15 Things Curious Christians & New Muslims Don’t Know About Islam (Angels, Jinn, Barzakh, 23-Year Quran)

Think you know Islam? In this longer deep-dive, Bree Shaaban (ex-Christian, now Muslim) unpacks 15 things most people don’t know, perfect for curious Christians, new/revert Muslims, and anyone who wants clear, evidence-based explanations without the fluff.

What you’ll learn (fast):

• It started in a cave: Why the first command was “Read” and how the Quran was revealed over 23 years and not “all at once.”

• Seal of Prophethood (Q 33:40): Why Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger with no sequels, no “new revelations.”

• Hadith = receipts: How isnaad (chains of narration) and hadith science authenticated what the Prophet said and did.

• Angels & the unseen realm: Jibril (Gabriel), Mika'il (Michael), and why angels are not Cupid.

• Jinn explained: Who they are, what they can/can’t do, and the chapter in Quran named after them.

• Barzakh: The “in-between” state from death to Resurrection and why it matters for accountability and hope.

• Quran & science: Embryology stages, mountains as stabilizers, ocean layers, and an expanding universe, all verses that invite reflection, not blind faith.

• Islam = a way of life: Prayer, charity, ethics in business, family rights, community care, and stewardship of the earth.

• Seeking knowledge is mandatory (for men & women): From Fatima al-Fihri (founder of the world’s first university) to your daily study routine.

• All the Companions were reverts: A diverse first community that preserved the message.

• Khadijah (RA): First to accept Islam, a powerhouse businesswoman, and a 25-year monogamous marriage with the Prophet ﷺ.

• Aisha (RA): Scholar, leader, and yes, she loved pink/saffron.

• Prohibitions = protections: Why bans on alcohol, gambling, usury, and backbiting guard hearts and societies.

• Polygyny, clarified: Limits, justice conditions (“marry only one” if you can’t be fair), and the social-welfare context.

• Charity multiplies wealth: How giving brings barakah and real-world benefits.

Who this is for:

• Christians exploring what Muslims actually believe

• New/revert Muslims building a solid foundation

• Anyone comparing faith claims with history and sources

Why listen: Warm and relatable explanations you can share, and a clear path to dig deeper without feeling talked down to.

New schedule: Longer episodes every other week. If this helped, please follow/subscribe, rate the show, and share it with someone who’s curious about Islam. Clips & extras on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, al @beyondtheshahada.