The AMI Podcast

How can hadith scholarship navigate modern challenges of authenticity while preserving its theological integrity? In this episode of Thinking Islam, we critically examine the journey of hadith from the Prophet to the present day with Dr Haidar Hobballah.From transmission methodologies to contemporary debates, this discussion unpacks the complexities of separating fact from fiction in a legacy spanning over 1,400 years. We discuss the science of hadith criticism, the shift from oral to written transmission, debates over canonical texts like Kutub al-Arbaʿa, the reliability of narrators, and the impact of theological bias and identity on the Shi'a tradition.Dr Haidar Hobballah brings decades of scholarly expertise, with advanced studies in hawza and a PhD in Comparative Religions and Christian Theology. As the author of more than two dozen books and numerous articles spanning jurisprudence, theology, philosophy, and hadith studies, Dr Hobballah has taught and supervised students at leading seminaries and universities, and served as editor-in-chief for several academic journals.

In this episode of Thinking Islam, we set out on a journey to explore the deeper mysteries of fasting and its connection to the month of Ramadhan with Shaykh Arif Abdulhussain. Beyond its physical form, fasting is a journey of spiritual refinement, mental discipline, and self-actualisation—but what does that truly mean in today's world? We discuss how fasting can free the mind, the spiritual benefits of the Laylatul Qadr nights, the challenges of moon sighting, and the evolution of the outward form of fasting and the realisation of its essence in the modern era.Shaykh Arif Abdul Hussain, founder and director of the Al-Mahdi Institute , is a Senior Lecturer in Legal Theory and Philosophy. A prolific author and speaker, he has extensively written and translated works on Islamic philosophy and legal theory, including the Islam and God-Centricity series and a translation of Durūs fī ʿilm al-uṣūl.

Dr Saeko Yazaki presents comparative research on the concept of the 'self' in Sufism and Zen Buddhism. The seminar, which drew scholars from multiple disciplines, examined striking parallels between these geographically and culturally distant traditions. Dr. Yazaki's presentation centered on a textual analysis of two foundational works: "The Revival of the Religious Sciences" by the Sufi scholar Abū Ḥāmid al-Ghazālī (d. 1111) and "The Treasury of the True Dharma-Eye" by Zen master Dōgen (d. 1253). The seminar highlighted how both traditions, despite their separation, share important theoretical and practical concerns, particularly regarding lived experience and the transformation of the self. Dr. Yazaki explained that al-Ghazālī emphasises disciplining the self (nafs) to purify the heart for divine remembrance, while Dōgen stresses the importance of learning and ultimately forgetting the self (jiko) in Buddhist practice. While previous scholarship has compared these influential figures to Jewish and Christian theologians or European philosophers, Dr. Yazaki's innovative approach places them in direct conversation with each other for the first time. Her analysis revealed not only remarkable similarities but also fundamental differences at both doctrinal and practical levels. A key insight from the seminar was the importance of faith in both traditions, balancing the widely recognised philosophical sophistication of these texts with their spiritual foundations.

Join Professor Ingrid Mattson in this insightful Book Talk as she explores her book 'The Story of the Qur’an: Its History and Place in Muslim Life.' Prof. Mattson delves into the historical, theological, and cultural significance of the Qur’an, examining its revelation, transmission, and impact on Muslim societies. Written for both Muslim and non-Muslim audiences, the book provides a comprehensive introduction to the Qur’an, making it accessible to students, scholars, and general readers. Professor Mattson discusses the historical context of revelation, key themes of the Qur’an, its tradition of memorisation and transmission, its influence on Muslim culture, and the different approaches to Qur’anic interpretation. Whether you are a student of Islam or simply curious about the Qur’an’s role in shaping Muslim life, this book talk offers valuable insights.

In this thought-provoking seminar, Shaykh Arif Abdulhussain explores the meaning ofRabb (Lord) in the Qur’an and its connections to the Abrahamic scriptures. By examining key narratives involving Adam, Abraham, and Moses, he uncovers how the Qur’an and the Bible depict divine communication. The discussion delves into whetherRabb always refers to the ineffable God or if it sometimes denotes a distinct divine agency interacting with humanity.

Join Professor Eman Abdelhadi, an Assistant Professor at the University of Chicago) as she delves into her book "Everything for Everyone: An Oral History of the New York Commune, 2052–2072," a visionary speculative fiction novel co-written with Emy O’Brien. This book reimagines a world beyond capitalism and the nation-state, where societies are built on collectivised labour, mutual aid, and self-sustaining communes. Through a series of fictional oral history interviews, the novel presents a transformative future where markets, money, and oppressive systems no longer dictate human relationships. The conversation explores the novel’s radical vision, addressing themes such as the collapse of capitalism, the role of climate change in global revolution, and the liberation of Palestine as a pivotal turning point in reshaping the world order. Structured as an oral history, 'Everything for Everyone..' chronicles the global revolution from 2052 to 2072, offering a compelling narrative that challenges the belief that capitalism is inevitable. Prof. Abdelhadi discusses the power of speculative fiction in inspiring radical imagination, urging us to envision a future where cooperation and shared abundance replace systems of exploitation. As the world grapples with crises of inequality and climate catastrophe, the book serves as a hopeful reminder that alternative futures are possible. Watch this engaging discussion to explore how literature can help us reclaim hope and reimagine a just and equitable world.

In this thought-provoking first episode of the 'Islam and Contemporary Challenges' series, Syed Arman Kazmi sits down with Dr Arash Naraghi, a Professor of Philosophy and Global Religion at Moravian University, to explore the nuanced relationship between science, mysticism, and Islamic reform. Dr Naraghi reflects on his transformative journey from pharmacology to philosophy, shedding light on his challenges with the Islamisation of science and his enduring fascination with Islamic mysticism, particularly the works of Rumi and Attar. The conversation delves deep into the societal impact of political Islam in post-Islamic Republic Iran, the solace offered by mysticism as a spiritual alternative, and the urgent need for reform in Islamic thought. Discover valuable insights into the complexities of reconciling faith with modern values, addressing the existential "love crisis," and finding meaning in today’s fast-paced and fragmented world.

In this book talk, Farhana Mayer presents her book, 'An Introduction to Qur’anic Ecology and Resonances with Laudato Si’, which explores Qur’an-based theological and ethical principles applicable to integral ecology. The book serves as a vital guide for Muslims addressing today’s ecological and environmental challenges, drawing strong parallels with the themes in Pope Francis’s 'Laudato Si’. Farhana delves into central Qur’anic concepts, such as the interconnected unity of all creation, the innate nature of God and humankind, and the principles of mercy, balance, justice, and moderation. She also discusses key critiques of human actions from an Islamic perspective, which align closely with Catholic teachings.

On Tuesday, 26th November 2024, Dr Belal Alabbas presented a research seminar at AMI entitled ‘Similar Questions, Different Answers? Reading the Sunni and Imami Hadith Corpus Together.’ In his presentation, Dr Alabbas addressed the phenomenon of contradictions in hadith within both Shia and Sunni traditions. He examined the methods and approaches employed by Imam Al-Shafi'i to address this issue in his book ‘Ikhtilaf Al-Hadith‘ and compared them to the methods and mechanisms adopted by Sheikh Abu Ja'far Al-Tusi in his book ‘Al-Istibsar fima Ikhtalafa min Al-Akhbar‘. Dr Alabbas attempted to draw comparisons between their solutions to the problem of conflicting reports and contradictions, concluding that there is a significant level of similarity in their approaches and methods. However, differences were observed, attributed to their respective doctrinal and intellectual foundations, such as the role of ‘qiyas‘ and the concept of ‘taqiyya‘ in resolving contradictions among narrations and hadith.

What connects Sufism, Shi’ism, and Mysticism—and what sets them apart? In this episode of 'The AMI Podcast,' Dr Zoheir Esmail is joined by Dr Seyed Amir Hossein Asghari, a Research Associate at Baylor University, to delve into the similarities and ongoing controversies within these areas of Islamic thought. Together, they explore the historical debates between the School of Najaf (School of Integration) and the School of Separation, the roles of dreams, intellect, and revelation, and the interplay between philosophy and spirituality in Islam. Tune in to discover the debates within Shia Islamic scholarship, unravel the mysteries of spiritual growth, and learn practical methods for inner transformation. Key topics include: The Differences between the School of Najaf (Integration) and the School of Separation Connections between Shi'ism and Sufism The Importance of Self-purification in Islamic Tradition Philosophical approaches to understanding God Modern Approaches to Spiritual Awakening