Greetings of Peace (al salamu 'alaykum) dear Friends,
As has become my usual greeting since October 7th, I pray that you are managing as well as can be expected in these exceedingly challenging times. Although we did not gather virtually this past weekend, I hope that you will find great value, as I did, in this wonderful new episode of Real Talk with Cherif and Baba!
Real Talk with Cherif and Baba, Episode 2
Building upon the khutbah earlier in the day entitled, "Built on Racism: Modern Institutions and the Path to Liberation," in which Dr. Abou El Fadl asserts that modern institutions are a farce, Cherif begins the conversation by asking Baba to elaborate on this point. Cherif asks just the right question to unlock a full explanation of the history of international law that is fully illuminating given our current moment. From there, they touch upon the silence of Muslim leadership, how what the dynamic of "burnout" truly means, the role of "secular Muslims" in the current moment, and much more. It is truly an education that is so sorely needed!
CATCHING UP THIS WEEK
My apologies that with everything going on across a number of fronts, I need to do a little catching up in terms of sharing edited transcripts of previous khutbahs and other items. But so as not to overwhelm, I will share some today and a little more later in the week.
First, below you will find the edited transcript for Dr. Abou El Fadl's fabulous khutbah entitled, "The Biblical Narrative on Wicked People and the Paradox of the West." Since October 7th, week after week, Dr. Abou El Fadl has been delivering incredibly important khutbahs for us to build our understanding of what we are witnessing in our world, from the dynamics around Israel and Palestine, to the development of international law and the United Nations, to how Biblical narratives and understandings inform the politics and narratives that rule our world. Indeed, this khutbah and all khutbahs since October 7th have been uniquely illuminating. Later this week, I will share the transcript for the khutbah, "Emancipation from 'Colonial Islam' and the Uselessness of Muslim Leaders," and by next week, we will be caught up insha'Allah (God willing), with the transcript for this past Friday's khutbah, "Built on Racism: Modern Institutions and the Path to Liberation." As you can tell from the titles, each khutbah adds a new level of depth and understanding. All are currently available on our YouTube channel and on our Supercast podcast platform. I hope you will share this knowledge widely with others, as education is our most valuable means for empowerment and liberation in these dark times.
ON SUBSTACK
And as always, I must call attention to the brilliant writing of Wietske Merison, who as a "Muslim Birder," shares powerful reflections at the intersection of the Qur'an, nature, and life lessons from coming to know God's incredible creation of birds. I am also in catch-up mode with sharing Wietske's work so will share two of her pieces this week, one below and one in the next newsletter to come later this week! The first piece is called "Song Sparrow: Reclaiming your voice in a time of loud egos," a beautiful and inspiring piece! Enjoy!
"Song Sparrow: Reclaiming your voice in a time of loud egos" by Wietske Merison
On her Substack: Gift from the Heavens: Musings of a Muslim Birder
A REQUIEM FOR PALESTINE
Again, we are so blessed to benefit from the many talents of our dear friend, Wietske. I want to keep this piece highlighted this week in honor of our blessed brothers and sisters in Palestine. May Allah honor and elevate every soul that is suffering or that has departed. May they all be reunited in God's love and mercy.
Composed and Performed by Wietske Merison
Let us continue to pray and act on behalf of all the Muslims around the world who are suffering. May God empower us to take whatever action is within our means to make a difference in whatever way we can. May God empower, comfort, and forgive us all. Ameen. Look forward to seeing you online soon insha'Allah.
In Peace and Hope,
Grace