NYU Islamic Center Podcasts

We are meant to be on a constant path on the pursuit to human perfection. God created us with incredible potentials, but at the same time, we are shackled by many obstacles on our journey to spiritual perfection. In this lecture. Dr. Sheikh Faiyaz outlines how the human being can strive toward perfection in three dimensions: 1- Defining Perfection 2- Hurdles on the Path to Perfection 3- Practical Steps to Reach Perfection

The story of Prophet Moses (a) and the wise man, otherwise known as Abd Al-Saleh, or Khidhr as taught in our traditions, is one of the most unique anecdotes presented within the Quran. At the same time, it’s one of the most difficult stories to grasp. In this lecture, Dr. Sheikh Faiyaz discussed this story in three dimensions: 1- A Summary of the Story 2- Ethical Lessons Derived 3- Theological Lessons Clarified

Due to various geo-political factors, as well as a misunderstanding of classical texts, many believe that Shia Muslims have a different Quran, which undermines the promise of God, where He maintains that He is the protector of His book. In this discussion, Dr. Sheikh Faiyaz responds to these misconceptions in three dimensions: 1- The Shia Belief in the Quran 2- Defining the Mushaf of Fatima 3- Defining the Sahifa of Ali

The religion of Islam embraces cultural practice and in no way prohibits its expression unless its in conflict with religious law. In this lecture, Dr. Sheikh Faiyaz discusses how culture can be used for positive growth, but can also serve as a barrier in one way or another, particularly when it comes to marriage. The lecture is in three primary dimensions: 1- Defining Culture 2- Where is there Room for Culture in Islamic Law? 3- Cultural Barriers in Contemporary Marriages

Access religious knowledge, for many, is a challenging and intimidating feat, but the nonetheless it’s an important step for those who are serious about their spirituality. In this lecture, Dr. Sheikh Faiyaz discusses the importance of centering the Hadith of the Prophet and his family in our lives on three dimensions: 1- The History of Hadith 2- The Legitimacy of Hadith of Ahlul Bayt 3- The Benefits of Reading Hadith

Criticisms of religion have existed for centuries, and may cause doubt and confusion with regards to how we should perceive our personal faith. In this lecture, Dr. Sheikh Faiyaz discusses the conflict around religion in three dimensions: 1- The Historical Roots of Religious Criticism 2- The Primary "Problems" with Religion 3- Differentiating the Religion of God vs. the Religion of Man

Understanding our identity is a vital study across various academic disciplines, and for many believers, subscribing to their religious identity is the most valuable means to explain who they are. In this discussion, Dr. Sheikh Faiyaz discusses how Ashura rituals have become an integral symbol of our social identity, but that comes with its own unique challenges. The discussion is in three dimensions: 1- Defining Social Identity 2- Shia Islam, Ashura Rituals & Social Identity 3- Allowing Symbols to Transcend