Arba’een is upon us and it’s a time for a deep reflection. This week, the boys talk about some of their favourite Ziyarat memories, the special status of this rank and how to benefit from this period, regardless where on earth you are. We also give some important updates about After Maghrib and what’s coming up in the next few months, as we wrap up this season of the podcast.

This week, Sayed Mahdi al-Modaressi returns to confront questions that continue to stir quiet - and sometimes not-so-quiet - controversy from pockets within the community. From differing views on the birth of Imam al-Mahdi (ajfs) to the boundaries of infallibility, and even the uncomfortable question of potential corruption within the hawza, no topic is off-limits. These are issues some shy away from. Others call them red lines.

Where do you stand?

We urge all listeners to seek guidance and search for truth, with an open heart and intellectual maturity - and not to take words of any scholar or mentor for gospel. All views expressed in this episode are reflective of the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts, nor After Maghrib.

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Sister Nabaa Baher to delve into one of the most essential pillars of our faith: Salah. We discuss the purpose behind prayer, practical ways to strengthen our connection with it, and share hadiths of the Ahlulbayt (as) on the importance of fulfilling our wajib (obligatory) prayers. This conversation is more than just informative—it’s a wake-up call. If you've been neglecting your Salah or struggling to stay consistent, this episode is for you. Let it stir your soul and reignite your commitment to the most foundational act of worship in Islam.

Arbaeen is approaching - the 40th day after the Battle of Ashura, where over 25 million pilgrims flock to Karbala, Iraq, to visit the shrine of Imam Hussain (as) and his brother, Abbas ibn Ali (as), and pay respects and salutations. In this episode, Husein and Zohaib share their fondest memories and experiences visiting Iraq. The highs and lows, the best and most difficult moments, and what they'd advise to anyone yearning or unable to make a trip. This discussion is an emotional rollercoaster.

Imam Hussain (as) shapes our lives in countless ways. For some, his impact is a spiritual boost felt during the month of Muharram. For others, it runs deeper, guiding them through life’s struggles every day of the year. In this episode, we’re once again joined by brother Nouri Sardar, who shares his personal journey of service, passion, and heartfelt stories, revealing how Imam Hussain (as) has the power to mend even the most broken souls. If you're seeking to ignite a true Hussaini spiritual revival, this conversation is for you.

WATCH NOW The Key to Love (Muharram Short Film referenced in this episode) https://youtu.be/SH0tSvQCAQ4?si=3S6PLmZkNbiMp7M2

The aftermath of the Day of Ashura means we have a lot to reflect on, and a lot to work on. We're joined this week by Sheikh Azhar Nasser of the USA, who guides us on understanding the mission of Imam Hussain (as) through a number of lenses. We review why Karbala does not receive global media attention, how to propagate the message of the Imam, and tackling misconceptions of Karbala - like did the Shia kill Imam Hussain, was Karbala a political tug of war, and much more. Not to be missed!

Our heartfelt condolences to you all on the sorrowful tragedy of Ashura. Together, we mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as), along with his noble family and loyal companions. This week, we’re honoured to be joined by the esteemed Sheikh Jaffer H. Jaffer from Toronto, who guides us through the deeper meaning of Imam Hussain’s (as) mission. His courageous stand against Yazid son of Mua'wiyah,reshaped the trajectory of Islam and inspired generations. Together, we explore the political, spiritual, and social dimensions of Karbala, and reflect on the timeless lessons drawn from his unmatched character and unwavering resolve.

How do we introduce Imam Hussain (as) to others? Why don't more people know about such a monumental figure in human history? Have we failed as a community in bringing his message to others? This week, we're joined by Ahmed's brother, Mohamedali, and Muntazir Rai - both key figures within Who is Hussain (www.whoishussain.org). They talk to us about their learnings from transmitting the message of Karbala to the non-Muslim, how to approach the conversation and how we can improve it.

Utilise Who is Hussain's resources this Ashura/Muharram: https://whoishussain.org/share/

To support Who is Hussain: https://whoishussain.org/donate/🖤 This Muharram, consider supporting After Maghrib. With your help, we can sustain our studio, enhance our production, and continue sharing spiritually rich, thought-provoking conversations that honour the legacy of the Ahlulbayt (as). Help us spread the timeless message of Imam Hussain (as) — become a partner or make a one-off donation today: https://www.aftermaghrib.com/donate