ISRA Academy Podcast

The Many Dimensions of Ramadan - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi

Ramadan is more than just fasting from food and drink. It is a month of transformation — physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially. In this podcast episode, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi to explore the deeper dimensions of Ramadan and how this sacred month transforms the human soul and enhances connection with Allah.

Rethinking Hadith Studies - With Shaykh Muntasim Zaman

In this insightful conversation, Dr Sadeq Ansari sits down with Shaykh Muntasir Zaman to explore how contemporary scholarship is reshaping the field of Hadith studies. From cutting-edge research methods to classical works that deserve renewed attention, this discussion challenges common assumptions and invites viewers to think more deeply about how Hadith is studied, analysed, and understood today.

Responding to Neil deGrasse Tyson - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi

In this thought-provoking podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin and Dr Omer Atilla Ergi discuss Neil deGrasse Tyson's argument: If God exists, how can He be both All-Powerful and All-Good, given the presence of suffering in the world? Drawing from Islamic teachings and theological insights, the discussion explores key questions about the nature of God, human free will, the purpose of trials, and the wisdom behind life's challenges. Join us as we delve into faith, reason, and spirituality, as we uncover a nuanced Islamic perspective on this age-old philosophical dilemma.

Eat Like The Prophet - With Prof Mehmet Ozalp

In this podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Prof Mehmet Ozalp to explore three Sunnahs of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) that guide us towards balanced and healthy eating. Together, they discuss how these timeless teachings are beneficial for physical well-being while fulfilling our responsibility towards our body.

Sirah: How the Masjid Site Was Chosen in Madinah - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya

In this podcast, the Dr Suleyman Sertkaya discusses the arrival of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in Madinah, tracing the events from his departure from Quba to the early foundations of the Madinan community.The session explores how the Prophet’s (pbuh) camel, al-Qaṣwa, played a decisive role in determining the location of the Masjid al-Nabawi, the generosity of Abu Ayyub al-Anṣari in hosting the Prophet (pbuh), and the ethical considerations surrounding the land that belonged to two orphan brothers, Sahl and Suhayl. 

Convert Story: "I Asked Allah For A Sign" - With Silma Ihram

In this episode, I sit down with Silma Ihram, Educational Consultant and founder of one of Australia’s earliest Islamic schooling initiatives, to reflect on her remarkable journey to Islam and her lifelong commitment to Islamic education.

Sirah: Transforming Yathrib to Madinah - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya

What were the most critical steps taken by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in his very first year in Madinah and why do they matter so much?In this podcast, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the foundational decisions made by the Prophet after the Hijrah, showing how Madinah was transformed from Yathrib into a morally, socially, and politically grounded community. Rather than viewing events in isolation, this talk situates the first year in Madinah within the broader chronology of the Sīrah, highlighting intention, strategy, and long-term vision.

If Allah Knows My Fate, Why Am I Being Tested - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi

In this episode, we explore a question many people quietly struggle with: If Allah already knows whether I will go to Paradise or Hell, why does He test me at all? This conversation unpacks a common misunderstanding about divine knowledge, destiny (qadar), and human responsibility.

5 Proofs of Afterlife in the Qur'an – With Prof Mehmet Ozalp

In this episode, Prof Mehmet Ozalp and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore five Qur'anic proofs for the existence of the afterlife. While traditional Muslim scholarship often focused on revelation rather than rational arguments, the Qur'an itself offers proofs of life after death. Join us as we discuss these proofs and reflect on how they strengthen our understanding of the Hereafter.

Who is Dajjal? - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi

Who is Dajjal, the great deceiver of the end times? Is he a literal being, or could he represent a system of deception and misguidance? In this video, we explore the different interpretations of Dajjal found in Islamic scholarship and thought. We also discuss how the concept of Dajjal connects to the return of Isa (AS) and the emergence of Yajuj and Majuj, offering a deeper understanding of Islamic eschatology.