Dr. Shabir Ally discusses a commonly misunderstood Quranic verse from chapter 11, verses 118-119, which states that if God had willed, He could have made all human beings one single community, but instead, people have divergent views. Classical scholars interpreted this as divine predestination, where some people were created for Paradise and others for Hell. However, Dr. Shabir argues that this view contradicts the broader Islamic teaching that individuals are tested and judged based on their actions. He explains that God granted free will, allowing people to choose their paths. Those who follow the prophets receive God's mercy, not because they were preordained for it, but because of their choices. He notes that modern scholars increasingly reject the classical interpretation in favor of a view that aligns with free will and accountability, emphasizing the need to critically engage with classical scholarship while respecting its contributions. If you enjoy this video, please support our work financially by: Visiting our website http://www.QuranSpeaks.com OR Sending an etransfer to iGive@QuranSpeaks.com OR Subscribing monthly at Patreon.com/QuranSpeaks ► DONATE: http://www.quranspeaks.com/ ► SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=quranspeaks Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LetTheQuranSpeak Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/QuranSpeaks.tv Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/Quran_Speaks

Dr. Shabir Ally and Dr. Safiyyah Ally discuss social divisions, particularly the caste system, and how Islam emphasizes equality among all people. Dr. Shabir explains that while Islam opposes hierarchical divisions based on caste or social status, Muslims living in cultures where such divisions are prevalent may still be influenced by them. He references Quranic verses that highlight human equality, emphasizing that true honor comes from piety and awareness of God rather than race, language, or social standing. Dr. Safiyyah adds that Islamic practices, such as prayer and pilgrimage, further reinforce this equality, as individuals of all backgrounds stand side by side without distinction. Dr. Shabir also reflects on Malcolm X’s transformative experience during Hajj, where he witnessed true racial equality, challenging his previous perceptions. He describes how simple burial shrouds and pilgrimage attire in Islam strip away material distinctions, reinforcing the idea that all human beings are equal before God. This core Islamic principle, he argues, fosters racial harmony and unity among people. If you enjoy this video, please support our work financially by: Visiting our website http://www.QuranSpeaks.com OR Sending an etransfer to iGive@QuranSpeaks.com OR Subscribing monthly at Patreon.com/QuranSpeaks ► DONATE: http://www.quranspeaks.com/ ► SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=quranspeaks Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LetTheQuranSpeak Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/QuranSpeaks.tv Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/Quran_Speaks

Rabi asks Dr. Shabir Ally, "Why do you love Allah?" Tell us what you think of Dr. Shabir's answer below! If you enjoy this video, please support our work financially by: Visiting our website http://www.QuranSpeaks.com OR Sending an etransfer to iGive@QuranSpeaks.com OR Subscribing monthly at Patreon.com/QuranSpeaks ► DONATE: http://www.quranspeaks.com/ ► SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=quranspeaks Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LetTheQuranSpeak Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/QuranSpeaks.tv Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/Quran_Speaks

Dr. Shabir Ally says that divine love is central to Islamic teachings. The Quran consistently affirms God’s love, mercy, and compassion. He cites verses from Surah Al-Ma'idah, Surah Al-Buruj, and Surah Al-Baqarah, demonstrating that God's love is a defining characteristic, extending to believers and that God invites them to love Him in return. Divine love in the Quran is often expressed through mercy and kindness, such as the concept of wadood (a deep, affectionate love) and rahma (compassion), which God places in human relationships, including between spouses and in the hearts of Jesus’ followers. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also reinforced this message, illustrating God’s love with the story of a mother’s deep care for her lost child, showing that God does not desire to punish His creation but rather guides them toward righteousness. Dr. Shabir also addresses a common Christian critique that Islam portrays God as more vengeful while the Bible emphasizes God as love. He counters this by noting that both the Quran and the Bible depict God as both loving and just. He also points out that the Bible—particularly in the Book of Revelation—includes intense depictions of divine wrath, such as God pouring out "bowls of wrath" and Jesus returning with a sword to slay his enemies. He clarifies that Islam’s concept of divine justice is corrective rather than vengeful and that God’s punishment serves as a warning rather than an expression of anger. If you enjoy this video, please support our work financially by: Visiting our website http://www.QuranSpeaks.com OR Sending an etransfer to iGive@QuranSpeaks.com OR Subscribing monthly at Patreon.com/QuranSpeaks ► DONATE: http://www.quranspeaks.com/ ► SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=quranspeaks Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LetTheQuranSpeak Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/QuranSpeaks.tv Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/Quran_Speaks

Dr. Shabir Ally and Dr. Safiyyah Ally explore the striking similarities between the Lord’s Prayer and Surah Al-Fatihah in the Quran. Both prayers, frequently recited by Christians and Muslims, emphasize glorifying God, seeking His guidance, and asking for forgiveness and protection from misguidance. A key difference is that the Lord’s Prayer begins with “Our Father,” whereas Surah Al-Fatiha refers to God as “Rabb” (Lord), aligning with Islamic theology. Despite this, the prayers share a nearly identical structure, reinforcing the centrality of God’s dominion and mercy in both traditions. Dr. Shabir highlights how phrases like “Hallowed be thy name” in the Lord’s Prayer parallel the glorification of God’s names in Surah Al-Fatiha. Requests for divine will, sustenance, and guidance also align closely. He argues that rather than being a mere adaptation, the Quran deliberately echoes familiar themes while presenting them within its own theological framework. If you enjoy this video, please support our work financially by: Visiting our website http://www.QuranSpeaks.com OR Sending an etransfer to iGive@QuranSpeaks.com OR Subscribing monthly at Patreon.com/QuranSpeaks ► DONATE: http://www.quranspeaks.com/ ► SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=quranspeaks Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LetTheQuranSpeak Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/QuranSpeaks.tv Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/Quran_Speaks