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Boys In The Cave

Boys In The Cave·Hosted by Tanzim, Rafael and Josh·145 episodes

IslamReligionSpiritualityLongform interviewsIslamic thoughtScholar conversationsCurrent affairs1.5-2.5 hrs/epStandalone episodes

Reviving Islamic Discourse. A Muslim Podcast Facilitating Intellectual Discourse & Dialogue with Academics, Activists, Shaykhs & Influencers from all around the world.

Why listen

Boys In The Cave is for listeners who want long, serious Muslim conversations that do not stay at the surface. Host Tanzim and recurring co-hosts such as Rafael and Josh speak with scholars, activists, historians, lawyers, and public thinkers about Islam, modernity, politics, masculinity, spirituality, and the pressures facing Muslims in the West. If you like patient, intellectually demanding interviews that connect classical Islamic thought with current events, this is a strong fit.

Episodes

55 min
May 16, 2026Episode 141
"Drones Are Buzzing Around As We Speak": Live From the Flotilla Boat with Kaleem Bullivant

In this unreal episode, we were joined by Kaleem Bullivant, who spoke to us while literally being on the flotilla boat. This was not a normal studio conversation. Kaleem joined us from the sea, in the middle of a real journey, giving us a raw and personal insight into what it is like to be part of the flotilla, why he chose to be there, and what the experience meant to him on a human, spiritual and emotional level.  We discuss the reality of life onboard, the motivation behind the mission, the emotions that come with being part of something bigger than yourself, and the courage it takes to physically put yourself in that position. A truly unique conversation, recorded in a moment that felt bigger than just a podcast. Kaleem was not just talking about the flotilla. He was on it. Follow his journey at sea here:  https://globalsumudflotilla.org/tracker/ Don't forget to like, comment and subscribe for more deep conversations.

2 hr 13 min
Feb 14, 2026Episode 140
Dr. Yakoob Ahmed on How Modernity Rewired the Muslim Mind & The Myth of Modern History

We sit down with Dr Yakoob Ahmed for a deep conversation on how modernity quietly reshaped the Muslim mind, and why so much of what we call "modern history" is built on myths, assumptions, and power. We explore how colonisation and the nation state rewired Muslim memory, identity, and imagination, how the idea of "objective history" can become a trap, and what it takes to recover a more honest, grounded way of understanding our past without nostalgia, propaganda, or performative outrage. We discuss: - How modernity changed the way Muslims see themselves and their history - The nation state, colonisation, and the editing of collective memory - The myth of "neutral" history, and who gets to define what is true - Why progress narratives can distort the Muslim past - How to study history with adab, humility, and intellectual honesty - Practical ways to rebuild historical consciousness today Timestamps 00:00 Intro 00:10 Welcome, meeting Dr Yakoob Ahmed 01:23 Why this conversation matters, Muslim historians, background 04:15 Studying history in the West, "leaving God outside the classroom" 09:39 "History from above", centering Allah, hidden assumptions in academia 15:37 What is history, memory, identity, lived experience 23:14 Man orientated vs iman orientated history, nuance, darkness, realism 26:49 Romantic visions of the past, hero narratives, Salahuddin, Mahdi 29:32 Can we write history about recent events, Palestine and living memory 32:41 Erased local Muslim histories, Far East examples (Philippines etc) 35:12 Fiction, film, propaganda, and myth making (Padmavati example) 41:47 Moral lesson stories vs history, how we read Umar narratives 43:20 The trap of "objective" modern history 45:52 Gatekeepers, language, and how historians judge sources 51:14 How Muslims tend to read history, moral lessons vs fiqh vs patterns 54:15 Progress myths and teleology, Rasulullah as the compass 56:58 Modernity and time, clocks, industrial time vs sacred time 1:12:07 Can Muslims imagine again, beyond inferiority and apology 1:17:03 "The human" category, who counts as human in modern narratives 1:21:29 Linking stories across the Ummah, Ottoman, Mughal connections 1:29:49 Japanese "fake Muslims", spies, and forgotten interconnections 1:41:48 Colonial apologetics, language barriers, and modern history framing 1:45:05 The internet changed everything, publishing outside the academy 1:52:47 Writing the book post Gazza, emotion, hope, agency 1:57:59 Ottoman archery, craft, discipline, lived tradition 2:07:08 The cave question, 3 people you would hang out with 2:12:13 Wrap up and outro

2 hr 25 min
Feb 2, 2026Episode 139
Sunnah-Centred Manhood vs Online Masculinity Culture, Dawah Bros & Feminism | Habeeb Akande

Habeeb Akande, British-Nigerian writer, historian, and sex educator, joins us to unpack topics many Muslims argue about loudly, but rarely discuss with depth, nuance, and real principles. We talk about the modern crisis of masculinity in Muslim spaces, why "Red Pill vs feminist" has become a rigid false binary, and how figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson slot into a deeper identity struggle for some Muslim men. We also explore how Islamic terms get weaponised in online discourse, including misusing concepts like fitrah to baptise personal opinions as "Islam", and flattening ghayrah into coercive control rather than principled, loving boundaries. Throughout the conversation, we return to a core theme, prophetic masculinity is not a performance, it is integrity, responsibility, and protecting the vulnerable, not exploiting religious language to justify manipulation or abuse. Topics that we cover: - The "tribal" pull of sport, and why it bonds men so intensely - Why the manosphere appeals to Muslim men, identity, insecurity, and performative masculinity  - "Red Pill vs feminist" as a trap, and how Islam pushes a more mature middle path - Ghayrah, translation, boundaries, and how language can mislead - Fitrah being used like a debate weapon, and why that's dangerous - Intimacy in the Islamic tradition, and why we turned it into a taboo topic Timestamps: 0:00 Football banter, sports as the male soap opera 11:42 Intimacy in Islam, why it became a taboo topic 15:20 Polygyny, ethics, and exploitation 36:13 Calling out hypocrisy, double standards with women vs men 37:17 Who we "expose" vs who we excuse  39:26 Platforming "reformed" gangsters, ignoring sisters 49:24 Minivan drug dealers debating aqeedah, the problem is control 58:00 Prophetic sexual ethics, the cave hadith, and euphemisms 1:05:51 "Protective jealousy" translation, what ghayrah actually means 1:08:14 Fitrah in manosphere debates, why it gets weaponised 1:10:10 Polygamy and fitrah claims, where the logic goes wrong 1:13:32 Haya and translation problems, how language traps people 1:14:34 "Sexual discipline" vs desire, framing that resonates today 1:19:58 Ramadan clarity, food, drink, and intercourse (not vague euphemisms) 1:24:27 What traits define healthy masculinity 1:26:15 Hijab, beard, and optics vs real akhlaq 1:40:12 Red pill thinking, religious language used as loopholes 1:44:09 Tarbiyah gap, knowledge without character formation 1:46:50 Protector and provider, stepping up not posturing 1:51:11 "Dawah bros" image, culture war performance, self branding 1:55:31 Dayuth and ghayrah, meaning vs misuse 1:56:26 "Providing" as status aesthetics, entitlement, control 2:02:56 Marriage "expertise", divorce rates, and what wisdom actually is 2:

2 hr 39 min
Jan 19, 2026Episode 139
Professor Joel Hayward on The Ghatafān, Sawiq Raids & Banū Qurayẓah

In this deep-dive conversation, Professor Joel Hayward returns to unpack one of the most misunderstood periods of the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ life, the politics of Medina under pressure. We explore the Ghatafān confederation and their leader ʿUyaynah ibn Ḥiṣn, how tribal power actually worked in the Ḥijāz, and why the Prophet ﷺ practiced diplomacy even with deeply unreliable figures. The discussion moves through the Battle of the Trench, coalition warfare, and how the Prophet deliberately fractured enemy alliances without unnecessary bloodshed. A major focus is the Sawiq raid, a small but decisive event after Badr that exposed internal vulnerabilities within Medina. Professor Hayward explains why Banū al-Naḍīr's role in the raid marked a permanent rupture, how insider knowledge mattered more than battlefield force, and why this episode leads directly into their later expulsion. The episode also challenges common assumptions about "polytheists," Jews, and alliances in early Islam. Drawing on sīrah criticism, archaeology, and comparative history, Professor Hayward shows why later narratives often oversimplified seventh-century belief, tribal identity, and treaty structures. This is a conversation about statecraft, realism, and moral restraint, and why the Prophet ﷺ governed with strategy rather than slogans. If you want a serious rethinking of Medina's covenants, treaties, and power dynamics, this episode is essential listening. Professor Joel Hayward is the Dean of the Sycamore Leadership Academy in Istanbul, and repeatedly listed in The Muslim 500. Al Khaleej called him a world authority on conflict and strategy, and Kirkus says he is one of academia's most visible Islamic thinkers. He has ijazat in Islamic sciences, focuses on ʿaqidah and sirah, and has led major programs at King's College London and the Royal Air Force College, as well as serving as chief executive of Cambridge Muslim College. His 18 books include The Leadership of Muhammad, which won the 2021 Sharjah award, and The Warrior Prophet. Timestamps 00:00:00 Introduction, framing the episode 00:19:46 Ghatafan at the Trench, Uyaynah, the date deal discussion 00:39:59 Ghatafan and Jews around Khaybar, identity and alliances <a class= "yt-core-att

1 hr 31 min
Dec 29, 2025Episode 137
How We Got IDF Soldiers Detained in Europe | Haroon Raza Shares Legal Blueprint

In this episode of Boys in the Cave, we sit down with Haroon Raza, a Dutch criminal defence lawyer and human rights advocate based in Rotterdam. We unpack the legal strategy behind pursuing accountability for Gaza, the rise of state overreach across Europe, and how activism shifts when the "rules" stop protecting people. Haroon shares how investigators gathered open source evidence and compiled an indictment covering 1,000 IDF soldiers across multiple nationalities, based largely on what was posted publicly online, and how that work fed into efforts taken toward international accountability. We also discuss a major "first" moment, the arrest and interrogation of two IDF soldiers in Belgium and what it reveals about the shifting legal landscape in Europe. Plus, we get into the darker side of modern "rule of law", secret evidence, surveillance, infiltration, profiling Muslims in local municipalities, and why Haroon warns that if law fails to protect legitimate advocacy, societies head into dangerous territory. Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Human Appeal Australia, supporting Palestinians with hot meals and vegetable baskets: https://my.humanappeal.org.au/donate Timestamps 0:00 Sponsor, Human Appeal Australia 1:04 Who is Haroon Raza, and what this episode is about 3:55 Iraq, Bosnia, Kosovo, activism roots (and the first wake up calls) 9:49 Netherlands Islamophobia, politics, and early racism 16:06 Protest crackdowns in Europe, policing, intimidation 20:31 Protest bans, "terror" labels, civil disobedience 30:34 Secret evidence, surveillance, and the limits of "rule of law" 38:24 Profiling Muslims, infiltration, municipality databases, legal pushback 43:20 Adversity, faith, and staying firm under pressure 47:48 Tomorrowland (Belgium), the detention story, what happened 54:26 Investigative unit, turning open source content into case files 55:30 The "1,000 soldiers" indictment, Instagram as evidence 56:17 ICC and embassies, long game, ripple effects beyond Europe 1:06:43 Why "Hind Rajab", impunity, impact, backlash 1:29:44 Closing reflections and duas

1 hr 18 min
Nov 28, 2025Episode 136
From Morocco To Senegal: How Spiritual Travel Transforms Your Faith With Filmmaker Zoheb

What does it mean to travel for Allah and not just for content or vibes In this episode of Boys In The Cave, Tanzim sits down with filmmaker and Revival Retreats founder Zoheb to unpack how spiritual travel reshapes the heart. From his first work trip to Morocco, to documenting floods in Pakistan, to walking in the streets of Istanbul and the zawiyas of West Africa, Zoheb shares how travel became a mirror that showed him who he really was before Allah. They discuss the ethics of charity media, not romanticising poverty, how to hold Palestinian and global suffering in your heart, and why sohbah and righteous companions may be the most important part of any journey. Along the way, you will hear stories of hidden Moroccan homes, bustling Senegalese streets, and the teachers and scholars who quietly keep the light of the ummah alive. If you have ever felt the urge to pack a suitcase for Umrah, retreats, or a trip that is more than tourism, this conversation will help you make your journeys intentional and rooted in love of Allah, His Messenger and His awliya. What we talk about in this episode • Why "your suitcase is a mirror" is the perfect metaphor for spiritual travel • How filmmaking and faith came together in Zoheb's life • Pakistan, Lebanon, Palestine and the ethics of charity campaigns • How Revival Retreats began and what makes a retreat truly transformative • Istanbul, Morocco and Senegal as lived expressions of Islamic civilisation • Colonisation, travel etiquette and leaving your privilege at the door • Sohbah, righteous companions and making every journey a journey to Allah https://www.humanappeal.org.au/ Zoheb is a UK born filmmaker now based between Cairo and the UK, with a an Hons in Digital Media and Film Production. He has filmed faith centred travel and cultural projects and humanitarian relief projects across the Muslim world, as well as events and music videos. He now leads Revival Retreats, a platform hosting Islamic heritage travel and spiritual retreats. Timestamps 00:11 Salaam intro, Gaza and global suffering 00:49 Who is Zoheb, filmmaker and Revival Retreats founder 01:39 "Your suitcase is a mirror" travel quote 03:52 Zoheb's background and discovering filmmaking 04:54 Why filmmaking became a path of service for the ummah 06:09 First work trip to Morocco and first time in a Muslim country 07:12 Humanitarian travel in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey 08:25 The birth of Revival Retreats and reconnecting Muslims to heritage 09:52 Pakistan trip in depth and what impacted him most 12:12 Listening to Syrian and Palestinian struggles on the ground 18:14 Not romanticising poverty and witnessing tragedy up close 20:29 The ummah as one body and what that really means

2 hr 25 min
Oct 24, 2025Episode 135
Misyar, Secret Wives, Polygamy, Mut'ah: Halal or Haram? | Habeeb Akande

Habeeb Akande joins BITC to talk misyar, secret wives, polygamy, passport wives, sex negative culture, and the nafs. We unpack how some men cherry pick fiqh to justify secrecy, how praiseworthy aims differ from loophole hunting, and what real justice and consent look like in practice. We also ask the question, have Muslims adopted a Christian style suspicion of pleasure and projected it onto Islam. Habeeb speaks from classical learning and lived research, Maliki fiqh, usul, erotology, African and Muslim cultures. We cover consent, maintenance, time rotation, publicity, and the harm rule, then end with a practical justice audit couples can use today. Key topics • Misyar, valid form versus wise practice, rights that are commonly waived, housing, maintenance, scheduled nights, publicity • Secret nikah and ghosted maintenance, predictable harm patterns, how to prevent them • Polygamy, justice in time and spending, financial readiness, disclosure, consent, children and custody • Sex negative culture, what Islam actually says about pleasure, reciprocity, privacy • The harm rule and maqasid, when legal form must give way to justice • Online masculinity scripts, cherry picked texts, how to read responsibly https://www.humanappeal.org.au/ Timestamps 0:00 Intro and sponsor, Human Appeal Australia 6:20 Sham marriages and travel examples, Morocco and Indonesia 22:12 Secrecy and first wife, why that is wild 33:30 Utopia myth, gender tension is not new 47:40 Legal versus ethical, muhallil and misuse 1:07:26 Misyar defined, two types in practice 1:08:39 Rights waived, Sauda example and scholar logic 1:26:25 Legalism versus spirituality, closing reflections 1:28:39 Polygamy basics and justice 1:36:39 Misyar and secret marriage 1:46:39 Rights versus responsibilities 1:56:39 Secrecy and predictable harm 2:06:39 Ethics over loopholes 2:16:39 Practical safeguards and consent 2:24:39 Closing counsel and outro

2 hr 8 min
Oct 5, 2025Episode 134
Professor Joel Hayward on Rethinking Medina's Covenant, Treaties & Statecraft

Professor Joel Hayward unpacks how Medina actually worked, the Sahifat al Madinah, parallel pacts by clan, covenant enforcement, and the Prophet's statecraft in moments like the Sawiq raid, the Qaynuqa crisis, the Nadir siege, and the Trench. We dig into source criticism, what the early texts really say, and why the dominant narrative needs a rethink. What we cover: • Sahifat al Madinah, what the charter says and how it functioned inside a web of bilateral pacts • The Prophet's statecraft, treaties, arbitration, measured enforcement, generosity in terms • Banu Qaynuqa, cause of the confrontation, order to depart, who stayed under protection and why • Banu al Nadir, the meeting about blood money, the alleged assassination plot, the short siege, relocation to Khaybar • Banu Qurayza, covenant breach during the Trench, arbitration by Sad ibn Muadh • Sawiq raid at al Uraiyd, why it mattered, possible local complicity, stress test for the covenant • Kaab ibn al Ashraf, incitement, poetry as power, targeted security response • Al Mukhayriq at Uhud, a reminder that alliances cut in unexpected ways • Abdullah ibn Ubayy, promises to the Nadir, hypocrisy in belief versus action • How historians weigh isnad, matn, and hindsight bias when reading seerah reports Professor Joel Hayward, dean at Sycamore Leadership Academy in Istanbul, award winning author of The Leadership of Muhammad and The Warrior Prophet, listed in The Muslim 500, scholar of sirah, strategy, and leadership. https://www.humanappeal.org.au/ Timestamps 00:00:00 Introduction 00:06:16 Sahifat al Madinah focus 00:15:17 Bilateral pacts and who was named 00:24:30 Ibn Ubayy politics and leadership 00:33:03 Separate pacts versus one charter 00:38:06 Renew your pact, Banu Nadir example 00:48:52 Numbers on arrival, wealth balance, Ibn Ubayy still the premier leader 00:52:02 Minority status and oasis power map 00:56:24 Upper and lower Medina, early pact geography 01:03:03 Kinship politics, Khazraj links and acceptance 01:07:51 Qaynuqa reappraised, cause and corporate penalty 01:13:47 Expulsion accounts versus later returns and traces 01:25:46 How the sources work, scarcity and overlap 01:33:37 Method and edits, reading Ibn Hisham critically 01:43:51 Nadir stone plot, revelation or prudence<br data-star

1 hr 55 min
Sep 22, 2025Episode 133
Shaykh Asim Yusuf on Ghazali's Ihya: Timeless Wisdom for Modern Seekers

Shaykh Dr Asim Yusuf joins Boys in the Cave for a deep dive into Imam al Ghazali's Ihya Ulum al Din, how to read it in our time, and how its spiritual psychology maps onto modern clinical insights. We cover decontextualizing and recontextualizing sacred texts, the metaphysics of eating, marriage and companionship, contentment in a consumer world, and why spirituality is the ruh of the religion. What you will learn • Why an Ihya commentary speaks to today's seekers, and how to apply it, context first, then decontextualize, then recontextualize • Metaphysics of eating, turning sunlight into worship, tasbih into ibadah • Reading Book of Marriage through Book of Companionship for modern couples • A common good economy, contentment as a cure for hyper capitalism • Where Islamic and secular psychologies meet, origin, nature, purpose of the human • Why spirituality is not a niche, it is the breath of the deen If this episode benefits you, like, comment, and share. Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of scholarship, spirituality, and performance psychology.  https://www.humanappeal.org.au/ https://education.nuralhabib.org/ Timestamps 00:00:00 Sponsor message, Human Appeal Australia, Gaza relief projects 00:01:12 Welcome back, Shaykh Asim Yusuf returns to BITC  00:01:40 Why write an Ihya commentary, teaching since 2014, page by page method 00:02:18 How to make the Ihya speak now, lessons gathered from 400 to 500 hours of classes 00:09:47 Metaphysics of eating, upgrading tasbih to ibadah, light into light 00:11:17 Book 12, marriage, reading Ghazali's context, sociology of relationships 00:12:14 Why some passages sound paternal, audience, education, and age gaps in the 5th century 00:16:29 From eternal principles to our moment, the Ihya's usul for reapplication, heart focused frame 00:31:03 Translating terms, jihad as striving, how a word can flip a verse's meaning 00:36:13 Hunger, restraint, eating with others, a common good economy, contentment versus consumerism 00:52:13 Theistic and secular psychologies, the X model, where experiences overlap 01:50:46 Closing reflections, every moment reveals a new facet, keep the tradition alive 01:53:02 Spirituality is the ruh of the religion, do not let your deen be a ghost, let it live in you 01:54:15 Final counsel, bring ruh and jasad together, closing duas and sign off

1 hr 53 min
Sep 5, 2025Episode 132
Dr. Yasir Qadhi on Rethinking Western Islam: Institutions, Salafism & The Tradition

Dr Yasir Qadhi joins us to unpack Salafism, sectarianism, and how Muslims in the West can move from labels to leadership. We talk about what healthy disagreement looks like, why unity does not mean uniformity, and how communities can build real capacity, from mosques and schools to media, philanthropy, and liberal arts education. We get specific about funding ethics, local service to the poor, and civilizational projects that shape hearts and minds. The goal is practical, principled institution building that serves faith and society together. What you will hear: • Salafism in context, strengths, blind spots, and the illusion of correctness • Agreeing to disagree, red lines, and ending the habit of turning rivals into enemies • From masjid to media, why we need journalists, artists, scholars, and leaders • Philanthropy with purpose, feeding the hungry locally, museums and public education, funding without strings • Liberal arts and classical sciences, why breadth of knowledge matters for the next generation • Living in the West with confidence, learning from Abyssinia If this conversation benefits you, share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a comment with your biggest takeaway. Thanks to our sponsor Human Appeal Australia for supporting community focused conversations. https://www.humanappeal.org.au/appeal/gaza-emergency-appeal-2023-2/ 🕳️ Boys In The Cave is an independent platform exploring faith, politics, culture, and the pressing issues confronting the modern Muslim mind. Subscribe to join the conversation!  🔔 Like, Share, Comment & Subscribe to stay connected. Subscribe to Boys in the Cave Podcast for more insightful discussions on politics, culture, and community. Don't forget to like, share, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes! Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Timestamps 00:00 Intro and book context 06:58 Criticism and following trusted scholars 17:47 Unity, red lines, civility 21:05 Mawlid and taraweeh, nuance 33:12 Diverse strengths in the seerah 40:33 Seminary reform and the modern imam 49:40 Training leaders, contextualizing in the West 56:38 Knowledge exchange, Israiliyyat and kalam 01:12:07 Read real history, what to build next 01:26:44 Philanthropy, public projects, local politics, funding ethics 01:39:21 Identity pressure, Abyssinia question 01:42:35 Politics is a dirty game, ethics of engagement

1 hr 22 min
Aug 17, 2025Episode 131
The Future of Western Muslims: Resistance, Sufism & Activism | Dr. Shadee Elmasry

In this episode, Dr. Shadee Elmasry joins us for a powerful conversation about the challenges and responsibilities facing Muslims in the West today. We reflect on whether Muslims are in an "Abyssinia phase" or if the time has come to invest fully in building lasting institutions that can preserve faith and serve future generations. The discussion explores how to nurture resilient belief in young Muslims while navigating secular societies, and why institutions rooted in the deen are essential for long-term survival. Dr. Shadee reflects on the role of Sufism, noting that historically many of the fiercest resistors to colonial powers were Sufi leaders who combined spirituality with action. He cautions, however, that in more recent times some who call themselves Sufis have become tied to political power, leading to compromise and inaction. Dr. Shadee highlights what resistance means, both politically in the face of oppression and spiritually in holding firmly to faith under pressure.  Together, we examine what it takes to raise a generation that is grounded in Islam, ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities, and prepared to carry the message of the deen with strength and clarity. Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave Timestamps 0:00 Introduction and guest welcome 1:16 Trip to Australia, Sydney and Brisbane 3:12 Pressing challenges for Muslims in the West, Gaza and moral weight 19:22 Tasawwuf within Islam, tea analogy, integrating aqidah, sharia, tazkiyah 20:45 Do not fixate on a Sufi identity, sincerity and community duty 21:11 Sufi resistance to colonizers, Omar Mukhtar, Amir Abdul Qadir, al-Sanusi, Imam Shamil 22:02 Recent co-optation, the real issue is closeness to power and fitna 23:23 Building your own Medina, zawiyas, Tijani examples, Uthman dan Fodio 26:01 Sharia as the standard, avoid defending tariqas, maintain husn al-dhann 27:02 Community builders move cautiously, usually not revolutionaries 33:13 Aligning with other Muslim groups on action, question setup 34:00 Measure alliances by birr and taqwa, not labels 34:38 Principle over person, support good deeds, correct wrong with husn al-dhann 49:58 Fatima Payman, political literacy, Palestine recognition debate in Australia 50:36 Recognition announcement context, why it is symbolic, not a victory 1:10:04 Abyssinia phase versus building

1 hr 42 min
Aug 2, 2025Episode 130
Jungian Psychology & Ibn Arabi Metaphysics: The Secrets of the Soul | Dr. Samir Mahmoud

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Samir Mahmoud joins us for a deep dive into the intersections of Islamic spirituality and Jungian psychology. We explore how classical Islamic thinkers like Ibn Arabi, Al-Ghazali, and Ibn Sina understood the soul, and how their insights resonate - and diverge - from the work of Carl Jung.  We discuss the concepts of individuation, shadow work, and archetypes alongside Islamic notions of tazkiyat al-nafs, fana', and qalb. Dr. Samir sheds light on the imaginal realm (ʿalam al-mithāl) as articulated by Ibn Arabi, and how it challenges modern materialist worldviews. Drawing on Jung's Red Book, Ibn Arabi's Wahdat al-Wujud, and Henry Corbin's comparisons, this conversation uncovers the symbolic dimension of dreams, the structure of the soul, and the journey to wholeness from both Islamic and psychological perspectives.  Whether you're a seeker, student, or simply curious about the inner life, this episode opens a rare portal into the metaphysical heart of being. Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave

1 hr 47 min
Jun 23, 2025Episode 129
False Flags & Manufactured Enemies: Unmasking Iran, Israel & Pakistan's Shadow Wars | Ibrahim Moiz

We're joined by political analyst Ibrahim Moiz to dissect the unfolding chaos in the Middle East. From Israel's escalating war rhetoric against Iran to Pakistan's cynical geopolitical manoeuvres — we explore how narratives are weaponised, enemies are manufactured, and resistance is co-opted.  We unpack: Whether Israel's war with Iran is about survival or hegemony The truth behind "Sunni vs Shia" framing in modern geopolitics Leftist solidarity with Palestine: genuine resistance or ideological trap? What this all means for the future of Muslim unity and resistance Is this the beginning of World War III, or just another empire-fuelled illusion?  🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode to hear a raw, unfiltered breakdown that challenges mainstream narratives.

1 hr 17 min
Jun 15, 2025Episode 128
Who Decides If You're Muslim? Faith, Government, or Community? | Dr. Jonathan A.C. Brown

What makes someone a Muslim? Is it personal faith, government ID cards, or the community's judgment? In this profound discussion, Dr. Jonathan A.C. Brown explores the tensions between Islamic identity, state power, and social expectations—from Malaysia's laws defining "who counts" as Muslim, to the Tablighi Jama'at's role in enforcing prayer, to Gaza's impact on global Muslim solidarity.  Key Topics: Faith vs. Formality: Can governments enforce Islamic practice without killing sincerity? Malaysia's Paradox: Why some laws define Muslims by "what others think" of them. Prayer Police: Should communities pressure individuals to pray—or is that hypocrisy? The Gaza Effect: How tragedy is reviving the Ummah's political conscience. Colonial Legacies: Why British-era laws still shape Muslim identity in Asia. Dr. Brown weaves fiqh, history, and dark humor (see: "storage room khutbahs" and "6 AM podcast sacrifices") into a critique of modern Muslim fragmentation—and a vision for collective revival Dr. Jonathan Brown is the Alwaleed bin Talal Chair of Islamic Civilization in the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. He received his BA in History from Georgetown University in 2000 and his doctorate in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations from the University of Chicago in 2006. His book publications include "The Canonization of al-Bukhari and Muslim: The Formation and Function of the Sunni Hadith Canon", "Hadith: Muhammad's Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World". "Muhammad: A Very Short Introduction" and "Misquoting Muhammad: The Challenges and Choices of Interpreting the Prophet's Legacy", and "Slavery and Islam".

1 hr 41 min
May 30, 2025Episode 127
Decolonizing Islamic History: From Constantinople to the Mughals (feat. Mustafa Briggs)

In this deep and enlightening conversation, Mustafa Briggs joins us to discuss the rich and often overlooked history of Islam and its profound impact on the modern world. From the contributions of Muslim civilizations to the legacy of figures like Muhammad Iqbal and the Ottomans, we explore how reclaiming these narratives can empower Muslims today. Mustafa also shares insights from his upcoming book, Islam and the Making of the Modern World, and why understanding our past is crucial for shaping our future. ✅ How Muslim scholars gave Europe "Arabic numerals" (including zero) — and why it led to binary code (0s and 1s). ✅ The Ottomans' secret claim to the Roman Empire — and why Constantinople's fall was a spiritual victory. ✅ Why Muslims today don't know their own history — and how colonialism erased Islamic intellectual traditions. ✅ Muhammad Iqbal's surprising solution — why politics won't revive the Ummah, but spirituality will. ✅ The truth about the "Moors" — were they Black? Why Europeans feared (and demonized) them. Purchase Mustafa Briggs New Book 'Islam & The Making of The Modern World': https://www.amazon.com/Islam-Making-Modern-Mustafa-Briggs/dp/B0DVQSS18M/ 🕳️ About the Podcast Boys In The Cave is an independent platform exploring faith, politics, culture, and the pressing issues confronting the modern Muslim mind. Subscribe to join the conversation! 🔔 Like, Share, Comment & Subscribe to stay connected. Subscribe to Boys in the Cave Podcast for more insightful discussions on politics, culture, and community. Don't forget to like, share, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes! Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave Timestamp: 00:10 Mustafa's trip to Pakistan & Islamic history 01:29 Connections between Uzbekistan & Mughal Empire 04:34 Influence of Arabic/Persian on Indian languages 05:29 Mustafa's new book: Islam and the Making of the Modern World 08:06 Chapters on Roman Empire, Western science, colonization 09:31 The Moors & their legacy 10:52 Muhammad Iqbal's spiritual & political influence 16:49 Iqbal's mastery of Eastern & Western philosophy 23:

2 hr 3 min
May 18, 2025Episode 126
MVM: Mobilising the Ummah or Normalising the System? | Ghaith Krayem & Dr. Yassir Morsi

Is Muslim political mobilisation in Australia empowering the community — or playing into a system that was never built for us? In this powerful and timely episode of Boys in the Cave, we host a critical dialogue with Ghaith Krayem (national spokesperson of Muslim Votes Matter) and Dr. Yassir Morsi (lecturer, political theorist, and author of Radical Skin, Moderate Masks). Together, we unpack the tension between grassroots activism, electoral politics, and the deeper philosophical questions around identity, power, and belonging in a settler colonial state. One of the most urgent questions facing Muslims in Australia today is: 👉🏽 Are we truly building political power — or just legitimising a broken system? Following the devastating events in Gaza and the growing disillusionment with traditional Muslim institutions, Muslim Votes Matter emerged as a bold new grassroots campaign. Ghaith outlines its origins, strategies, and goals — including the mobilization of Muslim voters across 11 key electorates in a way Australia has never seen before. But with political slogans now echoing those of the mainstream — "cost of living," "housing crisis," etc. — many wonder: Has the focus on Gaza been diluted?  That's where Dr. Yassir Morsi steps in. Known for his critical approach to liberal democracy and his deep engagement with Muslim political subjectivity, Yassir offers his critique. Through his framework of Green, Amber, Red, he challenges not just tactics, but the very assumptions beneath Muslim participation in electoral politics. 🟢 Green: Even if we get MPs elected, then what? 🟡 Amber: Let's slow down and question the language we're using — are we naturalising liberal democracy? 🔴 Red: Have we diluted righteous anger over Gaza into civic slogans and softened resistance into vote-counting? Key Themes Explored: The real motivations behind launching Muslim Votes Matter post-Gaza What it means to be a political lobby group — beyond peak bodies and backroom meetings Whether voting creates leverage or limits for Muslims - How the Muslim "bloc vote" operated, and whether it even exists Dr. Yassir's critique of political imagination, civic language, and electoral pragmatism Whether the rage and moral clarity sparked by Gaza has been rechanneled into a system that neutralizes resistance The dangers of "pragmatism" without deeper community discourse Ghaith Krayem is the national spokesperson for Muslim Votes Matter, and is a former head of the Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV), and former CEO of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils, and current operator of Hikmah Consulting. Dr. Yassir Morsi is a provisional Psychologist at Australian international Academy and lecturer in Aboriginal Studies at La Trobe University. With a PhD in Political Science and Islamic Studies, he is the author of "R

1 hr 32 min
Apr 22, 2025Episode 125
Fatima Payman, Muslim Representation & The Politics of Hope | Dr. Yassir Morsi

In this episode of Boys in the Cave, Tanzim is joined by Faraz, Abdulah Hamimi, and Dr. Yassir Morsi for a candid and thought-provoking discussion about Fatima Payman, Muslim political visibility, and what it really means to "represent" the ummah in the Australian political system. We unpack the symbolism surrounding Senator Fatima Payman—Australia's first hijab-wearing MP—and whether her floor-crossing over Palestine was a transformative moment, or simply a reaction to public pressure. We also ask: Why did so many Muslims place hope in Fatima Payman? Can Muslim political activism in Australia ever be truly independent? What are the limits of representation in a system built to subdue dissent? What does true leadership for the ummah look like in an era of crisis? This is not about personalities. It's about power, systems, and our collective psychology as a community. 🔊 Listen in for a candid and critical discussion that goes beyond surface-level analysis to question the very foundations of Muslim activism in the West. 🕳️ This one's for the thinkers, the seekers, and those struggling to reconcile rage, hope, and reality. 👤 About Dr. Yassir Morsi Dr. Yassir Morsi is a prominent political scholar, academic, and public intellectual known for his critical perspectives on race, Islam, and the politics of representation in Western societies. With a PhD in Politics, Dr. Morsi has dedicated his career to examining the intersections of colonialism, Islamophobia, and the lived experiences of Muslim communities in the West. He is a leading voice in challenging mainstream narratives around Muslim identity, democracy, and political engagement, often critiquing the limitations of liberal democratic systems in addressing systemic racism and inequality. Dr. Morsi's work emphasizes the importance of self-determination, community power, and the need for Muslims to rethink their relationship with state structures. As a lecturer and researcher, Dr. Morsi has contributed extensively to academic and public discourse, blending rigorous scholarship with accessible commentary. He is also a sought-after speaker and has been featured in various media outlets, podcasts, and community forums, where he continues to advocate for a more nuanced understanding of Muslim political agency. 🕳️ About the Podcast Boys In The Cave is an independent platform exploring faith, politics, culture, and the pressing issues confronting the modern Muslim mind. Subscribe to join the conversation! 🔔 Like, Share, Comment & Subscribe to stay connected. Subscribe to Boys in the Cave Podcast for more insightful discussions on politics, culture, and community. Don't forget to like, share, and hit

1 hr 26 min
Apr 10, 2025Episode 124
Is the Special Envoy Combating Islamophobia? | Dr. Yassir Morsi

We're joined by Dr. Yassir Morsi and Faraz to unpack the controversial role of Aftab Malik, Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia. What does this position truly represent? Is it a genuine step toward justice, or is it entangled in state-driven narratives of governance and social cohesion? We explore the political architecture behind CVE (Countering Violent Extremism), the historical context of Islamophobia, and why certain forms of "anti-racism" can actually perpetuate systemic control. From internalized Islamophobia to the policing of dissent within our own communities, this episode is a deep dive into the uncomfortable truths that need to be heard. 📌 Topics Covered: The political function of the Special Envoy role Structural vs. interpersonal Islamophobia CVE, social cohesion, and soft state control Why truth and resistance are sidelined for strategy The economy of representation & Muslim complicity 👤 About Dr. Yassir Morsi Dr. Yassir Morsi is a prominent political scholar, academic, and public intellectual known for his critical perspectives on race, Islam, and the politics of representation in Western societies. With a PhD in Politics, Dr. Morsi has dedicated his career to examining the intersections of colonialism, Islamophobia, and the lived experiences of Muslim communities in the West. He is a leading voice in challenging mainstream narratives around Muslim identity, democracy, and political engagement, often critiquing the limitations of liberal democratic systems in addressing systemic racism and inequality. Dr. Morsi's work emphasizes the importance of self-determination, community power, and the need for Muslims to rethink their relationship with state structures. As a lecturer and researcher, Dr. Morsi has contributed extensively to academic and public discourse, blending rigorous scholarship with accessible commentary. He is also a sought-after speaker and has been featured in various media outlets, podcasts, and community forums, where he continues to advocate for a more nuanced understanding of Muslim political agency. <p class="" data-

1 hr 50 min
Mar 23, 2025Episode 123
Do Muslim Votes Matter? | Dr. Yassir Morsi

We dive deep into the "Muslim Vote Matters" (MVM) movement in Australia. Joined by special guest Dr. Yassir Morsi, a renowned political scholar and critic, we unpack the complexities of Muslim political engagement, the challenges of representation, and the broader implications of voting in a settler-colonial state. From the aftermath of Gaza to the role of democracy in shaping Muslim identity, this conversation challenges the status quo and asks: Is voting enough to create real change? We explore the pitfalls of over-reliance on electoral politics, the dangers of miseducation, and the need for self-determination within the Muslim community. Whether you're a supporter of MVM or a skeptic, this episode offers a balanced, critical, and engaging discussion that will leave you questioning the systems we live in and the power we hold as a community. Key Topics Covered: The rise of the Muslim Vote Matters movement The limitations of electoral politics in addressing systemic issues The role of community self-determination vs. reliance on government The impact of Gaza and Palestine on Muslim political consciousness The dangers of miseducation and victim-blaming in political activism Dr. Yassir Morsi is a prominent political scholar, academic, and public intellectual known for his critical perspectives on race, Islam, and the politics of representation in Western societies. With a PhD in Politics, Dr. Morsi has dedicated his career to examining the intersections of colonialism, Islamophobia, and the lived experiences of Muslim communities in the West. He is a leading voice in challenging mainstream narratives around Muslim identity, democracy, and political engagement, often critiquing the limitations of liberal democratic systems in addressing systemic racism and inequality. Dr. Morsi's work emphasizes the importance of self-determination, community power, and the need for Muslims to rethink their relationship with state structures. As a lecturer and researcher, Dr. Morsi has contributed extensively to academic and public discourse, blending rigorous scholarship with accessible commentary. He is also a sought-after speaker and has been featured in various media outlets, podcasts, and community forums, where he continues to advocate for a more nuanced understanding of Muslim political agency. Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on the Muslim Vote Matters movement? Do you believe voting can create real change, or is it time to rethink our approach to political engagement? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Subscribe to Boys in the Cave Podcast for more insightful discussions on politics, culture, and community. Don't forget to like, share, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes! Please email us your co

1 hr 36 min
Mar 14, 2025Episode 122
Tunnels, Takbirs & Triumphs: The Untold Stories of Syria's Liberation | Kaleem Bullivant

In this powerful episode, Kaleem Bullivant joins the show to share his firsthand experiences from the heart of Syria's revolution.  From the emotional journey of boarding the "Party Plane" to Damascus - the first flight into a liberated Syria - to the miraculous stories of resilience and divine intervention on the frontlines, Kaleem paints a vivid picture of a nation rising from decades of oppression. We delve into the strategic brilliance behind the revolution's military victories, including the astonishing tale of 350 fighters taking on 30,000 regime soldiers in Hama. Kaleem also reflects on the profound spiritual and communal transformations taking place, especially during the first Ramadan in a free Syria, where the echoes of adhan and the spirit of unity fill the air. This episode isn't just about Syria - it's a testament to the power of resistance, faith, and the unbreakable bonds of the Ummah. From the tunnels of Idlib to the streets of Gaza, the Syrian revolution serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that freedom is worth fighting for. Join us as we explore the stories, struggles, and triumphs of a people who refused to be silenced. Kaleem Bullivant is human rights activist, and campaigner against the excesses of the war on terror. Winner of the liberty Human Rights Activist of the Year award, Kaleem has worked on many groundbreaking news stories with the BBC, CNN, Channel 4 News amongst others. Timestamps: 00:00:10 Introduction and lighthearted banter. 00:02:08 Kaleem's experiences in Syria and the state of infrastructure post-revolution. 00:05:45 Development in Idlib compared to the rest of Syria. 00:13:01 Kaleem's personal journey and why he felt compelled to go to Syria. 00:17:14 The historic "Party Plane" to Damascus. 00:21:23 Celebrations and emotions upon arriving in Syria. 00:29:15 Stories of oppression under the Assad regime. 00:37:10 Miraculous stories of hope and divine intervention during imprisonment. 00:56:52 The military strategy behind the revolution's victories, including the battle for Hama. 01:15:38 Addressing accusations about external involvement in the revolution. 01:26:01 The significance of the 13-year revolution and its parallels to Islamic history. 01:29:15 Celebrating the first Ramadan in a free Syria. 01:32:11 The revolution's connection to Palestine and the broader Ummah.

2 hr 53 min
Sep 7, 2024Episode 121
Hikmah Medicine, Trauma Therapy & Holistic Spiritual Healing | Dr. Mazen Atassi

Fitrah, Unani Tibb, Chinese Medicine, Hydrotherapy, Homeopathy, Somatic Trauma Therapy, Naturopathy, Acupuncture, Spirituality, Vitality, Skepticism, Fear, Vital Force, Qi We discuss all these topics with Dr. Mazen Atassi Dr. Mazen Atassi is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine and the founder of Forward To Health, a holistic wellness clinic and educational initiative. Dr. Mazen practices vitalistic natural medicine, weaving together homeopathy, botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, and nutrition with a specialty in somatic trauma therapy (NARM) https://www.instagram.com/dr.mazen.atassi/ https://www.forwardtohealth.com/ Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

2 hr 7 min
Aug 17, 2024Episode 120
New Age Spirituality, Masculinity & Religious Obsessive Compulsive Disorder | Shaykh Abdullah Anik Misra

Hinduism, Psychedelics, False Spirituality, Secular Counselling, Ibadah, Muslim Mental Health, Theology, Waswasa We discuss all the topics with Shaykh Abdullah Anik Misra Shaykh Abdullah Anik Misra completed a Bachelors in Business Administration. He then traveled overseas in 2005 to study the Arabic language and Islamic sciences in Tarim, Yemen for some time, as well as Darul Uloom in Trinidad, West Indies. He spent 12 years in Amman, Jordan where he focused on Islamic Law, Theology, Hadith Sciences, Prophetic Biography and Islamic Spirituality while also working at the Qasid Arabic Institute as Director of Programs. He holds a BA in Islamic Studies (Alimiyya) and authorization in the six authentic books of Hadith, and has completed one year of specialized training in issuing Islamic legal verdicts (Ifta'). He also holds a certificate in Counselling and focuses on religious OCD and family/marital issues from an Islamic pastoral perspective. He is the author of the Seerah Song. He is an instructor and researcher in Sacred Law and Theology with the SeekersGuidance: The Global Islamic Seminary. https://www.instagram.com/abdullah.misra/ https://www.facebook.com/shaykhabdullahmisra/ https://www.tiktok.com/@abdullahmisra Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

2 hr 22 min
Aug 12, 2024Episode 119
Mohammed Hijab, Andrew Tate, Dawah Bro Simps, Racism, Far-Right & UK Riots | Kaleem Bullivant

Islamophobia, Aborigines, Structural Racism, Liberals, Colonial History, Capitalism, Honest Tea Talk, SNEAKO, Jordan Peterson, Right-Wing, Woke Ideology, Feminism, Post Modernism, Revolution We discuss all the topics with Kaleem Bullivant https://www.cage.ngo/ Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

1 hr 26 min
Aug 1, 2024Episode 118
Language of Resistance, Communal Islam & The Nation of Islam | Brother Ali

Black Communities, Islamisation, Malcolm X, Colonisation, Spirituality, Capitalism, Culture, Theology, Modern Islam, Tasawwuf, Shariah,  We discuss all the topics with Brother Ali Ali Douglas Newman, better known by his stage name Brother Ali, is an American rapper, community activist, and member of the Rhymesayers Entertainment hip hop collective. He has released seven albums, four EPs, and a number of singles and collaborations. https://www.brotherali.com/ https://x.com/BrotherAli https://www.instagram.com/brotheraliisblind/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9FueWZzCO2-XXzlKZXKbzw Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

1 hr 21 min
Jul 29, 2024Episode 117
Comprehensive Analysis of the Bangladesh Student Quota Protests

The Hasina Regime are murdering, abducting, arresting, torturing innocent Bangladeshi students. We as a collective Ummah need to stand up for justice.  Tanzim comprehensively breaks down the current situation in Bangladesh, the socio-political affairs of Bangladesh and also explains the crimes that the Hasina government have committed throughout its history. Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our book club! - https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave/membership Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

1 hr 43 min
Jul 12, 2024Episode 116
Escaping Capitalist Mysticism & The Pitfalls of Western Psychology | Seyed Jamaluddin Miri

Westernisation, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, ADHD & OCD, Temperament Theory, Ancient Traditions, Capitalism, Counselling, Acceptance & Commitment, Islamisation, Psychoanalytical Tools, Spirituality We discuss all these topics with Seyed Jamaluddin Miri. Br. Seyed Jamaluddin Miri is a licensed Counsellor from Sweden (GPI - Gothenburg Psychotherapy Institute). He has a Post Graduate Diploma in Islamic Psychology from the CMC - Cambridge Muslim College (UK). He is also an IAIP certified Islamic Psychology practitioner, and has ijazah/certification in practicing Traditional Islamically Integrated Psychotherapy from the Ibn Haldun University/Khalil Center (Türkiye/US).  He is one of the co-founders of ISIP-International Students of Islamic Psychology and serves as the Executive Director of the movement.  He is also the Co-Founder of Al-Balkhi Institute of Islamic Psychological Studies and Research, Rafeeq Counselling, Futuwwah Academy of Sacred Manhood, Shifaa Institute Scandinavia & Amalul Jamal Academy of Sacred Arts. https://www.isip.foundation/ https://www.instagram.com/isip_global/ Host : Tanzim Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

2 hr 40 min
Jun 29, 2024Episode 115
Spirituality, Artistry & Islamic Calligraphy | Ustadh Rizwan Ahmed Khan

Beauty, Prophetic Way, Masculine & Feminine Energies, Islamic Tradition, Balance, Legacy, Nature, Passion, Meaning, Shariah We discuss all these topics with Ustadh Rizwan Ahmed Khan. https://www.scribblyscribe.com/ https://www.instagram.com/art_of_khan https://www.instagram.com/scribblyscribe Rizwan Ahmed Khan (b. 1991) is a classically trained calligraphic artist who has been practising the scribal crafts since 2015. In 2018 he decided to leave a promising career as a software professional to migrate to Istanbul and train in the Ottoman tradition of Islamic calligraphy. He has trained in Western and Islamic calligraphy under various masters, most notably Gaynor Goffe, Soraya Syed, Ivo Grantins and Efdaluddin Kılıç. In 2022 he was awarded the prestigious icazetname (calligrapher's licence) by his Islamic calligraphy masters at the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA), Istanbul. Rizwan currently resides in London, practising and teaching as an artist. Both the Western and Islamic calligraphy traditions are central to Rizwan's art, having long felt the necessity as a Muslim growing up in Britain to explore avenues that open the doors of cultural, spiritual and intellectual appreciation between the West and the Islamic world. Hosts : Tanzim & Nadeem Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

2 hr 49 min
Jun 3, 2024Episode 114
Sufis & Politics of the Mughal Empire | Professor Richard M. Eaton

How Islam Spread in Bengal, Agrarian Sufis, Social Liberation Theory, State Religion of the Mughals, Shah Jalal, Syncretism, Mughal Law, Economics, Hindu Cosmology, Raja Ganesh, Nur Qutb ul Alam We discuss all these topics with Professor Richard M. Eaton. Richard Maxwell Eaton is an American historian, currently working as a professor of history at the University of Arizona. He is known for having written the notable books on the history of India before 1800.  Hosts : Tanzim & Nadeem Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

2 hr 5 min
Dec 30, 2023Episode 113
Metaphysical Reality & Quranic Truths | Mohammed Isaaq

Relationships, Love, Hope, Natural World, Desires, Reflections, Humility, Ego, Nafs, Temperaments, Augmented Reality, Nature We discuss all these topics with Mohammed Isaaq. Mohammed Isaaq is a student of knowledge, and has studied the science of the temperaments alongside his traditional studies. Along with self development programs, he teaches mathematics and foundational Theology. He is also heavily involved in community projects such as the OpenCircle youth initiative and Ghazali Children's Project. Hosts : Tanzim & Oguz Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave   ——————————————————————————————————– Mohammed Isaaq's Visibility https://www.mohammedisaaq.com/ https://www.facebook.com/isaaq.mohammed https://www.instagram.com/isaaq.mohammed/ ——————————————————————————————————-

2 hr 21 min
Nov 16, 2023Episode 112
Palestine, Narratives & Alliances | Dr. Uthman Badar

Hamas, Israel, Zionism, Activism, Media, Victimisation, Human Shields, Historical Analysis, Protests, Oslo Accords, Secularism, Ummatic Approach We touch on all these diverse topics with Dr. Uthman Badar. Dr. Uthman Badar is a student of the Islamic Sciences and Western Continental Philosophy. He received his Ph.D. in Philosophy from Western Sydney University in 2023. His research interests include secularism and religion, liberalism, political theory, and political theology. He is also Research Operations Manager and Lead Editor at the Ummatics Institute, and an active member of the Muslim community in Sydney, with some two decades of engagement in grassroots activism, da'wah, and apologetics.   Host: Tanzim   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 hr 45 min
Nov 8, 2023Episode 111
Palestine, Oppression & Navigating Political Discourse | Dr. Yassir Morsi

Double Consciousness, Piers Morgan, Condemnation, Racism, Whiteness, Self Determination, Capitalism, Liberation, Ethical Consumption, Edward Said, Decolonisation, Morality, Liberalism, Secularism, The West We touch on all these diverse topics with Dr. Yassir Morsi. Dr. Yassir Morsi's main area of research is the critical analysis of contemporary racism and Islamophobia. He is a lecturer at La Trobe University and also a Provisional Pyschologist at the Australian International Academy.  Yassir has completed a PhD in Political Science and Islamic Studies at the University of Melbourne. Host: Tanzim   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 hr 37 min
Feb 22, 2023Episode 110
Salvation, Martin Luther & Christian Theology | Abdullah Kunde

Spirituality, Theology, Interfaith Dialogue, Intentions, Arianism, Dawah, Exclusivity, Heraclius, Najashi We touch on all these diverse topics with Abdullah Kunde. Abdullah Kunde is a paediatric doctor, and has been a member of the Labor Party for over 10 years. He has engaged in several interfaith dialogues and debates and facilitated courses on Islam and interacting with other religions.   Host : Tanzim   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 hr 28 min
Oct 29, 2022Episode 109
Path of Empathy, Anger & Unconscious Behaviours | Tanzim

Good and Evil, Thoughts, Psychology, Self-Knowledge, Spirituality, Experience, Truth, Ideals, Seerah We explore all these topics in this solo episode. Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

2 hr 49 min
Jul 31, 2022Episode 108
Political Figures of Hindustan, Decolonising the Mind & Reflections | Tanzim, Josh & Rafael

Political Realities of Islam, Emotional Intelligence, Revolutions, Shah Waliullah Dehlawi, Radical Politics, Ibn Abdul Wahab, Theosophical Society, Gandhi We explore all these topics with the BITC Team. Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————–

4 hr 3 min
Jun 13, 2022Episode 107
Is Decolonisation Possible Without Love? Healing In A Secular World | Mohamad Tabbaa

Scholarship, Academia, The Greeks, Socrates, Philosophy, Ego, Spirituality, Activism, Sufism, The Metaphysical, Zizek We explore all these topics with Mohamad Tabbaa. Mohamad Tabbaa is a Criminologist and community activist. His research is an investigation into whether and how Muslims can speak courageously within a secular contemporary climate. Host : Tanzim Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ——————————————————————————————————– Tabbaa's Online Visibility https://www.facebook.com/mohamad.tabbaa.7

3 hr 22 min
May 31, 2022Episode 106
Jihad, Caravan Raids & The Jews of Medina | Professor Joel Hayward

History of Early Islam, Reliability of Seerah, Islamic Polity, Offensive Wars, Hadith, Assassinations, Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf, Tribalism, Treason, Treaties, Abu Sufyan We explore all this with Professor Joel Hayward  Professor Joel Hayward is a New Zealand/British scholar, writer and poet who currently serves as Professor of Strategic Thought at the National Defense College of the United Arab Emirates. He has earned ijazas in 'Aqidah (Islamic theology) and Sirah (the Prophet's biography).  He has held various academic leadership posts, including Director of the Institute for International and Civil Security at Khalifa University (UAE), Chair of the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences (also at Khalifa University), Head of Air Power Studies at King's College London, and Dean of the Royal Air Force College (both UK).  He is the author or editor of fifteen books and monographs and dozens of peer-reviewed articles, mainly in the fields of strategic studies, the ethics of war and conflict, and Islamic and modern western history. His recent books include Warfare in the Qur'an (2012), War is Deceit: An Analysis of a Contentious Hadith on the Morality of Military Deception (2017), and Civilian Immunity in Foundational Islamic Strategic Thought: A Historical Enquiry (2019). Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter - @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ----------------------------------------------------------- Professor Joel Hayward's Socials https://www.joelhayward.org/ https://www.instagram.com/profjoelhayward/ https://twitter.com/HaywardProf

1 hr 28 min
May 25, 2022Episode 105
The Legacy of The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | Shaykh Mohammad Elshinawy

The Ummah, Pre-Islamic Arabia, Jahiliyyah, Tribalism, Prophetic Miracles, Prophecies, The Spread of Islam, Truth We explore all this with Shaykh Mohammad Elshinawy  Mohammad Elshinawy is a Graduate of English Literature at Brooklyn College, NYC. He studied at College of Hadith at the Islamic University of Madinah and is a graduate and instructor of Islamic Studies at Mishkah University. He has translated major works for the International Islamic Publishing House, the Assembly of Muslim Jurists of America, and Mishkah University Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter - @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ----------------------------------------------------------- Shaykh Mohammad Elshinawy Socials https://www.facebook.com/elshinawy.mohammad https://www.instagram.com/shmohammadelshinawy/ https://yaqeeninstitute.org/team/mohammad-elshinawy https://yaqeeninstitute.org/read/books/proofs-of-prophethood

1 hr 43 min
Apr 19, 2022Episode 104
Is Islam Political & Spiritual? | Tanzim & Rafael

Banu Qurayza, Tribalism, Islamophobia, Seerah, Spiritual Perfection, Prophetic Character, Nuclear Family, Masculinity   We explore all this with our hosts Tanzim & Rafael.   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave

1 hr 39 min
Mar 17, 2022Episode 103
Why Do Good People Go To Hell? | Tanzim & Rafael

Good & Evil, Morality, Reality, Rationality, Behaviours, Nature, Reason, Allah's Justice, The Four Temperaments, Alliances, Racism, Seerah   We explore all of this with our hosts Tanzim & Rafael.   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave

1 hr 26 min
Feb 19, 2022Episode 102
China, Authoritarianism & The Uyghurs | Arslan Hidayat

Oppression, Chinese Communist Party, Islamophobia, Politics, Muslim World   We discuss all these topics with Arslan Hidayat.   Arslan Hidayat is an Uyghur rights activist, from Sydney, Australia. He is the General Secretary of the Uyghur Revival Association (URA), an Uyghur rights organisation which sheds light and raises awareness on the plight of Uyghurs in Chinese-occupied East Turkistan. Arslan also runs 'Talk East Turkestan,' the most popular Facebook page highlighting the Uyghurs' plight in the English language. Arslan has been invited to share his expertise about the Uyghur's plight by giving live studio interviews and his insights on mainstream news media outlets like the BBC, the Guardian, Al-Jazeera, CNN, TRT WORLD, AFP and many others.   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Arslan's Socials https://www.facebook.com/arslan.hidayat.12 https://twitter.com/arslan_hidayat https://www.instagram.com/arslanhidayat/

1 hr 56 min
Jan 29, 2022Episode 101
The Cultural Imperative of Islam, The Metaphysical Dimension & The Trad Bros | Roundtable

Spirituality, Experiences, The Four Temperaments, Dawah, Cultural Islam, Seerah, Traditional Islam, Muslim Converts   We explore all of this with our hosts Tanzim, Rafael & Josh.   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave

2 hr 43 min
Dec 18, 2021Episode 100
Issues with Mohammed Hijab - Jordan Peterson Podcast & Khabibian Dawah | Roundtable

Defensive Jihad, White Anxieties, Peace Treaties, Nuclear Family, Theology, Racism, Masculinity, Postmodernism, Marxism   In this jam packed episode, The BITC team explore all the issues in the Mohammed Hijab - Jordan Peterson Podcast.   Hosts: Tanzim, Rafael, Sadi & Mahmoud   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 hr 4 min
Dec 13, 2021Episode 99
Impacts of Activism, Representation in Media & Politics of Sport | Ryma Tchier

Institutionalised Racism, Protests, Media Corporations, Climate Change, Lockdowns, Muslim Community, Representation, Azeem Rafiq   We discuss all these topics with Ryma Tchier.   Ryma Tchier is a reporter and researcher for The World Today and PM based in Sydney. She previously worked out of the Melbourne and Sydney newsrooms before moving to ABC Legal in the prepublication team.   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ryma's Socials https://twitter.com/rjtchier https://www.instagram.com/rymatchier/ https://www.facebook.com/ryma.tchier

2 hr 38 min
Nov 28, 2021Episode 98
Ibn Hazm, The Unconscious Mind & Love | Rafael & Tanzim

Liberalism, Feminism, Behaviours, Activism, Firasa, Archetypes, Beauty, The Four Humours, The Metaphysical    Tanzim and Rafael sit down and discuss these wide array of topics.   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 hr 9 min
Nov 13, 2021Episode 97
Islamic Bioethics, Gene Editing & Linguistics | Heraa Hashmi

Embryos, DNA, Ethics, Secularisation, Science, Philosophy, Language,  We touch on all these diverse topics with Heraa Hashmi. Best known for her project, Muslims Condemn. Heraa Hashmi is a law student based in the US with a background in Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental Biology and Linguistics. Her interests include the Islamic sciences, cognitive linguistics, and bioethics. She is also a founding member and contributor at Traversing Tradition, an online publication geared towards examining modern society through an Islamic worldview. Hosts : Tanzim Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 hr 7 min
Sep 12, 2021Episode 96
Post-9/11 World, War on Terror & Travelling Home | Dr. Yassir Morsi

Community Leaders, White Anxieties, Political Discourse, CVE, Alan Jones, Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad, Afghanistan We touch on all these diverse topics with Dr. Yassir Morsi. Dr. Yassir Morsi's main area of research is the critical analysis of contemporary racism and Islamophobia and he is a lecturer at La Trobe University.  Yassir has completed a PhD in Political Science and Islamic Studies at the University of Melbourne.   Hosts : Tanzim & Sadi   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 hr 29 min
Aug 30, 2021Episode 95
Narcissism, Healing & Red Flags | Naureen Ahmed

Trauma Bonding, Love Bombing, Gaslighting, Attachment Theory, Codependency, Islamic Psychology, Parenting, Marriages, Husn Al-Dhan We touch on all these diverse topics with Naureen Ahmed. Naureen Ahmed is a financial analyst, podcaster, public speaker, writer, and has been featured in NPR, PBS Newshour, Psychology Today, and American Muslim Today. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Counseling Psychology at Northwestern University. Naureen is a co-founder of SEEMA, a mental health organization for Muslims.  ​She runs several online support groups for MyUmmah pertaining to mental health, self-development, and for single Muslim women. She is currently a Board of Advisor for the International Students of Islamic Psychology. Naureen is also a member of both the interfaith and the revert committees at her local masjid.    Host : Tanzim    Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Naureen's Online Visibility https://www.naureensahmed.com/ https://seemamentalhealth.com/ https://twitter.com/naureenTMM https://www.instagram.com/noor524/ https://www.facebook.com/noor524

4 hr 27 min
Aug 15, 2021Episode 94
Political Future for Islam, Biblical Scriptures, William Lane Craig & The Mujassima | Abdullah Kunde

Hizb-ut Tahrir, Political Engagement, Islamophobia, Media, Seerah, COVID, Christianity, Dr. James White, Maimonides, Theology We touch on all these diverse topics with Abdullah Kunde. Abdullah Kunde is a paediatric doctor, and has been a member of the Labor Party for over 10 years. He has engaged in several interfaith dialogues and debates and facilitated courses on Islam and interacting with other religions.   Hosts : Tanzim & Rafael   Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes!   Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/   Instagram – @boysinthecave   Twitter - @boysinthecave   Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 hr 22 min
Aug 1, 2021Episode 93
The Akh-Right, LGBTQ & Liberalism | Asadullah Ali

Alt-Right, Capitalism, Andrew Tate, Masculinity, Reactionary Politics, Dawah Experiences We touch on all of this with Asadullah Ali. Asadullah Ali Al-Andalusi is the founder of the Andalusian Project. He is also a research fellow for Yaqeen Institute and a member of the Muslim Debate Initiative.   He holds degrees in both Western and Islamic Philosophy and a Masters in Library and Information Science. He is an academic librarian by profession. Host : Tanzim Please email us your comments, feedback, and questions at: [email protected], and leave a review and 5-star rating on iTunes! Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave ------------------------------------- Asadullah Ali's Online Visibility <a class= "yt-simple-endpoint style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" spellcheck="false" href= "https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redi

1 hr 35 min
Jul 18, 2021Episode 92
Capitalism, Structural Racism & Political Reading of The Seerah | Tanzim & Josh

In this impromptu laidback episode, we discuss colonisation, traditionalism, activism, politics and much more. Check out our website – boysinthecave.com Follow us on: Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/boysinthecave/ Instagram – @boysinthecave Twitter – @boysinthecave Become a Patreon today! https://www.patreon.com/boysinthecave