ISRA Academy Podcast
This podcast features conversations with Muslim scholars and thinkers from ISRA Academy and other institutions. They discuss faith, spirituality, and contemporary challenges. The goal is to provide accessible and enriching knowledge aimed at a broad audience.
Episodes
The Power of Bismillah - With Prof Mehmet Ozalp
In this conversation, Ustadh Ahmet Ozturk speaks with Professor Mehmet Ozalp about the deeper meaning and spiritual significance of Bismillah — “In the name of Allah.” This is a thoughtful conversation on faith, creation, dependence on Allah, and the spiritual power contained in words we often say without fully reflecting on their meaning.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
01:00 We don’t say Basmala e
If God Needs Nothing, Why Did He Create - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
If God needs nothing, why did He create the universe? And if He is completely self-sufficient, why does He ask us to worship Him?
In this episode, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi about Allah's absolute independence, the purpose of creation, and why worship benefits us, not God. Together they explore how worship is ultimately a process of purification and spiritual growth.
Timesta
Challenging Questions About God and Evil - With Prof Ozalp and Dr Ergi
In this thought-provoking Q&A session, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi addresses some of the most challenging questions surrounding suffering, justice, evil, and the wisdom of Allah. Drawing on Islamic theology and spirituality, he explores how believers can make sense of suffering while maintaining faith, trust, and hope.
Timestamps:
00:00 Why do evil people get away with evil?
06:48 Why is suffering dis
The Historic Madinah Charter - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
In this episode, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the historical significance of the Madinah Charter, one of the earliest documented agreements governing a diverse society. He discusses the circumstances that led to its formation, when and how it was documented and who the parties were.
Does Suffering Disprove God? - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Dr Omer Atilla Ergi explores one of the most challenging questions in philosophy and theology: the Problem of Evil. Drawing on reason and Islamic theological insights, he examines whether suffering truly contradicts belief in a merciful God and how concepts such as free will, human perspective, and divine wisdom contribute to understanding this issue.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:26 The term t
How Do We Know Which Religion Is True - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin and Dr Omer Atilla Ergi explore one of the most important questions a person can ask: how do we know which religion is true?
00:00 Introduction
00:52 Who asks this question?
05:07 How the names of God may be understood in other religions
07:12 Renowned historic figures may have been prophets
13:15 Why would there be no prophet after Prophet Muhammad?
17:12
Is The Animal Kingdom Built on Suffering? - With Prof Mehmet Ozalp
Many modern atheists argue that the natural world is fundamentally cruel, a place where survival depends on predation, competition, and death. In this thought-provoking discussion, Prof Mehmet Ozalp and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore a different perspective.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:38 Famous atheists portray life as all about suffering
04:05 There’s less suffering in the animal kingdom than it
Nafs Al-Ammarah (The Commanding Self) - With Prof Mehmet Ozalp
What drives our thoughts, emotions, habits, and behaviours? In this new series, Prof Mehmet Ozalp and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore the classical Islamic concept of the seven levels of the nafs (self), beginning with the first and lowest level: Nafs al-Ammarah (the Commanding Self).
Drawing on Islamic scholarship, spirituality, and practical examples from everyday life, this discussion examines how th
Madinah Before Islam - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
What was Madinah like before the arrival of Islam?
In this insightful lecture, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the history of Yathrib (later known as Madinah) before the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ migrated there. Discover the tribal dynamics, longstanding conflicts, and social conditions that shaped the city and prepared it for one of the most significant transformations in human history.
Timestamps:
00:00
Was The Universe Created For Humans Only - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this first episode of Response to Atheists, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi about humanity's place in creation, the possibility of other intelligent beings, and what the Qur'an says about the vast universe around us.
📌 In this episode:
00:00 Introduction
00:31 Introduction to the series
02:10 Does the Qur'an say the entire universe was created just for us?
05:47 We are not alo
7 Things Children Need More Than Love - With Dr Zuleyha Keskin
Most parents love their children deeply. However, children need more than love. Drawing on examples from the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and stories from the Qur'an, this talk offers practical insights for parents who want to raise children who feel secure, guided, resilient, and spiritually grounded.
How the Prophet ﷺ Built a Civilisation in Madinah - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the foundational steps taken by the Prophet ﷺ after the Hijrah, showing how Madinah was shaped through faith, community, education, economic independence, social responsibility and ethical leadership. This talk offers powerful lessons for Muslims today on how prophetic guidance can shape not only individual character, but also families, communities and society.
Timest
Can We Stop Time and Ageing - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Can we stop time and ageing? In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin and Dr Omer Atilla Ergi explore one of humanity's deepest questions, weaving together modern science and Islamic wisdom to uncover what time truly means, and what our faith teaches us about its inevitable passage.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Time cannot be defined
07:49 Theoretically you can go forwar
Scientists Accept Invisible Forces, So Why Not God? - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Astrophysics accepts the existence of unseen realities through their observable effects. Dark matter, gravity, black holes and many cosmic phenomena are not directly seen, yet their impact is measurable and scientifically accepted.
If this method of reasoning is considered valid in physics, then on what grounds is the existence of God rejected?
In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr Zuleyha Kesk
Diagnosed at 33: What Cancer Taught Her - With Angelica-Hazel
In this deeply moving conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Angelica-Hazel, a women’s health and fertility nutritionist, mother, and breast cancer survivor, to explore her journey through illness, faith, and healing.
From the moment of her diagnosis to navigating life as a convert, Angelica shares a powerful and honest reflection on what it means to face one of life’s greatest tests. We s
5 Proofs Afterlife Exists - With Prof Mehmet Ozalp
In this podcast, Prof Mehmet Ozalp and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore five Qur’anic proofs for the existence of the afterlife. While many assume belief in the Hereafter is purely based on faith, the Qur’an repeatedly invites us to reflect, question, and recognise the signs that point to life after death. What are these proofs? And how do they strengthen conviction in the unseen?
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 –
Strangers Became Brothers Overnight | The Story of Mu’akhāt - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
In this episode, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the powerful moment in Madinah when the Prophet ﷺ established mu’ākhāt, pairing the Muhājirūn and Anṣār in a bond of true brotherhood. Discover how strangers became family overnight—and what this profound model of unity, sacrifice, and care means for us today.
Are We Responsible For Our Thoughts - With Dr Omer Atill Ergi
In this podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks to Dr Omer Atilla Ergi about thoughts, especially unwanted thoughts. Are we responsible for them? Are we bad people because we have negative thoughts. This podcast explores these questions plus many more.
How To Become A Spiritual Athlete - With Prof Mehmet Ozalp
In this podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Prof Mehmet Ozalp to explore one of the most profound concepts in Islamic spirituality: the journey of the nafs.
Using the powerful analogy of a spiritual athlete, they unpack the 7 levels of the nafs—showing how each stage reflects a different level of inner struggle, awareness, and transformation. This conversation moves beyond theory, offering a
They Gave Up Everything for Knowledge | People of Suffa - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
In this talk, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the lives of the People of Suffa among the earliest devoted companions who dedicated themselves to learning in the time of the Prophet (pbuh). Through their story, we gain insight into sacrifice, knowledge, community, and the pursuit of a life centred around faith. This session reflects on their struggles and the lasting impact they had on the transmissi
From Revelation to Preservation: The Story of the Qur’an - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this podcast, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi explores the concept of divine revelation, examining its different forms, the transmission of earlier scriptures, and the unique preservation, structure, and timeless message of the Qur’an.
📌 Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:36 The oldest copy of the Qur’an
01:37 Types of revelations
03:50 Verses of creation
08:00 Animal instincts
11:50 Divine guidance
13:32 Pr
Can You Disprove God? - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this podcast, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore the assumptions people bring to the question of belief, the limits of empirical testing, and the philosophical challenges involved in denying the existence of a Creator. They also discuss common arguments, the nature of disbelief, and how analogies from art and design help us reflect on the deeper questions behind existence.
Did the Universe Come From Nothing? - With Prof Ozalp and Dr Ergi
Does quantum physics really show that the universe came from nothing? In this conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks with Prof Mehmet Ozalp and Dr Omer Atilla Ergi about one of the most debated questions in science and theology.
Do Muslims Understand Halal? What 1,000 Muslims Said - With Nadia El-Mouelhy
In this podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks with Nadia El-Mouelhy, Director of the Halal Certification Authority, about her groundbreaking survey of over 1,000 Muslims across Australia. Together they unpack the findings of the newly released Halal Report, exploring how our community understands halal and what influences consumer choices.
Why Do We Suffer? - With Prof Mehmet Ozalp
Why do we suffer? Is there a deeper purpose behind it? In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin and Prof Mehmet Ozalp explore the hidden dimensions of pain, from the role of the nafs and intention to the impact of modern life. This episode invites you to rethink suffering, not as something purely negative, but as something that may carry meaning, protection, and even transformatio
Sirah: The Building of Masjid al-Nabawi – With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
In this podcast, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the building of the first mosque in Madinah and the central role it played in the formation of the early Muslim community. From the moment the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ arrived in Madinah, the masjid became the spiritual, social, and administrative heart of the new society.
This session reflects on the construction of Masjid al-Nabawi, the individuals who se
Who Is Iblis, the Archenemy of Humanity - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this episode, we explore one of the most important figures in the Qur’an: Iblis. Who is he really? How did his story begin, and what does it reveal about pride, free will, and the human condition?
Can Science Disprove God - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this thought-provoking episode, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore the relationship between science and faith from an Islamic perspective. Does modern science challenge belief in God, or does it actually point towards His existence? Are science and religion truly in conflict, or can they complement one another? This discussion invites viewers to reflect on the relationship betwee
The Carb Mistake We Make In Ramadan - With Mete Samci
Are you struggling with low energy, hunger pangs, or fatigue during Ramadan? The key to an easier fast might be what you eat before Ramadan even begins! In this video, we explore, with Mete Samci, how reducing carbohydrate intake before Ramadan can help your body transition into ketosis, making fasting easier.
Is Islamic Studies Dying - With Prof Ovamir Anjum
In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr Sadeq Ansari speaks with Ovamir Anjum about the state of Islamic studies in modern universities, his motivation for translating a major work of Ibn Qayyim, and practical advice for students pursuing graduate studies in Islam. Prof Anjum also reflects on tensions between Western academic scholarship and traditional scholars, critiques a recent work by Joel
Are Heaven and Hell Infinite and Eternal - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Are Heaven and Hell infinite and eternal? In this reflective conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi about how Islamic theology understands the nature of the Hereafter. They unpack the distinction between infinity and eternality, explore philosophical and theological questions about time, space, and continuity, and discuss how scholars have addressed concerns about eternal
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 b
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 Pr
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,
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 Islami
Why I Translated the Clear Quran - With Dr Mustafa Khattab
Dr Mustafa Khattab, the translator of The Clear Quran, joins me to share the remarkable journey of translating the words of Allah. In this conversation, he reflects on what inspired him, the challenges he faced, the spiritual moments he experienced and the lessons we can all take from his path.
Sirah: The First Masjid and the First Jummah at Quba - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
In this podcast, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya takes us on a detailed journey through the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) arrival in Quba, the construction of the first masjid (mosque) and the first khutbah (sermon).
Sirah: Ta'if: More Painful Than Uhud - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
Many know that Ta’if was one of the most painful moments in the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ but few know the deeper stories behind it. In this video, Sirah expert Dr Suleyman, goes beyond the surface to explore what made the journey to Ta’if significant. From walking out of Mecca on foot after a year of immense personal loss, to the heartbreaking rejection by the leaders of Ta’if, this podcast prov
Envy: The Silent Destroyer of the Heart - With Dr Zuleyha Keskin
In this enlightening conversation, Prof Mehmet Ozalp sits down with Dr Zuleyha Keskin to explore one of the most destructive yet often misunderstood emotions — hasad (envy). They discuss what envy truly is, how it differs from jealousy, and why it is considered a disease of the heart in Islamic spirituality. Drawing on Qur’anic insights and Prophetic teachings, they also unpack how envy manifests
Sirah: Year of Sorrow - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
The Year of Sorrow (Aam al-Huzn) was one of the most difficult and heartbreaking periods in the life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). In this year, he faced the devastating loss of his beloved wife, Khadijah (RA), and his protective uncle, Abu Talib. With their passing, he not only endured deep personal grief but also faced increased persecution in Makkah. This video provides detailed insight into thes
Is Life a Simulation - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi joins host Dr Zuleyha Keskin to explore the fascinating question: Is life a simulation? We trace the origins of simulation theory, examine its scientific and philosophical responses, and offer an Islamic perspective on this popular idea.
Why So Many Muslims Don’t Pray (Salah) - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
In this thought-provoking podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi to explore the true significance of Salah (the five daily prayers) and why so many Muslims underestimate its importance.
Feeling Triggered? Here's How to Regulate - With Rand Faied
Do you find it hard to stay calm when you're overwhelmed or triggered? You're not alone. In this powerful and practical conversation, Dr Zuleyha Keskin sits down with Rand Faied, a qualified counsellor and mediator, to explore emotional regulation, what it is, why it matters, and how to manage our emotions, especially during moments of stress or conflict.
How Prophet Muhammad Inspired My Conversion - With Prof Joel Hayward
Professor Joel Hayward, internationally recognised scholar, author, and one of the world’s 500 most influential Muslims, to discuss his journey to Islam and the powerful impact of Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) life on his faith and scholarship. For more information on the books publish by Prof Hayward, visit his website: https://joelhayward.org/.
Sirah: Isra and Miraj - With Dr Suleyman Sertkaya
In this captivating episode, Sirah expert Dr Suleyman Sertkaya, will take you step by step through one of the most significant events in the life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). From the sorrowful events that led to the journey, to his meeting with the greatest prophets, and his arrival at Bayt al-Maʿmur and Sidrat al-Muntaha, this journey unveils the unseen like never before.
Was Isra and Miraj a Physical Journey - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Theologian Dr Omer Atilla Ergi and Dr Zuleyha Keskin delve into one of the most extraordinary events in Islamic history: the Isra and Miraj. Was Miraj a form of space travel? Was it a physical journey, a spiritual one, or both? Can modern science offer any insights into this miraculous event? Beyond these questions, we explore the spiritual significance of the Miraj and the timeless lessons it hol
How Islam Explains Infinity - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Have you ever wondered how eternity works? What does it mean to exist forever if only Allah is The Eternal? In this thought-provoking podcast, Dr Zuleyha Keskin hosts a conversation with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi, exploring how Islam understands the concept of time and the infinity.
Compelling Evidence for Afterlife - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Is there life after death? In this podcast, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore four compelling categories of evidence that point to the existence of an afterlife. Whether you're a believer, seeker, or skeptic, this video offers a thought-provoking journey into one of humanity’s most enduring questions.
Are Aliens Mentioned in the Quran - With Dr Omer Atilla Ergi
Are aliens real? And if they are, does the Qur’an say anything about them? In this thought-provoking podcast, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi and Dr Zuleyha Keskin explore the fascinating question of life beyond Earth from an Islamic perspective. They discuss Qur’anic verses, classical scholarship, and modern theories to uncover how Islam approaches the idea of extraterrestrial life.
