Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traits of Hypocrisy Part 7/7 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 31st January 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/JyVvV8lrRXU This seven-part series details the different types of hypocrites and their various traits. The dangers of adopting these traits is emphasised so that the believers identify and avoid them. The final part of this series lists some of the remaining traits of hypocrisy. The first of these discussed is laziness in ‘ibādah. It is explained how a munāfiq prays for show and emphasis is placed on being devoted as believers during prayer, while not treating it as a burden. Secondly, the traits of poisoning the minds of believers and encouraging others to sin are discussed. The psychology behind why we prevent others doing good - especially in families - is explained. Comparison is made here regarding people with personality disorders (PDs) who pull others down to not feel alone in their inner turmoil. The PD’s projection of guilt and projective identification are further identified as traits of hypocrisy. Thereafter the trait of betrayal, including major betrayal, is discussed. Examples are given of major betrayals in battles of the Prophet ﷺ as well as of the modern political phrase "there are no friends, only interests". Throughout the talk, the behaviour of a mu'min is given as a contrast to the various traits of hypocrisy. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Meaning and Differences Between Kushū' & Khudū' - Salaah of a Mu'min vs. Salaah of a Munāfiq - Trait of Hypocrisy: Creating Conflict & Corruption - Trait of Hypocrisy: Projection of Guilt - There is No Envy Except in Two Things - Trait of Hypocrisy: Major Betrayal - The Three Signs of a Hypocrite ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Traits of Hypocrisy Part 6 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 14th January 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/fnLaAkqRdSw This seven-part series details the different types of hypocrites and their various traits. The dangers of adopting these traits is emphasised so that the believers identify and avoid them. The sixth part of this series recaps on the traits of hypocrisy identified in verses 204-206 of Sūrat al-Baqarah; especially emphasizing the importance of avoiding arrogance, controlling one's anger and sincerely apologising. Thereafter the contrasting verse 207 and the life of Suhayb al-Rūmī r.a, about whom the verse was revealed, is discussed to the extent of how Umar r.a appointed Suhayb as a temporary imam during his final days. Thereafter the topic moves to verse 118 of Surat Āl 'imran, in which the Muslims were told not to keep munāfiqūn as their confidants, with various signs of a munāfiq being mentioned in the verse. The talk here emphasizes the purity of tongue and its connection to purity of heart - the example being that of the Prophet ﷺ who could not even feign vulgarity of the tongue. Emphasis is also placed on how we should look for traits of hypocrisy within ourselves rather than judging others since we cannot know their state with Allah. Towards the end of the talk, the concept of ḥasad is discussed and poetry cited to illustrate its peculiar nature. Linguistic meanings of the words "shamātah", "biṭānah" and "sa'i" are given in various places of the talk. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - The Meaning of Sa'ī - Saying 'Sorry' is Verbal Judo - Four Types of People in Anger - The Life of Suhayb al-Rūmī r.a - Various Traits of a Munāfiq Compared to a Mu'min - Taking the Hypocrites as Confidants - The Inconsistencies of a Hypocrite - Identifying Traits of Hypocrisy in Ourselves - The Destruction of Envy ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Traits of Hypocrisy Part 5 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 17th January 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/XMM0jm2MZE4 This seven-part series details the different types of hypocrites and their various traits. The dangers of adopting these traits is emphasised so that the believers identify and avoid them. The fifth part of this series covers verses 204 - 206 of Sūrat al-Baqarah. A reason for people being argumentative is identified to be from our own inner insecurities. These insecurities can have an effect on those around us including our close relatives. The psychological process in the head of a person who is corrected when wrong is explained; how he may interpret even a minor imperfection pointed out to mean that he is worthless, and therefore puts on a mask of arrogance as a defence and becomes angry. As a contrast, the reaction of an emotionally stable person when corrected is mentioned; how such a person, through his balanced view of himself, takes criticism on board rather than being argumentative. Examples of people receptive to corrections are given like the example of Umar r.a. The fact that perfection is infeasible in the dunyā is emphasized and illustrated by imperfections in great personalities such as Imām Bukhārī and Einstein. The example of imperfections in the dunyā is also shown how the Prophet ﷺ underwent physical difficulties and at times was corrected by Allāh for his actions. We are then recommended to have a balanced view of ourselves and take time out for self-reflection to improve the way we react to other people's corrections. Below are some of the topics mentioned in this talk: - The Argumentative Nature of Man - A Believer is the Mirror of Another Believer - The Meaning of 'Fasād' - Balanced Thinking of a Believer - Humans Not Being Perfect in Mind or Body - The Prophet ﷺ Being Corrected by Allāh - The Worried Well - The Mentality of a Believer for Self-improvement ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Traits of Hypocrisy Part 4 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 10th January 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/LGXMC9ca3k8 This seven-part series details the different types of hypocrites and their various traits. The dangers of adopting these traits is emphasised so that the believers identify and avoid them. The fourth part of this series begins by covering verse 204 of Sūrat al-Baqarah. From this, quarrelsomeness is deduced as a trait of hypocrisy. It is explained how hypocrites will go to various lengths in trying to convince others of their position – whilst being verbose, excessively swearing oaths and even doing so falsely. This is explained to be a consequence of the hypocrite seeing his objective rather than the truth as important. The opposite is the conduct of a believer and encouragement is given to follow it. Benefits of being silent and minimizing arguments are proven through the sunnah as well as real-life observations; such as argumentative people not being loved by others. The talk emphasizes that Islam, although disagreements are unavoidable, teaches us to manage the disagreements in a good manner; such as not extending them to other people or things. Towards the end of the talk, the ill of shunning a parent into a retirement home is mentioned. Below are some of the timecodes and topics for this talk: - Trait of Hypocrisy: Oft-testifying (Falsely) - Trait of Hypocrisy: Being Quarrelsome - Minimising Arguments with Others - How a Mu'min Behaves in Disagreement ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Traits of Hypocrisy Part 3 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 20th December 2019 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/iWDfgz3zUVc This seven-part series details the different types of hypocrites and their various traits. The dangers of adopting these traits is emphasised so that the believers identify and avoid them. Continuing on the topic of hypocrisy, this talk covers verses 16-20 of Sūrat al-Baqarah. The trait of short-sightedness within the hypocrites is identified. It is shown here how shallow a munāfiq is and how he sacrifices even basic principles for short-term gains in the dunyā; thereby squandering salvation in the hereafter. Throughout the talk, a mu’min is described as having opposite qualities to that of a munāfiq, such as keeping his sight on the hereafter. Two interpretations are given to the example brought of those lighting a fire, each interpretation referring to a different type of hypocrite. Another trait of hypocrisy was here identified as not being able to see the truth despite staring at it; explaining the description of the munāfiqūn as deaf, dumb and blind. The parable of the Qur'ān as a rain-laden cloud is further explained and how the type of munāfiqūn who wavered only responded to the Qur'an at times, whilst refusing to listen to verses of warning. It is also emphasised that such traits and behaviours of hypocrisy concern us as well and how even the Saḥābah feared falling into them. Below are some of the timecodes and topics for this talk: - Language of Trade Used in the Qurān - Contrast Between the Muhājirūn and Anṣār - Short-sightedness of the Hypocrites - Steadfastness of a Believer and a Hypocrite - Parable of Hypocrites Lighting a Fire for Guidance - Trait of Hypocrisy: Blind to the Truth - Refusal to Listen to Verses of Warning - Examples of Ṣaḥābah fearing hypocrisy ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Traits of Hypocrisy Part 2 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 13th December 2019 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/uF4VnohkCKQ This seven-part series details the different types of hypocrites and their various traits. The dangers of adopting these traits is emphasised so that the believers identify and avoid them. The talk continues on the topic of hypocrisy by covering verses 11 to 16 in Sūrat al-Baqarah. The attributes of the hypocrites in Madīnah are brought so that we avoid these ourselves and avoid labelling others as hypocrites. Refusing to accept mistakes is a trait of hypocrisy. When the hypocrites were challenged, they would often lie and never accept they were in the wrong. Honesty and admitting mistakes is part of the qualities every believer should have. By admitting we are wrong, a person can then find the path to true repentance. Another trait of hypocrisy identified in this talk is being two-faced. A person can never please everyone and it will often lead them to lying and being insincere. Allāh does not look at a person's worldly status, but considers their humility towards Him. This is demonstrated by many ḥadīth and explains what Allāh looks at in a believer. The final trait brought in this talk is that of the hypocrites being short-sighted; meaning how a hypocrite would give priority to the worldly life over the hereafter. A believer's goal and focus is always on pleasing Allāh and obtaining success in the hereafter as is explained in this talk. Below are some of the timecodes and topics for this talk: - The Meaning of Fasād (Corruption) - Many R's of True Repentance - Trait of Hypocrisy: Refusing to Accept Mistakes - Trait of Hypocrisy: Two-Facedness - Trait of Hypocrisy: Mocking the Believers - The ill Consequences of Namīmah - Recap of Traits of Hypocrisy Covered So Far ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Traits of Hypocrisy Part 1 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 6th December 2019 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/uJRY-n9eppI This seven-part series details the different types of hypocrites and their various traits. The dangers of adopting these traits is emphasised so that the believers identify and avoid them. There are many verses in the Qurān which mention the hypocrites and their behaviours. The first verses outlined in this talk are those of Sūrat al-Baqarah, many of which speak about nifāq (hypocrisy). Before explaining each verse, a general introduction to nifāq is given. A division is then made into nifāq of faith and deeds; with nifāq in deeds possibly leading to nifāq in faith. The concept of deeds having a momentum is then discussed in relation to this. Three different types of hypocrites in faith are then discussed; two of these types started off as believers and eventually fell into hypocrisy. The Ṣaḥāba, despite having firm belief and some even being promised Jannah, had a fear of falling into nifāq. Three traits of nifāq are later identified: deception, lying and refusal to accept blame. Each of these traits are explained and examples are given. It is also mentioned that believers have opposite traits to hypocrites; such as innocence, truthfulness and sincerity in their apologies. Below are some of the topics for this talk: - Two Types of Hypocrisy; In Faith and In Deeds - Meaning of Fūjūr (Open Sinning) - Different Types of Hypocrites During the Time of the Prophet ﷺ - The Saḥābah's Fear of Hypocrisy - Believers Having Opposite Traits to Hypocrites - Attributes of a Hypocrite - Traits of Hypocrisy: Lying, Delusion & Arrogance - Balanced View of a Believer ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Envy: The Inferno Within Part 3 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 6th March 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/gDq2fUrQS5k This three-part series details the causes, effects and how an individual can safeguard themselves from falling into the sin of envy. The third part of this series first focuses on the ill effects envy has on the envious person and his victim, as well as the incompatibility between envy and īman. A remedy for envy is then identified to be dropping it like burning coal. The brain is likened to a car and modern science is quoted on how controlling one’s thoughts can have a physical effect on the brain. A second remedy identified is praying for the person envied. It is emphasized that the dunyā cannot make us happy and examples are given of people having wealth and leadership but still committing atrocities due to their inner turmoil. It is also emphasized that Allah's distribution in the dunyā was never meant to be equal but that it is the Hereafter that counts. A third remedy identified is to direct one's energy from having envy to instead making du'ā' and striving towards one's goal. The importance of striving for the right things with the right intention is highlighted here. Scholars are mentioned not to be free from envy and the ill treatment of Imam Bukhārī is taken as an example. The talk then ends with a positive example of a Ṣaḥabī foretold to be of the people of Jannah; on virtue of him being free from malice and envy. This beautiful example concludes the series regarding envy. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - Wise Sayings Regarding Envy - Connection Between Envy & Iman - Being Happy with the Distribution of Allah - Remedy 1: Drop Hasad Like a Burning Coal - Remedy 2: Pray for the Other Person - Remedy 3: Striving for the Bounties of Allah - The Value of the Dunya in the Eyes of Allah - Envy Only in Two Things - Envy Common Among the Ulama (Academic Rivalry) - The Example of the Sahabah and Envy ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************

Envy: The Inferno Within Part 2 Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 28th February 2020 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester Video: https://youtu.be/kyTsT5K6BNE This three-part series details the causes, effects and how an individual can safeguard themselves from falling into the sin of envy. The thinking of an envious person is warped and where this thinking stems from is detailed. It is said that envy neither has any benefit in the dunyā, where it destroys individual and social peace, nor in the ākhirah, due to it entailing rejection of Allāh and His wisdom and leading to further sin. It is mentioned how the Prophet ﷺ was a victim of envy in Makkah and Madinah and how this led various people to reject his message, including some who were convinced of his prophethood. A number of couplets about envy are cited and it is mentioned why several poets, as well as the Prophet ﷺ, have likened envy to fire. In this context, oud and its burning is also described with a likening to envy. As a contrast to an envious person, the talk gives a positive example of a person who is brushed of heart, wishes the best for others and is at peace with Allāh's distribution. Below are some of the topics in this talk: - The Prophet ﷺ Being a Victim of Envy in Makkah & Madinah - Who is the Best? - Envy Destroying a Person's Inner and Social Peace - The Meaning of 'tanājush' - Envy Likened to Fire by the Prophet ﷺ and Others - How Envy Destroys Marriages and Friendships - Description of Oud and its Value ********************************************************************** Website: www.akacademy.org YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/alkawtharacademy Facebook: www.facebook.com/alkawtharacademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/alkawthar Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alkawtharacademy **********************************************************************