Understanding God: introduction to Aqaed | Lecture 2 | By Sheikh Towfiq Sakhi

The focus is on understanding God, and the lesson explores two ways to know Allah: the inward way (self-reflection) and the outward way (observation of the world). The discussion delves into the concept of "fitra," an innate nature within humans that leads them to worship Allah. The speaker argues that even in moments of weakness or crisis, people turn to this inner nature and seek a higher power. Historical examples, including powerful rulers, are cited to illustrate how individuals may neglect this inner sense in times of strength but turn to it in moments of vulnerability.

The lesson emphasizes that the inner way, rooted in fitra, remains constant throughout history and across diverse societies. The speaker addresses skeptics who argue that this inner sense may be a result of environmental influences, asserting that belief in God transcends cultural and societal changes.

The discussion also touches on the idea that some individuals, while not religious, still claim a spiritual connection, suggesting that the innate sense of God may be expressed in various ways. The lesson concludes by asserting that the love for God has always existed and will persist, rejecting the possibility of complete removal. The speaker encourages introspection and self-discovery as a means to find Allah within oneself.

Two reflection questions are posed to the audience: the first regarding instances of attraction to faith during difficulties, and the second questioning why ignorant people historically turned to idol worship and why materialists refer to God as nature. The lesson ends with a salutation.