Sheikh and preacher Ismail Al-Kurdi - Unnamed Podcast

In the midst of life"s distractions, a person may live close to everything… except their own heart. They may know much about God, yet still wonder: Do I truly love God? Can I feel His closeness as I feel the closeness of those I love?

In this episode of the Unnamed Podcast, we engage in a profound conversation with Sheikh and preacher Ismail Al-Kurdi about the love of God; about that meaning that transcends words and fleeting feelings, manifesting itself in prayer, remembrance of God, the Quran, good character, patience, contentment, and one"s perspective on life.

We discuss the relationship between knowing God and loving Him, and how God"s names and attributes can transform our relationship with Him and with ourselves. We also reflect on those periods when a person experiences spiritual dryness, prays but feels no answer, and wonders: Has God distanced Himself from me, or have I distanced myself?

We also reflect on the love of the Messenger of God (peace and blessings be upon him), and how loving him is not separate from loving God, but rather a path to it and a sign of it. We learn that showing reverence to his noble person, honoring his Sunnah, frequently sending prayers and peace upon him, and following his guidance are among the greatest things that revive the heart and draw the servant closer to his Lord.

We also discuss what veils the heart from God, how a person returns to Him after sin and spiritual apathy, how fear, hope, and love can coexist in the heart of a believer, and whether miracles and extraordinary events are the ultimate goal, or if there is something greater: a steadfast heart, a tranquil soul, and sincere love for God.

Then we approach the more difficult question: How can we love God and be content with Him while we are suffering? How do we understand trials and the delay in answers? And how can a person find in their pain a gateway to closeness without denying their sorrow or feelings?

At the end of the episode, we set aside the major questions and ask about a simple beginning: What should someone do tonight if they want to return to God? What are the signs that tell him that the love of God has begun to dwell in his heart?