Dr. Hathout demystifies the American Muslim identity and the future of Islam. Focusing on America, Dr. Hathout discusses how Muslims need to be contributing to American pluralism.
Where did the word fundamentalism originate and was there a fundamental movement in Islamic history? Dr. Hathout explains why the term has become synonymous with Islam. Followed by Q&A.
The Quranic perspective on the differences between men and women. Dr. Hathout discusses how the differences do not mean one is superior to the other.
Dr. Hathout explores the idea that we are all meant to have different religious identities, and explains the inaccuracy of the politically motivated term, “Judeo-Christian.”
A historical analysis of the term ”jihad.“ Did the term jihad exist before Islam? Dr. Osman defines what jihad is and what jihad is not. Using verses from the Quran, we take a look at what constitutes a legitimate war and what the goals of war should be.
An intimate discussion with Dr. Fathi Osman about his life, from his early childhood in Egypt that shaped his belief in human rights, justice, and democracy to his migration to the United States and the pursuit of freedom. Dr. Osman looks back at how his fight against dictatorship in Egypt led to the most difficult time in his life but also shaped his belief in God. ”I never thought that fear was so destructive to all the intellectual and human abilities and it might reduce the human to an animal or less.“ He shares his thoughts on how the struggle against colonialism and dictatorship split between those who chose the peaceful route and those who turned to violence and aggression.
Dr. Osman examines the role of religion in our fast paced changing society. Does religion have to compete with science and how does religion work with the government? He compares progressive Muslim thinkers (those who adapt to change) to historical Muslim thinkers (those who restrict their beliefs to the past) and the danger of terrorism and extremist ideology.
What is the difference between tolerance and pluralism? Dr. Osman defines pluralism in religious terms and how we can achieve pluralism in global and local societies. How do we retain our identity and culture while promoting pluralism? Dr. Osman specifically examines the United States with its many ethnicities and the opportunities that are available.
The rights and roles of women: Is Islam a patriarchal religion or does society and culture play a bigger role? What are the rights of women and how did the Quran elevate the role of women in society? Dr. Osman reviews examples of prominent women in the Quran and during the time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. What are the sources for the rights of women in Islam?
How did Islam impact the responsibility of raising children? Dr. Osman compares pre-Islamic Arabia and the role of the tribe to the changes after Islam in the physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual development of children. What is the role of education and the community in the development of Muslim children? How does segregation influence future generations? Dr. Osman examines these issues as well as the challenges future generations face that are raised in the United States.
Dr. Osman discusses tehe Abrahamic faiths: Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. What are the similarities and differences between the three monolithic religions and how we worship God? Did the message from God change from one prophet to another? Also, Dr. Osman reviews the foundations of Islam including the five pillars and how they strengthen our relationship with God, justice, and the legal system. Finally, Dr. Osman examines how the monolithic religions view the end of the world.
Dr. Osman discusses our responsibilities toward the preservation of the environment. What does it mean to be viceregent of our planet Earth? Topics discussed include science, animal testing, the guidelines for slaughtering animals, and the ethics of war.
The family is the foundation of every society, which includes a balance of psychological, biological, spiritual, and educational stability. What are the responsibilities of parents, spouses, children, and the extended family? Dr. Osman discusses the family structure before Islam, which focused on tribalism, and after Islam, which reformed the rights of women and children. How did Islam change Arab society? And how did the Prophet exemplify the family structure? Although Islam liberated women, patriarchal societies still dominate. What are the consequences of a patriarchal society and has the role of women created instability? Also, Dr. Osman discusses marriage and dating. What role should parents and children have? Other topics discussed include pre-marital sex, divorce, and polygamy.