Lectures
The Idea of Peace in the Quran
Session 33. Since the early days of Islam, Muslims have had different appreciations for Islam’s core message. Some among the companions of the Prophet Mohammad embarked on aggressive wars and empire building. Others turned inward and founded an esoteric tradition known as Sufism. It is amazing how identical religious beliefs and practices inspired diametrically opposed courses of action in early Islam, which has persisted until today. Although the Quran provides some latitude for interpretation, yet a careful study would reveal that it is most concerned with “peace”. The first revelation to the Prophet Mohammad in the Night of Power was a “peace inducing event” for him (i.e., revelation brought peace to him). The Quran associates paradise with peace; it names paradise “The Abode of Peace”. Hence, “peace” is the highest reward the righteous may attain. The Quran describes God as “peace” (“السَّلَامُ” / al-Salam); so, God’s presence in the world brings peace and tranquility (“سکینه” / Sakina) to the believer’s soul. The earliest vision of peace in the Quran are “personal” and “heavenly”. In this presentation, we will trace the evolution of the idea of peace in the Quran.
Videos
Is Islam Inherently Violent?»
Atrocities carried out by terrorist organizations like ISIS, Al-Qaeda and Boko Haram around the globe have fueled perceptions of Islam as a religion of violence, war and intolerance. More than half of Americans today believe “extremism” is spreading within the Muslim community across America. So, is Islam inherently violent? This presentation will explore the facts […]
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The Spiritual Fruits of Ramadan»
Ramadan is the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, because it opens up vast opportunities for spiritual rejuvenation and personal growth. True fasting is not about starving the stomach, but the Carnal Soul; it is not about losing weight, but vices. This lecture will explore the spiritual dimension of Ramadan. We will discuss 3 […]
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Spiritual But Not Religious: A Sufi Perspective»
This lecture was conducted by Hamid Entezam at ICCF in Fresno on May 30, 2015.
Topic: “Spiritual But Not Religious: A Sufi Perspective”.
Duration: 78 Minutes
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Love and Spritual Growth»
This lecture was conducted by Hamid Entezam at ICCF in Fresno on November 14th, 2008
Topic: “Love and Spritual Growth” (The Essential Teachings of Rumi)
Duration: 90 Minutes
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Speech in Fresno, California»
Guest Speaker at Clovis Community College. Date: Thursday, December 6, 2018 at 6:00 P.M. Topic: Is Islam Inherently Violent? Address: Clovis Community College. 0309 N. Willow. Fresno, CA 93730. Phone: (559)325-5200
Articles
Christ in Islam»
The Monotheistic religious tradition is dominated by the trio of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. All three religions trace their lineage to Abraham. This common root inevitably leads to adoption of a common general framework for spirituality. Not surprisingly, we find substantial commonality among Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; nonetheless, we still have three distinct religions, not one. Their differences primarily stem from their focus.
Jihad, Violence, and Intolerance»
Historically, the Christian West has not viewed Islam favorably. Western scholars ordinarily characterize Islam as a religion of sword, a tradition inherently devoid of reason or love. Islam’s Prophet Mohammad is often portrayed as a warlord who imposed his beliefs on a reluctant world by the sword. The rapid spread of Islam outside its birth place (Arabia) is credited to invading Arab armies who gave the conquered peoples a simple choice: adoption of Islam or annihilation…
Christ In Christianity»
Christianity is a faith that revolves around Jesus’ life and death. As such, one cannot overemphasize the centrality of Jesus to Christianity.
Jesus was quite unique by any standards. The circumstances of his birth, his life experiences, and his death are nothing short of extraordinary…
Media Coverage
What Iranians Must Do to Replace Islamic Cleric-Led Regime. Interview with GVWire.»
The uprising that occurred after the death a year ago of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini at the hands of Iran’s morality police could serve as a blueprint for future uprisings, one of which will someday successfully end the Islamic cleric-led regime that has held power for nearly a half century, says Hamid Entezam, an Iranian-American lecturer in comparative religions who is a close observer of Iranian and international politics.
Find a Little Light This Holiday Season- Interview with the New York Times»
At the end of a tough year, spiritual leaders offer some ways to prepare yourself for whatever comes next.
Is Islam Inherently Violent? Interview with GVWire»
ISIS and the Iranian government have damaged the reputation of Islam, almost to the point of no return. That is one of the assessments of lecturer Hamid Entezam. And it’s why he is constantly on the lecture circuit addressing perceptions about the Islamic faith.
Questions and Answers
Why does God allow so many innocent children die in Africa every day?»
Q: If God is Just and Compassionate, why does He allow so many innocent children die in Africa every day due to malnutrition and starvation? What have these helpless kids done to deserve this horrible fate? A: We cannot blame God for malnutrition and starvation around the world. God has created sufficient resources on planet […]