Podcasts about Bedouin

UOAK Presents Sekora Radio. Episode 134 with special guest Mitch de Klein ❖ Featured tracks & more on Spotify → link.sekoramusic.com/spotify ❖ ❖ SEKORA RADIO ❖ Listen on your favourite platform → https://radio.sekoramusic.com Download & subscribe on Apple Podcasts → http://bit.ly/sekoraradio Tracklist: 1. Sam Rose feat. WNSTN - Far Away 2. Rezarin - Androme 3. Mats Westbroek - It's Always the Same 4. Huminal - Starlight Folly 5. Mitch de Klein & Olivia Pauline - I Need To Know 6. Drumstone - Feelings (Mitch de Klein Remix) 7. Marc Wiese, LAUT - Melodies Of Us 8. Bedouin, Marieme - Reason 9. Mitch de Klein - Embrace 10. Silvio Soul - Lugares Secretos 11. Sultan + Shepard, Colyn - 1973 12. Deeparture - Evermore ft. Dan Soleil 13. Wennink - Wolf in My Clothes (Rinzen Remix) 14. Mitch de Klein - Eleven ❖ FOLLOW UOAK ❖ Spotify → https://uoak.fanlink.tv/spotify Apple Music → https://uoak.fanlink.tv/apple Soundcloud → https://soundcloud.com/uoak Instagram → https://instagram.com/uoakmusic Youtube → https://youtube.com/uoak

Etiquettes of Relieving Oneself in Islam | ZAD Academy Audio | Blogpost by Zayd HajiBy Zayd Haji – Student at Zad AcademyAssalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh,I am Zayd Haji, a student at Zad Academy. One of the most beautiful aspects of Islam is that it provides guidance for every part of our daily life, including something as natural as relieving oneself. While this may seem simple, the Prophet ﷺ taught us etiquettes that preserve purity, modesty, and respect for Allah's blessings.Allah ﷻ commands purification in the Qur'an:“Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.”(Qur'an, Surah Al-Baqarah 2:222)

Every month on Pathways, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton crack open a few stories, play their favorite clips, and take you on a whirlwind preview of what's coming up this month on Armchair Explorer. It's part travel hangout, part behind-the-scenes, and a whole lot of part “wait, you did what?” Special Offer: we've revived our ⁠NEWSLETTER!⁠ (scroll to the bottom of our homepage to signup) And contact us for a free copy of our fearless leader Aaron Millar's ebook:  ⁠The 50 Greatest Wonders of the World⁠ Award-winning travel journalist Aaron Millar reveals the greatest wonders of the world and the insider secrets on how to see them. From where to catch the perfect sunrise over the Grand Canyon to how to swim up to the very edge of the Victoria Falls, this is a road map for discovering the greatest experiences of your life.  This Month on Pathways: Stargazing with the Bedouin in the Arabian DesertNight has fallen over the Arabian desert, pillows and blankets are laid out in the sand, and our guide, Badrea, begins to share the secrets of bedouin stars ‘Giggly Landings' in a Hot Air BalloonEver wondered what it feels like to crash land a balloon in the middle of a UNESCO heritage site? Turns out it's surprisingly funny. In the Footsteps of J.R.R Tolkien in SwitzerlandDiscover the hike that inspired Tolkien's Lord of the Rings … and a swiss mountain hut, that might just be the coolest place to stay in the alps. Hamming it up in a Kyrgyzstani JailCurious how to survive in a Kyrgyzstani prison? In the middle of his 16,000-mile trek around the world, Arjun Bhogle learns how …  Busking for your Supper in SpainCelebrated adventurer Alastair Humphreys takes on his most daunting challenge yet: 500-miles across Spain with nothing but busking and bad violin playing to pay for his food Ready to Explore?If you're into real stories of epic places told by the people who've lived them, make sure to subscribe—that way you choose the adventure, not the algorithm.  Instagram: ⁠@armchairexplorerpodcast⁠ Facebook: ⁠@armchairexplorerpodcast⁠ ⁠Armchair Explorer⁠ is produced by ⁠Armchair Productions⁠. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tal Oran has dedicated himself to highlighting the rich, often overlooked diversity of Israeli society - amplifying voices from Mizrahi, Ethiopian, Druze, Samaritan, and Bedouin communities to name a few. Tal works to reshape the global image of Israel and combat disinformation from the ground up.For more, you can follow the show on Instagram @GraceforimpactpodcastProduced by Peoples Media Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy this week's episode with Bulgarian Dj & producer DiMO (BG). DiMO BG's inspiration comes from the moments he spends in the studio producing his own tracks and traveling around the world exploring diversity of cultures and their music. Every year the name DiMO (BG) is associated with approximately 20 releases, signed by the likes of well-established labels such as: Hurry Up Slowly, Afrodise, Sunset Gathering, Make The Girls Dance, Defected, Redolent, Bercana, Go Deeva, Wired etc. as well as for his very own "Katun Tribe" imprint. Honed his craft as a DJ performing at Dubai, Ibiza, Bali, Minorca, Toronto, Sonar Barcelona, Ministry of Sound, Cyprus, Egg London, Maidstone, Greece, Romania while being resident more than 14 years in a #1 club in Bulgaria. His strongly distinctive and impactful tracks, full of energy, groove and quite often a memorable message has gained him support from industry heavyweights such as Hugel, Mestiza, Bedouin, Chus, La Santa. Amrita (FR) - Sweet Makala Steve Angello, AN21, Modern Tales - Darkness In Me (AN21 Remix) Andreatens - Chosen Manu BS, Luis Kill - Right Here Ape Drums, LUCH - FFM Felipe Puertes - Dope Shit (Darmon & Baron FR Rework) Marco Dily - Teardrop feat. Aminu (DiMO (BG) Remix) REDOLENT Valeron - Teke Mestiza - Yalili (DiMO (BG) & Diass Remix) House Of TUNEMAN, Bid on us - Lagos Cincity - Voulez Vous DiMO (BG) - Trippin 001 DiMO (BG) - Move This show is syndicated & distributed exclusively by Syndicast. If you are a radio station interested in airing the show or would like to distribute your podcast / radio show please register here: https://syndicast.co.uk/distribution/registration

Our Bucket List episodes showcase the greatest travel experiences on the planet. Today, we're going to the deserts of Arabia to go stargazing with the Bedouin and learn their secrets of the stars. This episode is about learning to see the stars through the eyes of a people who have lived in the Arabian desert for thousands of years, and whose very existence, and survival,l was shaped by the night sky. Recorded on location in our immersive documentary style, this episode is a chance to hear the Bedouin's stories of the sky. For it is through those stories of love, tragedy and revenge that they passed down the secrets of ancient astronomy. When we look at the night's sky we see fiery distant suns and orbiting planets. When they look at it, they see poetry, and the whole gamut of human experience written into each far off sparkling light. Let's set the scene: We have travelled for two hours into the El Harameal desert, from the oasis town of Alula, in Saudi Arabia, a place that few outsiders have seen before. Blankets and pillows are laid out in the sand, night has fallen, and a young Saudi woman named Badrea begins to speak… FIND OUT MORE If you enjoyed this episode, check out our full documentary series which we recorded on location: the Elements of Alula. Our first three episodes: water, earth and air were out last year. It was an incredible trip filled with ancient heritage sites, insane adventures, Arabian horses and one hot air balloon crash that turned out to be the most we've laughed on any trip.  Find out more about the destination at ExperienceAlula.com. Check out @experiencealula on Instagram, Facebook and X for more inspiration and ideas. SPONSORS: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at ⁠betterhelp.com/ARMCHAIR⁠ and get on your way to being your best self. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the link below: ⁠https://link.chtbl.com/r7CGsP51 CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guessing (wrongly) and kicking us off your feed.    Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A major new history of Saudi Arabia, from its eighteenth-century origins to the present day Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, a major player on the international stage and the site of Islam's two holiest cities. It is also one of the world's only absolute monarchies. How did Saudi Arabia get to where it is today? In Saudi Arabia: A Modern History (Yale UP, 2025), David Commins narrates the full history of Saudi Arabia from oasis emirate to present-day attempts to leap to a post-petroleum economy. Moving through the ages, Commins traces how the Saud dynasty's reliance on sectarianism, foreign expertise, and petroleum to stabilize power has unintentionally spawned secular and religious movements seeking accountability and justice. He incorporates the experiences of activists, women, religious minorities, Bedouin, and expatriate workers as the country transformed from subsistence agrarian life to urban consumer society. This is a perceptive portrait of Saudi Arabia's complex and evolving story—and a country that is all too easily misunderstood. David Commins is the Benjamin Rush Chair in the Liberal Arts and Sciences and professor of history at Dickinson College. He is the author of Islam in Saudi Arabia, The Gulf States, and The Wahhabi Mission and Saudi Arabia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

A major new history of Saudi Arabia, from its eighteenth-century origins to the present day Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, a major player on the international stage and the site of Islam's two holiest cities. It is also one of the world's only absolute monarchies. How did Saudi Arabia get to where it is today? In Saudi Arabia: A Modern History (Yale UP, 2025), David Commins narrates the full history of Saudi Arabia from oasis emirate to present-day attempts to leap to a post-petroleum economy. Moving through the ages, Commins traces how the Saud dynasty's reliance on sectarianism, foreign expertise, and petroleum to stabilize power has unintentionally spawned secular and religious movements seeking accountability and justice. He incorporates the experiences of activists, women, religious minorities, Bedouin, and expatriate workers as the country transformed from subsistence agrarian life to urban consumer society. This is a perceptive portrait of Saudi Arabia's complex and evolving story—and a country that is all too easily misunderstood. David Commins is the Benjamin Rush Chair in the Liberal Arts and Sciences and professor of history at Dickinson College. He is the author of Islam in Saudi Arabia, The Gulf States, and The Wahhabi Mission and Saudi Arabia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/gender-studies

A major new history of Saudi Arabia, from its eighteenth-century origins to the present day Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, a major player on the international stage and the site of Islam's two holiest cities. It is also one of the world's only absolute monarchies. How did Saudi Arabia get to where it is today? In Saudi Arabia: A Modern History (Yale UP, 2025), David Commins narrates the full history of Saudi Arabia from oasis emirate to present-day attempts to leap to a post-petroleum economy. Moving through the ages, Commins traces how the Saud dynasty's reliance on sectarianism, foreign expertise, and petroleum to stabilize power has unintentionally spawned secular and religious movements seeking accountability and justice. He incorporates the experiences of activists, women, religious minorities, Bedouin, and expatriate workers as the country transformed from subsistence agrarian life to urban consumer society. This is a perceptive portrait of Saudi Arabia's complex and evolving story—and a country that is all too easily misunderstood. David Commins is the Benjamin Rush Chair in the Liberal Arts and Sciences and professor of history at Dickinson College. He is the author of Islam in Saudi Arabia, The Gulf States, and The Wahhabi Mission and Saudi Arabia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/islamic-studies

A major new history of Saudi Arabia, from its eighteenth-century origins to the present day Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, a major player on the international stage and the site of Islam's two holiest cities. It is also one of the world's only absolute monarchies. How did Saudi Arabia get to where it is today? In Saudi Arabia: A Modern History (Yale UP, 2025), David Commins narrates the full history of Saudi Arabia from oasis emirate to present-day attempts to leap to a post-petroleum economy. Moving through the ages, Commins traces how the Saud dynasty's reliance on sectarianism, foreign expertise, and petroleum to stabilize power has unintentionally spawned secular and religious movements seeking accountability and justice. He incorporates the experiences of activists, women, religious minorities, Bedouin, and expatriate workers as the country transformed from subsistence agrarian life to urban consumer society. This is a perceptive portrait of Saudi Arabia's complex and evolving story—and a country that is all too easily misunderstood. David Commins is the Benjamin Rush Chair in the Liberal Arts and Sciences and professor of history at Dickinson College. He is the author of Islam in Saudi Arabia, The Gulf States, and The Wahhabi Mission and Saudi Arabia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

A major new history of Saudi Arabia, from its eighteenth-century origins to the present day Saudi Arabia is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, a major player on the international stage and the site of Islam's two holiest cities. It is also one of the world's only absolute monarchies. How did Saudi Arabia get to where it is today? In Saudi Arabia: A Modern History (Yale UP, 2025), David Commins narrates the full history of Saudi Arabia from oasis emirate to present-day attempts to leap to a post-petroleum economy. Moving through the ages, Commins traces how the Saud dynasty's reliance on sectarianism, foreign expertise, and petroleum to stabilize power has unintentionally spawned secular and religious movements seeking accountability and justice. He incorporates the experiences of activists, women, religious minorities, Bedouin, and expatriate workers as the country transformed from subsistence agrarian life to urban consumer society. This is a perceptive portrait of Saudi Arabia's complex and evolving story—and a country that is all too easily misunderstood. David Commins is the Benjamin Rush Chair in the Liberal Arts and Sciences and professor of history at Dickinson College. He is the author of Islam in Saudi Arabia, The Gulf States, and The Wahhabi Mission and Saudi Arabia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Full transcript (AI generated)Alhamdulillah, we praise Allah for allowing us to gather on this beautiful—if a little chilly—morning. Alhamdulillah for this amazing weather.It was lovely to see the president of the Islamic society in red and white today. To our Indonesian brothers and sisters: Selamat Hari Kemerdekaan—Happy Independence Day. Eighty years since independence—may Allah keep your nation in peace and strength.If anyone needs proof that Islam was not spread by the sword, just look at our region. You don't find armies forcing Islam upon the people there. Rather, traders—many from Hadramawt in Yemen—came to the Indonesian archipelago. The Indonesians were impressed by their honesty and akhlaq. The sultans and rulers accepted Islam, and as was common then, when a king accepted a faith, much of his people followed.Some argue, “But what about the Indian subcontinent—Pakistan and India—didn't Islam spread there by northern armies?” Even there, the heart of Islam's spread was da‘wah and reason, not compulsion.Look at Syria and Egypt. Egypt was opened by ‘Amr ibn al-‘Ās in the time of ‘Umar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb. Syria and Damascus were opened by Khālid ibn al-Walīd. Muslims ruled those lands, yet it took 500 years before Syria became majority Muslim, and around 300 years for Egypt. If Islam were spread by force, everyone would have “converted” within decades. History shows otherwise.Consider also the monastery of St Catherine in Sinai. It predates Islam, and they proudly claim to hold a letter from the Prophet ﷺ guaranteeing the safety of Christians in Egypt. Whether or not you accept the document, the point stands: Islam lived alongside other faiths. In greater Bilād al-Shām—what we call the Levant—multiple religions have long flourished.A stable nation is a great blessing from Allah. One of the early scholars said: I make du‘ā' for our rulers, that Allah rectifies their affairs. When asked, “Why not just make du‘ā' for yourself?” he replied, “If I pray for myself, only I benefit. If I pray for the ruler, everyone benefits.” Even if a ruler is flawed, there is no harm in asking Allah to guide them and make them just—because a just leader benefits all.When we talk about nation-states, let's be honest: many borders are colonial lines. What separates Malaysia and Indonesia? We are one people in so many ways. We speak closely related languages. Historically, the region has been called by many names: the Malay world, the archipelago, even Jāwī—so scholars from our lands were known in the Arab world as “al-Jāwī,” whether they were Javanese, Malay, Bugis, Makassarese, or others. The difference between Malaysia and Indonesia today largely traces to the Dutch and the British.So how do we relate to nation-states? Two extremes exist. One says, “There is no nation—only the Ummah—restore the Khilāfah now.” The other says, “I will die for this colonial line.” The truth, as our scholars remind us, is the balanced middle path. We are one Ummah of Muhammad ﷺ, and we also live in nation-states. Attempts to tear down states overnight have, in recent history, brought much harm. We live within reality while never forgetting the greater reality: every Muslim we meet is our brother or sister in faith, and that bond is sacred.The Prophet ﷺ himself showed us how to balance love of homeland. He loved Makkah—his birthplace, the land of his ancestors, home of the Ka‘bah built by Ibrāhīm and Ismā‘īl. He left only because it became unsafe—he was forced out. On his way out he turned back and said, “O Makkah, had my people not expelled me, I would never have left you.” But when he migrated to Madīnah, he loved it too, and made du‘ā': “O Allah, make us love Madīnah as we love Makkah, or even more,” and, “O Allah, bless Madīnah twice what You blessed Makkah.”He became part of Madīnah's community—integrating Muhājirīn and Anṣār, building a strong society—while his heart still loved Makkah. That's balance.Many of us here were born elsewhere—Malaysia, Indonesia, Lebanon, and beyond—and migrated to Australia. Love your country of origin; that's natural and from the sunnah of fitrah. But also accept the reality: we live here now by choice. So contribute here. Build here. Strengthen community here. Loving Australia doesn't mean hating your country of origin, and loving your homeland doesn't mean ignoring the reality and responsibilities of this country that has given us so much. Ask: How can I make this country, this society, this community better?I often say: loving the country you live in—serving it—is following the sunnah, because that's what the Prophet ﷺ did in Madīnah. Wherever a Muslim goes, they make the place better. In Malay we say: a good seed grows wherever it lands—even on a mountain. That's the believer: wherever we go, we leave goodness.Today I want to focus on Sūrat al-Ḥujurāt—a chapter I call the community's Standard Operating Procedure. It was revealed in late Madīnan years—around year 9 AH—barely over a year before the Prophet's passing. Year 9 is known as ‘Ām al-Wufūd—the Year of Delegations—with tribes pouring into Madīnah to pledge allegiance: sometimes politically, sometimes religiously.Look at the numbers to feel the context. In Makkah, after 13 years of da‘wah, roughly 80-plus men migrated with the Prophet ﷺ. Within two years in Madīnah, that number grew to around 300. At Uḥud, around 700 fought; by al-Khandaq, 3,000. At the Fath (Conquest) of Makkah in year 8, 10,000. By the Prophet's Ḥajj in year 10, more than 120,000. Exponential growth. What fueled it? One key event was the Treaty of al-Ḥudaybiyyah in year 6: a period of peace. In times of war, growth was modest; in times of peace, da‘wah flourished. Islam spreads best with safety, honesty, and service—not with the sword.Now to al-Ḥujurāt itself—“the Chambers”—named after the simple living quarters of the Prophet ﷺ. Despite becoming the most influential man in Arabia, his home was about 5m x 5m. Think of an IKEA showcase room—that's roughly the size. Before Khaybar, the Sahābah often tied stones to their stomachs from hunger. After Khaybar, prosperity came to the community, but the Prophet's personal lifestyle didn't change. When his household's income increased, he didn't buy a bigger house or a fancier camel. He increased in infaq—in giving. Some of his wives understandably asked for more comfort. Allah revealed that the Prophet's family are held to a higher standard, choosing Allah and the Ākhirah over worldly luxury. (Brothers, don't take this as ammunition against your wives—we are not prophets, and our families are not the Mothers of the Believers. Balance is key. The Prophet also taught that the best charity is what you spend on your family.)The sūrah begins: “O you who believe, do not put yourselves before Allah and His Messenger.” Our feelings and preferences take a back seat when the command of Allah and His Messenger is clear. But clarity matters—this is why the Ummah has tafāsīr and scholarship. In the time of ‘Alī and Mu‘āwiyah, the Khawārij claimed, “Back to Qur'ān and Sunnah!” ‘Alī brought the muṣḥaf and said, “Let the Qur'ān speak.” They said, “It can't.” Exactly—we need scholars; the Qur'ān is interpreted and applied through qualified understanding.Next, adab with the Prophet ﷺ: “Do not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet…” The context: in the Year of Delegations, Abū Bakr and ‘Umar were assigning officials to receive tribes. Their discussion became loud—near the Prophet ﷺ. Allah revealed the warning that raising voices in his presence could nullify deeds. From then, they barely spoke above a whisper before him. One Companion with a naturally loud voice stopped attending the masjid out of fear. The Prophet ﷺ noticed his absence (as was his habit after ṣalāh) and reassured him.How is this relevant now? When you visit al-Rawḍah in Madīnah, remember your adab—don't push, don't argue. And more broadly: respect the Sunnah and ḥadīth. Don't weaponise ḥadīth to defeat one another. Imām Mālik would bathe, dress well, and apply perfume before narrating ḥadīth—because these are the words of the Prophet ﷺ. His mother told him when he was a child: “Learn your teacher's manners before his knowledge.” Many giants of our tradition were raised by remarkable mothers—may Allah increase the piety of our families.Now, the central ayah for our time—49:6:If a fāsiq brings you news, verify (fatabayyanū), lest you harm people out of ignorance and become regretful.Another qirā'ah reads fatathabbātū—establish the truth carefully. Both meanings are needed: verify the facts(tathabbūt) and clarify the context (tabayyun). Something can be factually true but contextually misunderstood. This ayah was revealed when a zakat-collector panicked at the stern-looking welcome of a Bedouin tribe, returned to Madīnah, and reported refusal to pay. War was nearly launched—until the matter was checked and clarified. It was simply a misreading of their manner.Brothers and sisters, we live in an age of instant forwarding. “Shared as received” does not absolve us. Better not to share than to spread harm. The Prophet ﷺ said it's enough falsehood for a person to relay everything they hear. We will be accountable for what we circulate.Next, Allah addresses conflict: “If two groups of believers fight, make peace between them.” Note: believers—disagreement and even fights can sadly occur in this world. Our job is to be peacemakers—afshū al-salām—not arsonists who inflame tensions.Then Allah forbids mockery, belittling nicknames, and demeaning jokes. A one-off joke may pass; repeated “teasing” cuts the heart. Joke with people, not at them. Give good nicknames—like the Prophet ﷺ did with Abū Hurayrah, “father of kittens,” because he loved cats.Finally, the universal ayah—49:13:“O mankind, We created you from male and female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may know one another…”Islam doesn't merely tolerate difference—it celebrates it. Li-ta‘ārafū—so you can truly know one another. Our diversity is a strength, not a weakness.A small story from campus days: we used to hold ifṭār at the Hacker Café. When policy changes demanded payment for bookings, the Malays among us—known for adab and non-confrontation—were ready to accept and move on. Our Arab brothers said, “No, this is our right; let's advocate.” Alhamdulillah, by different strengths working together, we kept the space. Sometimes a firm voice is needed; sometimes a calming voice. We need each other.Even our food is multicultural. Malaysians and Indonesians love sambal, but chilli isn't native to us—it came via Iberian traders after their colonisation of the Americas. They found it too spicy and passed it along; we said, “Bismillah—this is amazing!” Now, a meal without sambal hardly feels complete. That's multiculturalism on a plate.The Anṣār and Muhājirīn had different temperaments. The Prophet ﷺ praised the Anṣārī women for their confidence in asking questions—something Makkan women initially found difficult. Different strengths, one Ummah. Be like the beethat seeks flowers, not the fly that looks for wounds.Even our differences in madhāhib and approaches are strengths. Teaching ‘aqīdah to children benefits from the clarity and simplicity associated with “Salafī” pedagogy; engaging philosophers and other faiths may require the tools preserved in Ash‘arī and Māturīdī kalām. In fiqh, our differences are a mercy. I came from a Shāfi‘ī background where Jumu‘ah requires forty settled men. Early on here, I looked out and counted twenty-eight—then remembered I hadn't checked visa statuses! Alhamdulillah for Ḥanafī fiqh, where a much smaller number suffices. Our differences, handled with adab, make life easier, not harder. The line is only crossed when difference turns to violence or takfīr over minor issues.Thank you for spending your precious, cold winter morning with me. We ask Allah to accept this from us.We make du‘ā' that Allah blesses Indonesia with peace, prosperity, and barakah for her people; that He blesses the entire Ummah; that He blesses Australia and guides its leaders to make wise decisions for the public good—not just for narrow economic interests of some quarter.We ask Allah to protect our brothers and sisters in Palestine, especially Gaza. O Allah, they are hungry—feed them. They are surrounded from every direction—but all directions belong to You. Protect them. Grant the martyrs the highest Jannah. Reunite parents and children separated by rubble, and reunite us with them in Jannah. Do not let our hearts turn away from them when the world turns its back. Use us as means for their aid and liberation. Guide us, employ us in Your service, and accept from us, O Most Merciful.Āmīn. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bequranic.substack.com/subscribe

Professor Kozlowski ventures into the modern era of political philosophy with a look at two titans of early-Renaissance era political philosophy: Ibn Khaldun, the great Islamic historian and proto-sociologist/economist writing in the post-Mongol Invasion Abassid Caliphate, and Machiavelli, the political philosopher so famous that "Machiavellian" has become synonymous with pragmatic-to-the-point-of-being-a-jerk. We will look at their methods, their observations, their conclusions, and - importantly - their legacy.Readings today originate in the Muqaddimah of Ibn Khaldun and Machiavelli's The Prince (as found in the Cohen textbook).Now that we've entered the modern era, additional readings will be plentiful, especially now that people are writing Utopian literature! For today, there is Machiavelli's other landmark work of political philosophy: Discourses on Livy, the tale of "The City of Brass" from the 1001 Arabian Nights, Sir Thomas' More's Utopia, and Tommaso Campanella's City of the Sun. Finally, my video game recommendation is Homeworld: Deserts of Kharnak, as a rough science-fiction approximation of the nomadic Bedouin virtues and problems laid out by Ibn Khaldun. If you're interested in Professor Kozlowski's other online projects, check out his website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professorkozlowski.wordpress.com

Subscribe now for the full episode! Derek welcomes back historian Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi for a discussion about developments in Syria under the new government, which toppled that of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. They talk about the massacres of Alawites at the beginning of this year, the non-governmental militias still operating in the country, clashes between Druze and Bedouin armed groups in the southern city of Suwayda, Israeli involvement, Syrian Democratic Forces activity in the northeast of the country and Turkey's role, and whether the government under Ahmed al-Sharaa can make a “Syria for all Syrians.” Check out Aymenn's book The Conquest of al-Andalus: a Translation of Fath al-Andalus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

01. Omri Smadar, Jenia Tarsol, Nona Choir - Lose Your Soul (Extended Version) 02. Volkoder - Steamy (Original Mix) 03. Luciano Scalioni, W.D.L & NOBE, Benesh - NaNaNa (Original Mix) 04. Meekky - Change (Deflee Remix) 05. OMRI., Benni Ola - Release The Pressure (Original Mix) 06. Rafael - U Make Me 07. Samantha Loveridge - Backtrack Blow Up (Max Styler Remix) 08. Tommy Veanud, Kinky Sound, Kniagna - You Are Good (MODBIT Remix) 09. Jamie Jones & Baby Rose - Rolling Thunder (Extended Mix) 10. Cristoph & Jem Cooke - Rushing (Extended) 11. Skye, Bedouin, Robin M - Heavy On My Mind feat. SKYE (Club Edit) 12. LP Giobbi - You Are (Extended) 13. Tim Engelhardt - U Wanna (Extended Mix)

In July, a brutal highway hijacking in southern Syria sparked tit-for-tat clashes between Druze and Bedouin fighters. During the week-long violence, over a thousand people were killed and more than 125,000 displaced. Syrian government forces and Israel also entered the conflict.The latest hostilities come less than a year after Syrians celebrated the end of dictatorship and the promise of renewal. The resurgence of sectarian violence raises urgent questions about interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa's leadership and whether his government can truly unify a fractured nation.This week on The Inquiry, we're asking: What does Syria's recent conflict tell us about Al-Sharaa's presidency?Presenter: Tanya Beckett Producer: Matt Toulson Researcher: Evie Yabsley Editor: Tara McDermott Technical Producer: Richard HannafordContributors: Dr Rim Turkmani, Research Fellow at Director of Syria Conflict Research Programme (CRP)Makram Rabah, Assistant professor of history at the American University of BeirutDr Rahaf Aldoughli, Middle East and North African Studies at Lancaster UniversityDr Burcu Ozcelik, Senior Research Fellow for Middle East Security at the Royal United Services Institute

Kuwait may be small, but it punches well above its weight in the geography department. Nestled between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, this desert kingdom sits at the crossroads of civilizations where the Arabian Gulf meets millennia of trading history. Think gleaming towers rising from endless sand, souks that smell of cardamom and ambition, and enough oil wealth to make a petrolhead weep with joy. It's a place where Bedouin heritage meets modern luxury, and where getting lost in the desert is both a metaphor and a genuine possibility.Love the pod? Get the guide! Out with each new podcast, we publish a guide to the country. Buy the TrodPod guide to Kuwait for just $3: https://www.patreon.com/posts/trodpod-56-guide-135739199. Better yet, become a TrodPod member for just $5 a month and access TrodPod guides to every country in the world, released weekly with each new podcast episode! Sign up now: https://www.patreon.com/trodpod/membershipThanks for all your support!TrodPod is Murray Garrard and Elle Keymer. Sound editing by Leo Audio Productions. Design and marketing by GPS: Garrard Powell Solutions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clashes between syrian government forces and members of the #druze minority in sweida have recently intensified, drawing in israeli involvement and once again raising concerns about the collapse of Syria's fragile post-war balance. What began as a local dispute between a Druze man and members of a Bedouin tribe has now sparked broader sectarian tensions. Dr. Atef Abdel Gawad discussed this important topic with our distinguished guests: Omar Almuqdad journalist and filmmaker from Syria. Farouk Belal – Farouk Belal is a Syrian-American activist and community organizer. He moved to the U.S. in 2006 and pursued an MS in Business at George Washington University. Farouk is the Co-Founder of the Syrian Cultural House and led the SyriaFest project in Washington, DC. At the community organizing level, Farouk worked closely with key community members to engage, mobilize, and empower the Syrian American community in the DMV area. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board at the Syrian American Council. Rami Nakhla – Rami Nakhla is a Yale World Fellow and veteran Syrian human rights and political activist. He co-founded and served as spokesperson for the Local Coordination Committees during the Syrian uprising, and was a founding member of the Syrian National Council. He has held key roles at the U.S. Institute of Peace and No Peace Without Justice, focusing on Syria's post-conflict transition and war crimes documentation. Today, he is also a successful Syrian refugee entrepreneur in the U.S. The episode was broadcast on July 25, 2025 US Arab Radio can be heard on wnzk 690 AM, WDMV 700 AM, and WPAT 930 AM. Please visit: www.facebook.com/USArabRadio/ Web site : arabradio.us/ Online Radio: www.radio.net/s/usarabradio Twitter : twitter.com/USArabRadio Instagram : www.instagram.com/usarabradio/ Youtube : US Arab Radio

In this episode, we begin the extraordinary story of Alexander Keene Richards, a 19th-century horse breeder from Georgetown, Kentucky, whose bold vision reshaped American horse racing. Drawing from Gary O'Dell's newly published book, Reinventing the American Thoroughbred, we explore Richards' belief that American Thoroughbreds had lost their endurance and needed revitalization through bloodlines from pure Arabian horses.Join us as we follow Richards' daring journey into the Syrian desert in 1851—making him the first Westerner to bargain directly with Bedouin tribes for these prized horses. Discover how this Kentucky visionary brought endurance and excellence back to American racing, laying the groundwork for future champions.Gary's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Reinventing-American-Thoroughbred-Adventures-Alexander/dp/0807183695https://linktr.ee/Kyhistorypod

Episode SummaryIn this poignant episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine welcomes Milad, lead pastor at Hope Evangelical Church in Southern Lebanon and field manager for Heaert For Lebanon's Ministry Center. They delve into the lives of two often-overlooked and marginalized groups in Lebanon: the Bedouins and the Gypsies (Dom and Raja).Milad, who has worked with these communities for years, sheds light on their distinct cultures, histories, and the severe challenges they face, including deep-seated societal discrimination, poverty, and lack of access to essential services like education and healthcare. The conversation highlights the heartbreaking realities these communities endure, such as forced temporary housing, children leaving school early, and limited employment opportunities.Despite the immense difficulties, Heart For Lebanon is actively working to bring hope and transformation. Milad shares how the organization offers educational opportunities through their Hope Center, provides mobile learning experiences with the "Hope on Wheels" truck, distributes essential relief packages, and conducts awareness workshops on legal rights, health, and dignity.A powerful testament to their work is the story of Hassan, a Dom community member who, despite lacking official documents and facing severe discrimination, found employment, education, and spiritual transformation through Heart For Lebanon, eventually getting baptized and becoming a beloved staff member. The episode underscores Heart For Lebanon's commitment to making disciples and extending Christ's love to all, regardless of societal standing, and invites listeners to support their mission through prayer and investment.Show NotesUnderstanding the BedouinsIdentity: Nomadic, desert-dwelling Arab groups known for loyalty, welcoming guests, and oral storytelling traditions.Origin & Lifestyle: Historically from the Arabian Peninsula and Syrian Desert, they followed cattle for grazing. Many now live in valleys or city edges in Lebanon while maintaining their way of life.Economic Activities: Traditionally raised animals and traded along routes. Today, many engage in seasonal work like olive picking due to changing circumstances.Challenges: Difficulty accessing official services like healthcare and education. Face significant societal discrimination, making it hard for Bedouin men to marry Lebanese locals. Children often experience discrimination in public schools.Understanding the Gypsies (Dom, Raja, and Ti)Identity: A small group with roots in South Asia, related to the Romani people. Approximately 8,000 live in Lebanon.Language & Religion: Speak Bari and Arabic; most are of Sunni Muslim background.History & Culture: Arrived in Lebanon centuries ago from South Asia via the Middle East and North Africa. Known for rich musical traditions, crafts, and storytelling. Traditionally performed at celebrations, did seasonal jobs, or made metal goods.Economic Activities & Stigma: Often associated with begging, sex trafficking, and illicit trade. Face severe societal distrust and are rarely hired by Lebanese locals. Girls are sometimes sent to work as dancers in other countries.Challenges: Face extreme social exclusion, low school attendance (even in private schools), poverty, and bias in services. Often forced to live in temporary housing on government or municipal land.Heart For Lebanon's Response and ImpactDignity and Love: Heart For Lebanon treats members of both communities with dignity and Christ-like love.Education: Offers education at their Hope Center, teaching reading, writing, math, and science, along with kindness and respect. Operates "Hope on Wheels," a mobile truck bringing fun and learning directly to camps and tent areas.Relief and Support: Regularly distributes food packages, cleaning supplies, and hygiene kits through their family care and relief program.Awareness Workshops: Provides sessions on legal rights, health, hygiene, dignity, and family issues (e.g., harm of early/child marriage).Spiritual Support: Staff regularly visit homes and tents, leading small Bible study groups and encouraging worship. Churches in the Bekka Valley and Southern Lebanon are welcoming places for both communities.Call to Action:Pray for Heart For Lebanon's work and the communities they serve.Join the Heart For Lebanon prayer ministry: Hartford Lebanon | Prayer.Your support helps expand kingdom work and brings love to those deemed irrelevant by society.Join our email list to stay up-to-date on how God is moving in Lebanon:Email Elio: podcast@heartforlebanon.org https://heartforlebanon.org/emailsignup/ Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content!FOLLOW Heart For Lebanon:Website: https://heartforlebanon.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartforlebanon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartforLebanonTwitter: https://twitter.com/HeartForLebanon #HeartForLebanon #Lebanon #Missions

01. Kice, Kazdoura - Al Ain (Extended Mix) 02. Kimotion - Orient Express (Extended Mix) 03. Darco, Yamagucci - What The F*** Is That (Extended Mix) 04. SAQIB - Karachi Rolling (Original Mix) 05. Nobe, Matvienkov - Wanna Feeling (Original Mix) 06. OMRI., Benni Ola - Release The Pressure (Original Mix) 07. DEFLEE, Panic Chase - Slammin (Extended Mix) 08. CHIQUE - VIBE (Extended Mix) 09. Skye, Bedouin, Robin M - Heavy On My Mind feat. SKYE (Club Edit) 10. LP Giobbi - You Are (Extended Mix) 11. AVG & Obi Franky - Days & Nights (Original Mix) 12. Mollono Bass - Solo Sunny (Edit) 13. Tim Engelhardt - U Wanna (Extended Mix)

Middle East expert Thomas Small joins The Winston Marshall Show for a gripping, eye-opening conversation on the chaos in Syria—focusing on the horrific massacres of the Druze minority and the explosive aftermath of Assad's fall.Small breaks down the recent surge of violence, shedding light on complex tribal dynamics, historical conflicts between Druze and Bedouin tribes, and how Israel's strategic goals have fueled instability in the region. He explains the rise of Jolani, the enigmatic leader now ruling Syria, detailing his shifting allegiances, pragmatism, and complicated relationships with Israel, Iran, and the U.S.They discuss Hezbollah's role, Iran's regional ambitions, the aftermath of Israel's devastating 12-day war against Iran, and the volatile new geopolitical landscape emerging from Syria's continuing chaos.All this—the Druze massacres, Israel's controversial tactics, Jelani's uncertain agenda, and the hidden complexities behind Syria's spiraling crisis…-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------To see more exclusive content and interviews consider subscribing to my substack here: https://www.winstonmarshall.co.uk/-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA:Substack: https://www.winstonmarshall.co.uk/X: https://twitter.com/mrwinmarshallInsta: https://www.instagram.com/winstonmarshallLinktree: https://linktr.ee/winstonmarshall----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:43 Complexity of the Druze Conflict 13:25 Israel's Policy and Druze Community Dynamics 23:50 Israel's Strategic Calculus and Assad's Fall 33:52 Assad's Fall and Regional Dynamics 43:50 Jolani's and Syrian Government's Efforts59:58 Israel's Recent Actions and Their Impact 1:09:44 Opportunities for Regional Stability 1:12:31 Qatari Influence and Criticism 1:18:24 Syria's Potential for Stability and Return of Syrians 1:19:39 Religious Tensions 1:22:09 Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The investigation by the Syrian transition government into the March violence against the Alawites in Latakia province has been submitted—but the full findings have not been made public, and it apparently exonerates the government of involvement. Meanwhile southern Suwayda province has seen a perhaps even deadlier eruption of violence—this time pitting Druze against Bedouin, with the role of the government similarly the source of much contestation (and fodder for Internet partisans). And a Damascus protest against the violence and for co-existence was attacked by goons. Amid all this, Israel is militarily intervening, the government looks to Turkey for military aid, and both the US and Russia still have forces on the ground—treating the country as a Great Power chessboard. In Episode 288 of the CounterVortex podcast, Bill Weinberg argues that the Syrian Revolution is poised on a razor's edge, ready to descend into ethno-sectarian war and authoritarianism unless political space can be kept open for the secular-democratic civil resistance that began the revolution 14 years ago. Listen on SoundCloud or via Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/countervortex Production by Chris Rywalt We ask listeners to donate just $1 per weekly podcast via Patreon -- or $2 for our new special offer! We now have 65 subscribers. If you appreciate our work, please become Number 66!

Kate Adie introduces stories from Syria, Lebanon, Chile, Pakistan and France.Sectarian violence has erupted again in Syria, this time between Druze and Bedouin communities, leaving hundreds of people dead. The country's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, blamed the violence on ‘outlawed factions' and has vowed to protect the Druze. Though as Jon Donnison heard in the Druze-majority town of Suweida, locals are also blaming government forces for the violence.Meanwhile in Lebanon, thousands of Alawite Syrians - the same Shia Muslim sect of the former President Bashar al-Assad - have fled across the border in recent months to escape a previous bout of sectarian violence which broke out back in March. Emily Wither travelled to Tripoli where she met young Alawites looking to define themselves beyond the Assad regime.In Chile we visit a ghost town in the Atacama Desert as it's brought back to life for one day a year. Former residents of Chuquicamata return to where they once lived for an annual party - though the former mining town is now too polluted for humans to live in. Robin Markwell paid a visit.In the Pakistan province of Punjab, authorities have launched a crackdown against people keeping big cats like lions and tigers as household pets. The BBC's Pakistan correspondent Azadeh Moshiri joined wildlife rangers on a raid on an illegal big cat farm.And we're in Marseille where a group of eminent restaurateurs have come together to protect the heritage of a much-treasured French dish - Bouillabaisse. Rob Crossan went to sample a bowl, to see if it lives up to the hype.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Sophie Hill & Katie Morrison Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

Subscribe now to skip the ads. Don't forget to buy our “Welcome to the Crusades” miniseries! Danny and Derek also rail against the war pigs, but lack the heavy riffs. This week: the International Court of Justice rules that wealthy nations must take action on climate change or bear responsibility (1:20); clashes escalate on the Thai-Cambodian border (4:08); a ceasefire holds in Syria's Suwayda province after clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups (9:06); in Israel-Palestine, Gaza's starvation reaches catastrophic levels (13:19) as ceasefire talks barely limp along (16:23); Iran is reengaging with the International Atomic Energy Agency (20:49); the Democratic Republic of the Congo and M23 militant group sign a declaration of intent (23:05); in Ukraine, a new round of peace talks achieves little (25:24) while Zelensky responds to protests over corruption (28:27); Venezuela, the US, and El Salvador carry out a prisoner exchange amid accusations of torture (31:38); the Japan House of Councillors holds an election while PM Ishiba looks likely to resign (33:32); and Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia make trade deals (36:10). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, we witnessed the eruption of violent aggression on behalf of the Syrian government and local Bedouin tribes against Syria's southern Druze community, leaving more than 1,400 people dead. The Druze are a community that also has deep roots in Israel, and over 1,000 Israeli Druze citizens crossed the Israel-Syria border to support their […]

Don't forget to buy our “Welcome to the Crusades” miniseries!Danny and Derek also rail against the war pigs, but lack the heavy riffs. This week: the International Court of Justice rules that wealthy nations must take action on climate change or bear responsibility (1:20); clashes escalate on the Thai-Cambodian border (4:08); a ceasefire holds in Syria's Suwayda province after clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups (9:06); in Israel-Palestine, Gaza's starvation reaches catastrophic levels (13:19) as ceasefire talks barely limp along (16:23); Iran is reengaging with the International Atomic Energy Agency (20:49); the Democratic Republic of the Congo and M23 militant group sign a declaration of intent (23:05); in Ukraine, a new round of peace talks achieves little (25:24) while Zelensky responds to protests over corruption (28:27); Venezuela, the US, and El Salvador carry out a prisoner exchange amid accusations of torture (31:38); the Japan House of Councillors holds an election while PM Ishiba looks likely to resign (33:32); and Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia make trade deals (36:10).Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: Last week, we witnessed the eruption of violent aggression on behalf of the Syrian government and local Bedouin tribes against Syria's southern Druze community, leaving more than 1,400 people dead. The Druze are a community that also has deep roots in Israel, and over 1,000 Israeli Druze citizens crossed the Israel-Syria border to support their brothers and sisters being attacked.In response, Israel launched a series of strikes against military facilities in Damascus, prompting widespread global criticism. As of Saturday, all sides have agreed to a ceasefire. However, we are still seeing reports and videos on social media of Druze being attacked in Southern Syria.Many are asking what to make of Syria's new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former Al Qaeda affiliate who claims to have moderated. People are also wondering to what extent Turkey – a supporter of the new Syrian regime – played a role in what's unfolded in Syria.  Joining us to discuss – and at points, debate – these complex questions are Charles Lister, senior fellow and director of the Syria Initiative at the Middle East Institute, and Hay Eitan Cohen Yanarocak, researcher of modern-day Turkey at the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern and African Studies at Tel Aviv University.(00:00) Introduction(05:05) What happened in Syria?(11:16) The involvement of Turkey(15:06) The U.S. response to Israel's intervention in Syria (31:20) Turkey's ambition(37:51) Did Israel make a mistake?(43:45) OutroCREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer

Miriam Herschlag and Noah Efron discuss (1) The dramatic moments this week when hundreds of Druze from Israel crossed into Syria to help Druze in Suwayda under attack by Bedouin militia and the Syrian army, and hundreds of Druze from Suwayda crossed into Israel to see relatives they had not seen in a generation, and (2) A percussive essay by Ezra Klein called “Why American Jews No Longer Understand One Another.” Plus, the “Admor of Hope,” Miriam doing drugs, Noah seeing shows and a heartbreaking new record by a brother who lost a brother in Gaza. Hear the Extra-Special, Special Extra Segment on Patreon For our most unreasonably generous Patreon supporters, in our extra-special, special extra discussion: What are “the Three Weeks” like in these ash-and-sackclothy times?

It's Wednesday, July 23rd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Muslims kill Syrian pastor and 20 members of family Syrian Muslims took the life of a pastor and 20 members of his family over the weekend. Khalid Mezher was the pastor of the Good Shepherd Evangelical Church in southern Syria. He and his family converted to Christianity years ago out of a religious group in the area known as the Druze.  Violence between Druze militias and fighters from the Bedouin tribes, which are mostly Muslim, has taken the lives of hundreds of people over the last week.  Evangelical leader Johnnie Moore wrote on X, “Pastor Khalid died for a faith that many Christians hardly live. They are now martyrs who gave their entire lives, in difficult circumstances, to share the love of Jesus with their neighbors and beloved Syria.” In Matthew 16:25, Jesus said, “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” Puerto Rico protects kids from transsexual drugs and surgeries Puerto Rico is protecting children from transsexual drugs and surgeries. Last Wednesday, Republican Governor Jenniffer González Colón signed the Law for the Protection of the Health and Well-being of Minors in Puerto Rico. Harming children with such transsexual procedures is punishable by 15 years in prison.   Puerto Rico joins nearly 30 states in America with similar bans. Japan to invest $550 billion into America President Donald Trump secured a great deal with Japan, reports The Epoch Times. On Truth Social, President Trump announced, “We just completed a massive deal with Japan, perhaps the largest deal ever made. Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 billion into the United States, which will receive 90% of the profits. “This deal will create hundreds of thousands of jobs. There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their country to trade including cars and trucks, rice and certain other agricultural products. … Japan will pay reciprocal tariffs to the United States of 15%.” CBS/Skydance to pay Trump Foundation $36 million President Trump recently reached a $16 million settlement with Paramount, the parent of CBS News, over what he claimed was misleading editing of a pre-election interview with the Democratic candidate for president, Kamala Harris, reports The Guardian. While CBS initially called the lawsuit “completely without merit”, Paramount is in the midst of an $8 billion sale to the Hollywood studio Skydance Media, which requires the approval of federal regulators. President Trump has claimed that the future owner of CBS will provide him with $20 million worth of advertising and programming – days after the network canceled The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “We have just achieved a BIG AND IMPORTANT WIN in our historic lawsuit against 60 Minutes, CBS, and Paramount. … CBS and its corporate owners knew that they defrauded the American people, and were desperate to settle. Paramount/CBS/60 Minutes have today paid $16 Million in settlement, and we also anticipate receiving $20 million more from the new owners, in advertising, PSAs, or similar programming, for a total of over $36 million dollars.” He added, “This is another in a long line of VICTORIES over the Fake News Media, who we are holding to account for their widespread fraud and deceit. The Wall Street Journal, The Failing New York Times, The Washington Post, MSDNC, CNN, and all other Mainstream Media Liars, are ON NOTICE that the days of them being allowed to deceive the American people are OVER.” Federal workforce shrunk by 22,000 people A report by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond found the U.S. federal workforce has shrunk by over 22,000 people from January to May of this year. Chuck Ezell, the Acting Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, said, “The American people deserve a government that is lean, efficient, and focused on core priorities. This data marks the first measurable step toward President Trumpʼs vision of a disciplined, accountable federal workforce and itʼs only the beginning.” Trump has also extended his hiring freeze on federal workers through October. Foreign buyers purchased $56 billion worth of U.S. homes The National Association of Realtors reports that foreign buyers purchased $56 billion worth of U.S. homes from April 2024 through March 2025. The number of home purchases by foreign buyers rose to over 78,000 this year. That's up from last year's report, but still down from 284,000 purchases in 2017.  The top destination states for foreign buyers include Florida, California, Texas, and New York. The most popular origin countries of international buyers are China, Canada, Mexico, India, and the United Kingdom. China's share of buyers has gone up significantly since 2007. Star from The Cosby Show drowned Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who portrayed the teenage son Theo Huxtable on “The Cosby Show”, died at 54 in an accidental drowning in Costa Rica, reports the Associated Press. Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Department said Warner drowned Sunday afternoon, July 20th on a beach on Costa Rica's Limón province when a current pulled him deeper into the ocean. His character, Theo, was the only son among four daughters in the household of Cosby's Cliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad's Clair Huxtable on the NBC sitcom. He was one of the prime representations of American teenage life and Black boyhood on a show that was the most popular in America for much of its run from 1984 to 1992. Christian golfer says priorities are faith, family, then golf And finally, Scottie Scheffler won the Open Championship earlier this week. Also known as the British Open, it's the oldest golf tournament in the world.  The American professional golfer has won 20 times worldwide since 2022. After his latest victory, Scheffler told reporters he enjoys golf but that faith and family are his greatest priorities.  SCHEFFLER: “I would say my greatest priorities are my faith and my family. Those come first for me. Golf is third in that I've said it for a long time. Golf is not how I identify myself. I don't identify myself by winning tournaments, chasing trophies, being famous or whatever it is. “This week, I was the best player in the world. I'm sitting here with the trophy. We're gonna start all over in Memphis, back to even par. Show goes on. I don't feel any different because I've won a golf tournament. This is not the ‘be all end all' for me, but I'm extremely grateful for it. “I don't think that I'm anything special, just because some weeks, I'm better at shooting a lower score than other guys are.” Scheffler's love for family inspired a Nike ad that celebrates fatherhood. The footwear company posted a picture of Scheffler on the golf course with his infant son. Nike wrote, “Priorities unchanged. Another major secured. The wins keep coming on and off the course for Scottie Scheffler.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, July 23rd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Violence has flared up again in Syria, this time in the southern province of Suweida. Fighting has broken out between the government forces and two minority groups: the Druze and the Bedouins. It's not the first time that the stability of the country has been shaken since the fall of dictator Bashar al-Assad last December. But it signals the challenges the new government faces - not just from internal violence, but from its neighbours. Israel launched air strikes on Suweida and the Syrian capital, Damascus, and says it will only hold a US-backed ceasefire if the Druze are protected. So, what's behind this conflict - and what does it mean for the future of Syria?We speak to BBC Monitoring journalist Tess Mallinder Heron, to explain who the different groups involved in the fighting are and what's behind the dispute. And we hear from our BBC Middle East Correspondent in Damascus, Lina Sinjab, who tells us what life has been like for people in Syria since the fall of Assad's regime - and how the new government is trying to maintain control in Syria.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

Mid-east expert Ksenia Svetlova says that Israel’s policy toward Syria was “schizophrenic” and reduced to tactical measures. A former member of the Knesset and today executive director of ROPES, the Regional Organization for Peace, Economics and Security, Svetlova told reporter Arieh O’Sullivan that the Druse conflict with the Bedouin has been longstanding and vicious, some of it over drug trafficking routes and that the Druse in Syria themselves are divided over receiving aid from Israel. (photo: Omar Sanadiki/AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports that the Syrian government have started evacuating Bedouin families from Sweida, in bid to end week-long clashes.

UN slams Israel's new evacuation order in Gaza as blow to lifesaving aid "The United Nations is condemning Israel's latest evacuation order in central Gaza, calling it a serious threat to humanitarian efforts. In a statement, the UN warned that this new ultimatum could bring already struggling aid operations to a halt and make life even more unbearable for civilians on the ground. The UN's humanitarian office says at least a thousand families have already fled the area in the past few hours." US officials reportedly growing frustrated with Netanyahu "There is increasing tension in Washington over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's military decisions, especially following recent air strikes in Syria. According to a report by Axios, some senior officials in the White House have expressed serious concern, stating that Netanyahu's actions are becoming too unpredictable and disruptive. One official criticised the Israeli leader for behaving like a ""madman"" who ""bombs everything all the time.""" Death toll from Sweida clashes in Syria reportedly rises to 426 "The deadly clashes in Syria's southern Sweida province have now claimed at least 426 lives, according to the Syrian Network for Human Rights. The fighting, which broke out about a week ago, pits an alliance of Bedouin tribal fighters against Druze militias. The toll includes some of the most vulnerable: seven children, ten women, six health care workers, and two media professionals, SNHR said in its latest statement covering the period from July 13 to July 20." Iran, E3 countries agree to resume nuclear talks in Istanbul "Iran and the E3 — France, Germany, and Britain — are returning to the negotiation table. Talks on Iran's nuclear programme are scheduled to resume this Friday in Istanbul, according to Iranian broadcaster Press TV. Earlier reports suggested a tentative agreement to restart discussions sometime next week, but it is now official with the timing and location of the talks confirmed." Japanese PM vows to stay on despite losing majority in Upper House elections "Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's party appears to have lost its majority in the country's Upper House elections. Local media outlets, including Nippon TV and TBS, project that the ruling coalition of Ishiba's Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito has only secured around 41 of the 125 contested seats. That's well short of the 50 needed to maintain control."

There have been further clashes in Syria's Suweida province where gunmen from the Bedouin community have continued to target the Druze minority in defiance of a ceasefire. Also today: another twist in the complex relationship between Rupert Murdoch and Donald Trump; and a symphonic tribute to The Beatles.(Photo: Bedouin fighters stand in the back of a truck at an Internal Security Forces checkpoint working to prevent Bedouin fighters from advancing towards Suweida, following renewed fighting between Bedouin fighters and Druze gunmen, despite an announced truce, in Walgha, Suweida province, Syria July 19, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi)

The former editor of a newspaper linked to the regime in Iran told his 150,000 followers on X last week that Israel's success in the recent Twelve-Day War was due to its deployment of “the occult and supernatural forces.”  This isn't the first time Israel's enemies have accused it of secret weapons. In 2015 and again in 2022, Hamas accused Israel of using dolphins as spies and assassins to counter Palestinian frogmen off the coast of Gaza. On a more serious note, we discuss deadly clashes this past week between Druze and Bedouin tribesmen in Suweida, a majority Druze region in southern Syria. The Druze asked Israel for help defending themselves against attacks by the Sunni Bedouins, who may have been aided by the Islamist government in Damascus. Israel responded with airstrikes on regime forces headed south towards Suweida. Sorting truth from propaganda is difficult as both sides, Sunni and Druze, accuse the other of atrocities. With many Druze on Israel's side of the border, who are respected and valued members of Israeli society, the IDF won't be giving up the buffer zone it's established inside Syria anytime soon. We also discuss the anger of President Trump's base over the non-release of the Epstein files, and how two events this week have flipped the narrative: Trump's directive to AG Pam Bondi to petition the court to release grand jury transcripts related to the Epstein investigation, and the Wall Street Journal article this week reporting, without evidence, that Trump sent Epstein a crude, salacious birthday letter years ago. The court won't release the transcripts because grand jury testimony is always secret (and for good reason), but it takes the onus off Bondi for promising to do something she doesn't have the power to do, and the latest example of the legacy media attacking Trump with fake news reminded his base who the true enemies of democracy are. Also: Elon Musk announces that new Teslas will feature a Grok-powered AI companion. Just what we need—more distracted drivers (and more people interfacing artificial humans instead of family members). NOTE: If you'e going to Israel with us in October, you'll need to apply for a visa online before you travel. The cost is 25 NIS (about $7.50). Log on here: https://www.gov.il/en/departments/topics/eta-il/govil-landing-page Our new book The Gates of Hell is now available in paperback, Kindle, and as an audiobook at Audible! Derek's new book Destination: Earth, co-authored with Donna Howell and Allie Anderson, is now available in paperback, Kindle, and as an audiobook at Audible! Sharon's niece, Sarah Sachleben, was recently diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, and the medical bills are piling up. If you are led to help, please go to GilbertHouse.org/hopeforsarah. Follow us! X (formerly Twitter): @pidradio | @sharonkgilbert | @derekgilbert | @gilberthouse_tvTelegram: t.me/gilberthouse | t.me/sharonsroom | t.me/viewfromthebunkerSubstack: gilberthouse.substack.comYouTube: @GilbertHouse | @UnravelingRevelationFacebook.com/pidradio —————— JOIN US IN ISRAEL! We will tour the Holy Land October 19–30, 2025. For more information, log on to GilbertHouse.org/travel. Thank you for making our Build Barn Better project a reality! Our 1,200 square foot pole barn has a new HVAC system, epoxy floor, 100-amp electric service, new windows, insulation, lights, and ceiling fans! If you are so led, you can help out by clicking here: gilberthouse.org/donate. Get our free app! It connects you to this podcast, our weekly Bible studies, and our weekly video programs Unraveling Revelation and A View from the Bunker. The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, and Apple TV. Links to the app stores are at pidradio.com/app. Video on demand of our best teachings! Stream presentations and teachings based on our research at our new video on demand site: gilberthouse.org/video! Think better, feel better! Our partners at Simply Clean Foods offer freeze-dried, 100% GMO-free food and delicious, vacuum-packed fair trade coffee from Honduras. Find out more at GilbertHouse.org/store/.

Renewed clashes between Bedouin tribesmen and members of the minority Druze Community have erupted in the south of Syria. A war monitoring group says there's been fighting and shelling in neighbourhoods of the mainly Druze city of Suweida. We'll hear from Damascus and get a US view of Israel's policy.Also, why President Trump and some of his most loyal supporters are at odds over the late, disgraced financier, Jeffrey Epstein.And some virtuoso piano playing from a performer born with only one hand.(Photo: Syria's interim president said government forces had expelled "outlaw groups" in Suweida. Credit: Reuters)

In our news wrap Friday, Brazil's Supreme Court has ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an ankle monitor during his trial, President Trump signed the first major legislation aimed at regulating cryptocurrencies into law, violence between Druze militias and Bedouin clans returned to Syria and flooding killed at least 57 people in Pakistan. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, as violence between Syria's Druze and Bedouin communities reached a boiling point in the southern city of Sweida, hundreds of Druze rushed across the border from Israel, vowing to protect their community in Syria. Israel joined in as the protector of the Syrian Druze and the IDF said it struck over 160 targets in Syria, mostly in the area of Sweida, including government tanks and machine guns headed there. The military also said it was bolstering forces in the Golan Heights, on the Syrian border, in preparation for days of potential conflict. Likewise, the Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi Kalman Ber issued an open call to Israel and the world to help the Druze in Syria, citing the biblical commandment “not to stand by the blood of your neighbor.” We delve into the origins of the mysterious religion and Israeli ties to the ancient people which came to settle in what is today three nations: Lebanon, Syria and Israel. We discuss what could be Israel's motivations in taking on the mantle of protector of the persecuted minority -- and international backlash to it. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: A woman carries a Druze and an Israeli flag near the US Embassy in Jerusalem on July 16, 2025. (AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The city of Sweida in southern Syria became a battleground this week after a series of retaliatory attacks between Druze militiamen and Bedouin tribes escalated. President Ahmad Al Shara's government deployed general security forces to the area, ostensibly to restore order. What followed were deadly confrontations and dozens of soldiers were killed. But residents of the Druze-majority city say the government's response was brutal. Populous neighbourhoods came under heavy shelling, forcing people to flee, and civilians were killed in the crossfire. From across the border, Israel intervened with strikes on key government sites including the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Damascus. It stepped in to defend the Druze, Israeli officials said. The violence killed hundreds of people before a ceasefire was announced on Wednesday. But what is at the root of the tension between this Druze minority and the new leadership in Syria? And why is Israel imposing itself on the conflict? In this episode of Beyond the Headlines, host Nada AlTaher digs deep into the many complex layers that brought bloodshed to Sweida this week. She speaks to Syria experts and academics Rahaf Aldoughli and Joshua Landis, and we also hear from a Druze fighter involved in the conflict. Jake Pace Lawrie contributed reporting to this episode. Editor's Note: We want to hear from you! Help us improve our podcasts by taking our 2-minute listener survey. Click here.

In our news wrap Friday, Brazil's Supreme Court has ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an ankle monitor during his trial, President Trump signed the first major legislation aimed at regulating cryptocurrencies into law, violence between Druze militias and Bedouin clans returned to Syria and flooding killed at least 57 people in Pakistan. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Sectarian fighting has resumed in southern Syria, prompting the government to redeploy forces to the region, which had pulled out after a ceasefire was brokered. Bedouin tribesmen and other militias have clashed with the Druze minority and hundreds are reported dead. The UN says it has credible evidence of summary executions and killings. We heard from a Druze woman who described how her family was killed.US President Donald Trump has sued Rupert Murdoch and The Wall Street Journal after the newspaper reported allegations that Trump's name appeared on a "bawdy" 2003 birthday card to Epstein, who died by suicide in jail in 2019.And as a Russian conductor who is close to Vladimir Putin is invited to a music festival in Italy, we discuss whether culture can be separated from those who promote it.

Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On Monday, the three Haredi parties in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition were presented with a draft of a new Haredi conscription bill, which they say did not satisfy their demands for military exemption for Haredi youth.This led two of the parties, Degel HaTorah and Agudat Yisrael, to leave Netanyahu's government on Monday, bringing the coalition down from 68 to 61 seats, which is the smallest possible majority in the 120 seat Knesset. On Wednesday, Shas, another Haredi party, announced its resignation from the government, but not from the coalition, leaving the coalition's majority at an extremely thin margin. In other news, over the past couple days, the new Syrian government led by Ahmed el-Sharaa, has been working alongside local Bedouin tribes to violently target Syria's southern Druze community. This has prompted around 1,000 Israeli Druze to breach the Israel-Syria border in an effort to join their brothers and sisters' struggle. In response to the Syrian government's actions, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting military infrastructure in Damascus.  To unpack the developments taking place in Netanyahu's government, as well as the chaos unfolding in Syria, we were joined by Call me Back contributors Nadav Eyal and Amit Segal.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Magid reviews the chaotic conflict that unfolded in Syria over the last days between the Syrian Druze minority, the Bedouin in Syria, and at times, Syrian-linked militia troops. US pressure on Israel pushed forward a quick resolution on the situation, bringing forward a ceasefire and Magid points out that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa ultimately wants the various ethnic groups in Syria, including the Druze and Bedouin, to fall in line, particularly as Syria and Israel have been moving forward toward more cooperation. As ultra-Orthodox party Shas left its ministerial positions in the government in protest over the proposed Haredi enlistment law, Magid discusses whether the Shas move could lead to early elections after the upcoming summer session break. A Gaza deal seems possible, says Magid, as Israel rolled back some of its demands regarding aspects of its withdrawal from Gaza, and mediators are currently more optimistic regarding a possible deal. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Syrian gov’t forces begin withdrawing from Sweida as Israel vows to protect Druze Rubio: ‘We think we’re on our way toward a real deescalation’ between Israel, Syria Shas bolts government over Haredi enlistment, remains part of PM’s coalition Official says Gaza deal ‘more likely than not,’ as Israel said to retract pullback demands Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Druze residents protest near the Israel-Syria border fence in solidarity with their community in Syria, July 16, 2025. (Photo by Michael Giladi/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Editors Jimmy Lovaas and Agnese Boffano discuss the clashes between Syria's Druze and Bedouin communities that have killed more than 160 people and prompted Israel to bomb Damascus, plus more on an election in Japan, a parliament session in India, new immigration rules in the UK and the World Court issuing a climate change opinion.Subscribe to the show: Apple Podcasts, Spotify and many more. These stories and others are also available in our free weekly Forecast newsletter.This episode includes work from Factal editors Agnese Boffano, David Wyllie, Vivian Wang, Jess Fino and Jeff Landset. Produced and edited by Jimmy Lovaas. Music courtesy of Andrew Gospe. Have feedback, suggestions or events we've missed? Drop us a note: hello@factal.comWhat's Factal? Created by the founders of Breaking News, Factal alerts companies to global incidents that pose an immediate risk to their people or business operations. We provide trusted verification, precise incident mapping and a collaboration platform for corporate security, travel safety and emergency management teams. If you're a company interested in a trial, please email sales@factal.com. To learn more, visit Factal.com, browse the Factal blog or email us at hello@factal.com.Read the full episode description and transcript on Factal's blog.Copyright © 2025 Factal. All rights reserved.

Prime Minister Mark Carney's promise of “prosperity for generations” is not convincing all of the Indigenous leaders he met with today. They're worried about legislation to push through infrastructure projects. The leaders say they aren't being consulted.And: Reports of more clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups and another Israeli airstrike in Southern Syria are putting pressure on a fragile ceasefire. Syria's leadership is struggling to assert control and international officials are calling for calm.Also: The next U.K. general election isn't expected for a few years. But when it happens, the government wants the electorate to be larger and younger. The government intends to lower the voting age to 16.Plus: An experimental treatment uses the DNA of three people to create embryos without mitochondrial disease, Calgary defense lawyers say a police officer charged with double murder is getting preferential treatment, Arsenal pays $1.84 million for Canadian soccer star Olivia Smith, and more.

//The Wire//2000Z July 15, 2025////ROUTINE////BLUF: FLOODING CONTINUES THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES. CONCERNS GROWING REGARDING SHIFTING PRIORITIES IN WASHINGTON.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE------International Events-Syria: Conflict has erupted once again, as fighting has flared up between Druze militias and the  collection of Bedouin and pro-government forces loosely aligned under al-Jolani's new regime. A few hundred casualties have been reported in the town of Suwayda over the weekend, and a very hesitant "ceasefire" has been declared after this latest round of fighting.-HomeFront-Colorado: Following a high-profile kidnapping attempt that occurred in Aurora last year, a District Attorney has faced backlash for her efforts to free the perpetrator of the attack. Solomon Galligan was arrested for attempting to kidnap a child on the street in Aurora last year, and on Monday reports emerged that DA Amy Padden was attempting to drop all charges against him because he was found mentally incompetent to stand trial.USA: Flooding incidents continue as before, with heavy rainfall causing flooding throughout New York and New Jersey overnight. In Texas, recovery efforts continue amid constant heavy rainfall, with roughly 160x persons still being reported missing from the initial flooding crisis that struck the Guadalupe River basin two weeks ago. The casualty count for the floods in Texas so far remains at 132x reported fatalities.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: At the moment, the White House appears to be radically shifting priorities on many different issues. The shift to cover up the Epstein client list, and to hush-up all aspects of the case is without question a bridge too far for most people to accept. Claiming that the largest known human trafficking network in the world simply had no clients is an incredulous turning point in history that President Trump will not be able to walk away from hoping that everyone forgets. Likewise, relations between the United States and Russia have deteriorated further following the events of the past few days. The war in Ukraine has sharply veered away from any sort of peace agreement, with the United States ramping up arms shipments to Ukraine once again. Though nothing is confirmed at this point, the usual leaks have indicated that the White House is considering the next wave of aid to Ukraine, and what weapons systems it will entail. Some whispers suggest the US will allow Ukraine to increase direct attacks on Moscow with American arms, and other rumors suggest that the US is looking to send more capable arms and missiles with which to continue the war. Time will tell what is decided, but the bottom line is that the flow chart is pointing toward an increase in the war's activity, and all parties are trending away from peace talks.Analyst: S2A1Research: https://publish.obsidian.md/s2underground//END REPORT//

As violence breaks out in Syria again, Tara Kangarlou and Olga Tokariuk join Andrew Mueller to discuss what this spells out for the future of the country and relations with Israel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Examining the history of nomadic pastoralism across Asia—from the Caucasus and Central Asian steppes to ancient Mesopotamia—reveals a consistent pattern: settled elites have repeatedly waged war against pastoral peoples. Both the Bible and the Qur'an emerged from nomadic pastoral societies, yet these same texts were later weaponized by sedentary civilizations against the very peoples once nurtured by them. We are witnessing this tragic pattern unfold again in real time—perhaps in its most brutal form yet—with escalating consequences that now reach into the heart of the West, the heir of Greco-Roman hubris.Even in pre-biblical East Asian traditions, such as the Confucian Book of Odes, herdsmen arrive with their flocks to establish an unnamed prince—a figure who emerges not from the city but from the periphery to usher in an era of divine justice. This archetype, consolidated in the Bible and the Qur'an, becomes active in the world whenever and wherever the voice from the pasture rises against the corruption of the palace.This is the Voice of the Scriptural God—The Voice of the Shepherd.It will not be silenced.It cannot be bought.It does not serve a throne.It does not belong to anyone.It roams freely upon the earth,calling its flock from the outlands, out of the city to the wilderness.The Biblical Jesus is near, habibi—And it's time for the Lord to act.It's time for Ibrahim's Discords.سُبْحَانَ مَنْ جَعَلَ فِي الْحَمْدِ نُورًا(subḥāna man jaʿala fī al-ḥamdi nūran)“Glory to the one who placed light within praise.”This week, I discuss Luke 8:32-34.Photo by Cajeo Zhang on UnsplashShow notesἀγέλη (agelē) / ע־ד־ר (ʿayin–dalet–resh) / غ–د–ر (ghayn–dāl–rāʾ)In the Gospel of Matthew, we are warned that God will separate the sheep from the goats. Mishearing this, the rule-followers among us foolishly turn their gaze outward, seeking to teach others which rules to follow. In doing so, they become goat-finders and goat-fixers—lions and bears who come not to protect the flock but to steal sheep from it.But in Luke's application of ע־ד־ר (ʿayin–dalet–resh) from the Song of Songs, this dichotomy is flipped on its head. When the mashal unfolds at the Decapolis in Luke, the Song's poetic use of ἀγέλη (agelē)—interchanging goats and sheep—reveals the Bible's mockery of human rule-followers. The constant switch between goats and sheep in the Song of Songs reflects a deliberate poetic symmetry: the goats evoke movement and allure (hair), while the sheep evoke purity and precision (teeth).This imagery, drawn from real pastoral life, is repurposed to undermine self-righteous Hellenistic legal constructs. There is no intent in the text to constrain the beloved or to define her by a boundary. Rather, it moves freely—dark and light, wild and ordered, descending and ascending—a complete pastoral image that cannot be systematized. The beloved is named not to be limited, but to be delighted in—not judged, but adored.David said to Saul, “Your servant was tending his father's flock [הָעֵדֶר (hā-ʿēder)], and when a lion or a bear came and took a sheep from the flock…” (1 Samuel 17:34)Know well the condition of your flocks [עֲדָרִים (ʿădārīm)], and pay attention to your herds; (Proverbs 27:23)Tell me, you whom my soul loves, where do you pasture your flock [עֵדֶר (ʿeder)], where do you have it lie down at noon? For why should I be like one who veils herself beside the flocks of your companions? (Song of Songs 1:7)Your hair is like a flock [כְּעֵדֶר (kə-ʿēder)] of goats, coming down from Mount Gilead. (Song of Songs 4:1)Your teeth are like a flock [כְּעֵדֶר (kə-ʿēder)] of newly shorn sheep, which have come up from their watering place… (Song of Songs 4:2)Your hair is like a flock [כְּעֵדֶר (kə-ʿēder)] of goats that have descended from Gilead. (Song of Songs 6:4)Your teeth are like a flock [כְּעֵדֶר (kə-ʿēder)] of ewes which have come up from their watering place… (Song of Songs 6:5)Still, even in the open pasture, there are rules of engagement. This is how one should hear the text—as a Bedouin.Surat Al-Anfāl (سورة الأنفال, The Spoils of War) addresses the terms of conflict and the proper conduct of the faithful toward their enemies. It contains the Qur'an's only occurrence of the Lukan-corresponding root غ–د–ر (ghayn–dāl–rāʾ)—a term that denotes treachery or betrayal. Even when nomadic clans behave treacherously, those who follow God are commanded to act transparently—even in the face of betrayal. The response to ghadr is not reciprocal deceit, but open disengagement.The verse also contains the word قَوْمٍ (qawm), meaning “those who stand or rise together as a group,” from the root ق–و–م (qāf–wāw–mīm). Its presence evokes the image of a herd rising for judgment—a disobedient gathering whose posture does not guarantee righteousness. Instead, it invokes divine judgment, alluding to the Day of the Lord. This imagery echoes the Gosp...