“He Gave Me Purpose Before I Knew I Needed It”

Chaplain Ali on mentorship, identity, and the burden of sacred trust.

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Imam Tariq El-Amin interviews Chaplain Syed Ali Nasaruddin. Raised in a scholarly family, Nasaruddin shares his journey from learning Islamic studies under his grandfather in Chicago to earning a Master of Divinity in Islamic Chaplaincy from Bayan Islamic Graduate School. He discusses his practical application of traditional Islamic teachings in modern American contexts, emphasizing community service, interfaith relations, and the importance of empowering youth. Nasaruddin also highlights the challenges and opportunities he has encountered moving from Chicago to Southern California and reflects on the dynamic nature of identity and leadership in different cultural environments.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

01:02 Meet the Host and Guest

01:10 Chaplain Syed Ali Nasaruddin's Early Life

02:50 Family Legacy and Scholarly Background

05:52 Cultural and Community Engagement

16:20 Leadership and Mentorship

23:49 Challenges and Reflections

24:58 Navigating Constant Change

25:42 Identity and Perception

27:15 Community and Service

29:23 Comparing Chicago and Southern California

34:12 Educational Journey and Chaplaincy

41:02 Practical Applications of Faith

47:43 Final Reflections and Lessons

50:19 Podcast Conclusion and Call to Action

bayanonline.org

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Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

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