The AMI Podcast

Al-Mahdi Institute
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  • ISLAM
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The AMI Podcast

AMI Podcasts explore a range of different topics including the latest cutting-edge research within the field of Islamic Studies, book reviews by prominent authors and academics, and discussions among scholars of diverse faiths and denominations within Islam.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Book Talk: Everything for Everyone: An Oral History of the New York Commune, 2052–2072 by Prof. Eman Abdelhadi

    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.

    8 min
  2. Science, Mysticism and Islamic Reform with Dr Arash Naraghi | Ep. 1

    JAN 15

    Science, Mysticism and Islamic Reform with Dr Arash Naraghi | Ep. 1

    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.

    1h 8m

  3. 12/31/2024

    Book Talk: An Introduction to Qur’anic Ecology and Resonances with Laudato Si’ by Farhana Mayer

    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.

    9 min

  4. 12/16/2024

    Similar Questions, Different Answers? Reading the Sunni and Imami Hadith Corpus Together by Dr Belal Alabbas

    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.

    36 min

  5. 12/13/2024

    Sufism, Shi’ism & Mysticism: Connections, Controversies and the School of Najaf with Dr Amir Asghari and Dr Zoheir Esmail

    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

    1h 4m

  6. 12/12/2024

    Taymiyyan Design Discourse: A New Islamic Approach to Design-Based Theism by Jamie Turner

    In this thought-provoking seminar, Jamier Turner delves into the evolving formulations of the design argument among Muslim thinkers, focusing on a non-Paleyan approach inspired by the ideas of the 14th-century theologian, Ibn Taymiyya (d. 1328 CE). Turner challenges traditional Paleyan models, often criticized for their vulnerability to Darwinian objections, by presenting a Taymiyyan framework emphasising non-inferential, metaphysical causality in nature's design. Discover how this innovative perspective circumvents the challenges faced by Paleyan inferences while maintaining compatibility with scientific explanations of biological phenomena. Turner also addresses three critical objections to the Taymiyyan model and explores its potential as a robust defense of design-based theistic belief.

    31 min

  7. 12/02/2024

    Book Talk: Hadith Transmission and Confessionality by Dr Hossam Ouf

    In this insightful book talk, Dr Hossam Ouf, a Research Fellow at the University of Tübingen, presents his book, "Hadith Transmission and Confessionality: Al-Bukhārī’s al-Jāmiʿ aṣ-Ṣaḥīḥ and al-Kulaynī’s al-Kāfī in Sunni and Twelver Shi'i Hadith Scholarship." Dr Ouf delves into the pivotal role of Hadith transmission in shaping the theological and identity frameworks of Sunni and Shia traditions. By comparing the works of Imam Al-Bukhari and Al-Kulayni, this research fosters dialogue and understanding between these two major Islamic schools of thought. Written in German, Dr Ouf’s research supports the growing field of Islamic theology in Europe, addressing key challenges in fostering understanding and collaboration.

    10 min

  8. 11/12/2024

    The Hidden Struggles of Muslim Women in the West with Dr Shabana Mir and Dr Muhammed Reza Tajri

    Join Dr Muhammed Reza Tajri and special guest Dr Shabana Mir, Associate Professor at the American Islamic College, for an insightful discussion on the challenges faced by Muslim American women on college campuses and Muslim women across the West. Drawing from Dr Mir's acclaimed book, 'Muslim American Women on Campus,' this conversation delves into themes of surveillance, cultural identity, Western perceptions, and the layered significance of the hijab. Discover how young Muslim women navigate and assert their identities, resist stereotypes, and find resilience in a complex socio-political landscape. Tune in for an enlightening exploration of identity, agency, and strength in the modern world.

    45 min
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Ratings & Reviews

3.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

AMI Podcasts explore a range of different topics including the latest cutting-edge research within the field of Islamic Studies, book reviews by prominent authors and academics, and discussions among scholars of diverse faiths and denominations within Islam.

Information

  • Creator
    Al-Mahdi Institute
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    242
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Al-Mahdi Institute
  • Show Website
    The AMI Podcast

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