If God needs nothing, why did He create the universe? And if He is completely self-sufficient, why does He ask us to worship Him?

In this episode, Dr Zuleyha Keskin speaks with Dr Omer Atilla Ergi about Allah's absolute independence, the purpose of creation, and why worship benefits us, not God. Together they explore how worship is ultimately a process of purification and spiritual growth.

Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 04:49 It’s the talent that results in an outcome 10:10 Humans are agents of need and we compare 15:55 Response to “Why does God need our worship?” 21:15 Purification process

In this thought-provoking Q&A session, Dr Omer Atilla Ergi addresses some of the most challenging questions surrounding suffering, justice, evil, and the wisdom of Allah. Drawing on Islamic theology and spirituality, he explores how believers can make sense of suffering while maintaining faith, trust, and hope.

Timestamps:

00:00 Why do evil people get away with evil? 06:48 Why is suffering distributed unevenly? 09:44 Advice for someone who feels distant from Allah because of suffering 17:33 Why do non-Muslim countries appear more just than Muslim countries? 21:21 Why do some people suffer to the point of suicide? 28:20 Does a privileged Muslim have it easier than a destitute non-Muslim? 35:20 Why are evil people created?

In this episode, Dr Suleyman Sertkaya explores the historical significance of the Madinah Charter, one of the earliest documented agreements governing a diverse society. He discusses the circumstances that led to its formation, when and how it was documented and who the parties were.