Soul of Islam Radio

Meditation is often overlooked within the Muslim community, yet it's foundational to truly living and embodying the faith. In this episode, I explore the essential role of meditation in Islam—not as a borrowed practice from other traditions, but as a core, intrinsic expression of surrender, which is the very meaning of Islam. I explain how meditation helps Muslims internalize surrender not just outwardly through ritual, but inwardly through presence, stillness, and peace. I also share insights from my journey and training with spiritual masters who emphasized the inward dimension of Islam, highlighting how outer practice without inner presence leads to a lifeless faith. We often learn only the form of religion, forgetting its spirit—yet the form exists to express the soul. Meditation reconnects us with this inner essence, teaching us to surrender in the present moment and free ourselves from fear and grief by aligning with divine will. True Islam means submitting wholly—to the outer disciplines and the inner experience of God's presence. Meditation makes this real. It’s the practice of learning to let go, of training the mind to be still, of allowing the heart to open to divine love. Through this, we begin to embody the Shahada—not just in words but in being. I also introduce a new and free Primer on Islamic Meditation masterclass, which offers practical steps to begin this transformative practice. It’s time we return to the heart of Islam: complete, conscious surrender. Chapters 00:00 | Why Meditation Is Often Misunderstood in IslamMeditation is rarely associated with Islam, yet it's deeply foundational to it. 01:03 | My Journey Into Islamic SpiritualityI share my background and the origins of the Islamic Meditation Program. 02:35 | Defining Islam as SurrenderIslam means surrender, both outwardly and inwardly—a truth taught by all prophets. 06:13 | The Inner and Outer Dimensions of ReligionIslam must be practiced with both form and spirit; without spirituality, it is lifeless. 08:00 | Inward Surrender as True SubmissionReal faith means surrendering the heart and mind to God's will in the present moment. 10:13 | What Meditation Really IsMeditation is inward surrender—a practice of presence, trust, and freedom. 12:33 | The Friends of God and the Power of PresenceTrue surrender brings peace and removes fear and grief, as described in the Qur'an. 14:24 | Oneness, Strength, and Spiritual AnchoringMeditation allows for divine connection, spiritual power, and real independence. 15:18 | Final Reflections and Free Meditation ResourceI invite listeners to a free masterclass on Islamic meditation to help integrate this vital practice.

In this deeply enriching episode of Soul of Islam Radio, I sit down with Dr. Munir Bauer, a hypnotherapist and clinical psychology PhD candidate who has spent over a decade exploring the intersection of mental health and spirituality. Our conversation begins with his personal journey of discovering Islamic meditation, a path that started with curiosity and skepticism, and led to profound transformation—not only in his life but in the lives of many clients he's worked with. Dr. Munir shares how his early academic exposure to Eastern meditation practices prompted him to question why Islamic traditions weren't included in the conversation. That search led him to the Islamic Program, which he practiced consistently for 40 days and found life-changing. Over time, he integrated these practices into his clinical work, observing tangible improvements in his clients' well-being, focus, and emotional resilience. We dive into the significance of surrender, the neuroscience behind meditative and hypnotic brain states, and how these practices can help transcend the limitations of the mind and ego. Dr. Munir discusses how Islamic meditation fosters heart-based consciousness and helps both practitioners and clinicians maintain their own mental health, especially in emotionally taxing environments like psychiatric hospitals. We also explore the common human experience of suffering and how spiritual frameworks can offer healing and resilience. Dr. Munir offers insights into brainwave patterns—beta, alpha, theta, and delta—and explains how meditation operates within the theta state to facilitate deep healing and change. He shares results from our own session together, using biofeedback tools to monitor states of peace and emotional coherence during meditation and dhikr. This conversation affirms the transformative power of meditative practice within an Islamic context—not just as a therapeutic tool but as a spiritual path back to wholeness, peace, and connection with the Divine. Whether you're new to meditation or a long-time practitioner, this episode offers a compelling case for making it a regular part of your life. Chapters 00:00 | Meeting Dr. Munir BauerI introduce Dr. Munir and we explore his background in hypnotherapy and clinical psychology. 05:13 | Islamic Roots of MeditationWe reflect on the overlooked tradition of meditative practice within early Islamic scholarship. 08:57 | Meditation as Surrender and SustenanceDr. Munir describes meditation as surrender to God and a means of emotional renewal in clinical work. 15:39 | Mental Health and Ego TranscendenceWe discuss how dysfunction is often rooted in the mind and how meditation facilitates heart-based consciousness. 20:11 | Trauma, Stories, and the MindWe explore how suffering stems from our inner narratives and how Islam helps contextualize pain. 23:25 | Intelligence, Rationalization, and ResistanceDr. Munir shares clinical observations about the challenge of working with highly intellectual clients. 28:49 | Hypnosis, Brainwaves, and Healing StatesA deep dive into the science of meditation, theta states, and how Dr. Munir uses hypnosis in therapy. 34:09 | Real-Time Biofeedback ExperimentI share my experience being monitored during meditation, with remarkable physiological data. 40:36 | Personal Healing JourneyI reflect on my anxious childhood and how meditation became a path to inner peace. 44:21 | Growth Through HardshipWe examine how trauma, when approached spiritually, can become a catalyst for growth and transformation.

Over the years, I've had the blessing of keeping company with my dear friend and brother Jamil Popatia, and our most recent trip to Morocco, became the foundation for this deeply personal and necessary conversation on spiritual brotherhood. What began as a travel experience unfolded into a profound reminder of the power of companionship, the blessings of shared intentions, and the sacredness found in the ordinary moments of daily life—walking, eating, praying, and simply being present with one another. In this episode, we reflect on what it means to travel with the intention of deepening brotherhood and how environments rooted in faith amplify this purpose. From the simplicity of communal prayer to navigating cultural nuances and even humorous hardships, our shared experiences underscored that true connection doesn’t require perfection—only presence and sincerity. We also explore how spiritual companionship isn’t limited to the living. Visiting the tombs of revered spiritual masters like Imam Jazuli (ra) and Shaykh Ahmad Tijani (qs) reminded us that brotherhood can extend through time, connecting hearts beyond the veil of the physical world. We speak about the dangers of isolation, especially for men, and how prioritizing regular, intentional gatherings—whether close to home or across the globe—can uplift and fortify us. This is a call to remember that we are not meant to carry life alone. May we all find strength in good company and the courage to seek it. About Jamil Popatia Jamil Popatia is a certified NVC (Non-Violent Communication) coach, trainer and counselor. You can learn more about him at his website, Dignified Dialogue. Chapters 00:00 | Introducing Brotherhood and the Morocco JourneyWe begin with reflections on our recent trip and the deeper intention of brotherhood. 02:18 | Traveling to Strengthen BondsJamil shares how shared travel experiences forge intimate and lasting connections. 05:04 | Faith, Environments, and Cultural ContrastsDiscussing the spiritual richness of Morocco despite everyday hardships. 10:24 | The Unifying Force of FaithWe explore how Islam transcends barriers, fostering instant brotherhood worldwide. 14:35 | Companionship with the Living and the DepartedHonoring saints and seeking their barakah brings another dimension to brotherhood. 19:10 | Relaxation as a Manifestation of FaithSurrendering to God's will and finding peace even amid chaos. 24:32 | Prioritizing Brotherhood IntentionallyWhy we must make space in our lives for consistent male companionship. 30:15 | Brotherhood as a Space for HealingBeing vulnerable and sharing burdens strengthens relationships and emotional well-being. 37:40 | Shared Struggles Become Laughter in Good CompanyTravel anecdotes show how hardships are softened when shared with a brother. 44:25 | The Power of Presence in Traditional SocietiesReflections on the awareness, generosity, and social intelligence witnessed abroad. 46:08 | The Danger of Isolation and the Gift of ConnectionWe emphasize the psychological and spiritual need for community. 51:43 | A Vision for the Future of Brotherhood GatheringsPlanting seeds for future retreats and shared intentions for ongoing connection. 55:46 | Rebalancing Life with Intentional FraternityWhy healthy male bonding strengthens families and our spiritual states. 58:02 | Returning to Spontaneous ConnectionA heartfelt call to revive the spirit of unplanned visits and meaningful connection.

In this episode, I explore one of the most sobering and thought-provoking exercises I’ve done using ChatGPT: asking it to simulate the strategies the devil might use to distance people from God—without them ever realizing it. What unfolded was a deeply insightful list of ten tactics that, when compared with teachings from the Qur’an and Hadith, align uncannily with spiritual warnings that have stood the test of time. We dive into each strategy, from distraction and materialism to pride, negativity, and shallow spirituality. I unpack how these methods subtly infiltrate our modern lives and draw on Islamic teachings to provide context, clarity, and resistance. The episode isn’t just a critique of the times—it’s a call to awaken, to reconnect with our faith authentically, and to remember the path laid out by the Prophet ﷺ and the Qur’an. I reflect on how we can arm ourselves with remembrance, humility, and sincerity in a world increasingly engineered for spiritual forgetfulness. This isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness. We are in a spiritual battle, and understanding the enemy is the first step toward victory. Join me as we uncover these strategies and discuss how we can return to the straight path with renewed purpose and insight. Chapters 00:00 | The Devil’s Greatest TrickExploring how disbelief in Satan enables his unseen influence in the world. 03:00 | ChatGPT’s 10 Satanic StrategiesChatGPT outlines subtle tactics to distance humanity from God. 06:05 | Distraction and BusynessHow constant activity and media prevent spiritual reflection. 07:50 | Materialism and ConsumerismThe endless chase for possessions and status distracts from inner fulfillment. 09:30 | Weakening RelationshipsIndividualism and disconnection erode our spiritual support systems. 11:20 | Cultivating PrideHow ego and arrogance blind us to our faults and halt spiritual growth. 13:00 | Negativity and CynicismHopelessness and despair undermine trust and virtue. 15:00 | Distorting FaithDiluting religious teachings breeds confusion and disillusionment. 16:40 | Silence and Reflection LostModern noise drowns out the soul’s connection to the Divine. 18:10 | Normalizing SinMoral relativism blurs right and wrong, weakening conscience. 20:00 | Shallow SpiritualityRituals without sincerity replace genuine faith. 22:00 | Fear and Anxiety as ControlMedia-fueled fear traps us in survival mode, away from God. 24:00 | The Call to AwakenTrue faith requires inner transformation and following the rightly guided.

After the spiritual intensity and sacred beauty of Ramadan, many of us are left wondering—how do we sustain this light throughout the rest of the year? In this episode, I reflect on the deeper meaning of Ramadan and share four practical commitments to help you carry that divine energy beyond the holy month. Ramadan is more than a month of ritual fasting; it's a reminder of who we truly are. It reconnects us to God, to our community, and to our higher purpose. But its gifts aren’t meant to fade with Eid. The journey continues. First, continue fasting. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ fasted regularly outside of Ramadan—on Mondays, Thursdays, and during the White Days of each lunar month. Even one day a week can preserve the physical and spiritual benefits we've cultivated. Second, keep going to the mosque. The masjid is not just a place of prayer—it’s the heart of the faithful community. Regular presence there nurtures connection, unity, and presence in a world that often pulls us toward distraction. Third, keep learning. Ramadan often inspires us to engage with the Qur’an and sacred knowledge. Let that momentum continue. Whether through traditional scholars or spiritual programs like Awakenings Academy, immerse yourself in environments of remembrance and growth. Finally, awaken in the night. One of Ramadan’s greatest blessings is the sanctity of night worship. Even outside of Ramadan, the last third of the night remains a powerful time for prayer, meditation, and seeking closeness to God. Set aside time before Fajr to reconnect with your soul and your Lord. These four practices—fasting, prayer in congregation, continual learning, and night awakening—are not just means and methods of strengthening faith during Ramadan. They are a path to lasting spiritual growth. May we carry this light throughout the year, and may it lead us closer to the Divine, to our purpose, and to our true selves. Ameen. To your divine and eternal success. Chapters 00:00 | Ramadan as a Spiritual BootcampA reflection on the spiritual intensity and collective power of the holy month. 00:54 | The Inner and Outer Blessings of FastingExploring the physical and spiritual benefits that fasting offers. 01:47 | The Sorrow at Ramadan’s EndWhy many feel a deep sadness when the month concludes. 02:32 | Reorienting to the HereafterRamadan helps shift our focus from the material world to eternal truth. 03:20 | The Question: How to Maintain MomentumA transition to the four key strategies for spiritual continuity. 04:05 | Commitment #1: Keep FastingPractical tips on weekly and monthly fasting after Ramadan. 06:12 | Commitment #2: Keep Going to the MosqueUnderstanding the mosque as a spiritual anchor throughout the year. 08:48 | Commitment #3: Keep LearningWhy continuous learning is essential for the believer. 10:27 | Commitment #4: Keep AwakeningThe transformative power of night worship and spiritual solitude. 13:35 | Laylatul Qadr and the Pursuit of Sacred TimeWhy every night is an opportunity to connect with the Divine. 14:20 | Summary of the Four CommitmentsA recap of the four strategies to keep Ramadan’s light alive. 15:09 | Closing Reflections and Invitation to ConnectFinal thoughts, a call to action, and gratitude for the community.

In this episode, I sat down with my friend and brother in faith, Jonathan Abdus-Samad Nadeau, for a deep conversation on what it truly means to make religion real. With Ramadan as our backdrop, we explored how Islam isn’t just about outward practices—praying, fasting, attending lectures—but about embodying surrender on the inside. Without this inner submission, our faith risks becoming hollow, disconnected from its purpose. We spoke about the two dimensions of Islam: the external, which deals with acts of worship, and the internal, which calls us to master the self—our thoughts, emotions, and reactions. As I’ve witnessed time and again, a person can outwardly practice Islam yet still struggle in their personal life if they haven’t developed self-awareness and control. Our conversation centered on this gap and how we can begin to bridge it. Jonathan shared insights from his background in meditation and spiritual practice, emphasizing the difference between knowing something in the mind and embodying it in reality. We often mistake thinking about change for actually changing. True transformation requires stillness, patience, and repetition—especially in the moments we’re triggered or challenged. We both returned to the concept of patience, not as passivity, but as the ability to sit with discomfort without reacting. That’s where real growth happens. It’s not about eliminating emotions like anger or fear, but learning how to respond instead of being ruled by them. We explored how emotional reactivity often stems from identifying with the mind, and how freedom comes from creating space between stimulus and response. I reflected on a personal experience during a hijra journey between Mecca and Medina, where physical pain taught me that surrendering to discomfort actually eases it. That lesson carries into every aspect of life—resistance creates suffering, while acceptance invites peace. We closed by discussing meditation as a tool for cultivating inner stillness and discipline. It’s not about escaping or achieving something, but simply learning to be—sitting quietly, observing, letting go. It’s through this daily practice that we begin to discipline the self, embody the essence of Islam, and ultimately return to the Divine Presence of Allah Almighty. This is what it means to make the religion real—moving from form to essence, from surface to depth, from performance to presence. For those looking to go deeper, I created the Ramadan Success Program to support a more holistic experience of the sacred month, and the Islamic Meditation Program as a practical way to cultivate the inner stillness that anchors real faith. Chapters 00:00 – The Outer and Inner Dimensions of IslamWe open with a reflection on the dual nature of Islam: outward obedience and inward surrender, and the need to integrate both for a complete spiritual path. 02:31 – Illusions of Practice and the Need for EmbodimentJonathan discusses how spiritual growth requires more than intellectual understanding—it demands embodied experience and real transformation. 07:11 – Making Religion Real: Where It CountsWe explore how faith must be lived in personal life, especially in relationships, where inner growth is truly tested and revealed. 11:28 – Stillness as the Foundation for Self-ControlWe highlight the role of patience and stillness as tools for observing and regulating emotional reactivity. 18:33 – Thoughts, Emotions, and the Illusion of SelfThe conversation turns to the origins of emotions and how disidentifying from thoughts is key to spiritual freedom.

In this spiritually grounding episode, we explore the concept of integrity as a state of wholeness—an alignment between our inner truth and outer actions. Drawing from sacred teachings, lived experience, and the wisdom of our predecessors, we reflect on what it means to walk a path of sincerity and growth in a world full of tests and distractions. We begin by affirming the importance of companionship—suhbah—as the foundation of spiritual development. Our hearts are shaped by those we keep close, and true transformation begins when we seek out and remain in the company of the sincere and truthful. As the Qur’an instructs, we are called to be mindful of God and to align ourselves with those who are trustworthy. Integrity, we understand, is not just about moral uprightness but about becoming whole. It’s the actualization of knowledge through experience. Like students in the school of life, we are given information, but it is only through tests—through trials and real-life challenges—that knowledge becomes real, embodied, and transformative. As we face hardship, we are not being punished but invited to grow. Religion, in this view, is a means to fulfill life’s ultimate purpose: to know and draw near to the Divine. This requires overcoming the ego, letting go of the need for control, and surrendering in humility. The path is not easy—the self resists—but it is in this struggle that we find true freedom. When we transcend the self, we awaken the heart, the seat of the spirit, and align with our deeper purpose. We also recognize the danger of pursuing knowledge without discipline. Without tarbiyah—spiritual training under a guide—knowledge can inflate the ego and lead us astray. True progress requires both learning and purification, both study and self-mastery. In the presence of God, we strive to see ourselves in a state of humility and spiritual poverty, knowing that all goodness flows from Him alone. This episode is a reminder that our path is not solitary. Growth happens in community, with support, with teachers, and with those committed to truth. May we continue to walk this path with integrity, sincerity, and a heart open to transformation.

In this episode, we reflect on the divine name of Allah, "Al-Maalik Al-Mulk," meaning the Owner and Sovereign of all creation. Understanding this name deepens our awareness of both God and ourselves, helping us recognize our purpose and the temporary nature of this world. Everything we possess—our wealth, our bodies, even our breath—is not truly ours but a trust from Allah. This realization fosters humility and gratitude, guiding us toward a more meaningful life. Our attachment to the material world (dunya) often distracts us from spiritual truth. When we become consumed by wealth, status, and worldly success, we risk forgetting our Creator and, in turn, losing ourselves. The prophets, including Jesus (peace be upon him), reminded humanity that gaining the world at the cost of our soul is the ultimate loss. Despite this warning, many still chase fleeting power and possessions, neglecting the eternal reality that awaits beyond this life. True fulfillment comes from drawing closer to Allah through remembrance (dhikr) and conscious devotion. When we forget God, we become veiled from truth, falling into heedlessness and ingratitude. The prophets set the example of living with sincerity, humility, and gratitude, teaching that our highest honor is in servitude to the Almighty. Following their path is not about mere identification with faith but about embodying their teachings in our actions and choices. The Quran reminds us that on the Day of Judgment, nothing will benefit us except a sound heart (qalb saleem)—one that is purified and devoted to Allah. No wealth, power, or worldly success will hold value beyond this life. Our challenge is to prioritize what truly matters, preparing for eternity by cultivating faith, gratitude, and righteousness. As we navigate this world, we must ask ourselves: Are we investing in what will perish or in what will last forever? Through remembrance of Allah, following the prophets, and seeking spiritual growth, we align ourselves with a higher purpose. Our time here is short, and death is inevitable, but belief frees us from the fear of the unknown. A life rooted in faith is a life lived with excellence, preparing us for a noble return to our Creator.

On this episode of Soul of Islam Radio, we explore the significance of the most beloved names to Allah: Abdullah and Abdur-Rahman. These names, meaning “servant of God” and “servant of the Most Merciful,” reflect the highest state of being—one of true devotion and submission to the Creator. True servitude to Allah is not about restriction but about freedom—freedom from the ego, worldly distractions, and anything that distances us from our divine purpose. The modern world often promotes self-indulgence, urging us to prioritize our own desires. However, the teachings of Islam call us toward humility and self-discipline. Even the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the most perfected human being, would pray, “O my Lord, do not leave me to myself for even the blink of an eye.” If he sought such protection, how much more do we need it? Mercy is central to our faith. Allah describes Himself as Ar-Rahman, the Most Merciful, and every human being enters this world under that divine attribute. To be true servants of the Most Merciful, we must embody mercy in our interactions—with our families, communities, and even the environment. Mercy is not just a quality we receive; it is one we must actively cultivate and share. As Ramadan continues, this is a time for deep reflection and self-improvement. Are we serving Allah, or are we enslaved by our own egos and desires? The ultimate success is not in wealth, status, or personal gratification, but in becoming true servants of Allah, living with sincerity, humility, and mercy.

Meditation is an integral part of spiritual practice, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. In this episode, Ihsan reflects on the significance of presence, stillness, and surrender in connecting with Allah, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. Drawing from the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, peace and blessings be upon him, Ihsan recounts how he would retreat into the cave of Hira on Jabal Noor, isolating himself to commune with his Creator. It was in this sacred seclusion that the first revelations of the Holy Qur’an were received. This period of stillness and presence, preceding the establishment of faith and later the formalization of Islam, holds deep spiritual lessons for believers today. Meditation, as Ihsan describes, is simply “being with Allah.” In a world where the mind is often lost in past regrets and future anxieties, true connection with the Divine can only be found in the present moment. He reminds us that Allah is both transcendent and imminent, nearer to us than our own breath, and always accessible when we quiet the mind and open the heart. Stillness, he explains, is a form of surrender. It is through stillness that we awaken to the presence of Allah. Acts of worship—prayer, reciting the Qur’an, and dhikr—help guide us toward this inner stillness. But beyond doing, there is simply being: breathing, receiving, and existing in the state of pure presence. Ramadan provides an opportunity to balance both communal worship and private reflection. While gatherings and prayers strengthen our bonds with the ummah, withdrawing into personal stillness allows for deeper connection with the Divine. Ihsan encourages listeners to take time in solitude, just as the Prophet ﷺ did, to rekindle their relationship with Allah through presence and meditation.