Faisal Devji

Faisal Devji, an Oxford-based historian and theorist of modern Islam, delves into his latest work, exploring the evolution of Islam as a historical subject. He discusses how the 19th-century perception of Islam transformed it into a global actor, free from traditional authorities. Devji examines the implications of this shift, with modern ideologies acting as rivals to Islam. He also highlights the complexities surrounding contemporary movements and the distinction between personal faith and Islam's broader identity, providing insightful directions for future scholarship.

Faisal Devji, an Oxford-based historian and theorist of modern Islam, explores themes from his book, Waning Crescent: The Rise and Fall of Global Islam. He discusses how Islam became viewed as a global historical actor in the 19th century amid imperial decline. Devji highlights the implications of defining Islam beyond religious or political frameworks. He also examines the role of women in representing Islam, and the modern vulnerabilities of historical figures like Muhammad. These discussions illuminate the complex relationship between Islam and contemporary political movements.

Faisal Devji, a scholar with a focus on modern South Asian political thought, delves into the intriguing parallels between Pakistan and Israel in this discussion. He argues that both nations emerged not just as geographic entities but as distinct political ideas. Devji highlights the complexities of Muslim nationalism versus Indian nationalism, the philosophical foundations of Pakistan's identity, and how historical narratives and figures like Jinnah shape current perceptions. The conversation also connects the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to Pakistan's national struggles, revealing deep-rooted geopolitical dilemmas.