Podcasts about companions

"Husband and wife, they were both of noble and wealthy families in Nicomedia. Adrian was the governor of the Praetorium and a pagan, and Natalia was a secret Christian. They were both young, and had lived in wedlock for thirteen months in all before their martyrdom. When the wicked Emperor Maximian visited Nicomedia, he ordered that the Christians be seized and put to torture. There were twenty-three Christians hidden in a cave near the city. Someone handed them over to the authorities and they were cruelly flogged with leather whips and staves, and thrown into prison. They were then taken from prison and brought before the Praetor for their names to be noted. Adrian looked a these people, tortured but unbowed, peaceful and meek, and he put them under oath to say what they hoped for from their God, that they should undergo such tortures. They spoke to him of the blessedness of the righteous in the Kingdom of God. Hearing this, and again looking at these people, Adrian suddenly turned to the scribe and said: 'Write my name along with those of these saints; I also am a Christian.' When the Emperor heard of this, he asked him: 'Have you lost your mind?' Adrian replied: 'I haven't lost it, but found it!' Hearing this, Natalia rejoiced greatly, and, when Adrian sat chained with the others in prison, came and ministered to them all. When they flogged her husband and put him to various tortures, she encouraged him to endure to the end. After long torture and imprisonment, the Emperor ordered that they be taken to the prison anvil, for their arms and legs to be broken with hammers. This was done and Adrian, along with the twenty-three others, breathed his last under the vicious tortures. Natalia took their relics to Constantinople and there buried them. After several days, Adrian appeared to her, bathed in light and beauty and calling her to come to God, and she peacefully gave her soul into her Lord's hands." (Prologue)

Urdu Friday Sermon delivered by Khalifa-tul-Masih on August 21st, 2026 (audio)

Welcome back to another episode of Your Morning: The Podcast! This week, we explore the intersection of technology, health, and human achievement with a wide-ranging set of interviews. In this episode: AI & Loneliness: We look at how AI companions are helping seniors feel less isolated. Alzheimer’s Breakthrough: Dr. Rachel Buckley from Mass General Brigham discusses new research on blood tests that could detect Alzheimer’s risk. Birding for Beginners: Dan Riskin shares why exploring nature is good for the brain and offers tips to get started. The Fields Medal: We sit down with Jacob Tsimerman, a U of T professor and the first mathematician at a Canadian institution to win the "Nobel Prize of Mathematics." Rogue AI: Associate Professor Ketra Schmitt discusses the state of autonomous technology and the guardrails keeping them from going rogue. The Secret to Better Sleep: Sleep expert Amanda Jewson walks us through the viral 'Mokan Undo' move and other science-backed tips for a better night's rest. Don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly dose of insightful interviews and expert advice!

This is our daily Tech and Business Report. People are spending more on treatments such as red light therapy and peptides to extend their dogs' life span. For more on this, KCBS Radio News Anchor Margie Shafer spoke with Bloomberg News Reporter Anna Edney.

Jeffrey Epstein's final weeks at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan placed him in close proximity to several inmates who later became important witnesses to his state of mind and the conditions surrounding his death. One of them was William “Bill” Mersey, who has described himself as one of Epstein's closest jailhouse companions during the final month of Epstein's life. Mersey later said that he spent hours talking with Epstein and came to believe that Epstein was increasingly despondent after being denied bail and confronted with the reality of spending years, perhaps the rest of his life, behind bars. Mersey has since argued forcefully that Epstein died by suicide, saying the circumstances he observed inside MCC and Epstein's deteriorating outlook made that conclusion overwhelmingly likely in his view. He also described a jail environment plagued by dysfunction and incompetence, themes he later explored in his memoir about serving time at MCC alongside figures including Epstein and Paul Manafort. Mersey's recollections are significant because they offer a firsthand account of Epstein during a period when investigators were trying to determine whether his behavior suggested suicidal intent, although his conclusions remain those of a fellow inmate rather than an official forensic finding.Another important figure was Efrain “Stone” Reyes, a Bronx drug defendant who was reportedly Epstein's final cellmate before being transferred out of MCC shortly before Epstein died on August 10, 2019. According to accounts attributed to people who knew Reyes, the two men formed an unlikely relationship inside the jail, talking about Epstein's wealth and life while sharing a cell under extremely restrictive conditions. Reports said Epstein sometimes helped Reyes obtain medication to sleep and that Reyes later spoke with federal authorities about what he had observed inside MCC. After Epstein's death, Reyes was reportedly questioned repeatedly by investigators and was said to have told associates that then-Attorney General William Barr personally questioned him about staffing and conditions at the facility. Reyes was subsequently moved to a detention center used in part for cooperating witnesses, later contracted COVID-19, was released, and died in 2020. Taken together, Mersey and Reyes became unusual but potentially important witnesses to Epstein's final chapter: ordinary inmates who saw him away from lawyers, cameras and wealthy associates, and whose recollections became part of the continuing debate over Epstein's mental state, his treatment inside MCC and the extraordinary institutional failures surrounding his death.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

The Outer Realm welcomes Fellow UPRN Host of the Creature Code, Angel Morgan Date: August 12th, 2026 EP: 757 DISCUSSION: Tonight, Angel and I will venture beyond the physical and explore the mystical world of animals discussing their intuition and abilities. Topics will include and not be limited to, their place within the Paranormal, as Guardians, Healers, Companions and much more. Please join us as We will delve into the multiple facets of these amazing Souls. Contact for the show - theouterrealmcontact@gmail.com https://linktr.ee/michelledesrochers_ Please support us by Liking, Subscribing, Sharing and Commenting. Thank you All!!! About Angel: Angel has been working as a fast paced and fun clairvoyant, animal communicator and paranormal investigator for over 26 years. She has made a name for herself both on the screen, on stage, as well as on the airwaves. Her regular appearances on Newstalk 1010 for 7 years, her TV show Raising Energy and her engaging presence on social media have made her a well-known household name throughout North America. Having been trained by medicine people from around the world she strives to bring their wisdom and compassion to everything she does. Every reading and message is empowering and brings to life the stories that belong to those she reads for so they can find closure, guidance, growth and joy. As an animal communicator, Angel sees herself as an ambassador to the animal kingdom from scaly reptiles to feathered birds and four-legged companions. Fulfilling and fun it is a true pleasure and honour to be a part of all these worlds and more! Social links Website Raisingenergy.com Main Instagram page Instagram.com/raisingenergy YouTube YouTube.com/@raisingenergy Facebook.com/raisingenergy TikTok.com/@raisingenergy Instagram.com/angelmorganpetpsychic Blog Mypsychiclifestyle.com If you enjoy the content on the channel, please support us by commenting, subscribing and sharing : Thank you All !!! A formal disclosure: The opinions and information presented or expressed by guests on The Outer Realm Radio and Beyond The Outer Realm are not necessarily those of the TOR, BTOR Host, Sponsors, or the United Public Radio Network and it's producers. Although we value all of our guests and their perspectives, for Legal Purposes, all content must be listed and deemed as "For Entertainment Purposes" We are always be respectful and courteous to all involved. Thank you, we appreciate you all !!! United Public Radio & UFO Paranormal Radio www.uprntalkradio.com

Join Rob McConnell as he welcomes Claudia Hehr, animal communicator, author, and speaker whose work explores the fascinating possibility of communication between humans and animals. Through what she describes as intuitive or telepathic communication, Claudia believes animals have thoughts, emotions, personalities, and messages that humans can learn to recognize when they become more receptive to the ways animals communicate. Through The Voice of Animals, Claudia encourages people to reconsider their relationship with the animals who share their lives. She discusses her experiences communicating with pets and other animals and explains how she believes information can be exchanged beyond ordinary body language, vocalizations, and learned behavior. While claims of telepathic animal communication are not established by mainstream science, Claudia's experiences offer an intriguing perspective on the emotional connections that can develop between humans and animals. During this fascinating conversation, Rob and Claudia explore animal communication, intuition, telepathy, consciousness, spirituality, and the human-animal bond. They discuss whether animals can communicate specific thoughts, how Claudia interprets the impressions she receives, and whether ordinary people can learn to become more sensitive to their animals. The conversation also considers grief following the loss of a beloved pet and claims that communication with animals may continue after physical death. Can animals communicate with us in ways science has yet to understand, or are these experiences better explained through observation, intuition, and the extraordinarily close bonds humans develop with their pets? Whether you're an animal lover, skeptic, spiritual seeker, or simply curious about animal consciousness, this episode of The 'X' Zone Radio Show invites you to listen carefully to The Voice of Animals.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all CANCOM/XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

Zubayr Ibn al-Awaam رضي الله عنه (S69) During the khilafat of his father in law, Abu Bakr رضي الله عنهم: Because the Messenger ﷺ never appointed a successor, the Companions رضي الله عنهم differed regarding who should succeed. They رضي الله عنهم split into 3 groups. The difference wasn't to do with who was greatest, they all knew Abu Bakr رضي الله عنه was senior, it was to do with who would be the best Caliph. The Muhajireen رضي الله عنهم rallied behind Abu Bakr رضي الله عنه. The Ansar رضي الله عنهم rallied behind Sa'ad Ibn Ubadah رضي الله عنه initially, but later rallied behind Abu Bakr رضي الله عنه. Banu Hashim rallied behind Ali رضي الله عنه initially. Zubayr رضي الله عنه rallied behind Ali رضي الله عنه initially also.

Zubayr Ibn al-Awaam رضي الله عنه (S68) Just ~3 months after the farewell Hajj the Messenger ﷺ passed away. Zubayr رضي الله عنه was present at the farewell Hajj. The Messenger ﷺ a few weeks prior gave a beautiful message to the people. He ﷺ said Abu Bakr رضي الله عنه has never failed me, know his status. I ﷺ am well pleased with Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthmaan, Ali, Talha, Zubayr and all the earliest Muhaajireen رضي الله عنهم. Do not pain me regarding my Companions and Family رضي الله عنهم lest Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وتَعَالَى deals with you. Ali رضي الله عنه said he heard with his own ears that the Messenger ﷺ said Talha and Zubayr will be his (ﷺ) neighbours in Paradise.

August 12th, 2026:  St Clare of Assisi;  St Jane Frances de Chantal;  St Clare of Assisi - Holy Mother Poverty;  Servant of God John Bernal & Companions;  St Clare of Assisi - Trust in Our Lord in All Things

An animal companion isn't just cute, loyal, or marketable. The best ones force a moral choice, expose a character's blind spot, or act like nature's voice when humans get too comfortable with their own excuses. We dig into why animal companions in fantasy and science fiction keep landing so hard, and why the trope feels bigger than a sidekick.

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports some Chinese users of AI companions are distraught after the Chinese government tightens regulations.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday/ Sixtus II, Pope, Martyr, and Companions, Martyrs/ Cajetan, Priest First Reading: Nahum 2: 1, 3; 3: 1-3, 6-7 Responsorial Psalm: Deuteronomy 32: 35cd-36ab, 39abcd, 41 Alleluia: Matthew 5: 10 Gospel: Matthew 16: 24-28   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To register for the St. Paul Center's 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner, please visit stpaulcenter.com/gala Encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Today’s Topics: Bishop Strickland joins Terry to discuss his latest letter: Lord, Prepare Me to Be a Sanctuary 1, 2, 3, 4) Gospel –Matthew 16:24-28 – Jesus said to His disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after Me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? Or what can one give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come with His angels in His Father's glory, and then He will repay each according to his conduct. Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom.” Memorial of Saint Cajetan, Priest Memorial of Saint Sixtus II, Pope and Martyr, and his Companions, Martyrs Saints Cajetan, Sixtus, and Companions, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday/ Sixtus II, Pope, Martyr, and Companions, Martyrs/ Cajetan, Priest First Reading: Nahum 2: 1, 3; 3: 1-3, 6-7 Responsorial Psalm: Deuteronomy 32: 35cd-36ab, 39abcd, 41 Alleluia: Matthew 5: 10 Gospel: Matthew 16: 24-28   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To register for the St. Paul Center's 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner, please visit stpaulcenter.com/gala Encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Buckle up! Back by popular demand is Joumana Medlej who delivers her top three and bottom three Doctors & Companions!

Father Anthony with Cristina and Tony, gather to discuss the goings on, and people in the Parish.  Father Anthony is joined by his guest Alice Babij (Bobby) today.  Father greets everyone and mentions that today's honored saint is Sts. Sixtus II, Pope, and Companions, Martyrs then leads us in prayer.  After prayer Father talks about yesterday's Feast of the Transfiguration and shares from its readings, reflecting on the state of our society and its rejection of Christianity.  After a break, Father welcome back Alice Babij (Bobby) to continue the discussion on the book previously introduced, “The Sword of Michael”, by Rev. Scott Haynes. The book explores the mysterious alignment of seven churches across Europe that appears to represent a sword. The book explores this alignment as it delves into historical details, miracles, and spiritual significance of the sanctuaries.  Today Alice focuses on the miracles attributed to each of the seven churches.  The book is available at priestlypress.com.   St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish priestlypress.com 

Till He Come brings together some of Charles H. Spurgeon's most tender and spiritually searching meditations on the Lord's Supper. Drawn from addresses delivered at the Metropolitan Tabernacle and also in smaller gatherings around the communion table, these messages invite believers to linger and renew their love and devotion for Christ in remembrance of His atoning sacrifice. Spurgeon leads readers into the heart of Christian communion – reflecting on Christ's love, His finished work, and the believers' fellowship with Him “until the day breaks and the shadows flee away.” Whether speaking of resting under the shadow of the Almighty, our Lord's loveliness, or the redemption we have because of His selfless sacrifice, Spurgeon masterfully expounds on the endless depth and breadth of Christ's love and character as displayed through His broken body and poured-out blood. These short sermons are especially suited for personal devotion, preparation for the Lord's Table, or for those entrusted with leading others in communion. Reverent, Christ-centered, and moving, Till He Come stands as one of Spurgeon's most precious devotional works – calling believers to remember their Savior, cherish His presence, and proclaim His death and resurrection until the day He returns for His chosen. About the Author Charles Haddon (C. H.) Spurgeon (1834-1892) was a British Baptist preacher. He started preaching at age 16 and quickly became famous. He is still known as the “Prince of Preachers” and frequently had more than 10,000 people present to hear him preach at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London. His sermons were printed in newspapers, translated into many languages, and published in many books.

In this episode of the Joy Trip Reading Project, James Edward Mills sits down with editors, storytellers, and creative partners Dave and Illysa Kyu, whose work invites readers to experience America's parks, trails, and special places through the stories connected to them.

In this episode of The Ansari Podcast, we are joined by Hassan Muzzad to explore one of the most significant and misunderstood chapters in Islamic history: the origins of the Sunni–Shia divide.Together, we examine the leadership of Abu Bakr and Ali, the role of the Companions, the tragedy of Karbala, and why the Battle of the Camel may have been the defining moment that transformed political disagreement into a lasting division. Exploring both Sunni and Shia perspectives with nuance and respect, this conversation asks an enduring question: Was the Sunni–Shia split inevitable, or did history take a path that changed the Muslim world forever?JOIN OUR WEBSITE MEMBERSHIP! @ https://ansaripodcast.comThe Debt Clinic: https://www.mydebtclinic.com/ansariProvision Capital: https://www.provisioncapital.com00:00 What Caused the Sunni Shia Split?05:54 Why Ali and not Abu Bakr?11:50 Ad13:23 Why Does the Position of Khalifah Matter?19:38 Who Are the Imams?27:11 Who Are the Real Sahaba and are Reliable Sources?39:06 Isn't Abu Bakr the Family of the Prophet PBUH?45:31 Ad46:22 What Happened at the Battle of the Camel?59:09 What Happened with Hussain and Yazid?01:08:14 Who Betrayed Hussain?01:11:15 When did the Actual Sunni Shia Split Happen?01:13:55 When Did Shia Hadith Begin?01:16:42 Who are The 12 Imams?01:24:28 Why Did Allah Allow Abu Bakr to Be the Khalifa?01:33:44 Can Shia Insult the Sahaba?01:36:14 Is the Ayatollah like the Pope?01:49:38 Sunni and Shia are a Part of the Same Civilization01:53:13 Final Thoughts#shia #sunni #iran #islamichistory #muslimunityListen on All Audio Platforms: https://tr.ee/JeX-ILYSyjFollow The Ansari PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/ansaripodcastTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@theansaripodcastTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/ansaripodcast

Share this program with friends by going to www.joniradio.org! --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

What can Formula One and football teach businesses about building customer relationships that continue long after a single event? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I speak with Ben Lewis, Vice President of Marketing at Infobip, about the company's work with AI-powered sports companions and what those experiences can teach customer experience leaders in every industry. Ben explains how Infobip worked with TGR Haas F1 Team to create RaceMate, an AI companion available through WhatsApp and Apple Messages for Business. Fans can access team information, driver histories, race schedules, trivia, personalized content and interactive experiences without downloading another application. We also discuss PitchMate, Infobip's conversational companion for global football fans. It remembers a fan's preferred team, can deliver personalized schedules and match information, and supports quizzes and other interactive features across an extended tournament. For me, one of the most useful lessons is the decision to meet fans inside messaging channels they already use. We have all downloaded an application for a conference, flight or one-off event, used it for several days and then forgotten it exists. RaceMate and PitchMate allow the conversation to remain available in the same place someone would message a friend. Ben also explains why Infobip measures success through returning users, conversation duration and the number of interactions rather than relying solely on clicks. TGR Haas F1 Team is currently using RaceMate to grow its fan community and provide useful content rather than constantly pushing merchandise. The same thinking can apply far beyond sports. We discuss travel companies contacting customers during unresolved claims, healthcare providers sending poorly timed automated messages and brands promoting products without recognizing that a customer is already involved in a dispute. Connected data can help prevent these disjointed experiences. Our conversation closes with practical advice for businesses adopting agentic AI. Ben recommends connecting customer data with campaigns, testing carefully, establishing guardrails and defining when an AI agent should transfer a conversation to a person. Are businesses investing too much in new customer applications when the better experience could already live inside WhatsApp, RCS or Apple Messages for Business? Please share your thoughts with me.

The remaining Companions make their way to Neraka, an ugly city surrounding the hideous Temple of Takhisis, and where the dark goddess resides. They attempt to sneak into Neraka with disastrous results. Being led to the dungeons below the city they cross, once again, Kitiara's path. Tanis, in a desperate attempt to save them all from the dungeons, pleads with Kit while attempting to hide the rest of his party. He succeeds? Tanis bargains with Kitiara for Laurana's life and his soul. Kit's plans for him and Laurana are revealed. Her servant realizes that the Everman is in Neraka.  Content warning - minor swears One More Thing: Jonathon: Resident Evil 6 | Wikipedia Shivam: Anthony Horowitz mysteries | Bookshop.org You can find us at: Jonathon - https://bsky.app/profile/falselogic.bsky.social Shivam - https://bsky.app/profile/shivambhatt.bsky.social Casual Magic w/ Shivam Bhatt - https://casualmagic.libsyn.com/ Shivam & Wheeler Love Magic - https://sites.libsyn.com/460224 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1147877956611082 Discord - https://discord.gg/MM7nEwgmZv  Support the podcast at our patreon! Benefits include getting the episodes early,  seeing the show notes, and getting a shout out. Details @ https://www.patreon.com/ChroniclesofDragonlancePodcast  Our cover art by Josiah Cameron. Find more of his work here: https://josiahcameronart.com/  Intro/Outro music: Shadow Whispers by Alexander Nakarada/Spirits of the Greenwood by Alexander Nakarada

RevisionThe surah* Al-Baqarah means the cow.* 286 ayat — the longest surah in the Quran.* Nicknamed the peak of the Quran (Sanam al-Quran).* Surah Al-Baqarah and Surah Ali Imran are twin surahs. If you read them, study them, memorise them and act on their lessons, they will come on the Day of Judgement as clouds — shade on a day when there is no shade except the shade of Allah.* The surah has nine parts. We are in Part 1: Types of People.Ayah 1 — Alif Lam MimWhat does it mean? There is a meaning, but we do not know it. Our answer is: Wallahu a'lam — Allah knows best.We may not know the meaning, but we can learn the wisdom behind it.1. It is a surprise call.The Prophet ﷺ was unlettered — he did not read or write. A person who does not read or write does not recite alphabets. So the fact that he recited letters was a surprise in itself.There is a second surprise. Listen to Arabs speaking their own language — they do not speak in tajweed. But the Prophet ﷺ recited Alif Lam Mim with full tajweed rules. A strange combination of letters, recited in a way no one spoke. It caught the audience's attention immediately.2. It is a challenge.Poetry was the highest art form of the Arabs at that time. When the Quran came, they refused to accept it was from God — they said Muhammad ﷺ made it up, or learned it from somewhere.So Allah opens with letters: Alif Lam Mim. Alif Lam Ra. Qaf. Ha Mim. Ya Sin. The same alphabet you have. Go and produce something like it.3. It is a gate of humility.There are things our minds can fully understand, and there are things beyond our minds. Before we can receive guidance, we have to accept that limit.Example: Why is Fajr two rak'ah, but Dhuhr and Asr are four? Fajr is at a quiet time when you have space; Dhuhr falls in a rushed 20-minute lunch break at school. Why not make them equal? Wallahu a'lam. We obey.Does “wallahu a'lam” mean we obey blindly? No. We arrive at obedience through reason:* The universe cannot exist without a creator.* That creator cannot himself be created — there must be an uncreated Creator.* A Creator who made a universe this complex and this beautiful must be wise.* When someone infinitely wiser than you tells you to do something — you do it.We accept Allah through revelation and through reason. Once that foundation is in place, obedience follows. That is the gate of humility.And we are still allowed to look for the wisdom. Two rak'ah at Fajr — you are fresh, you do not need much. Four at Dhuhr — you are hungry, tired, and about to become “hangry,” so you stop and reset. Four at Asr — before you carry your work stress home to your family, you offload it onto Allah first. Iyyaka na'budu wa iyyaka nasta'in — You alone we worship, and You alone we ask for help.Who are we asking? The Creator of everything. Next to Allah, how big is our problem? This is why a person of prayer can walk back to their problem and face it — you are not facing it alone.Ayah 2ذَٰلِكَ الْكِتَابُ لَا رَيْبَ ۛ فِيهِ ۛ هُدًى لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ“That is the Book, no doubt in it, guidance for the people of taqwa.”* Dhalika — that* al-Kitab — the Book* la rayba fihi — no doubt in it* hudan lil-muttaqin — guidance for the people of taqwaThe link to Al-Fatihah. In Al-Fatihah we made the du'a: Ihdinas-siratal mustaqim — guide us to the straight path. We asked for guidance. Allah answers immediately: the guidance is in this Book.Guidance for everyone, or only for some? In ayah 185 of this same surah, Allah says the Quran was sent down as guidance for all mankind. Here in ayah 2, it says guidance for the people of taqwa.The offer is open to everyone. The people of taqwa are the ones who take the offer up.New Material: What Is Taqwa?The literal meaningTaqwa comes from the root waw – qaf – ya, which carries the meaning of protection.Because taqwa also contains an element of fear, the literal meaning is: protective fear.Protective fear vs paralysing fear* Fire in the building. Protective fear: you get out. Paralysing fear: you freeze — or you film it for TikTok.* Exam next week. Protective fear: you start studying. Paralysing fear: “que sera sera” — you give up.* The difference. Protective fear moves you to act. Paralysing fear stops you from acting.Note on the snake example from class: standing still is the correct response to an Australian snake, because they are not hunting us — they bite out of fear when they feel threatened. That is a considered decision, not a freeze.Fear on its own is not enough. If you find out at 9pm that there is a test tomorrow morning and you decide there is no point trying, you are still afraid — but the fear has paralysed you.This is why taqwa needs the two wings we studied earlier: fear and love/hope. Without hope you will not move. Taqwa is not just fear — it is fear balanced by love.What are we protecting ourselves from?When Allah uses the word taqwa in the Quran, it means: protect yourself from Allah's anger and His punishment, and move towards His mercy and forgiveness.In practice: what Allah told you not to do — don't do it. What Allah told you to do — do it.Story time: Umar and Ubayy ibn Ka'bWho is Ubayy ibn Ka'b? One of the Companions the Prophet ﷺ named as the best reciters of the Quran — if you want to hear the Quran as Jibril brought it, listen to these people. When Umar ibn al-Khattab established Taraweeh in congregation, he appointed Ubayy as the first Taraweeh imam. Ubayy recited so long that the Companions would lean on the walls and pillars of the masjid, and the prayer would end just in time for a small meal before Fajr.The conversation:Umar ibn al-Khattab asked him, “What is taqwa?”Ubayy answered with a question: “Have you ever walked through a path full of thorns?”Umar said, “Yes.”“How did you do it?”Umar said, “I would lift my garment and walk carefully.”Ubayy said: “That is taqwa.”Arab dress is long and flowing. On a thorny path you gather it in, and you watch every step — so your clothes are not snagged and your feet are not cut.That is life. Every step, you are aware: Is this bringing me closer to Allah, or further away? Would Allah be pleased with this, or angry?The technical meaningLiteral meaning = the dictionary meaning.Technical meaning = the meaning in context.Example: the word site. Literally, a place. Say it to a builder and he means a construction site. Say it to a web developer and she means a website. Same word, different technical meaning depending on context.So for taqwa:* Literal: protective fear* Technical: mindfulness of AllahBeing constantly aware of whether something is beloved to Allah or disliked by Him, and whether a decision takes you towards Him or away from Him.A person of taqwa will be guided by the Quran, because that is where you find what Allah loves, what He dislikes, what He made obligatory and what He made forbidden.Ayah 3 — The Signs of TaqwaTaqwa is in the heart. The Prophet ﷺ said, “At-taqwa ha huna” — taqwa is here — pointing to the chest. You cannot display it. But it produces signs, and the signs can be seen.الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَمِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ يُنفِقُونَ“Those who believe in the unseen, establish the prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them.”1. They believe in the unseen (yu'minuna bil-ghayb)Every pillar of iman involves something unseen:* Allah — we cannot see Him.* Angels — we cannot see them.* Books — we can hold a mushaf, but we did not see Jibril bring it down. That process is what makes it different from every other book.* Prophets — the Companions could see Muhammad ﷺ the man. What they could not see was him receiving revelation, and that is what made him a prophet.* Day of Judgement — not yet seen.* Divine decree (qadar) — never seen.Remember the three dimensions of the religion — the what, the why, and the how. Iman is the why: the root system. You do what you do because you believe Allah commanded it.2. They establish the prayer (yuqimunas-salah)Belief is invisible. Prayer is what that invisible belief looks like when it comes out.3. They spend from what Allah has given them (wa mimma razaqnahum yunfiqun)Not “what they earned” — what We have provided them. The wealth was never theirs to begin with.Next WeekWe continue with the details of ayah 3, and aim to reach ayah 5 — unless our guest speaker joins us, in which case Islamic Studies runs instead.Key Terms* Wallahu a'lam — Allah knows best* Taqwa — literally: protective fear. Technically: mindfulness of Allah* Muttaqin — the people of taqwa* Ghayb — the unseen* Sanam al-Quran — the peak of the QuranQuestions to Test Yourself* What does Al-Baqarah mean, and how many ayat does it have?* Give the three wisdoms behind Alif Lam Mim.* Translate ayah 2 into English.* What is the difference between protective fear and paralysing fear? Give one example of each.* What did Ubayy ibn Ka'b compare taqwa to?* What is the difference between a literal meaning and a technical meaning?* Name the three traits of the people of taqwa mentioned in ayah 3.* Why is belief in the Quran still “belief in the unseen” when you can hold a copy in your hands? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.grounded.day/subscribe

Why do pets and animal companions in fiction feel so immediate, so universally legible, and so devastating when a story takes them away?We pull threads from everywhere, comic book pets like Krypto, the daemon companions of His Dark Materials, and the long mythic history of loyal animals that reveal a hero's character. From Odysseus and Argus to the Mahabharata's stray dog test, we track what separates a true companion from a symbol or a beast of burden: mutual attachment, choice, and the kind of love that costs something.

Mikaela Shiffrin, Sadie Sink, Kendall Jenner & Kylie Jenner, Jutta Leerdam, Emma Raducanu, Camila Cabello, Jenna Ortega, Iga Świątek, Azzi Fudd, Paige Bueckers, Alexia Putellas, Bianca Censori, and Dakota Johnson's Dream Pet Companions & Animal Obsessionshttps://rumble.com/user/TheCultureWarshttps://x.com/NewsK365https://buymeacoffee.com/courtpresshttps://www.youtube.com/@NewsK365Email: newsk365@protonmail.com

(0:00) Intro: Scholars vs. the Sahaba, Who Should Muslims Follow?(0:15) Why Majority Opinion Does Not Always Determine the Truth(1:08) A Question About Surah Al-Kahf and Arabic Tafsir(1:41) Tafsir of Fakhr al-Din al-Razi(1:49) Group Bias and Closed-Minded Thinking(3:00) Is It Forbidden to Ask Questions About the Quran?(3:54) The Problem With Saying “Most People Believe This”(4:38) Umar ibn Al-Khattab's View on Dhul-Qarnayn(4:50) Ali ibn Abi Talib on Dhul-Qarnayn Traveling Through the Clouds(5:23) The Sahaba on One Side and Most Scholars on the Other(6:03) Surah At-Takwir, Al-Kahf, Al-Fatihah, and Al-Falaq(6:53) “I Follow the Companions, Not My Own Opinion”(7:30) Why Numbers Do Not Prove What Is True(7:54) Islam Began With a Small Number of Believers(8:13) Prophets Who Had Very Few Followers(8:49) Ali ibn Abi Talib, the Door of Knowledge(9:49) The Quran and the Prophet ﷺ as the Standard of Truth(10:25) The Meaning of Saba and the Path to the Heavens(11:01) Having the Courage to Stand Alone for the Truth(11:24) The Majority vs. the Prophet ﷺ on Judgment Day Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In honor of the release of her audiobook Love at First Prompt, Bridget Todd breaks down the questions we should be asking about the relationships people form with AI, the attempts to legislate around them, and the companies profiting from the desire for emotional connection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trinity Anglican Seminary is built on the same daily prayer rhythms you practice every time you hit play. Morning Prayer. Evening Prayer. Weekly Eucharist. Chapel and classroom aren't two separate worlds at Trinity. Whether you're pursuing a degree or exploring a certificate in Anglican studies, Trinity is a place to be formed in community, through study and prayer. Learn more at tas.edu/dailyoffice.Evening Prayer for Wednesday, July 29, 2026 (Proper 12; Lazarus, Mary and Martha of Bethany, Companions of our Lord).Psalm and Scripture readings (60-day Psalter):Psalm 77Nehemiah 8John 5:1-24Click here to support The Daily Office Podcast with a one-time gift or a recurring donation.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to access the text for the Daily Office at DailyOffice2019.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Trinity Anglican Seminary is built on the same daily prayer rhythms you practice every time you hit play. Morning Prayer. Evening Prayer. Weekly Eucharist. Chapel and classroom aren't two separate worlds at Trinity. Whether you're pursuing a degree or exploring a certificate in Anglican studies, Trinity is a place to be formed in community, through study and prayer. Learn more at tas.edu/dailyoffice.Morning Prayer for Wednesday, July 29, 2026 (Proper 12; Lazarus, Mary and Martha of Bethany, Companions of our Lord).Psalm and Scripture readings (60-day Psalter):Psalm 741 Samuel 182 Corinthians 12:1-13Click here to support The Daily Office Podcast with a one-time gift or a recurring donation.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to access the text for the Daily Office at DailyOffice2019.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Note: This is a hiatus episode, originally a Patreon Exclusive, airing on the main feed during the break between Classic and New Who. Join our Patreon to get early access to review episodes and weekly exclusive content like this. A Theme with Energy But No Clarity on Genre The episode opens with "Dancer Who," a drum and bass remix of the Doctor Who theme from an account called "Synth Theme Remixes." Despite nearly 13 years of existence and modest viewership, the track has undeniable energy and a strong beat. Whether it's actually pure drum and bass is debatable—there are keyboards and synthesizers involved—but it's undeniably danceable. The hosts hope their coverage might help this overlooked remix find a wider audience. https://youtu.be/Puve_A9EFwQ?si=Mw5zOUxgQS27JnFn A Season Where Companions Spend More Time Fighting Than Helping Season 20 presents an interesting problem: the TARDIS is crowded. Tegan is improving as an actress, but only incrementally. Turlough raises the fundamental question: why is this character here at all? Even more surprising—by the time we're done, Adric starts looking better in retrospect. When you find yourself comparing a companion favorably to someone much-maligned by fandom, you know the roster has an issue. A Creature Department with Nothing to Do The hosts confront an uncomfortable truth about Season 20: it's remarkably free of monsters and creatures. The Mara is a villain, not a creature. The Garm exists but barely registers. The Eternals are villains. Kings Demons has... nothing. This absence reflects a deliberate editorial choice to ground the show under Peter Davison's influence—away from the wacky alien designs, toward something more naturalistic. The creature department was apparently just sitting around with nothing to build. When Best Villain and Best Guest Star Diverge in Unexpected Ways One host makes a surprising villain choice. Another champions a campy, over-the-top performance that might seem like it belongs in a different era of Doctor Who entirely. The Brigadier's return gets unanimous agreement as best guest star, but his performance in a particular story involves playing not one, but two versions of himself—a challenge that pays dividends. Meanwhile, the Black Guardian lingers as a presence but never quite rises to the occasion, despite excellent work from the actor. Two Different Takes on the Same Brigadier Moment Both hosts select best moments from the same story, but they pick different scenes. One focuses on the emotional weight of two versions of the same character finally meeting and reaching out. The other selects a memory-based sequence—a storytelling device that works beautifully here but one the hosts caution against overusing. It will show up again and again in New Who, and there's apparently a real tearjerker in the Sarah Jane Adventures that hits hard. But how many times can you deploy the same emotional tool before it loses power? The Easiest and Hardest Superlatives Best and worst episodes sort themselves out quickly—there's immediate consensus on what works best and what's interminable. But best monster becomes genuinely difficult when you realize the season doesn't have traditional creatures to choose from. Best companion is solved "by default." And best moment splinters into two thoughtful but different answers. Comics: A Fishing Trip That Becomes a Moral Quandary "Lunar Lagoon" (DWM 76–77, April–May 1983) finds the Doctor landing on a Pacific island during World War II, not realizing what era he's actually in. A lone Japanese soldier still believes the war is ongoing. When an American pilot is shot down, the Doctor removes the bullets from the soldier's gun—but this act of mercy sets off a chain of events that results in the soldier's death and leaves the Doctor consumed with guilt. The hosts note that while this is a hoary old cliche (the Japanese soldier who doesn't know the war is over), the Doctor's presence should have reframed it. Instead, critical details remain unclear—what year did the Doctor think he was in? Why was there suddenly an American WWII plane? The story needs another line or two of dialogue to ground what's happening. Additionally, the complete absence of a companion (despite Nyssa, Tegan, and Turlough all being available) makes the story feel oddly hollow. The Doctor carries everything through thought balloons and internal monologue, which limits the interplay a good Doctor Who story thrives on. Memory TARDIS: A Landing That Nobody Expected "The Mind Robber" (Troughton, five-part story) sends the hosts into a discussion about a tale so weird, so far from grounded Doctor Who, that it might be impossible to imagine in Davison's era. The Land of Fiction, a rogue character masquerading as "the Master," Jamie's face literally rearranged due to actor illness, and a famous shot nobody will forget—this is 1968 Doctor Who at its most experimental. Production Details: Season 20 aired March–June 1983 (seven stories) The Five Doctors included with this season set (though technically separate) Best Companion: Nyssa (with significant caveats) Creature Department Status: Vastly underutilized Key Spoiler Cards for Season 21: The hosts avoid "New Doctor" (too spoilery), pick "Elementary, My Dear Jim" instead of "Body Count" Upcoming Writer Return: Robert Holmes returns for Season 21 with what many consider both Peter Davison's best story and Holmes's finest work Hashtags: #DoctorWho #Season20 #TheFiveDoctors #PeterDavison #Superlatives #Brigadier #DoctorWhoPodcast #ClassicWho #WildernessYears #MindRobber

Ecclesiastes 4:1-5:7Pastor Brian Moffatt

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.grounded.day1. The nameAl-Baqarah means the cow.The surah is named after the account of the Israelites who were commanded to slaughter a cow. This is the only place in the Quran where that account appears.How surahs are named* Allah reveals the name directly, and the Prophet ﷺ states it.* The surah is named after its opening words or letters.* The surah is named after something unique within it. Surah Alif Lam Mim As-Sajdah takes its name from both its opening letters and the sajdah it contains.* Some surahs carry more than one name, given by the Companions.2. Length and nickname286 ayat — the longest surah in the Quran.The Prophet ﷺ called it Sanam al-Quran: the peak of the Quran. Note that the nickname is not “the longest.” It is “the peak,” and the image of a mountain explains why.Grounded is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.A mountain is hard to climb286 ayat is not Surah Al-Ikhlas. Studying this surah is a climb, and it is meant to be one. The same is true of memorising it: those who complete Al-Baqarah find Ali Imran comparatively easy afterwards, and An-Nisa merely difficult.A mountain gives you the viewFrom the summit you see the whole landscape at once. From the top of Al-Baqarah you see the whole shape of the religion, because every subject in Islam is addressed somewhere in this surah.The limit of the view: from a summit you see the bay, but not the animals moving in it. Al-Baqarah gives the outline of the rulings, not the detail. Marriage and divorce are treated at length in An-Nisa; here they appear in outline. But the detail is difficult to place if the outline has never been seen.3. The nine parts* The types of people — ayat 1–20. The Quran is sent as guidance, so the first question is who it is guidance for, and what kinds of human being exist.* The first command — ayat 21–29. The Quran speaking about itself, and the reason to follow it.* The first human — ayat 30–39. Prophet Adam.

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Proverbs 13:20

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday/ Augustine Zhao Rong, Priest, and Companions, Martyrs First Reading: Hosea 11: 1-4, 8c-9 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 80: 2ac and 3b, 15-16 Alleluia: Mark 1: 15 Gospel: Matthew 10: 7-15   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To register for the St. Paul Center's 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner, please visit stpaulcenter.com/gala Encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at stpaulcenter.com/memberships  

Today’s Topics: 1) Gospel – Matthew 10:7-15 – Jesus said to His Apostles: “As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. The laborer deserves his keep. Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it, and stay there until you leave. As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words– go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.” Memorial of Saint Augustine Zhao Rong, Priest, and Companions, Martyrs Saint Augustine and Companions, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Dr. Ralph Martin on his book: The Coming Judgment: Are We Ready?

Friends of the Rosary,In today's Gospel (Matthew 10:7-15), Jesus' apostles are sent to proclaim that the Kingdom of heaven is near. They are also told to travel lightly: no gold, no extra tunic, no dependence on worldly security.The lesson is clear: mission begins in trust. We give because we have first received.The first reading shows the heart of God as a Father who loved Israel from childhood, taught him to walk, and drew him with “bands of love.” Even when Israel wanders, God's mercy is not cold or distant. His holiness is revealed in justice and patient, wounded love.Today's honored saints, St. Augustine Zhao Rong, priest, and Companions, Chinese Martyrs, make this Gospel concrete. They witnessed to Christ in China through persecution, imprisonment, and martyrdom. Some were priests, many were laypeople, and many were native-born Chinese Catholics.Their feast reminds us that the Kingdom is proclaimed not only by preaching but by fidelity when faith becomes costly.The challenge for the faithful: give freely and carry peace into the house you enter. If that peace is rejected, do not become bitter. Leave the dust behind, but keep the Gospel alive in your own heart.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play.• July 9, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Full Text of Readings Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 386 The Saint of the day is Saint Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions Saint Augustine Zhao Rong's and Companions' Stories Christianity arrived in China by way of Syria in the 600s. Depending on China's relations with the outside world, Christianity over the centuries was free to grow or was forced to operate secretly. The 120 martyrs in this group died between 1648 and 1930. Eighty-seven of them were born in China, and were children, parents, catechists, or laborers, ranging in age from nine years to 72. This group includes four Chinese diocesan priests. The 33 foreign-born martyrs were mostly priests or women religious, especially from the Order of Preachers, the Paris Foreign Mission Society, the Friars Minor, Society of Jesus, Society of St. Francis de Sales (Salesians), and Franciscan Missionaries of Mary. Augustine Zhao Rong was a Chinese soldier who accompanied Bishop John Gabriel Taurin Dufresse of the Paris Foreign Mission Society to his martyrdom in Beijing. Not long after his baptism, Augustine was ordained as a diocesan priest. He was martyred in 1815. Beatified in groups at various times, these 120 martyrs were canonized together in Rome on October 1, 2000. Reflection The People's Republic of China and the Roman Catholic Church each have well over a billion members, but there are only about 12 million Catholics in China. The reasons for that are better explained by historical conflicts than by a wholesale rejection of the Good News of Jesus Christ. The Chinese-born martyrs honored by today's feast were regarded by their persecutors as dangerous because they were considered allies of enemy, Catholic countries. The martyrs born outside China often tried to distance themselves from European political struggles relating to China, but their persecutors saw them as Westerners and therefore, by definition, anti-Chinese. The Good News of Jesus Christ is intended to benefit all peoples; today's martyrs knew that. May 21st-century Christians live in such a way that Chinese women and men will be attracted to hear that Good News and embrace it.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of Readings The Saint of the day is Saint Gregory Grassi and Companions Saint Gregory Grassi and Companions' Story Christian missionaries have often gotten caught in the crossfire of wars against their own countries. When the governments of Britain, Germany, Russia, and France forced substantial territorial concessions from the Chinese in 1898, anti-foreign sentiment grew very strong among many Chinese people. Gregory Grassi was born in Italy in 1823, ordained in 1856, and sent to China five years later. Gregory was later ordained bishop of North Shanxi. With 14 other European missionaries and 14 Chinese religious, he was martyred during the short but bloody Boxer Uprising of 1900. Twenty-six of these martyrs were arrested on the orders of Yu Hsien, the governor of Shanxi province. They were hacked to death on July 9, 1900. Five of them were Friars Minor; seven were Franciscan Missionaries of Mary—the first martyrs of their congregation. Seven were Chinese seminarians and Secular Franciscans; four martyrs were Chinese laymen and Secular Franciscans. The other three Chinese laymen killed in Shanxi simply worked for the Franciscans and were rounded up with all the others. Three Italian Franciscans were martyred that same week in the province of Hunan. All these martyrs were beatified in 1946, and were among the 120 martyrs canonized in 2000. Reflection Martyrdom is the occupational hazard of missionaries. Throughout China during the Boxer Uprising, five bishops, 50 priests, two brothers, 15 sisters and 40,000 Chinese Christians were killed. The 146,575 Catholics served by the Franciscans in China in 1906 had grown to 303,760 by 1924, and were served by 282 Franciscans and 174 local priests. Great sacrifices often bring great results.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of Readings Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 384 The Saint of the day is Blessed Emmanuel Ruiz and Companions Blessed Emmanuel Ruiz and Companions' Story Not much is known of the early life of Emmanuel Ruiz, but details of his heroic death in defense of the faith have come down to us. Born of humble parents in Santander, Spain, he became a Franciscan priest and served as a missionary in Damascus. This was at a time when anti-Christian riots shook Syria and thousands lost their lives in just a short time. Among these were Emmanuel Ruiz, superior of the Franciscan convent, seven other friars, and three laymen. When a menacing crowd came looking for the men, they refused to renounce their faith and become Muslims. The men were subjected to horrible tortures before their martyrdom. Emmanuel Ruiz, his brother Franciscans and the three Maronite laymen were beatified by Pope Pius XI in 1926. Reflection The Church in Syria has known persecution throughout its history. Yet it has produced saints whose blood was shed for the faith. Let us pray for the Church in Syria.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media