Live Islam
Resources
A Gateway to Comprehensive Support and Growth
The “Resources” section is envisioned as a versatile and practical toolkit for the Muslim community in the Bay Area and beyond. By providing access to a wide range of materials and services not extensively covered in the previous sections, we aim to support every aspect of your life—spiritual, educational, professional, and personal.
Encouraging Continuous Engagement
We invite you to explore these resources, share them with others, and contribute suggestions to expand and improve this section. Your participation helps us create a dynamic and valuable repository that serves the diverse needs of our community.
- Quran and Hadith Resources
- Arabic and Islamic Studies Courses
- Educational Materials
- Prayer Tools and Guides
- Mental Health and Counseling Services
- Islamic Finance and Legal Resources
- Marriage and Family Services
- Children and Youth Resources
- Media and Technology Resources
- Halal Food and Lifestyle
Remember to keep checking also the “Community Connections” section for events and groups that you can join.
Next Steps
- Explore and Utilize: Dive into each subsection to find resources that resonate with your needs and interests.
- Contribute: If you know of valuable resources or services that could benefit others, please let us know.
- Stay Connected: Check back regularly as we continue to update and expand this section with new resources.
1. Quran and Hadith Resources
To facilitate direct engagement with primary Islamic texts for personal reflection and study, the following resources offer comprehensive access to the Quran and Hadith:
Quran Resources
- Translations: Access multiple translations of the Quran in English and other languages to enhance understanding.
- Quran.com provides translations in various languages alongside the original Arabic text.
- Assabile offers Quranic text with translations in multiple languages.
- Tafsir (Exegesis): Delve into classical and contemporary commentaries to deepen your comprehension of the Quran.
- AlTafsir.com hosts a vast collection of Quranic commentaries from various scholars and schools of thought.
- Audio Recitations: Listen to recitations by renowned Qaris (reciters) with options for different recitation styles.
- QuranicAudio.com offers high-quality recordings of Quranic recitations by various Qaris.
- MP3 Quran provides a comprehensive audio library of the Quran with various recitations available for streaming and download.
Hadith Collections
- Authentic Hadith Books: Access digital versions of key collections such as Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and others.
- Sunnah.com features collections like Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim with translations and explanations.
- Alim.org provides access to major authentic Hadith collections in English.
- Searchable Databases: Utilize tools to search Hadith by topic or keyword for easy reference.
- Ahadith.co.uk offers a search engine covering multiple Hadith collections, facilitating topic-based searches.
- Hadith Collection allows users to search through various Hadith books efficiently.
Study Tools
- Memorization Aids: Explore resources and techniques to assist with memorizing Quranic verses and Hadith.
- Quran Explorer provides tools for reading and listening to the Quran, aiding in memorization.
- Arabic Text with Transliteration: Support for non-Arabic speakers to read and pronounce the original texts.
- QuranWow.com presents the Quran with Arabic text, transliteration, and translations to assist with pronunciation and understanding.
2. Arabic and Islamic Studies Courses
To support individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge through structured learning in Arabic and Islamic studies, the following resources offer both in-person opportunities in California and comprehensive online programs:
In-Person Opportunities in California
- Zaytuna College
- Location: Berkeley, CA
- Programs Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts & Islamic Studies and Master of Arts in Islamic Texts. The curriculum integrates classical Islamic scholarship with contemporary liberal arts education.
- Website: Zaytuna College
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Programs Offered: Offers a minor in Arabic and Islamic Studies, encompassing courses across various disciplines such as history, law, Arabic literature, and more.
- Website: UCLA Islamic Studies
- San Diego State University (SDSU)
- Programs Offered: Provides specializations in Islamic Studies and Arabic Studies, focusing on humanities, language, politics, and economics.
- Website: SDSU Islamic and Arabic Studies
Online Programs
- Madina Institute
- Programs Offered: Online Foundational Islamic Studies Program tailored for working professionals, university students, and others with demanding schedules.
- Website: Madina Institute Online Programs
- Al Balagh Academy
- Programs Offered: A range of online Islamic courses, including the Al Balāgh Online ʿĀlimiyyah Programme, Mastering Arabic Level 1, and Hifdh al-Qur’an programs.
- Website: Al Balagh Academy
- Mishkah University
- Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies, covering Arabic language, Quranic studies, Hadith, and more.
- Website: Mishkah University
- Cambridge Islamic College
- Programs Offered: Online diplomas in Arabic Language & Islamic Studies, covering various levels from foundational to advanced.
- Website: Cambridge Islamic College Online Diplomas
- Studio Arabiya
- Programs Offered: Online Arabic, Quran, and Islamic Studies courses for all ages, with native Arabic-speaking teachers.
- Website: Studio Arabiya
3. Educational Materials
Deepen Your Knowledge and Understanding
To support self-study and continuous learning for both beginners and advanced learners, the following curated resources offer comprehensive materials on various Islamic topics:
Books and Publications
- Recommended Reading Lists:
- Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research provides curated lists of books on theology, history, spirituality, and contemporary issues. (Link)
- E-books and PDFs:
Online Lectures and Podcasts
- Scholarly Lectures:
- Yaqeen Institute offers lectures by reputable scholars on a wide range of subjects, including theology and contemporary issues. (Link)
- Seeker Guidance offers a vast array of courses on Islamic theology, law, and spirituality, taught by qualified scholars. It provides structured learning paths suitable for various levels.
- Podcasts:
Articles and Research Papers
4. Prayer Tools and Guides
Enhance Your Worship Practices
To support consistent and correct prayer practices, the following tools and guides are recommended:
Prayer Time Calculators
- Local Prayer Times: Accurate daily prayer schedules based on your location.
- IslamicFinder.org provides precise prayer times for San Jose, CA, including Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha.
- Adhan Apps: Mobile applications that provide Adhan notifications with customizable settings.
- Athan: Prayer Times & Al Quran offers accurate prayer times, Adhan alerts, and features like Quran recitation and Qibla direction.
- PrayerGuide Plus – Adhan Qibla provides prayer times, Adhan notifications, Qibla compass, and customizable settings for a personalized experience.
Salah Guides
To enhance your understanding and practice of the five daily prayers (Salah), the following resources offer comprehensive step-by-step instructions with visual aids and detailed explanations:
1. My Islam: How to Pray Salah – A New Muslim’s Guide
- Description: This guide provides an easy-to-follow, detailed walkthrough of performing Salah according to the Qur’an and Sunnah. It includes visual illustrations and thorough explanations of each step, making it suitable for both new Muslims and those seeking to refine their prayer practice.
- Access: How To Pray Salah – A New Muslim’s Guide – My Islam
2. Dr. Saleh As-Saleh’s Salah (Prayer) Step by Step with Illustrations and Audio
- Description: This resource offers a step-by-step guide to Salah, complemented by illustrations and audio sections to aid in proper pronunciation and understanding. It covers the prerequisites of prayer, the actions within each unit (rak’ah), and the supplications to be recited.
- Access: Salah (Prayer) Step by Step with Illustrations and Audio – Dr. Saleh As-Saleh
3. Sahlah Academy: How To Perform Salah – Step By Step
- Description: Sahlah Academy provides a comprehensive guide on performing Salah, detailing each position and recitation within the prayer. The guide is designed to help learners understand the physical actions and the corresponding supplications.
- Access: How To Perform Salah – Step By Step – Sahlah Academy
4. Iqbal Nasim’s “Salah With Meaning: Step by Step Prayer Demonstration in English and Arabic”
- Description: This video offers a practical demonstration of Salah, alternating between Arabic recitations and their English translations. It aims to help viewers understand the meanings behind the prayers, enhancing concentration and devotion.
- Access: Salah With Meaning: Step by Step Prayer Demonstration in English and Arabic
- Supplications (Duas): Collections of daily Duas and supplications with translations.
- Dua and Azkar provides a wide range of supplications for various occasions, complete with Arabic text, transliterations, and translations.
Qibla Direction Tools
Qibla Finder by HalalTrip
- Description: This online tool utilizes Google Maps to provide precise Qibla direction. By entering your location, it displays a line on the map indicating the direction towards the Kaaba, aiding in accurate orientation for prayer.
- Platform: Web-based
- Access: Qibla Finder by HalalTrip
Maps and Diagrams
Visual aids to assist in locating the Qibla.
- Qibla Finder by Muslim Pro utilizes augmented reality to show the Qibla direction visually on your device’s screen.
These resources are designed to enhance your worship practices by providing practical tools and comprehensive guides to support consistent and correct prayer observance.
5. Mental Health and Counseling Services
Addressing mental health needs with culturally and religiously sensitive resources is essential for the well-being of the Muslim community. The following organizations and services offer comprehensive support tailored to Islamic principles:
Counseling Centers:
Khalil Center
- Services: Provides Islamically integrated psychotherapy, counseling, and spiritual wellness services. Their approach combines Islamic teachings with modern psychology to address issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
- Locations: Multiple locations across the U.S., including California.
- Website: Khalil Center
Maristan
- Services: Offers culturally and religiously tailored mental health services, creating a secure environment for individuals to explore well-being within their faith. They focus on breaking down stigmas and fostering a supportive environment for holistic healing.
- Location: Based in California.
- Website: Maristan
Bay Area Muslim Therapists (BAMT)
- Services: A network of Muslim mental health practitioners throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, providing services that support the psychological needs of the Muslim community.
- Website: Bay Area Muslim Therapists
Support Groups
Institute for Muslim Mental Health
- Services: Facilitates support groups and workshops addressing various mental health challenges within the Muslim community. They also offer training for mental health professionals to better serve Muslim clients.
- Website: Institute for Muslim Mental Health
Muslim Community Association (MCA)
- Services: Hosts events and programs focusing on mental health awareness and support, including group therapy sessions and educational workshops.
- Location: Santa Clara, CA.
- Website: Muslim Community Association
Educational Resources
Islamic Networks Group (ING)
- Services: Provides mental health training and workshops for professionals and community members, focusing on culturally competent care for Muslims.
- Website: Islamic Networks Group
Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU)
- Services: Offers a Mental Health Toolkit with articles, research, and resources on mental health topics from an Islamic perspective.
- Website: ISPU Mental Health Toolkit
These resources aim to address mental health needs within the Muslim community by providing culturally and religiously sensitive support, fostering an environment where individuals can seek help without stigma.
6. Fatwa, Islamic Finance and Legal Resources
Navigate Financial and Legal Matters Islamically
Navigating financial and legal matters in accordance with Islamic principles is essential for many individuals. The following resources offer guidance and services to assist in managing these affairs:
Islamic Finance Institutions
Financial Education
- Workshops and Seminars:
- Islamic Finance Guru: Offers educational content on managing finances according to Islamic principles, including investment guides and webinars.
- Musaffa Academy: Provides insights into halal investment ideas and strategies through articles and online courses.
- Zakat Calculation Tools:
- Zakat Foundation of America: Provides resources and guidelines for calculating and distributing Zakat.
Legal Resources
- Family Law Services:
- Muslim Legal Fund of America: Offers information and support on legal matters, including family law issues, from an Islamic perspective.
- Shariawiz: Provides tools for creating Sharia-compliant wills and understanding Islamic inheritance laws.
- Sharia Councils and Scholars:
- Assembly of Muslim Jurists of America (AMJA): Connects individuals with scholars for consultations on legal and other matters in line with Islamic jurisprudence.
- Islamic Society of North America (ISNA): Offers resources and referrals to scholars for guidance on Sharia-related issues.
These resources aim to assist individuals in handling their financial and legal affairs in a manner consistent with Islamic ethics, providing both practical tools and access to knowledgeable professionals.
Online Fatwa Services
These resources aim to provide accessible and authoritative Islamic legal opinions, assisting individuals in making informed decisions aligned with Islamic ethics and law.
1. Assembly of Muslim Jurists of America (AMJA)
- Description: AMJA offers a comprehensive Fatwa Bank, where individuals can search for previously issued fatwas on various topics. Additionally, AMJA provides a Fatwa Hotline and Fatwa Chat service, allowing individuals to consult directly with qualified scholars for personalized guidance.
2. Islamweb Fatwa Center
- Description: Provides a comprehensive database of fatwas on topics such as worship, transactions, family matters, and more, issued by qualified scholars.
- Access: Islamweb Fatwa Center
3. Darulifta Alikhlas
- Description: Offers daily online fatwas from certified Islamic muftis and scholars, addressing contemporary issues in light of Quran and Sunnah.
- Access: Darulifta Alikhlas
4. Darul Fatwa – Jamia Binoria Aalamia
- Description: Provides an online fatwa facility catering to queries from Muslims worldwide, with responses scanned and sent on official letterhead.
- Access: Darul Fatwa
5. Islamic Fatwa Council (IFC)
- Description: A global governing judicial body specializing in deducing fatwas from moderate Islamic references, representing all sects of Islam.
- Access: Islamic Fatwa Council
6. AskImam
- Description: Founded by South African Islamic scholar Ebrahim Desai, this platform provides answers reflecting the Hanafi Deobandi school of thought.
- Access: AskImam
7. Marriage and Family Services
Support for Building Strong Muslim Families
Supporting the formation and nurturing of healthy Muslim families involves providing access to reputable matchmaking services, pre-marital counseling, and family support resources. The following organizations and services cater to these needs:
Matchmaking Services
Pious Hearts
- Services: Offers personalized matchmaking services for Muslim singles, including events and retreats designed to facilitate meaningful connections.
- Website: Pious Hearts Matchmaking
Half Our Deen (HOD) Live
- Services: Hosts private matrimonial events that focus on personality compatibility through structured activities, departing from traditional speed-dating formats.
- Website: Half Our Deen Live
Matchbox Matrimonial
- Services: Provides matchmaking services tailored for Muslims in the USA, Canada, and the UK, focusing on personalized matches.
- Website: Matchbox Matrimonial
Community Events
Muslim Community Center (MCC) East Bay
- Services: Organizes quarterly matrimonial events in collaboration with platforms like Half Our Deen, offering a thoughtful and engaging environment for singles to meet.
- Website: MCC East Bay Matrimonial Events
Social Services Foundation (SSF)
- Services: Hosts matrimonial events providing a platform for single Muslim men and women to interact in a professional setting.
- Website: SSF Matrimonial Events
Pre-Marital Counseling
Rahma Center
- Services: Offers pre-marital counseling integrating Islamic traditions with evidence-based couple counseling techniques, facilitated by certified professionals.
- Website: Rahma Center Pre-Marital Counseling
Khalil Center
- Services: Provides pre-marital counseling focusing on building strong family structures, with services available in California.
- Website: Khalil Center Counseling
Family Counseling
Maristan
- Services: In partnership with MCC East Bay, Maristan offers marriage, individual, and family counseling, integrating Islamic psychology.
- Website: Maristan Counseling Services
So Cal Muslim Therapists
- Services: A directory of Muslim mental health practitioners in Southern California, providing services including marriage and family counseling.
- Website: So Cal Muslim Therapists
Parenting Resources
Maristan
- Services: Offers resources and support for parents aiming to raise children with Islamic values, including counseling and educational materials.
- Website: Bay Area Muslim Therapists
These resources are designed to facilitate the formation and nurturing of healthy Muslim families by providing culturally and religiously sensitive support in matchmaking, counseling, and family development.
8. Children and Youth Resources
Nurture the Next Generation
Supporting the spiritual and personal growth of children and youth is essential in nurturing the next generation. The following resources offer educational materials, youth programs, and parenting guides tailored to instill Islamic values and knowledge:
Educational Materials
Islamic Storybooks
- Noor Kids: Provides engaging Islamic children’s books and online stories designed to inspire a loving relationship with Islam.
- Muslim Children’s Books: Publishes fun and inspirational books for Muslim children, including Islamic stories featuring Muslim kids.
Educational Apps and Games
- Miraj: Quran for Kids: An educational app offering interactive stories, games, and activities to enhance children’s understanding of Islamic teachings.
- Deenee App: Helps children learn and love Islam through fun, bite-sized lessons, teaching Islamic essentials.
Youth Programs
After-School Activities:
- Muslim Community Association (MCA): Offers programs focusing on Islamic studies, arts, and sports for youth in the Bay Area.
- Rahma Foundation: Provides educational programs for young girls, emphasizing Islamic teachings and personal development.
Leadership Camps
- Muslim Youth of North America (MYNA): Organizes camps and conferences aimed at developing leadership skills and Islamic character among teens.
- ILM Tree: Offers programs designed to cultivate leadership qualities and a strong Islamic identity in youth.
Parenting Guides
Resources for Parents
- Sound Vision Parenting: Provides advice and strategies for raising children with Islamic values in a non-Muslim society.
Workshops
- Rahma Foundation: Conducts workshops focusing on parenting skills and nurturing Islamic values in children.
These resources are designed to support the spiritual and personal development of children and youth, providing them with the tools and knowledge to thrive in their faith and daily lives.
9. Media and Technology Resources
Engaging with Islam through modern platforms allows for continuous learning and connection with the global Muslim community. The following resources encompass Islamic apps, podcasts, YouTube channels, and streaming services that cater to various aspects of Islamic knowledge and lifestyle:
Productivity Tools
- Muslim Pro: Offers accurate prayer times, Quran readings, Qibla direction, and more, aiding in daily worship routines.
- Pillars: Provides prayer time notifications and a prayer log to help users maintain consistency in their prayers.
- Tarteel A.I: Tarteel AI is a revolutionary app designed to help Muslims memorize the Quran more effectively. By leveraging advanced A.I technology, Tarteel can detect memorization mistakes in your recitation and provide instant feedback, making it an invaluable tool for anyone who’s just trying to memorize more of the Quran.
- Kalaam: Kalaam focuses on teaching Muslims Quranic Arabic, which is essential for understanding the Quran in its original language. The app offers interactive lessons, quizzes, and practice exercises to help users grasp Arabic grammar and vocabulary.
- Niyyah: Niyyah is a versatile app designed to help Muslims set and track their personal and spiritual goals.
Parenting Guides
There are many great apps – mostly – for kids under 18 and we also find some suitable for adults.
YouTube Channels
Engaging with Islamic content through podcasts and YouTube channels offers accessible avenues for learning and spiritual growth. Below examples of platforms that provide diverse perspectives on Islamic teachings, history, and contemporary issues:
OnePath Network
- Description: A Muslim production studio producing high-quality videos on faith, current news, Islamic history, and daily inspiration.
- Access: OnePath Network YouTube Channel
The Daily Reminder
- Description: Provides short, impactful reminders and lectures aimed at spiritual upliftment and education.
- Access: The Daily Reminder YouTube Channel
iLovUAllah
- Description: Produces high-quality visual reminders to help increase love for Allah, featuring various scholars and speakers.
- Access: iLovUAllah YouTube Channel
Talk Islam Channel
- Description: Offers a range of Islamic content, including live events, talk shows, and educational programs.
- Access: YouTube Channel
Islam Channel
- Description: Offers a range of Islamic content, including live events, talk shows, and educational programs.
- Access: Islam Channel YouTube Channel
Islamic TV Channels
Islam Channel
- Overview: A UK-based channel offering a range of Islamic programming, including documentaries, talk shows, and educational series.
- Key Programs:
- “The Seerah”: A detailed biography of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) by Sheikh Yasir Qadhi.
- “World In Action”: Stories highlighting global struggles for justice and human rights.
- Access: Available globally via satellite and online streaming.
- Website: Islam Channel
Alchemiya
- Overview: Often referred to as the “Muslim Netflix,” Alchemiya is an online streaming service offering movies, dramas, and documentaries that celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the Muslim world.
- Key Features:
- Curated content focusing on positive and celebratory aspects of Muslim communities.
- Collaborations with creative talents from the global Muslim community.
- Access: Subscription-based service accessible worldwide.
- Website: Alchemiya
Huda TV
- Overview: Launched in 2005, Huda TV is an Egyptian-based channel broadcasting Islamic content in English, focusing on educational and religious programming.
- Key Programs:
- “Ask Huda”: A live Q&A show addressing various Islamic jurisprudence questions.
- “Gardens of the Pious”: Explores Hadith literature and its applications.
- Access: Available via satellite and online streaming.
- Website: Huda TV
Eman Channel
- Overview: Eman Channel offers family-friendly Islamic content, including talk shows, children’s programs, and live events, all in English.
- Key Programs:
- “Eman Now”: Discusses contemporary issues affecting Muslims.
- “Qur’an Recitations”: Features recitations with English translations.
- Access: Broadcasts on Sky channel 747 in the UK and streams online.
- Website: Eman Channel Live
USHUB
- Overview: USHUB is a streaming service offering a wide range of Islamic content, including movies, TV shows, and documentaries that align with Islamic values.
- Content Highlights:
- A diverse selection of films and series that portray positive Muslim narratives.
- Educational content aimed at promoting understanding of Islamic teachings.
- Access: Available through subscription, with content accessible via their website.
- Website: USHUB TV
10. Halal Food and Lifestyle
Ensuring access to halal food and lifestyle products is essential for adhering to Islamic dietary laws and maintaining a wholesome lifestyle. The following resources provide comprehensive information and services to assist in making informed choices:
Halal Restaurant Directories
Local Listings
- HFSAA Certified Restaurants: The Halal Food Standards Alliance of America (HFSAA) offers a directory of halal-certified restaurants in the Bay Area, including cities like San Francisco, San Jose, and Fremont.
- The Halalist: Provides a curated list of halal restaurants across the San Francisco Bay Area, with updates on new establishments and community feedback.
User Reviews
- TripAdvisor: Features user-generated reviews and ratings for halal restaurants in the San Francisco Bay Area, aiding in selecting dining options based on community experiences.
- Halal Joints: A mobile app offering user reviews and ratings for halal eateries, helping users discover popular halal dining spots.
Halal Grocery Stores
Butcher Shops and Markets
- Sahara Market: Located in Dublin, CA, Sahara Market offers a variety of halal meats, fresh produce, and baked goods, serving the Bay Area community.
- International Food Bazaar: A family-run store in San Jose providing a wide selection of halal products, including meats, cheeses, and spices.
Online Halal Stores
- MoveHalal: An online halal grocery store delivering certified halal meat, produce, spices, and snacks directly to your doorstep, with same-day delivery available in Oakland, CA, and shipping across the U.S.
- Fatima Bazaar: Offers halal butchery services, catering, and hot food deliveries across the Bay Area, with options for in-store pickup or delivery.
Halal Certification Bodies
Information on Certifiers
- Halal Food Standards Alliance of America (HFSAA): A certification body promoting higher and inclusive halal standards, providing a list of certified restaurants and markets in the Bay Area.
Guidelines and Standards
- HFSAA Guidelines: Offers detailed information on halal certification processes, standards, and what constitutes halal food and products, helping consumers understand compliance requirements.
- Scan Halal: Scan Halal is exclusively devoted to helping Muslims discover Halal food. Due to the shortage of halal certification bodies, not many items state whether they are halal on the packaging they come in. Scan Halal has made an innovative application to make this more convenient for Muslims.
These resources are designed to assist individuals in making informed decisions about halal food and lifestyle products, ensuring adherence to Islamic dietary laws and supporting a wholesome lifestyle.