One of the most common debate points against Muslims centers around the Qur'an's ten recitations (qirā’āt) that have been codified and preserved by qualified scholars since the time of the Prophet’s companions. Detractors often use the linguistic variations as means to confound Muslims into doubting the immaculate authenticity of God's Book. In this powerful episode, Shaykh Hamza clears the confusion by unequivocally proving that the secret of the Qur'an's pristine preservation lies in God's assertion that it is an oral Book. Slight variations in pronunciation and even some of the words exist, but all the variations have been validated by our scholars and wondrously enhance the meanings—and hence the miracle—of the Qur’an. These sacred words have been preserved in the hearts of men and women since the time of their revelation. The guardian (ḥāfiẓ) of the Qur'an is the one who can not only recite from memory but also write the entire Book from memory. Today, you will find many of these guardians, throughout the world, who can flawlessly write out the muṣḥaf in its exact order. No matter what the devil's minions may try to use to stun the hearts of believers, it is the prophetic defibrillator that stabilizes us in these times of confusion. Tune in, and get a dose of spiritual cardioversion!

The global online pornography industry is currently estimated to be nearly $40 billion and growing. Its pervasive nature remains a key destructive force in both the spirit of the individual and society. In the third part of our series on the nafs, Shaykh Hamza explains the profound impact our habits, good or bad, have on our hearts. In a time where demonic forces continuously assault us, the need for sacred veils and filters is more important than ever. Tune in for another powerful episode in which Shaykh Hamza gives the secret to breaking bad habits and addictions. And, there’s a sneak peak at next week's episode with two very special guests!

Season 3 of Sacred Text Messages continues with the second part of Shaykh Hamza's insightful commentary on Imam al-Ghazali's analysis of the nafs. In this episode, we learn the secret to winning the battle with our lower self: we need God. That realization alone is the critical first step toward success. No matter how strong we think we are, the inner jihad is a lifelong battle that requires complete reliance on God. For those ready to arm themselves with divine guidance, this is not an episode to be missed.

We're excited to start Season 3 of Sacred Text Messages, with an analysis of the nature of the nafs (lower self or ego) and its devilish inclinations. Shaykh Hamza navigates us through the core tenets of Imam al-Ghazali's brilliant text Mizan-al Amal (The measure of actions), from which we learn about the states of the nafs, its critical role in steering our actions, and how to tame its whimsical pursuits. Tune in to a new season, with timeless lessons from sacred sources that illuminate the mind and nourish the heart.

Our Ramadan journey continues with more wonders from the Book of Allah. In this episode, Shaykh Hamza explains the linguistic miracle of the Qur'an, analyzing the fourth verse of Sura al-Muzammil in which God commands us to "recite the Qur'an slowly and distinctly." This measured recitation allows for a deep reflection of the words of Allah, instilling a sacred monotony in our practice that prepares us for eternity.

As Ramadan approaches us once again, we're blessed with another opportunity to respond to God's great invitation, drawing near to Him through our worship and remembrance. In this special episode, Shaykh Hamza discusses the secrets of this extraordinary month and the centrality of the Qur'an as God's banquet for the believers, where the guest never leaves unsatiated and the Host never disappoints.

Throughout history, there have been many religious charlatans. For those who have been deceived by them, the personal and community impact is devastating. Some even lose their faith in God and leave their religion. In this episode, Shaykh Hamza untangles this sensitive subject by reminding us that true faith is not rooted in the fallible nature of man but the timeless truths found in God's Book, the message of His prophets, and the rightly-guided teachers who mirror them.

The word "triggered" is used to describe a strong emotional response to an upsetting event that reminds one of past traumas. The term has become popular for its colloquial use of feeling offended or hurt. Learning to handle negative or stressful situations is key to living a life of emotional and spiritual balance. In this episode, Shaykh Hamza discusses the sacred messages from the Quran which provide the antidote to negativity, teaching us to break free from the shackles of our base desires and find true freedom through the prophetic response.

"Haven't they seen how we have diminished the earth from its edges?" This week's sacred text message focuses on this extraordinary verse from the 13th chapter of the Quran entitled Ra'd or Thunder. Though the geological realities of the verse are obvious for us today, the early masters of Quranic exegesis interpreted the diminishment of the earth as the passing of the great men and women of knowledge and piety. Listen to Shaykh Hamza as he delves deeper into this exposition with a eulogy on one of the greatest scholars and hidden gems of our time.

The Digital Age has provided unprecedented convenience in communication and information sharing; it has also allowed for critics and self-proclaimed experts to share their unsolicited opinions and rebukes without censor or recourse. What do our sacred texts say about the rules of criticism and argumentation? God reminds us in the Quran: "Say, ‘How can those who know be equal to those who do not know?’ Only those who have understanding will take heed." In this episode, Shaykh Hamza discusses the modern phenomenon of public attacks and criticism and its poisonous effect on society.

The journey through the sacred messages of the Noble Quran continues as Shaykh Hamza explains the universal lessons on brotherhood, forgiveness, and Divine love.