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The Conviction Project

The Conviction Project

By The Conviction Project

Exploring Islam can be tough. Living a Muslim life can seem even tougher. We break it down in our discussions of all sources of doubt in Islam. Tell us what kinds of doubts you have about Islam at:
www.TheConvictionProject.com
Or via email at:
TheConvictionProject@gmail.com
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Ep. 133 - Dialogue with Luis | A Catholic Preacher | Revelation and Authority in Islam and Christianity

The Conviction ProjectAug 20, 2022

00:00
01:31:21
Ep. 137 - The Dangers of TikTok

Ep. 137 - The Dangers of TikTok

Akbar and Farhan discuss the blackout challenge on TikTok and what dangers are in store for those who give smartphones to young children. 

Dec 07, 202215:19
Ep. 136 - Suicide and Islam

Ep. 136 - Suicide and Islam

Akbar and Farhan discuss the issue of suicide and Islam. Sometimes, we hear of cases of suicide and we do not know how to process it. Why do people commit suicide? Do we offer their funeral prayer? Why or why not? What should be done about this issue? 

Nov 16, 202213:40
Ep. 135 - Gender Identity, Expression and Islam

Ep. 135 - Gender Identity, Expression and Islam

Much debate is raging in our society nowadays on gender identity and expression. Farhan and Akbar discuss the Islamic perspective on this topic and how it should be understood in light of the Holy Quran. 

Nov 09, 202215:44
Ep. 134 - Why is God a "He" and not a "she"?

Ep. 134 - Why is God a "He" and not a "she"?

Akbar and Farhan discuss the question of God's pronoun. Why do religious scriptures refer to God as a "He" or "Him"? Does this mean God has a gender? Does it mean that one gender is better than another? 

Nov 02, 202217:19
Ep. 133 - Dialogue with Luis | A Catholic Preacher | Revelation and Authority in Islam and Christianity

Ep. 133 - Dialogue with Luis | A Catholic Preacher | Revelation and Authority in Islam and Christianity

On August 16, 2022, Farhan Iqbal and Luis Dizon had a dialogue on a YouTube livestream, on the topic, "Revelation and Authority in Christianity and Islam." This is the audio recording of that dialogue. After initial presentations of about 20 minutes each, they asked each other questions. In the last 10 minutes of the program, questions from the audience were taken. 

Aug 20, 202201:31:21
Ep. 132 - The Secrets of a Prosperous Marriage

Ep. 132 - The Secrets of a Prosperous Marriage

Akbar and Farhan discuss Farhan's latest book, The Secrets of a Prosperous Marriage, co-authored with Shahrukh Rizwan Abid and Sadiq Ahmed. They discuss the idea that sparked this book, its purpose, contents and the arranged marriage vs. dating debate. Options to buy the book were also discussed. 

Aug 13, 202221:47
Ep. 131 - Mike Liconna vs. Bart Ehrman | Did the Resurrection of Jesus REALLY happen?

Ep. 131 - Mike Liconna vs. Bart Ehrman | Did the Resurrection of Jesus REALLY happen?

On April 9, 2022, Dr. Mike Liconna and Dr. Bart Ehrman had a 6-hour long debate discussing the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was a lengthy, informative, exhaustive debate and I learned many things from it. This debate was an invitation-based zoom event, and in this episode, I have discussed the salient features and those points that I found intriguing. 

Apr 14, 202231:25
Ep. 130 - Why can't we have empathy WIHTOUT Ramazan?

Ep. 130 - Why can't we have empathy WIHTOUT Ramazan?

Ramazan Mubarak from The Conviction Project. As we begin Ramazan, there are some things to be aware of. Akbar and Farhan discuss the essentials that are to be kept in mind during Ramzan. The fundamental habits that should be adopted by all Muslims. We also respond to the ex-Muslim allegation that if one has empathy, they can take care of the poor even without Ramazan. 

Apr 02, 202219:26
Ep. 129 - Review of Debate | Dr. Javad Hashmi vs. Robert Spencer | Is Islam more violent than Christianity?

Ep. 129 - Review of Debate | Dr. Javad Hashmi vs. Robert Spencer | Is Islam more violent than Christianity?

This is the audio version of my YouTube video where I review a debate held between Dr. Javad Hashmi and Robert Spencer on the topic, "Is Islam more violent than Christianity?" I felt that Dr. Hashmi clearly had the upper hand and I explain this by discussing the salient points of this debate. If you don't have 3 hours to go through the main debate, listen to my review to learn the main points. 

Mar 28, 202240:55
Ep. 128 - Is World War III inevitable?

Ep. 128 - Is World War III inevitable?

In light of the current war between Russia and Ukraine, Akbar and Farhan discuss whether or not World War III is inevitable? Ahmadiyya Muslim prophecies regarding World War are also discussed. 

Mar 03, 202218:45
Ep. 127 - Jesus had a mother [Lecture #5]

Ep. 127 - Jesus had a mother [Lecture #5]

The lecture series continues with a discussion of the Quran's argument that Jesus cannot be God because he had a mother and used to eat food. 

Feb 03, 202212:52
Ep. 126 - God sends Prophets; not Sons [Lecture #4]

Ep. 126 - God sends Prophets; not Sons [Lecture #4]

The lecture series on the refutation of the Divinity of Jesus Christ (as) continues with lecture #4 where I explain an argument by induction as discussed in the writings of the Promised Messiah (as). We know from human history that God always sends prophets for guidance. He never sends sons. Therefore, Jesus Christ (as) who came for guidance was also a prophet, and not a son. 

Jan 27, 202214:20
Ep. 125 - Jesus denies divinity for himself [Lecture #3]

Ep. 125 - Jesus denies divinity for himself [Lecture #3]

The series of lectures continues with discussion about Jesus' divinity. I begin with the references from the Gospels that show that when Jesus was confronted with the question about his divinity, he denied it in absolute terms. 

Jan 06, 202217:56
Ep. 124 - Review of Apostate Ridvan Aydemir's interview with Bart Ehrman

Ep. 124 - Review of Apostate Ridvan Aydemir's interview with Bart Ehrman

This is the audio recording of a video I released on my YouTube channel, Understanding Islam, where I review the interview of Bart Ehrman by "Apostate Prophet" (Ridvan Aydemir). He attempted to 'undo' the effect of Muhammad Hijab's interview of Ehrman. I discuss various topics that came up in the interview, and give the Ahmadiyya Muslim perspective. 

Dec 16, 202134:33
Ep. 123 - 4 Witnesses against the Divinity of Jesus Christ (as) [Lecture #2]

Ep. 123 - 4 Witnesses against the Divinity of Jesus Christ (as) [Lecture #2]

In his writings, the Promised Messiah (as) has pointed out four witnesses against the Divinity of Jesus Christ (as), as follows: 

1. The Hebrew Bible (Old Testament)

2. Followers of John the Baptist

3. Unitarian Christians

4. The Holy Quran and Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa)

Nov 27, 202110:37
Ep. 122 - Why did Jesus have wounds after the resurrection?

Ep. 122 - Why did Jesus have wounds after the resurrection?

Recently, I came across a video on a Catholic Youtube channel where Father Gregory Pine tries to explain why Jesus still had wounds after he was 'resurrected'. It is an important question that cannot be taken lightly. I go through some of the main points that Pine made and then discuss his arguments in light of the Bible, as well as Christian and Islamic doctrines.

Nov 24, 202112:54
Ep. 121 - Why is it important to refute the divinity of Jesus Christ (as)? [Lecture #1]

Ep. 121 - Why is it important to refute the divinity of Jesus Christ (as)? [Lecture #1]

This is the first lecture in a new series on the refutation of the divinity of Jesus Christ (as). We explore the need for this refutation in the first place. Why is it so important? What can we gain from this? 

Nov 22, 202114:46
Ep. 120 - Review of Muhammad Hijab's interview with Bart Ehrman

Ep. 120 - Review of Muhammad Hijab's interview with Bart Ehrman

This is the audio recording of my recent video where I present a review of Muhammad Hijab's interview with Bart Ehrman. I discuss all of their main points and critique Bart Ehrman's statements. I try my best to give the Ahmadiyya Muslim perspective on many of the issues raised. 

Nov 20, 202123:17
Ep. 119 - Not accountable for the incomprehensible [Refutation of the Trinity - Final Lecture #8]

Ep. 119 - Not accountable for the incomprehensible [Refutation of the Trinity - Final Lecture #8]

This is the concluding lecture on the topic of the refutation of the Trinity. I go back to the discussion about the Trinity being incomprehensible. Why are humans being held accountable for something they cannot even understand? 

Nov 18, 202112:59
Ep. 118 - The Bible from a Muslim Lens

Ep. 118 - The Bible from a Muslim Lens

Damon and Farhan sat down (virtually) to carry forward their conversation from the previous podcast about the Bible. Is the Bible reliable? Authentic? Why or why not? They discuss these questions from a Muslim perspective. They also present a quotation of the Promised Messiah (as) where he has expounded his understanding of the "Injil" (mentioned in the Quran) in comparison with the Gospels available today. 

Nov 04, 202122:55
Ep. 117 - Where did it come from? [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 7]

Ep. 117 - Where did it come from? [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 7]

3 more arguments are discussed in this lecture in refutation of the Trinity. 14th argument: The doctrine of the Trinity is not based in any revelation. 15th argument: The doctrine is influenced by wrong notions or ideas of Plato. 16th argument: This doctrine is founded by St. Paul. It is not original to Jesus Christ (as). 

Oct 27, 202115:06
Ep. 116 - Why the names? [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 6]

Ep. 116 - Why the names? [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 6]

If God is three in one, why the various names to each "person" of the Godhead? Why is God the Father the "Father"? And why is God the Son the "Son"? And why is God the Holy Spirit called "Holy Spirit"? 

Why such human terms to describe God Who is supposed to be the One Perfect Being. 

Oct 20, 202113:01
Ep. 115 - What is the Bible? A discussion with Damon Stengel

Ep. 115 - What is the Bible? A discussion with Damon Stengel

What is the Bible?

Damon and Farhan discuss their impressions of the Bible, what it contains, and what it means to a Muslim. The discussion also leads into other related topics, such as:

1. Who wrote the books of the Bible?

2. When was the Bible written?

3. What are the various translations of the Bible?

And more. This is the first video in this series. More will come in the near future, Insha' Allah!

Oct 17, 202117:14
Ep. 114 - Internal Inconsistencies within the Trinity [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 5]

Ep. 114 - Internal Inconsistencies within the Trinity [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 5]

In this lecture, I discuss arguments 8, 9 and 10 against the Trinity, given in the writings of the Promised Messiah (as). The common theme in these arguments is that the Trinity does not make sense in and of itself. It goes against everything we know about God and presents an incomplete concept of God. 

Oct 14, 202113:46
Ep. 113 - Jesus Christ never preached it [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 4]

Ep. 113 - Jesus Christ never preached it [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 4]

In this lecture, I discuss the 7th argument for the refutation of the Trinity. The argument is simple: Jesus Christ never preached the Trinity. In fact, he preached the opposite. There are three key references to remember in this regard: 

1. Mark 12:28-30

2. John 17:3

3. John 10:30-37

I discuss all these 3 references in the lecture. 

Oct 07, 202111:60
Ep. 112 - Why is it not mentioned in the New Testament? [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 3]

Ep. 112 - Why is it not mentioned in the New Testament? [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 3]

One of the most astonishing facts about the doctrine of the Trinity is that it is not found anywhere in the New Testament. There is only one controversial reference (1 John 5:6-7) and this is discussed in this lecture. For comments or feedback, write to us: theconvictionproject@gmail.com. 

Sep 30, 202114:53
Ep. 111 - It is against nature and does not have Biblical Support [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 2]

Ep. 111 - It is against nature and does not have Biblical Support [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 2]

Human nature is not inclined to the Trinity. There is no representation of the Trinity in nature itself. And, there is no mention or even implicit support for the Trinity in the Old Testament (or the Hebrew Bible). See Deuteronomy 6:4 and Mark 12:28-30. 

Sep 16, 202112:23
Ep. 110 - It does not make sense [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 1]

Ep. 110 - It does not make sense [Refutation of the Trinity - Lecture 1]

I have begun a series of lectures that refute the trinity, based on the writings of the Promised Messiah (as). In this first lecture, I discuss the basic argument that the Trinity is not true simply because it does not make any sense, and it is illogical. 

Sep 09, 202112:09
Ep. 109: Dialogue with Jehovah Witnesses - Was Muhammad (sa) a True Prophet?

Ep. 109: Dialogue with Jehovah Witnesses - Was Muhammad (sa) a True Prophet?

On Sunday, August 22, 2021, I had a chance to discuss the question of the truthfulness of Prophet Muhammad (sa) with friend from the Jehovah Witness community. The question he posed was as follows: Was it truly the angel Gabriel who spoke to Muhammad (sa)? In essence, we discussed the proofs of the truthfulness of Prophet Muhammad (sa). After my initial remarks, he gave his rebuttal followed by my counter-rebuttal and then questions and comments from the live zoom audience. 

Aug 25, 202101:35:28
Ep. 108 - Habit Formation [Part 2] | Darsul Quran Recording | Ramazan 2021

Ep. 108 - Habit Formation [Part 2] | Darsul Quran Recording | Ramazan 2021

This is part of the Darsul Quran on habit formation. I explore more deeply the principles given in the book, Atomic Habits, and the parallels in Islamic Teachings. I also quote some verses of the Holy Quran which teach the same principles. 

May 09, 202131:03
Ep. 107 - Habit Formation [Part 1] | Darsul Quran Recording | Ramazan 2021

Ep. 107 - Habit Formation [Part 1] | Darsul Quran Recording | Ramazan 2021

One of my duroos this Ramazan (2021) discusses habit formation. I discuss a great book on the topic, Atomic Habits, and explore how the tips and techniques of habit formation can be applied towards spiritual and religious goals. I explore how these tips and techniques are also found in Islam. For the YouTube video of this Dars, go here: https://youtu.be/Dvau-wvNw7A

May 08, 202129:54
Ep. 106 - Response to David Wood | Where did Jesus say, "I am God"?

Ep. 106 - Response to David Wood | Where did Jesus say, "I am God"?

#Jesus#DeityofChrist#DavidWood​ This is a response to David Wood's video entitled, "Where did Jesus say, 'I am God, worship me'?" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sS-lLTfCI7c&t=0s

Farhan Iqbal and Shahrukh Abid discuss the various quotations from the Bible that are presented to make the case for the deity of Jesus Christ.   According to both the Bible and the Quran, the language used for Prophets of God refers to their special relationship with God. This is because Prophets are manifestations of Divine attributes. They come to this world to do God's work.

Comparing the language used in the Bible for the Prophets of God with the language used regarding Jesus, we come to the conclusion that there is not much difference. Why does the use of the same language make Jesus God but not any of the past Prophets like Moses, Jeremiah, Isaiah, etc.?

We directly respond in this video to quotations from the Bible that David Wood brings up in order to prove the deity of Jesus Christ.

Feb 24, 202146:21
Ep. 105 - Response to Tony Costa's Allegations against the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at

Ep. 105 - Response to Tony Costa's Allegations against the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at

#Islam#Christianity#AhmadiyyaIslam​ Shahrukh and I discuss some recent interactions we have had with Christians. We also discuss Tony Costa's recent interview with CIRA International where he stated many falsehoods about the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. We also made clear the case for the death of Jesus (as) as discussed in the writings of the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (as).  Here is the video of Tony Costa for those who wish to see it first: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjSozakpfLk&t=1831s

Jan 26, 202148:21
Ep. 104 - Background of the launch of the book: The Folly of Atheism

Ep. 104 - Background of the launch of the book: The Folly of Atheism

Maarij, Farhan and Shahrukh discuss a recently released book, The Folly of Atheism, that the three wrote together. How did this project begin? What does it set out to do? What are the themes and unique features of this book? These are the kind of questions discussed in this podcast. 

You can order your copy from www.BooksonIslam.org. 

Dec 28, 202032:05
Ep. 103: Preparing for Marriage

Ep. 103: Preparing for Marriage

One of our listeners asked a follow-up question to Ep. 101 on marriage, via ask.fm:

"I listened to your conviction project podcast on marriage - could you touch upon how to select your partner + the rishta process? Should we simply select someone because theyre pious even if we arent attracted to them? How should we be feeling in this stage or the process? Should there be butterflies in our stomach when we see them for the second time (with their family)? & if we dont feel those types of feelings, does that mean that person isnt for us? Theyre a good person but just not a match for us?" 

In this episode, Shahrukh and I discuss these questions at length. 

One of the books we discussed is "My Mariam". Its translation can be found here: https://www.alhakam.org/my-maryam/

Nov 09, 202029:52
Ep. 102: France Cartoon Controversy

Ep. 102: France Cartoon Controversy

Maarij and Farhan discuss the issue with publication of caricatures of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa). Should freedom of speech have limits? Should freedom of expression be censored? Is that what Islam teaches? 

An article quoted in this website can be seen here: https://www.reviewofreligions.org/25656/a-french-imams-response-to-barbaric-terrorist-attack-in-france/

Nov 04, 202028:14
Ep. 101: Tips for a Successful Marriage

Ep. 101: Tips for a Successful Marriage

Shahrukh and Farhan discuss their next project: A book that discusses the various aspects of marriage in Islam. Growing up in the West, some young Muslims face difficulties related to marriage. The book will act as a helpful guide to navigating the challenges of modern day living, while not compromising the principles of the Islamic faith. 

Nov 01, 202018:46
Ep. 100: New Book Release | The Myth of the Divinity of Jesus Christ

Ep. 100: New Book Release | The Myth of the Divinity of Jesus Christ

Maarij and Farhan discuss the release of Farhan's new book, The Myth of the Divinity of Jesus Christ. Farhan speaks about the background to this project, how it came to be, and what are its goals. He also speaks of some of the unique features of this book. 

This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Paperback: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1989163033/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_x_0M8HFbZ60QN2G

Kindle: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08L5W6RZM/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_x_pN8HFb0XP08CG

Oct 15, 202018:07
Ep. 99 - Far from the Caliph's Gaze | Response to Nicholas Evans

Ep. 99 - Far from the Caliph's Gaze | Response to Nicholas Evans

In this episode, I and Shahrukh discuss an interview of Nicholas Evans on the Islamic Books Podcast. He speaks of his research of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Qadian, India, and discusses some of the themes of his new book, Far from the Caliph's Gaze. Both Shahrukh and I have not yet read his book, but we discuss some of his comments about the Jama'at and the issues that we have with some of his statements. Hopefully, we will get to read his book and do another podcast more specific to his book in the near future, Insha Allah!

Oct 05, 202041:12
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: We are moving!

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: We are moving!

The Conviction Project is switching to Anchor. For most of our listeners, this is not going to impact them at all. However, for SoundCloud followers, this may impact them. Please take note that this change will happen by the end of September, 2020, Insha Allah!
Sep 24, 202002:57
Ep. 98: Ask an Imam | Sept 20, 2020

Ep. 98: Ask an Imam | Sept 20, 2020

Ask an Imam | Sept 20, 2020 by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
Sep 21, 202043:27
Ep. 97: Ask an Imam | Sept 16, 2020

Ep. 97: Ask an Imam | Sept 16, 2020

Ask an Imam | Sept 16, 2020 by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
Sep 17, 202001:02:10
Ep. 96: Ask an Imam | Sept 2, 2020

Ep. 96: Ask an Imam | Sept 2, 2020

Ask an Imam [Recorded Sept 2, 2020] by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
Sep 05, 202043:14
Ep. 95: Harshness in Context

Ep. 95: Harshness in Context

Harshness in Context by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
Jun 01, 202026:36
Ep. 94: New Article on Alislam.org | Meanings of Khatam

Ep. 94: New Article on Alislam.org | Meanings of Khatam

New Article on Alislam.org | Meanings of Khatam by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
May 29, 202013:59
Ep. 93: Human Interpretation of Prophecies of God

Ep. 93: Human Interpretation of Prophecies of God

Human Interpretation of Prophecies of God by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
May 23, 202014:03
Ep. 92: 2 Kinds of Prophecies | Reward & Punishment

Ep. 92: 2 Kinds of Prophecies | Reward & Punishment

2 Kinds of Prophecies | Reward & Punishment by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
May 21, 202012:27
Ep. 91: A Conversation with Frances

Ep. 91: A Conversation with Frances

A Conversation with Frances by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
May 16, 202001:21:59
Ep. 90: Consensus of Sahaba (ra) on the Death of Jesus (as)

Ep. 90: Consensus of Sahaba (ra) on the Death of Jesus (as)

Consensus of Sahaba (ra) on the Death of Jesus (as) by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
May 14, 202018:26
Ep. 89: Darsul Quran - Acceptance of Prayer

Ep. 89: Darsul Quran - Acceptance of Prayer

Darsul Quran - Acceptance of Prayer by Maarij & Farhan. Leaving you with no doubts about Islam. Have doubts? Reach us at theconvictionproject@gmail.com
May 12, 202029:42