader of the age.

Explore the insights shared by Mohamed Ali in this riveting discussion on the impending occultation of Imam Mahdi ATFS. Delve into the three significant signs that foreshadow this momentous event, unraveling the intricate roles played by the Yamani and Soufyani in the critical times preceding it. Gain profound insights into eschatological narratives and prepare to navigate the complexities of these signs as they unfold. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration that sheds light on the spiritual journey towards the awaited era and the dynamic interplay of key figures in shaping the destiny of humanity.

Join us this week where we speak about the effect we can have on how the reappearance pans out! We discuss the theological foundations of this claim in the understanding of Bada', and examples from Islamic history where these principles have applied. Delve into this topic, to figure out what all of our responsibilities are in relation to preparing for the reappearance of the awaited saviour, Imam al-Hujjah (as). Is this our last chance?

Join us for an enlightening discussion on Tawhid, the foundational concept of Islamic monotheism. We delve into what the Quran and Ahlulbayt, the family of Prophet Muhammad, teach us about worshipping Allah. Explore the profound insights on Tawhid hidden within the beautiful verses of the Quran, and discover the wisdom shared by the Ahlulbayt. We also uncover the significance of Tawhid within Duas and supplications, gaining a deeper understanding of its essence in our spiritual journey. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation that will enrich your knowledge of Islamic faith and practice. #Monotheism #Atheism #God

In this episode, we dive deep into the realms of Islamic theology and contemporary issues. In our theological segment, we explore compelling arguments proving the existence of God, delving into the cosmological argument, the argument of intelligent design, and the profound concept of the Hujjah on earth. Join us in unraveling these thought-provoking discussions. In the second half of our episode, we shine a light on a pressing concern of our times - money and greed. We analyze this modern-day issue through the lens of Qur'anic teachings, seeking wisdom and guidance for navigating the complexities of wealth and avarice in today's world. Don't miss out on this insightful journey of faith and relevance. Like, subscribe, and share to join our community of seekers on Jum'ah Nights. Stay tuned for more enlightening content every week!

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The personality of Sayyida Hakima held a unique and special position with the Ahlulbayt (as) - and she is a great example for female scholarship and leadership within Shi'a Islam. This week, we dedicate some time to discussing her status in Islam in light of some historical reports. We then take a few minutes to reflect on the law that they want to pass in France with regards to banning the Hijab for students and our responsibility with regards to protecting our religion in the West.

A thought-provoking dissection where Mohamed Ali delves deep into the life of Sayeda Zainab. Join us as we explore her remarkable connection to the Ahlulbayt (as) and examine the topic of her infallibility. In the second part, we engage in a brief but crucial discussion about the death of the Prophet and the perceived betrayal by some of his Sahabah. Prepare to gain new insights into these historical events and their significance in Islamic history. Subscribe now to join the enlightening journey on Jumah Nights!

Join us in this thought-provoking podcast episode as we delve deep into the theological significance of Sayyida Fatima within the realm of Islam. We explore her multifaceted role as the overseer of the religion in three crucial aspects: her family, her religion, and the entirety of existence. In our "Jum'ah Reflections" segment, we navigate the intricate nuances of mourning for Imam al-Hussain in Muharram and its continued relevance in our practices. Should the tradition of wearing black and mourning extend beyond Muharram to the 9th Rabi al-Awwal? Tune in to explore these captivating topics and gain a deeper understanding of Islamic theology and mourning traditions. Don't miss this enlightening discussion - like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below. Stay tuned for more engaging content on our channel!

Join us for an insightful discussion with Mohamad Ali as we delve into the crucial topic of preserving Shi'ism after the tragic death of Imam Al-Hussain. Discover the historical significance and challenges faced by the Shi'a community. Additionally, sharing personal reflections on my transformative experience during last year's Arba'een walk, highlighting the spiritual journey and unity it fosters. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that explores the enduring legacy of Imam Al-Hussain and the annual pilgrimage that strengthens the bonds of Shi'a faith. Subscribe, like, and share to contribute to this essential dialogue.

Join us on a profound journey with Mohamad Ali in this episode of Jumah Nights! Delve into the significance of Imam Hussain's shrine visitation as he passionately explores its spiritual depth. Discover the illuminating Hadiths from the Ahlulbayt that guide us through the Ziyarat of Imam Hussain, drawing enlightening comparisons to other pilgrimages. Gain insights that touch the soul and ignite your connection with the sacred. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on Jumah Nights that promises to enrich your understanding of devotion and spirituality.

A gripping conclusion of our Tabarrah in Shiism series!

Another interactive discussion with Mohamed Ali as we delve deeper into the concept of "Tabarra" and the significance of cursing as portrayed in Shia texts and the Holy Quran. Explore how Rasulallah (SAW) and the Ahlulbayt (AS) interpreted these Quotes with a spotlight on Ziyarat Ashura. We gain insights into applying these teachings to our daily online interactions, fostering more respectful and insightful discussions on social media. Don't miss this enlightening session that bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary discourse. Subscribe now and broaden your understanding!

Introduction to Bara'ah - Etiquette of attending Majalis

This week, we mourn the martyrdom of Imam al-Hussain (as) and we remember the events leading up to the Day of 'Ashura along with the blessed martyrdom of al-Hussain (as). We present a short poem in honour of Imam al-Hussain (as) and Imam al-Hujjah (as); a few words for all of us to ponder on.

In this weeks Jumah Nights, we take a different angle as we enter the holy month of Muharram. Mohamed Ali discusses some short term and long term aims of Imam al-Hussain in Karbala, and how these aims are connected to us 1400 years later. Another topic explored is how to speak to non-Muslims about the mission of Imam al-Hussain so that they can understand it in the most meaningful manner.

In this week's episode, brother Mohamed Ali discusses the phases of the religion of Islam and how the religion reached the phase of Ta'wil following the declaration of al-Ghadeer. We then spoke about the effect of Western culture on our understanding of our religion and who we should be taking as our examples in ensuring that we are able to serve the Imam of our time in the best way possible.

In this week's episode, with the celebration of Eid al-Ghadeer - we begin a new series about the Wilayah of the Ahlulbayt, where brother Mohamed Ali discussed the verses of the Qur'an in relation to the event of Ghadir and explored some of the entailments of this declaration. We also discuss whether we have managed to build the correct infrastructure in our communities to welcome reverts joining the school of Ahlulbayt, and covering a few misconceptions a few of us may have with regards to reverts.

As the final episode to the series about Imam al-Hujjah, brother Mohamed Ali discussed key concepts which explain the responsibilities of the Shi'a in the Ghaybah (occultation) and what makes them real Shi'a! This week in Jum'ah Reflections, we covered some of the struggles that a child faces growing up in the west and a few things they can do to ease their experience. Let us know what you thought of this part in the comment section below, do you feel like you related to what was being said?

In a discussion about the Ma'arifa in the Ghayba of Imam Al-Mahdi (ATFS), we acknowledge his significance and the awareness as the awaited Imam. Mohamad Ali discusses the goals of the Holy Imam and what we should be doing to prepare for them. This weeks Jumah reflections we discuss how Hajj holds immense importance as one of the pillars of Islam and whether as Shia's we are giving Ziyarat priority over Hajj.