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This week on The Thinking Muslim we have Dr Hasan Spiker to talk about happiness from the Islamic lens, from the sweetness of faith and conquering the lower self, to finding purpose, beauty and goodness in a world chasing instant fulfilment. We also explore pain and suffering, raising children with an ummatic vision, and what it truly means to live a wholesome life for the sake of Allah.

Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

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In today’s episode of The Thinking Muslim, we are joined by Dr. Mohsin Ansari for a deep and timely conversation on the challenges facing Muslim communities in the United States, especially when it comes to youth, identity, and staying connected to the deen in a rapidly changing world.

We explore how cultural shifts, the post 9/11 landscape, and evolving ideas of “progressivism” are shaping the experiences of young Muslims today. Dr. Mohsin Ansari shares practical insights on parenting with intention, strengthening community bonds, and preparing the next generation to navigate higher education and the realities of modern society without losing their Islamic grounding.

The discussion also touches on internal migration trends within the U.S., particularly the movement toward states like Texas, and what this means for the future of Muslim communities. We end by reflecting on whether there is a deeper disconnect within the community and what can be done to address it.

Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

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In this episode of The Thinking Muslim, we are joined by Ismail Arafa for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation on religion, power, and global politics.

Together, we explore the complex relationship between faith and statecraft, beginning with discussion of crusader undertones in modern U.S. policy and what this reveals about the role of religious language in shaping political agendas. The discussion then broadens to examine both right- and left-wing trends in the West, questioning whether hostility toward Islam is rooted in belief - or driven by strategy, power, and economic interests.

As the conversation deepens, Ismail Arafa reflects on how religion continues to be instrumentalised in an increasingly secular Western world, and why it remains such a potent force despite declining religious affiliation. We also unpack the important distinction between mainstream Christianity and its more extreme expressions, while critically engaging with historical narratives like the Crusades and their relevance to modern conflicts.

The episode also tackles the dehumanisation of Palestinians and Muslims in Western discourse, alongside a candid discussion on how Muslims view non-Muslims. Is the idea of an inevitable conflict between believers and non-believers real - or constructed?

Finally, we address the rise of right-wing and authoritarian movements across the West, and what this means for Muslim communities navigating an increasingly polarised landscape.

Join us for this nuanced and challenging conversation that encourages deeper reflection on the narratives shaping our world today.

And do comment your thoughts down below!

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