Ramadan is often seen as a time of discipline and devotion, but its deepest gifts sometimes arrive in ways we don’t anticipate. In this episode of The Welcome Home Podcast, Dr. Will Caldwell, Mike Swies, and Danny Kulasik reflect on how to approach Ramadan with an open heart—free from rigid expectations of how it’s "supposed" to feel. Instead of chasing spiritual highs, they explore what it means to surrender to the month as it unfolds, trusting that its blessings will come in their own time. They also discuss how this year’s fast takes on new meaning in the wake of a ceasefire in Gaza and a moment of relative peace, and how the struggles in Palestine connect to the broader teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and humanity as a whole.
--------
46:26
Word to the Wise: Seeking Truth and Hope
Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ.
In this session, Dr. Ali Dia, Executive Director of Ta'leef, is filling in for Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans.
Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events
Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast
Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate
--------
48:07
Word to the Wise: Happiness with that which Lasts
Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ.
Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events
Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast
Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate
--------
55:28
The Golden Thread: A Look Back at 2024
In this reflective episode of The Welcome Home Podcast, Dr. Ali Dia, Dr. Will Caldwell, Mike Swies, and special guest Mousa Al-Sweis celebrate the high points of 2024 at Taleef. They share stories of the many shahadas throughout the year, reminisce about the inspiring Newcomers Retreat in Colombia, and highlight the strides Taleef has made in fostering a culture of inclusion and care. As they look back, they also look ahead with excitement to the upcoming release of a new instructional video on how to pray Salah. Join the conversation as they weave together the golden moments of the year into a tapestry of hope and gratitude.
--------
50:31
’Tis the Season
Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas—how should Muslims approach these widely celebrated holidays? In this episode of The Welcome Home Podcast, Dr. Ali Dia, Dr. Will Caldwell, and Mike Swies dive into the sub-consensus among Muslims regarding these occasions. Our hosts explore the challenges this season brings for Muslims, especially new converts, who may feel torn between cultural traditions and their faith. How can the community navigate these complexities with balance and integrity?
Ta'leef provides the space, content, and companionship necessary for a healthy understanding and realization of Islam in America. We are rooted in Prophetic tradition, love, and service. Through this podcast, you'll be able to stream all of our classes and listen to conversations with our beloved teachers and community members.
Netherlands