Our guest is Dr. Muhammed Al-Ahari, an American essayist, historian, teacher, and writer on the topics of American Islam, Black Nationalist groups, heterodox Islamic groups, Bosniaks, and modern occultism. He has edited over 40 publications, and is the sole author of five other publications. Our conversations centers on some of those works, his process, advice for aspiring researcher/scholars, and some of the history specific to muslims in Chicago. Host/Producer- Tariq I. El-Amin Guest- Dr. Muhammed al-Ahari Image- Tariq I. El-Amin See more of Dr. al-Ahari's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Muhammed-Abdullah-Al-Ahari/author/B09XRCCD2F?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Juz 30 of the Quran, also known as Juz 'Amma, comprises Surah An-Naba' (78) to Surah An-Nas (114). This section contains shorter surahs, focusing on fundamental themes of faith, the Hereafter, and moral conduct. Surah An-Naba' (78) emphasizes the Day of Judgment and the resurrection, urging people to reflect on the consequences of their actions. Surah An-Nazi'at (79) describes the Day of Resurrection and the fate of the righteous and the wicked, highlighting the importance of fearing God and preparing for the Hereafter. Surah Abasa (80) rebukes those who neglect the poor and emphasizes the importance of humility and compassion. Surah At-Takwir (81), Surah Al-Infitar (82), and Surah Al-Mutaffifin (83) vividly portray the end of the world, the resurrection, and the final judgment. They warn against dishonesty and injustice. Surah Al-Inshiqaq (84) and Surah Al-Buruj (85) emphasize the certainty of the Day of Judgment and the importance of faith and patience in the face of trials. Surah At-Tariq (86) and Surah Al-A'la (87) highlight God's creation and the importance of following His guidance. Surah Al-Ghashiyah (88) describes the Hereafter, contrasting the fate of the believers and the disbelievers. Surah Al-Fajr (89) and Surah Al-Balad (90) stress the importance of righteousness, charity, and perseverance. Surah Ash-Shams (91) to Surah Al-Lail (92) emphasize moral conduct, the consequences of good and evil deeds, and the importance of self-purification. Surah Ad-Duha (93) to Surah Al-Masad (111) offer guidance on various aspects of personal conduct, social justice, and the significance of the Prophet Muhammad's mission. Surah Al-Ikhlas (112), Surah Al-Falaq (113), and Surah An-Nas (114) focus on the oneness of God and seeking His protection. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin

Juz 29 of the Quran includes Surah Al-Mulk (67) to Surah Al-Mursalat (77). Surah Al-Mulk emphasizes God's sovereignty over the universe and the signs of His creation. It calls for reflection on the natural world and warns of the consequences of disbelief. Surah Al-Qalam (68) addresses the story of the disbelievers who rejected the Prophet Muhammad and emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and righteousness. It warns against arrogance and highlights the fate of the ungrateful. Surah Al-Haqqah (69) describes the Day of Judgment and the fate of the righteous and the wicked. It vividly portrays the scenes of the Hereafter and underscores the importance of accountability. Surah Al-Ma'arij (70) speaks of the inevitability of the Day of Judgment and the characteristics of the righteous. It encourages patience, charity, and prayer while warning against greed and selfishness. Surah Nuh (71) recounts the story of Prophet Noah, emphasizing his perseverance in preaching God's message despite the persistent rejection by his people. It highlights the importance of patience and steadfastness in faith. Surah Al-Jinn (72) discusses the existence of jinn and their acknowledgment of the Quran's truth. It calls for sincere worship and reliance on God alone. Surah Al-Muzzammil (73) and Surah Al-Muddathir (74) emphasize the importance of prayer, patience, and spreading God's message. They call for the Prophet Muhammad and his followers to remain steadfast in their mission. Surah Al-Qiyamah (75) describes the resurrection and the Day of Judgment, urging people to prepare for the Hereafter. Surah Al-Insan (76) highlights the creation of humans and the importance of gratitude, patience, and compassion. It contrasts the fate of the righteous and the wicked. Surah Al-Mursalat (77) warns of the impending Day of Judgment and the consequences of disbelief. It emphasizes the signs of God's power and calls for reflection and repentance. Juz 29 focuses on the themes of God's sovereignty, the Day of Judgment, accountability, and the importance of faith and righteous deeds. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin

Juz 28 of the Quran includes Surah Al-Mujadila (58) to Surah At-Tahrim (66). Surah Al-Mujadila discusses social issues, specifically the practice of zihar (a form of divorce in pre-Islamic Arabia), and emphasizes the importance of justice and the protection of women's rights. Surah Al-Hashr (59) describes the expulsion of the Banu Nadir tribe from Medina and reflects on the consequences of betrayal and disobedience to God. It also highlights God's attributes and calls for believers to reflect on His creation. Surah Al-Mumtahina (60) provides guidelines on dealing with non-Muslims, particularly in the context of marriage and alliances. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining faith and loyalty to the Muslim community while also advocating for fairness and kindness. Surah As-Saff (61) calls for unity and discipline among believers, urging them to strive in the cause of God and follow the example of Jesus and other prophets. It condemns hypocrisy and stresses the importance of sincere faith and action. Surah Al-Jumu'a (62) underscores the significance of Friday prayer and the remembrance of God. It contrasts the behavior of those who neglect their religious duties with those who uphold them. Surah Al-Munafiqun (63) exposes the hypocrisy of those who pretend to be believers while harboring disbelief in their hearts. It warns against deceit and calls for genuine faith. Surah At-Taghabun (64) discusses the Day of Judgment and the consequences of one's actions. It encourages believers to seek forgiveness and remain steadfast in their faith. Surah At-Talaq (65) provides guidelines on divorce and the treatment of women, emphasizing fairness and compassion. Surah At-Tahrim (66) addresses issues within the Prophet's household and underscores the importance of adhering to God's commandments. Juz 28 focuses on social justice, the importance of sincere faith, and the consequences of one's actions, both in this life and the hereafter. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin

uz 27 of the Quran spans from Surah Az-Zariyat (51:31) to Surah Al-Hadid (57:29). It continues with the story of Prophet Ibrahim and his guests, emphasizing his hospitality and faith. Surah At-Tur (52) describes the Day of Judgment and the fate of the righteous and the wicked. It urges people to reflect on God's creation and the consequences of their actions, emphasizing the ultimate reward for the faithful. Surah An-Najm (53) highlights the importance of following divine guidance, recounting the miraculous journey of the Prophet Muhammad during the Night Journey and Ascension (Isra and Mi'raj). It warns against idolatry and urges people to adhere to the true path. Surah Al-Qamar (54) recounts the stories of past prophets, such as Noah, Hud, Salih, and Lot, highlighting the consequences of their people's rejection of God's messages. It serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding divine warnings. Surah Ar-Rahman (55) is known for its poetic beauty and repeated refrain, "Which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?" It enumerates the countless blessings of God, urging gratitude and awareness of His mercy and power. Surah Al-Waqi'a (56) describes the events of the Day of Judgment in vivid detail, categorizing people into three groups: the foremost, the companions of the right, and the companions of the left. It emphasizes the importance of faith and righteous deeds. Surah Al-Hadid (57) stresses the significance of faith, charity, and the transient nature of worldly life. It calls for believers to support each other and strive for the hereafter. Juz 27 highlights themes of divine guidance, the Day of Judgment, gratitude for God's blessings, and the importance of faith and righteous actions. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin

Juz 26 of the Quran spans from Surah Al-Ahqaf (46:1) to Surah Az-Zariyat (51:30). It begins with the story of the people of 'Ad in Surah Al-Ahqaf, highlighting the consequences of their arrogance and disobedience to God's messenger. The surah emphasizes the importance of worshiping God alone and adhering to His guidance. Surah Muhammad (47) discusses the characteristics of believers and disbelievers, contrasting their ultimate fates. It underscores the importance of jihad (struggle) in the cause of God and encourages believers to remain steadfast and patient. Surah Al-Fath (48) celebrates the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah as a clear victory for the Muslims, emphasizing the importance of patience and trust in God's plan. It also highlights the Prophet Muhammad's qualities and the believers' loyalty to him. Surah Al-Hujurat (49) focuses on social ethics and manners, emphasizing the importance of brotherhood, resolving conflicts, and avoiding negative behaviors like backbiting and suspicion. It calls for respect, honesty, and mutual understanding within the Muslim community. Surah Qaf (50) and Surah Az-Zariyat (51:1-30) both stress the themes of resurrection and accountability, reminding people of the Day of Judgment and the importance of reflecting on the signs of God's creation. They call for steadfast faith, sincerity in worship, and awareness of the transient nature of worldly life. Juz 26 emphasizes the importance of obedience to God, the qualities of true believers, social ethics, and the reality of the Hereafter, urging believers to maintain strong faith and righteous conduct. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin

Juz 25 of the Quran comprises Surahs Fussilat (41:47) to Al-Jathiya (45:37). This section emphasizes several themes, including the importance of the Quran, the signs of God's creation, and the consequences of belief and disbelief. Surah Fussilat (41:47-54) concludes with a reminder of the Day of Judgment, the role of the Quran as a guide, and the signs of God in nature. It stresses that God alone has knowledge of the Hour and that people should reflect on the universe's signs to recognize God's power and existence. Surah Ash-Shura (42) highlights the importance of consultation and unity among believers. It discusses the revelation sent to previous prophets and how the Quran serves as a final divine guidance. The surah underscores the importance of patience, forgiveness, and trusting in God's plan, while also warning against division and conflict. Surah Az-Zukhruf (43) addresses the arrogance of the disbelievers who reject God's signs and prefer worldly pleasures. It contrasts their fate with the rewards awaiting the righteous in Paradise. The surah emphasizes the insignificance of idols and false gods compared to the true power of Allah. Surah Ad-Dukhan (44) speaks of the coming Day of Judgment and the fate of the disbelievers, describing scenes of Hell and the bliss of Paradise. It also recounts the story of Pharaoh's arrogance and his ultimate downfall as a lesson for the disbelievers. Finally, Surah Al-Jathiya (45) emphasizes God's creation as signs for those who reflect. It calls for gratitude and recognition of God's sovereignty, warning of the dire consequences of turning away from His guidance. Juz 25 highlights the consistent message of the Quran: faith, reflection on divine signs, adherence to God's guidance, and the ultimate accountability in the Hereafter. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image by Tariq I. El-Amin

The 24th Juz of the Quran encompasses the latter part of Surah Az-Zumar (39:32-75), Surah Ghafir (also known as Surah Al-Mu’min) (40:1-85), and the beginning of Surah Fussilat (41:1-46). Surah Az-Zumar continues with themes of monotheism and divine judgment. It emphasizes the consequences of denying God's revelations and the ultimate fate of the righteous versus the wicked. The surah highlights God's mercy and justice, encouraging believers to repent and seek His forgiveness. Surah Ghafir, named after "The Forgiver," elaborates on God's attributes, particularly His capacity to forgive. The surah recounts stories of past prophets and the defiance of their people, illustrating the consequences of disbelief. It addresses the themes of divine guidance, human arrogance, and the inevitability of God's judgment. The story of a believing man from Pharaoh’s family who secretly supported Prophet Musa (Moses) serves as a significant example of faith under oppression. Surah Fussilat, also known as "Explained in Detail," begins with a focus on the Quran's clarity and guidance. It describes the creation of the heavens and the earth, urging people to acknowledge God's signs and warning of the dire consequences of ignoring them. The surah calls for steadfastness in faith and obedience to God's commands, promising reward for the believers and punishment for the disbelievers. Overall, the 24th Juz underscores the importance of monotheism, the inevitability of divine judgment, and the need for sincere faith and repentance. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin

The 23rd Juz of the Quran includes the end of Surah Yasin (36:28-83), Surah As-Saffat (37:1-182), Surah Sad (38:1-88), and the beginning of Surah Az-Zumar (39:1-31). Surah Yasin concludes with a powerful reaffirmation of the resurrection and the Day of Judgment. It emphasizes the reality of the afterlife, warning those who deny it, and highlighting the signs of God's power in creation. The narrative stresses the accountability of human actions and the ultimate reward or punishment awaiting each soul. Surah As-Saffat, also known as "The Rangers," discusses the ranks of angels and their roles. It recounts the stories of past prophets, including Noah, Abraham, Moses, Aaron, and Elias, emphasizing their steadfastness and the consequences faced by their disbelieving communities. The surah underscores God's oneness, the folly of idolatry, and the certainty of resurrection and recompense. The victory of truth over falsehood is a recurrent theme, providing comfort and encouragement to believers. Surah Sad focuses on the themes of prophethood and divine revelation. It highlights the struggles of Prophet David and Solomon, showcasing their wisdom and devotion. The surah also recounts the story of Job, illustrating patience and steadfastness in the face of severe trials. The rejection of prophets by their people and the consequences thereof are reiterated. The surah ends with a vivid depiction of the Day of Judgment, urging people to heed the warnings and follow the guidance of the prophets. Surah Az-Zumar begins with a call to pure monotheism, stressing the importance of sincere worship. It addresses the inevitability of death and the resurrection, urging believers to prepare for the final judgment by leading a righteous life. Resurrection, Prophethood, Divine Judgment, Monotheism, Angels, Patience, Idolatry The 23rd Juz thus emphasizes resurrection, divine judgment, steadfastness in faith, the consequences of disbelief, and the importance of following divine guidance. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin

Juz 22 of the Quran includes parts of Surah Al-Ahzab (33:31) to Surah Yasin (36:27). This section covers themes of social conduct, the importance of following the Prophet's example, and the affirmation of the hereafter. Surah Al-Ahzab continues with directives to the Prophet’s wives, emphasizing their unique position and the higher standards expected of them. It addresses the believers about their responsibilities, particularly in terms of modesty and interaction between genders. The surah also speaks about the Prophet’s role as a model for the believers, urging them to follow his example in all aspects of life. Surah Saba (Sheba) highlights the signs of God’s power and the consequences of ingratitude. It recounts the story of the people of Sheba, who were blessed with abundant resources but failed to show gratitude to God, leading to their downfall. The surah emphasizes the futility of idolatry and the certainty of resurrection and judgment. Surah Fatir (The Originator) extols God’s creative power and the signs of His existence in the natural world. It contrasts the fates of the believers and disbelievers, urging people to heed the divine message and live righteously. The surah highlights the importance of gratitude, patience, and trust in God. Surah Yasin begins with an affirmation of the Quran as a divine revelation. It underscores the importance of following the guidance of the Prophet and the Quran. The surah narrates the story of a town that rejected its messengers and faced destruction, serving as a warning to disbelievers. It emphasizes the reality of resurrection and the afterlife, urging people to prepare for the Day of Judgment. Juz 22 concludes with a reminder of the transient nature of worldly life and the eternal significance of the hereafter, encouraging believers to adhere to faith and righteousness. Voiced and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Image- Tariq I. El-Amin