The Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast

Muslim speaker mocks the Virgin Birth and Debunking Greater Israel

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 22:49:39 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we discuss Daniel Haqiqatjou's recent comments on the Virgin Birth and we discuss the issue of Greater Israel. Is it based in reality, is it a Zionist fantasy or an Arab Conspiracy Theory?

What most Christians DON'T KNOW about Islam.

Sofia Ayala — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:22:53 +0000

Welcome to Al-Ma'idah Academy, on this video we are going to discuss what most people miss about Islam, how Islam started, some of the basic questions of Islamic belief, how Islam developed in history and how the average Muslim relates to the Islamic source materials.

Honor Killings and Sectarian Strife in Balochistan and Syria

Sofia Ayala — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 22:14:00 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we discuss the prospect of peace in the Middle East from a Christian perspective and talk about the subject of Taqiyya. Do ALL the Muslims you know have secret nefarious plans? Or is the concept just made up?

Emirati talks about the American Founding VS Islamist/ Leftist Revolutions.

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 17:57:00 +0000

On this episode of The Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast, we talk to Rauda Altenaiji an Emirati political commentator and Kart racer about her fascination with the American revolution and whether revolutions are good or bad on a general level and how that effects the modern west with the rise of Muslim Brotherhood linked and leftist ideologies.

Middle East Peace and the Truth About Taqiyya

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:52:00 +0000

Trump's Iran Attack, Syria’s Tragedy and the rise of Zohran Mamdani

Sofia Ayala — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 17:47:00 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we talk about Trump's actions in Iran, the tragic attack on Syria along with Ahmed Al Sharaa's response. Then we talk about New York Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.

What the Bible says about Arabs

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 17:39:00 +0000

On this episode, I continue my conversation with Dr. Abdulrahman BinNoor and we address everything the Bible says about Arabia

A Saudi Perspective on Religion in Pre Islamic arabia

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:30:00 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast we discuss the history of religion in Arabia before Islam with Abdulrahman Bin Noor.

What Does an Iranian Christian Think of the Israel-Iran War?

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 00:39:39 +0000

On this episode of Christ an Caliphate we talk to Pastor Mansour Khajepour an Iranian Christian about the current war between Israel and Iran, what Iran is like on the ground, what the mood in the country , what the future holds or Iran and how Christians can help.

Trump's new Middle East, The Mahdi and the Pope

Sofia Ayala — Mon, 19 May 2025 18:22:09 +0000

On this episode we discuss Trump's recent visit to Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar, his normalization with Syria and the New Middle East. Then we talk about Abdullah Hashem, founder of the Ahmadi religion of peace and light and his claims to be the Mahdi. Then we talk about Pope Leo and whether this matters to Protestant Christians.

What holds Muslim women back from Success? w/ Eram Saeed

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:19:16 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast, I talk to Eram Saeed, the worlds number one coach for female Muslim professionals, for an honest conversation about the forces holding back Muslim women, how to overcome adversity and how to take responsibility of your circumstances. We also talk gender roles and dating in Islam, as well as how the information revolution is transforming the face of Islam and how that compares to the protestant reformation.

Why the UAE has no terrorists.

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:18:49 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast, we talk to Mariam Almazrouie, an Emirati from Abu Dhabi about where the UAE is succeeding in dealing with extremists in contrast to the West.

Christians, Andrew Tate, Polygamy and Takfirism.

Sofia Ayala — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 17:58:33 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we discuss Andrew Tate's remarks on masculinity and polygamy. We also talk about the concept of Takfirism and compare this in Christianity and In Islam.

Trumps Gaza Plan and the Bible

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 22:09:27 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate, we discuss Donald Trumps plan for Gaza, the Muslim, Jewish and Christian views of loving your enemies and how you should treat them.

Christians discuss UK Grooming gangs.

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:58:57 +0000

On this episode, we discuss the current controversy and scandal in the UK over Pakistani grooming gangs and what a sober Christian response should look like.

Palestinian from Gaza wants peace with Israel

Sofia Ayala — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 18:43:26 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah initiative we talk to Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Palestinian from Gaza who has lost over 29 relatives since October 7th. He shares about his hopes for his people and the difficulty of working for peace in a tribalistic world.

Syrian Former Refugee talks about the Syrian Revolution

Sofia Ayala — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 17:54:04 +0000

On this episode, I speak to Khalid Mustafa from Idlib Syria, about the beginning of the Syrian revolution, why his family had to leave, the fall of Assad and his hopes for the future of Syria.

What the heck is going on in Syria?!

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate, we start to discuss the Syrian Rebel take over of Aleppo and the future of Syria and the Asad regime

A Christian and a Muslim talk about the Democrats

Sofia Ayala — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 17:19:42 +0000

On the second episode of the Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast, we talk to Musa about the The upcoming Presidential election between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. We talk about the dynamics of immigration in America and our reactions to democrat social policy. We discuss the policies and the personalities in the 2024 election.

Will Muslims Vote for Donald Trump?

Sofia Ayala — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 17:10:53 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast, we talk to Musa about the The upcoming Presidential election between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. How should Muslims vote this election? We discuss the policies and the personalities in the 2024 election.

A Christian explains the Bible to a Muslim

Sofia Ayala — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast, we talk about the Bible and how Christians understand it, how a person can learn about it.

A Muslim explains the Quran to a Christian

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 17:01:24 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast, we talk to Musa about the Qur'an and how Muslims understand it, how a person can learn about it. This weeks episode will be followed by an episode about the Bible.

What the West gets wrong about Saudi Arabia.

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Al-Ma'idah initiative we talk to Dr. Abullrahman Bin Nooh, a Saudi GP who spent his youngest years in America, then lived in Saudi Arabia from the age of twelve. We discuss the ways the West misunderstands Saudi, the historic problems in Saudi, the ways Saudi culture has grown, areas it still needs to grow in and what the future looks like for the country.

Is it ethical to visit Dragon Ball Land in Saudi Arabia?

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we discuss whether or not a Christian should visit Saudi Arabia if they have concerns about Saudi Arabia's history and human rights record.

What student protest movements can learn from Jesus.

Sofia Ayala — Mon, 20 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Join us for this episode of Christ and Caliphate as we discuss what's currently going on at American universities in light of the ongoing situation in Gaza and how the teachings of Jesus effect the way we think about changing the world.

Christians visit a University Palestinian Protest

Sofia Ayala — Fri, 17 May 2024 22:27:53 +0000

Join us for this episode of Christ and Caliphate as we discuss what's currently going on at American universities in light of the ongoing situation in Gaza and how Christians should think about all of this

The Red heifer, the Jewish Temple and the rise of Ad-Dajjal? - A Christian response.

Sofia Ayala — Fri, 17 May 2024 22:18:37 +0000

Join us for this episode of Christ and Caliphate as we discuss the much discussed 'red heifer prophecy' what Jews and Muslims believe about this, what the original texts actually say and how Christians should think about all of this

Why does ISIS K hate Russia?

Sofia Ayala — Fri, 17 May 2024 22:10:32 +0000

Join us for this episode of Christ and Caliphate as we discuss the recent terror attack on Russia by ISIS K, what the motivation for this was and how Christians should approach the world in dark times.

Christians discuss Shamima Begum

Sofia Ayala — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 21:09:06 +0000

Join us for this episode of Christ and Caliphate as we discuss the Shamima Begum and the UK Governments response to her and discuss how Christians should react to people like Shamima and those like her.

Episode 67: AFTERSHOW

Sofia Ayala — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 20:40:16 +0000

Join us as we continue our conversation with Sufi Imam: Jamal Rahman, who is a Sufi minister and writer on interfaith relations and Sufi practice. On this episode we talk about the Sufi perspective on Satan and demons and much more! Find out more about Jamal here: http://www.jamalrahman.com/

A Christian has a conversation with a Sufi - Episode 67

Sofia Ayala — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 19:34:10 +0000

Jesus in Islam vs Jesus in Christianity

Sofia Ayala — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 23:25:14 +0000

On this Al-Ma'idah Academy we take a look at the Islamic and Christian narratives of the life of Jesus from the authentic sources. What is the same? What is different?

Is Pakistan a Democracy or a Dictatorship?

James Rayment — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:25:50 +0000

Join us for this episode of Christ and Caliphate as we discuss the upcoming election in Pakistan, Imran Khan, the military establishment and why Christians should be paying attention.

Why is EVERYTHING on fire in 2024?

Sofia Ayala — Sat, 27 Jan 2024 02:41:48 +0000

Everything seems to be going wrong in the Middle East right now, so after several weeks of chaos we take some time to anyalyze the different factions, the worldviews at play and think about how Christians should enter into a world that seems to be losing its mind.

Christians Review "Letter to America" by Osama Bin Laden

Sofia Ayala — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 01:12:46 +0000

On this episode we read an analyze Bin Laden's letter from 2008 from a Christian worldview perspective.

Jesus the Palestinian

Sofia Ayala — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 00:39:31 +0000

Join us for this episode of Christ and Caliphate to discuss the similarities of living in Rome as a Jew during Jesus life and being a Palestinian today in Gaza.

Episode 66: Talking to a Palestinian Peacemaker

James Rayment — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 23:23:05 +0000

Join us as we talk with Mohamad Jamous, a Palestinian Peacemaker from the West Bank, we talk about the future, the danger he faces from Jewish Settlers and Muslim extremists. We discuss what actual hope for peace and the future in the region looks like.

Episode 65: Aftershow

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 23:47:12 +0000

Join us in this aftershow to talk about personalized understanding of Hijabs and terrorism

Episode 65: The Path with Irum Godil

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 23:34:27 +0000

Join us as we talk with local Muslim writer Irum Godil about the importance of every day Muslims speaking and writing about what they believe

Christians react to the burning of the Quran in Sweden

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 23:22:57 +0000

Is making people angry really that useful? To anybody...

A Christian response to the Murder of Tiba al-Ali

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 22:42:57 +0000

Join us for this weeks episode on the Murder of Tiba al-Ali at the hands of her Iraqi father

Christians Review The Lady of Heaven

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 22:20:46 +0000

Have you watched this British-made drama about Muhammad's daughter Fatima and son in law Ali? Tune into Christ and Caliphate to hear our review!

Christians review Mo

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 18:54:03 +0000

Join us as we review Netflix's Mo by Mo Amer. If you listened to our Ramy review you have to tune in for this!

Church burning in Pakistan. A Christian response.

James Rayment — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:00:00 +0000

A Christian reaction to the death of Nahel Merzouk.

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 21:50:53 +0000

Join us as we discuss the death of Nahel and police brutality in France for this episode of Christ and Caliphate.

Episode 64: Aftershow

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 19:12:06 +0000

Join us in the Aftershow of this episode to talk about the dehumanization of the Taliban, and how to live away from Afghanistan guilt free

Episode 64: Life After Afghanistan w/ Zhala Sarmast

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 19:07:42 +0000

Join us to catch up with former Nobel prize nominee, Zhala Sarmast to talk about life after Afghanistan and how Afghans can live away from home.

Christians Review Ramy Season 2

James Rayment — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 23:06:32 +0000

On this episode we all watched Ramy Season 2 on HULU and have gathered to share our personal reactions and provide Christian worldview analysis of the themes in season 2.

Qatar World Cup: Islam vs Secularism

James Rayment — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 06:05:42 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we talk about the controversy around the Qatar world cup and think through how the average Christian football fan should approach events like this with a Christian worldview.

Christians Review Ramy Season 1

James Rayment — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 05:57:57 +0000

On this episode we all watched Ramy Season 1 on HULU and have gathered to share our personal reactions and provide Christian worldview analysis of the themes in season 1.

An Obituary of Ayman Al Zawahiri

James Rayment — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 22:57:51 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we discuss the death of Ayman Al Zawahiri and how Christians should reflect on a man who's life represented both brilliance and evil.

The Death of Mahsa Amini

James Rayment — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 21:51:05 +0000

On this episode of Christ and Caliphate we talk to Saghar Erica Kasraie about the killing ot Mahsa Amini and the protests against the Iranian regime, followed by a discussion of what Christians should think about the idea of morality police?

Episode 63: Fixing Failed States

James Rayment — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 17:00:00 +0000

On this episode Lord Aybars and James review Ashraf Ghani's book: Fixing failed states from a Christian Worldview perspective.

Episode 62: How Zhala Sarmast Escaped from Afghanistan

James Rayment — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 07:53:15 +0000

Join us in this episode as we talk with Zhala Sarmast about her first-hand experience of being trapped in Kabul, living under the Taliban and escaping Afghanistan after the fall of Kabul.

Episode 61: Aftershow

James Rayment — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 21:10:39 +0000

Join us in this episode as we talk about Lebanon, its history, and its future with Mona, author and PHD student at the University of Washington

Episode 61: Talking about Art and the future of Lebanon with Mona Merhi

James Rayment — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 21:04:24 +0000

Join us in this episode as we talk about Lebanon, its history, and its future with Mona, author and PHD student at the University of Washington

Episode 60: Aftershow

Sofia Ayala — Sat, 28 Aug 2021 23:44:32 +0000

Episode 60: Afghanistan and the US Military

Sofia Ayala — Sat, 28 Aug 2021 23:32:40 +0000

Join us for this week's episode as a US military veteran who served in Afghanistan reacts to Taliban takeover

Episode 59: The Fall of Kabul

James Rayment — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 20:54:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to Afghani civil rights activist Aziz Khpalwak about the quickly deteriorating situation in Afghanistan after the American withdrawal

Episode 58: Fasting in Christianity and Islam W/ Riaz Khan

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 19:47:00 +0000

Episode 57: Aftershow

James Rayment — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 23:53:35 +0000

We continue our conversation with Pastor Aaron Gray of Sound City Bible church and Imam Mohamad Joban of MAPS (The Muslim Association of the Puget Sound) We discuss what it means to serve as a leader in both faith traditions and ask some questions examining the similarities of religious leadership in Christianity and Islam. If you would like to go to church with Pastor Aaron you can check out: https://www.soundcitybiblechurch.com/ If you would like to visit Imam Mohamad Joban, you can check out: https://www.mapsredmond.org/

Episode 57: What's the difference between an Imam and a Pastor?

James Rayment — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 23:38:54 +0000

On this episode James Rayment talks to Pastor Aaron Gray of Sound City Bible church and Imam Mohamad Joban of MAPS (The Muslim Association of the Puget Sound) We discuss what it means to serve as a leader in both faith traditions and ask some questions examining the similarities of religious leadership in Christianity and Islam. If you would like to go to church with Pastor Aaron you can check out: https://www.soundcitybiblechurch.com/ If you would like to visit Imam Mohamad Joban, you can check out: https://www.mapsredmond.org/

Episode 56: Aftershow

James Rayment — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 17:53:23 +0000

We continue our conversation with James Rayment and Sheikh Abdullahi Jaranow talk about the difference between dietary laws in Islam and Christianity. Why do Christians eat pork? Should we all be vegetarians? Find out this and more on Pork Wars!

Episode 56: Pork Wars

James Rayment — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 17:49:27 +0000

On this episode James Rayment and Sheikh Abdullahi Jaranow talk about the difference between dietary laws in Islam and Christianity. Why do Christians eat pork? Should we all be vegetarians? Find out this and more on Pork Wars!

Episode 55: Aftershow

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 05:39:09 +0000

On this episode I talk to Sheikh Umair about Tawhid and the Trinity. Join us as we discuss theological topics like Monotheism in Islam and Christianity.

Episode 55: Tawhid and the Trinity W/ Sheikh Umair

Sofia Ayala — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 05:26:37 +0000

On this episode I talk to Sheikh Umair about Tawhid and the Trinity. Join us as we discuss theological topics like Monotheism in Islam and Christianity.

Episode 54: Aftershow

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 07:20:41 +0000

Episode 54: What do Muslims and Christians believe about the End Times?

Sofia Ayala — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 07:04:53 +0000

On this episode I talk to Hisham Farjallah about the End Times in Islam and Christianity. Join us as we ask questions about life, death, the return of Jesus, and judgement day.

Lockdown Special: Aftershow

James Rayment — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 19:41:37 +0000

I continue talking to a veteran of Christian persecution, who has been arrested, tortured and almost assassinated for his faith, about when it's appropriate for Christians to disobey the government and what he thinks of the 2020 Covid lockdowns in light of his experience.

Lockdown Special: When should Christians resist the government?

James Rayment — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 19:34:07 +0000

Episode 53: Aftershow

James Rayment — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 20:58:37 +0000

Join us as we continue our conversation with Imam Abduallahi Jaranow about the nature of the afterlife.

Episode 53: What do Christians and Muslims believe about the Afterlife?

James Rayment — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 20:54:52 +0000

On this episode of season 2, I talk to Imam Abdullahi Jaranow about the concept of the afterlife in Islam and Christianity. Join us as we discuss the meaning of hell, heaven, eternity, and more!

Episode 52: Aftershow

James Rayment — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 00:56:24 +0000

We continue our conversation with Imam Fuad Mohamed about how the Bible describes Jesus

Episode 52: Who is Jesus?

James Rayment — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 00:49:53 +0000

On the second part of our season 2 premiere, we talk about Jesus with an Imam, following our previous episode where we talk about Muhammad.

Episode 51: Who is Muhammad?

James Rayment — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 17:00:00 +0000

On our first episode of our two part season 2 premiere I talk to Imam Fuad about Muhammad this week and Jesus next week

Episode 50: How Tania Joya escaped the Caliphate

James Rayment — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On the second part of our season finale, we continue to explore Tania's story of escaping from Syria and how she left Islamic extremism behind her. This one is longer than our usual 45 minute format. It's interesting tho. deal with it.

Episode 49: How a British woman became known as 'the First lady of ISIS'

James Rayment — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On the first part of our conversation with Tania Joya we talk about how she became an Islamic extremist and married a man who would become one of the highest ranking members of ISIS.

Episode 48: Finding peace in chaos w/Hiba Jameel

James Rayment — Wed, 26 Aug 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to Iraqi American Artist Hiba Jameel about how she finds peace, when there is so much going wrong in the world and how she uses her art to contribute peoples well-being, in Iraq and beyond.

Episode 47: Lebanon

James Rayment — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode we talk about the tragic explosion in Beirut and the resulting fallout in the country. If you want to donate to a charity recommended by our guest, you can do so here: https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=5f2ede43c4e1bc553116fda0&ss_cid=f8fd0cdb-a509-414b-8a41-168a302bfefc&ss_cvisit=1596986877867&ss_cvr=2494cbf7-fd73-48a6-8663-11239e232b3f%7C1596904773673%7C1596925102072%7C1596986877757%7C5

Episode 46: Abraham in Islam and Christianity

James Rayment — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to Hisham Farajallah, from Hebron about the story of Abraham and some of the differences between the Chritian and the Muslim view.

Episode 45: Democracy, Deity and Death

James Rayment — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In this weeks episode I talk to Qais Ghanem, a Retired Yemeni Neurologist and published novelist about his latest book, Democracy, Deity and Death about four Arab friends who meet regularly in a coffee show to discuss the worlds most pressing issues. Find the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Democracy-Deity-Death-Qais-Ghanem/dp/1528915674

Episode 44: A Muslim and a Christian talk about Eid al-Adha

James Rayment — Wed, 29 Jul 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Episode 43: Somali parenting and the Bible

James Rayment — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to Shino Gabow on his experience of growing up without a father in Somalia and how knowing God as father transforms the ways we relate to our families.

Episode 42: The History and Future of Somalia

James Rayment — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode I talk to Ayanle Abdikarim about the history of Somalia, the current condition of the country and what the future of Somalia and Africa as a whole could look like

Episode 41: Growing up Somali and American in Seattle w/ Ahlaam Ibraahim

James Rayment — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to podcaster and Seattlite Ahlaan Ibraahim about the benefits and challenges of growing up as a Somali woman in Seattle. Check out her Podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disturbing-your-peace/id1520817340?fbclid=IwAR0qHdYfqa_HX4JJrTUCV9lJ52F-y-Ca2EFBgZdSZneSTFgK0gjUYgSIBVA

Episode 40: A Syrian Muslim woman joins the US Military Police

James Rayment — Wed, 24 Jun 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to Amani, a Syrian Muslim who immigrated to the US and became a member of the US Military police. You can follow her on TikTok: vm.tiktok.com/KQw466 and Instagram: Malak Angel Beauty

Episode 39: Talking about revolutions w/ Vishal Mangalwadi

James Rayment — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode I talk to Vishal Mangalwadi about the history of revolutions and what Christians should think of them, in light of the talk of revolution in light of the George Floyd protests.

Episode 38: The Bible and Race relations

James Rayment — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode my friend Chate and I have a conversation about the Bible and race relations in light of the unlawful killing of George Floyd and how we as Christians should seek to bring understanding. We also talk about Star Wars and Dragon Ball Z to a point that some of you will be frustrated.

Episode 37: Halal Gurls

James Rayment — Wed, 27 May 2020 16:00:00 +0000

This week we talk to Director Vonne Patiag and Actress Jessica Phoebe Hanna about their hit Australian comedy series about Muslim women living in Sydney. Watch the show here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4oxvxQbSdw

Episode 36: Should the Bible influence American Law?

James Rayment — Wed, 20 May 2020 16:11:37 +0000

On this episode we talk about the relationship between religion and US law.

Episode 35: A Muslim Epidemiologist and a Christian ICU Nurse talk about faith and Covid-19

James Rayment — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to a Christian ER/ ICU Nurse and a Muslim Epidemiologist about what it's like to work in the middle of a pandemic and how their faith effects their approach to handling the current crisis.

Episode 34: An Agnostic Jew writes Muhammad's biography

James Rayment — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode I get to talk to Lesley Hazleton, a well known author, having written many books and specifically 'The First Muslim' a biography of Muhammad and 'After the Prophet' a book on the Sunni Shia Divide.

Episode 33: Leadership and Entrepreneurship

James Rayment — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 15:51:32 +0000

On this episode I talk to Ash Faraj a podcast host an entrepreneur about growing as a leader, the unique challenges faced by Arab entrepreneurs and what makes a successful leader. Find Ash's content here: executalks.com/

Episode 32: Uighur Gulags in China

James Rayment — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 16:00:00 +0000

We revisit the relationship between the Chinese state and the Uighur people with Bill Clark, a scholar who has lives with the Uighur's and is an expert on their culture.

Episode 31: Israel

James Rayment — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 16:00:00 +0000

On this weeks episode, I talk to an Israeli Scientist about the history of Israel, the complications of the conflict and the future for Israeli's and Palestinians.

Episode 30: Palestine

James Rayment — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Episode 30: Palestine w/ Hamza Çapa

Episode 29: The Uighur Crisis w/Bengisu Cicek

James Rayment — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 07:51:36 +0000

On this episode I talk to Bengisu Cicek about the mass detention of the Uighur people in China.

Episode 28: Talking about Afghanistan with Nobel Peace Prize Nominee Zhala Sarmast

James Rayment — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 17:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talked to Zhala Sarmast, an Afghan Woman was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016. We talk about growing up in Afghanistan, the current situation and what the future holds for the country.

Episode 27: Separating religion from culture.

James Rayment — Tue, 03 Mar 2020 19:03:28 +0000

On this episode I talk to Ahmad Wafai about how you go about figuring out the difference between eternal religious truths and cultural expressions from a Christian and Muslim perspective.

Episode 26: A conversation about Iran with Saghar Erica Kasraie

James Rayment — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 17:00:00 +0000

We talk to Iranian American activist and inadvertent YouTube Celebrity Saghar Erica Kasraie about her origin story, the killing of Qassem Soleimani, the current situation in Iran and how we can work for the good of the Iranian people.

Episode 25: Women of the Weeping River

James Rayment — Wed, 05 Feb 2020 17:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to Sheron Deroc, a Filipino Film Director about his movie "Women of the Weeping River" from TBA studios and we talk about relations between Christians and Muslims in Mindanao, in the Philippines. More info at: https://www.tba.ph/

Episode 24: A Shaykh has a conversation with a Christian

James Rayment — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 17:05:33 +0000

This week I have Shaykh Umair Ahmed on the show to have a conversation about how Christians and Muslims approach their source materials differently.

Episode 23: A British man walks into Syria

James Rayment — Wed, 22 Jan 2020 17:00:00 +0000

On this episode I talk to my friend Andrew Sullivan about his recent trip to Syria, what has happened in the country and what the future holds. Check out his stuff here: https://www.facebook.com/The-Adventure-Life-2262093810739981/ and here: https://theadventurelife.co.uk/about/

Episode 22: Religion, Individualism and Collectivism

James Rayment — Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:43:43 +0000

On this episode, I sat down with Omar Ramadan to talk about a range of issues, especially how religion interacts with the collective and the individual.

Episode 21: The Roots of government corruption in Iraq

James Rayment — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 17:00:00 +0000

We talk to Mike, who used to work for the state department about the US involvement in Iraq and the realities on the ground of why the Iraqi state is failing to serve its people.

Episode 20: A Very Iraqi Christmas

James Rayment — Wed, 25 Dec 2019 17:00:00 +0000

On this week we talk about the parallels between modern Iraq and and Judea in the time of Jesus. How do you have hope when the world around you collapses, tune in to find out the Bible's answer!

Episode 19: Islam Christianity and Archaeology

James Rayment — Wed, 18 Dec 2019 17:18:00 +0000

This week we talk to Dan Gibson, who has lived in the Middle Easter for more than two decades about how faith and archaeology intersect with Islam and Christianity. Is the Bible accurate? Can we prove Muhammad existed? Join us as we talk about these and a range of other issues. Find Dan's movie and research https://www.youtube.com/user/canbooks

Episode 18: Death, Corruption and Hope in Iraq

James Rayment — Wed, 11 Dec 2019 17:00:00 +0000

This week we talk about the mass protests in Iraq, the corruption of the government and what can be done for the countries future.

Episode 17: Tunisia, Islam and Liberty

James Rayment — Wed, 20 Nov 2019 22:33:10 +0000

On this episode I am joined by Tasnim Idriss from the Islam and Liberty network to talk about what has happened in her home nation of Tunisia and the challenges of those fighting for freedom of expression across the Muslim world.

Episode 16: Facing Persecution like a boss.

James Rayment — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 17:00:00 +0000

On this episode we talk to Pastor Mansour Khajepour and Shohrat from Turkmenistan about the persecutions they have faced and how people facing persecutions can take courage from the examples and teachings of Jesus.

Episode 15: A Saudi Woman Battles Cancer w/ Maha AlHomoud

James Rayment — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 17:00:00 +0000

Tune into this week's episode as we follow the life of a courageous young woman who found herself fighting illness and disease all while beginning a life here in Seattle. Follow her on twitter: https://twitter.com/MahalHomoud

Episode 14: Crisis in Yemen w/ Yasmin Luqman

James Rayment — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode we talk to Yasmin Luqman about the current war and humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

Episode 13: Turkey, Syria and the Kurds with Diliman Abdulkader

James Rayment — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 16:03:00 +0000

Today we talk to the Kurdish American journalist and advocate Diliman Abdulkader: https://twitter.com/d_abdulkader We have a conversation about Kurdistan, Self determination and US Foreign policy

Episode 12: Colonialism and The Rise of Arab Nation States

James Rayment — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 17:48:23 +0000

We talk about Colonialism, Arab Nation States and how we make the world a better place.

Episode 11: Religion and Social Justice

James Rayment — Wed, 09 Oct 2019 04:30:01 +0000

Some stronger language in this episode.

Episode 10: Art, culture and Spirituality w/ Hiba Jameel

James Rayment — Wed, 02 Oct 2019 07:07:07 +0000

This week I have a conversation with Hiba Jameel about a wide range of topics, ranging, art, culture, Iraq, surviving and thriving in a new culture and what it all means. To find Hiba's art you can visit her Website: https://www.hibajameel.com/ or follow: Hibajartstudio on Instagram.

Episode 9: The Saudi/ Iran Crisis.

James Rayment — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 17:13:21 +0000

On this episode we talk about what's currently going on in Saudi and Iran and what that means for the world.

Episode 8: Understanding what you believe and learning from others.

James Rayment — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 17:10:34 +0000

On this episode I talk to Noor about a range of issues from understanding your own faith clearly, interacting with different worldviews and what kind of world we can build together.

Episode 7: Ashura

James Rayment — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 05:13:25 +0000

On this episode I talk to Jawad Kahki, the director of the Iman Center in Kirkland Washington about the story of Ashura, the memorial of a historic massacre and what it means today.

Episode 6: A conversation with a Leftist Muslim Anarcho-Communist

James Rayment — Wed, 04 Sep 2019 16:00:00 +0000

This week we talk about when it's right and wrong for people to use force to solve problems and how religious views effect our interaction with communism and capitalism.

Episode 5: Leadership, Liberty and Political correctness.

James Rayment — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Today James and Ahmed talk about a range of issues like Leadership, slavery, political correctness and much more.

Episode 4: Freedom of Expression

James Rayment — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 17:35:29 +0000

This Week we talk to Aylar from Turkmenistan about culture, worldview, power and freedom of expression.

3.2: Building Great Nations

James Rayment — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 19:05:00 +0000

On this episode of The Al-Ma'idah Initiative Podcast: we talk to world renowned philosopher Vishal Mangalwadi about the current crisis in Kashmir and how Christians living in oppressive regimes can work towards blessing their nations and transforming them into great nations. You can find his latest book here: https://www.amazon.com/This-Book-Changed-Everything-Amazing/dp/8186701249/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

3.1: A Christian perspective on Kashmir

James Rayment — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 19:00:00 +0000

Episode 2: The nature of God

James Rayment — Tue, 06 Aug 2019 06:56:49 +0000

On this episode we talk about different views of the nature of God, Iraq and a range of other topics.

Episode 1: Human Nature

James Rayment — Tue, 06 Aug 2019 06:06:05 +0000

On our first episode we talk with Jacob about what it means to be Human and how we are made right with God, as well as movies, the internet and a range of subjects.