Preaching Piety Part 2
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 9th April 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/DEkgmN77HSI

This series continues the theme of naṣiḥah, whereby a person's advice should begin from within before spilling out to others. Advice should not be treated as an absolute concept since not everyone will agree on the same thing. Sincerity is part of giving advice and a person should not try to enforce their own opinion in a matter of valid disagreement.

The talk continues the discussion on the prerequisites of unsolicited naṣīḥah, adding that naṣīḥah starts at home and with oneself before anybody else. The importance of having knowledge of what one is advising is emphasised here. This includes knowledge about different opinions in the matter, lest one reprimands someone following another valid opinion. The caution of the ‘ulamā’ of the past in giving rulings, as well as their respect for differing opinions, illustrates this point.

Thereafter, the discussion turns to the method of giving advice. A giver of naṣīḥah should follow the sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, who is shown to have been soft and tolerant in his naṣīḥah, as opposed to the approach of vocal fitna-mongers. Also discussed is the time of giving naṣīḥah, that it should not be given too often nor in a time that causes disgrace to the one advised.

The latter part of the talk mentions the fact that naṣīḥah sometimes shouldn't be given at all, even if the advisor is sincere and knowledgeable. This is illustrated by the Prophet ﷺ's reluctance to publicly announce that whoever says the kalimah will enter Jannah, as well as his reluctance to change the Ka'ba back to its real foundations.

Some of the topics contained in this talk:
- Importance of having knowledge of different opinions
- Cases where the Prophet ﷺ accepted differing actions
- Hadith of the bedouin urinating in the masjid
- Preaching to others leading to fitnah
- Being soft and tolerant when advising
- A disagreement between Abu Hurayra & Umar r.a
- Detailing differences with the building of the Ka'bah

*This talk took place just after lockdown and was open to a limited audience*

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Preaching Piety

Preaching Piety Part 2

Preaching Piety Part 1
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 2nd April 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/mcpUcvDwuic

This series continues the theme of naṣiḥah, whereby a person's advice should begin from within before spilling out to others. Advice should not be treated as an absolute concept since not everyone will agree on the same thing. Sincerity is part of giving advice and a person should not try to enforce their own opinion in a matter of valid disagreement.

The talk starts by explaining the hadith that a true Muslim is one whose tongue and hand others remain safe. This shows the importance of us protecting others from our own ill. It is explained that every human carries pain which is often shifted onto others, most commonly found through verbal abuse. This does not necessarily have to be done openly, but the believers are warned in the Quran about the harms of speaking ill about others in their private conversations. Neighbours are especially mentioned as a group that should feel safe from our ill and it is emphasised that we should only have relationships with people if they are in good.

The talk further explains that our thinking in times of fitnah should focus on protecting others from our ill rather than thinking that we are better than them. Thereafter, the hadith on who is a penniless person is explained, with a focus on how we must revisit our concept of "penniless". Other concepts that have been revisited in the Quran and hadith, such as “a strong person” are also explained.

Some of the topics contained in this talk:
- Best examples of giving advice
- Giving "advice" in psychology
- Qualifications of the one giving advice
- Time and place when giving advice
- Not imposing our view on others
- Three verses quoted by Abdullah ibn Abbas

*This talk took place just after lockdown and was open to a limited audience*

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Preaching Piety Part 1

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 5 of 5
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 29th October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/9H9huDnFpKQ

The talk provides a detailed tafsir of the final verses of Surat al-A'la, focusing on the true meaning of success as defined by Allāh. The talk explains that success in Islam is not measured by wealth, status, or worldly achievements but by self-purification, remembrance of Allāh, and devotion to prayer. The verse “Indeed, he has succeeded who purifies himself” is analysed deeply, highlighting that purification extends beyond physical cleanliness to include spiritual, moral, and emotional purification. The discussion references Surat Ash-Shams, where Allāh swears by creation to emphasize the importance of nurturing the soul. The talk also warns about the deception of wealth and material possessions, reinforcing that true ownership is only what a person consumes, wears out, or gives in charity, as mentioned in a ḥadīth of the Prophet ﷺ.

The lecture further explores how wealth, children, and worldly pursuits are mere tests (fitna), and preferring this life over the Hereafter is a common but grave mistake. The Quran reminds believers that while people chase temporary success, "The Hereafter is better and everlasting." The talk shares the reflection of Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, who admitted that even the Sahaba struggled with prioritizing the Hereafter.

The talk concludes by emphasizing that true success lies in faith, charity, remembrance of Allāh, and devotion in prayer, as echoed in various Quranic verses. The Adhan (call to prayer) itself reminds believers that success is found in Salah, reinforcing that spiritual success leads to eternal rewards, while worldly gains are fleeting and ultimately left behind for others.
The talk concludes with a powerful reminder on self-accountability—that rather than blaming others, one must question their own sincerity and effort in seeking knowledge. Even Iblis will declare on Judgment Day that he only invited people to sin, and they accepted willingly. Thus, true benefit from the Quran and prophetic teachings requires faith, humility, and an eagerness to seek and apply knowledge.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Recap of verses 1-13
- Verse 14: "Indeed has succeeded he who has purified"
- Various markers of success
- Purification from the love of wealth
- The burden of wealth and giving in charity
- Protection from greed of the soul
- Things that nourish the soul
- Verses on the afterlife being better

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The Most High - A Tafsir of Surat al-A'la

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 5

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 4 of 5
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 15th October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/dtiTdZOmTVw

This talk focuses on the importance of admonition and its conditions. The talk explains that the Prophet ﷺ was commanded to remind people, but only if the reminder would be beneficial, emphasizing that not everyone is receptive to guidance. True benefit comes to those who possess taqwa (God-consciousness), humility, and sincerity in seeking knowledge. The talk highlights the spiritual barriers that prevent people from accepting guidance, such as arrogance, sinfulness, and a lack of sincerity. The story of Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum, a blind companion, is discussed in detail, where Allāh corrected the Prophet ﷺ for prioritizing influential leaders over a sincere seeker. This serves as a lesson that true guidance is for those who actively seek it, not those who feel self-sufficient.

The talk also stresses that guidance cannot be forced, even by the Prophet ﷺ himself, as ultimate acceptance depends on a person's willingness and effort. The role of spiritual purity and wudu (ritual purification) is highlighted through a hadith where improper purification affected even the Prophet’s recitation during Salah.

The talk concludes with a powerful reminder on self-accountability—that rather than blaming others, one must question their own sincerity and effort in seeking knowledge. Even Iblis will declare on Judgment Day that he only invited people to sin, and they accepted willingly. Thus, true benefit from the Quran and prophetic teachings requires faith, humility, and an eagerness to seek and apply knowledge.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Prerequisites for benefiting from a reminder
- Prerequisite: True faith & fear of Allāh
- Prerequisite - Possessing intelligence
- Prerequisite - Sincere talab (seeking knowledge) & humility
- Ilm compared to rain
- The Prophet's experience with Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum
- Removing filth from the heart
- The Prophet ﷺ experiencing difficulty in recitation
- Summary of verses 10-13

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'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 4

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 3 of 5
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 8th October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/wjG6ZOsNROs

The talk provides an in-depth tafsīr (exegesis) of Sūrat al-Aʿlā, focusing on the divine assurance given to the Prophet ﷺ regarding the preservation of the Quran. It begins with a recap of previously discussed verses and transitions into the meaning of, "We will make you recite, so you shall not forget" (87:6). The talk explains how the Prophet ﷺ initially feared forgetting the revelation and would hasten to recite alongside Jibril (a.s.). Allāh reassured him that the Quran’s memorization, recitation, and explanation were divinely protected. Several aḥadīth, including narrations from Abdullah ibn Abbas (r.a.), illustrate how the Prophet ﷺ received revelation and how the method of Quranic recitation remains unchanged since its revelation. The miraculous preservation of the Quran, both in wording and recitation, is highlighted as a divine phenomenon, contrasting it with the natural evolution of human languages over time.

The lecture further explores human forgetfulness, divine will, and the Prophet’s human experience in receiving revelation. Instances where the Prophet ﷺ temporarily forgot verses are discussed, emphasizing that such moments were part of human nature and divine wisdom rather than flaws. The talk draws parallels between the Prophet’s recitation and contemporary Quranic memorization techniques, explaining how mutual revision (mudārasah) during Ramaḍān between the Prophet ﷺ and Jibril (a.s.) set the precedent for modern-day Quranic revision.

The session concludes by reaffirming Allāh’s perfect knowledge of the seen and unseen, explaining the ease provided by divine guidance, and stressing that religious obligations, though seemingly challenging, become natural when embraced with sincerity and understanding.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Revision of the Quran by the Prophet ﷺ
- Musalsal ḥadīth on receiving revelation
- The Quran coming from Allāh
- Recitation of the Quran despite difficulties
- Shaykh Anwar Shāh al-Kashmīrī and his memory
- The infinite knowledge of Allāh

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'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 3

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 2 of 5
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 1st October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/hhvUije9lyQ

This talk continues with the tafsir of Sūrat al-Aʿlā, emphasizing the command to glorify Allāh (tasbīḥ) and its significance in both worship and daily life. The Prophet ﷺ was instructed to remember Allāh constantly, especially in rukūʿ and sujūd, and this practice was passed down to the ummah. The discussion highlights the trials faced by prophets, particularly the rejection they endured due to human arrogance. After the conquest of Makkah, Allāh commanded the Prophet ﷺ to increase his tasbīḥ, which became part of his frequent supplications. The virtues of 'SubḥānAllāh wa biḥamdihi' are emphasized through aḥādīth, showing its immense rewards, including forgiveness of sins and spiritual purification.

The latter part of the talk explores Allāh’s creation and the fleeting nature of life. Reflecting on the universe, the subservience of animals, and the natural cycles of growth and decay all point to Allāh’s divine order. The Qur'an describes how all creation glorifies Allāh, even if humans do not perceive it. Life’s temporary nature is likened to lush pastures that eventually turn into dry stubble, reminding believers not to be deceived by worldly pleasures. The talk concludes with a three-step approach taught in the Sūrah: reflect on creation, engage in the remembrance of Allāh, and recognize the fleeting nature of this world, ultimately preparing for the Hereafter.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- The importance of tasbīḥ
- The challenges faced by the Prophets (a.s)
- The Qur'an's approach to addressing falsehood
- The best forms of ḍhikr (Remembrance of Allāh)
- The benefits and wisdom of tasbīḥ
- Verses inviting people to reflect on creation
- The ultimate message of this Sūrat

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'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 2

'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 1 of 5
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 17th September 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/TnKEOKHHano

The talk begins by introducing Sūrat al-Aʿlā, highlighting its significance as an often-recited chapter in prayers such as Jumuʿah, Eid, and Witr. The Sūrah, an early Makkan revelation, emphasizes glorifying Allāh and recognizing His supreme authority. The phrase “Sabbih” is explored in depth, illustrating how it signifies both praise and the disassociation of Allah from any imperfection. The talk references multiple Quranic verses and prophetic traditions to reinforce the importance of exalting Allāh. Additionally, examples from the stories of Prophet Yūnus (a.s.) and Prophet ʿĪsā (a.s.) are mentioned to show how divine glorification is used in moments of trial and clarification of truth. The discussion also touches on false beliefs, particularly how pagan gods were flawed, unlike Allāh, who is beyond any defect.

The latter part of the talk focuses on Allāh’s perfection in creation and guidance. An explanation is presented on how Allāh creates, perfects, and provides instinctual guidance to all beings, citing examples from nature, such as animals, birds, and the intricate structure of DNA. The cycle of life and death is reflected upon, with a Quranic analogy of green pastures turning into dry stubble, emphasizing the transient nature of life. Human free will and responsibility are also discussed, stressing that Allāh has provided guidance, but individuals must choose their path wisely. The talk concludes by reminding listeners of the necessity of understanding and applying the message of the Sūrah in daily life, ensuring that their actions align with the glorification and submission to Allāh.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Revelation context and recitation in salah
- The various uses of the word subḥān
- Performing tasbīḥ throughout the day
- The word buhtān
- Migrations in the animal kingdom
- The flightpaths of bees

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'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 1

Reflections on Sūrat al-Jumuʿah
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 26th November 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/qtL1kBC9mvM

The talk provides an in-depth reflection on Surat al-Jumu'ah, particularly its final verses, which emphasize the significance of Jumu'ah Salah and proper conduct during it. The talk explains the Quranic command to hasten to the remembrance of Allāh and leave off trade, highlighting that Jumu'ah prayer takes precedence over all worldly affairs. A historical discussion follows on the adhan for Jumu'ah, explaining that during the Prophet’s ﷺ time, there was only one adhan, but Caliph Uthman (r.a.) introduced a second due to Medina’s population growth. The importance of attending the khutbah with full concentration and avoiding distractions is stressed, as the khutbah is considered part of the prayer. Listeners are reminded that talking during the khutbah, even to correct someone, nullifies its reward. The etiquette of bringing children to the masjid is also discussed, with an emphasis on ensuring they do not disrupt the congregation.

The talk elaborates on the balance Islam strikes between worship and work, noting that while trading and labour must cease during Jumu'ah, they are permissible and even encouraged afterward. Unlike other religious traditions where holy days are days of complete rest, Islam allows trade and economic activity after prayer, demonstrating its practical and balanced approach. The importance of arriving early, maintaining discipline, and respecting the masjid’s sacredness is emphasized, along with the virtues of walking to Jumu'ah calmly rather than rushing.

The talk concludes with a reminder that Jumu'ah should not be treated as a routine task but as a weekly opportunity for spiritual renewal, reinforcing that true success lies in prioritizing Allāh’s remembrance over worldly gains.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Understanding the adhan for Jumu'ah
- The importance of attending the khutbah
- The etiquette of Jumu'ah prayer
- The role of the khutbah
- Proper conduct when attending Jumu'ah
- What happens after Jumu'ah salah?
- Balancing worship and work

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Reflections on Surat al-Jumu'ah

The Love of Jāh
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Sunday 6th March 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/Ru5qbzctpqY

The talk explores the concept of Jāh (fame, rank, and recognition) and its deep-rooted presence in human nature. The talk explains that Jāh is distinct from arrogance—while arrogance is the belief in one's superiority, Jāh is the craving for attention, recognition, and influence, even in those who are otherwise humble. This desire for status is a subtle yet dangerous aspect of the love of dunyā (worldly life), making it one of the last spiritual diseases to leave the heart. Even scholars and saints, despite renouncing material wealth, often struggle with the temptation of position and authority.

The talk highlights how human desires evolve—once basic needs like food, shelter, and security are met, people seek entertainment, power, and recognition, leading to the ultimate craving for influence over others. This is rooted in the soul’s connection to greatness, but when misdirected, it manifests as seeking status in this world rather than in the Hereafter.

The talk emphasizes that true greatness belongs to Allah alone, citing a ḥadīth qudsī where Allāh declares that anyone who competes for His majesty will be cast into Hell. The Quran warns against the distraction of chasing worldly status, and historical examples—including the betrayal of Ali (r.a.) and Hasan (r.a.)—illustrate how followers are fickle and unreliable. Even great scholars and pious individuals, such as Imam Khalid ibn Ma’dan and Imam Abu Alia, actively avoided public recognition to protect their sincerity. The Sahaba, including Umar (r.a.) and Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (r.a.), discouraged being followed, recognizing that fame is both a humiliation for the followers and a trial for the leader.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- What is Jāh?
- Scholars & saints struggling with Jāh
- The progression from basic needs to Jāh
- The soul's connection to greatness
- The love of influence and followers
- Examples of scholars & sahabah avoiding Jāh
- The temporary nature of status & tragic examples
- Seeking contentment in faith

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The Love of Jāh

The Stinters - A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn Part 1 of 5
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 20th May 2022 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester

Video: https://youtu.be/zQ8tMSDIqbQ

This talk provides an in-depth Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Muṭaffifīn, explaining its historical context, linguistic significance, and broader ethical implications. The talk highlights that the Sūrah warns against fraudulent practices, focusing on those who manipulate measures and weights for personal gain.

The term ‘Mutaffifin’ is analysed linguistically, showing that it refers to minor but intentional deceptions that accumulate over time. The talk also contrasts the economic systems of Mecca (which used weights) and Medina (which relied on volume-based measures), illustrating how dishonest practices were common before the Prophet ﷺ reformed society. Furthermore, historical examples from the Saḥābah and early Muslims demonstrate how this Sūrah corrected dishonest business dealings, leading to a more ethical trading system.

Beyond trade, the talk emphasizes that the principle of fairness applies to all aspects of life, including prayer, relationships, and social interactions. It explains that Islām teaches balance and justice, and ‘Tatfif’ (stinting or cheating) is condemned not just in business but in personal conduct as well. Examples from Umar ibn al-Khattab (r.a.) and Salman al-Farsi (r.a.) show that neglecting communal prayers or failing to fulfil one’s responsibilities in relationships is also a form of cheating. The Prophet ﷺ stressed the importance of being a giver rather than a taker, whether in trade, social interactions, or acts of charity.

The talk concludes by highlighting Prophet Shu'ayb's (a.s.) warning to his people about fraud, emphasizing that societies engaging in dishonesty face divine consequences.

Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- The meaning of 'Taṭfīf'
- Pre-Islamic practise of taṭfīf (stinting)
- The economy of Makkah and Madinah
- A Deeper meaning to the word taṭfīf (stinting)
- The lowliness of being a taker in friendship
- The Prophet ﷺ repaying loans
- Misconceptions that taṭfīf (stinting) is harmless
- Examples of instances we need to be givers

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The Stinters - A Tafsir of Surat al-Mutaffifin Part 1

Al Kawthar Academy was established under the guidance of Shaykh Abu Yusuf Riyadh ul Haq to cater for the religious, spiritual and educational needs of English speaking Muslims. Its endeavour is to become a reliable reference and a valuable resource of authentic Islamic material in various media.

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Reflections on Surat al-Jumu'ah

Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq

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