The Qur’an in Muslim Practices

The course attempts to introduce participants to understanding ways in which Muslims use the Qur’an in practice in both religious and social contexts. After initially situating the Qur’an as a religious text within the context of Muslim beliefs and perceptions, the remaining sessions will explore the use of the Qur’an in calligraphy, in healing rituals, and in Sufi practices.

Aims of the course

• Understand Muslim beliefs and perceptions about the Qur’an
• Explore the recitation and writing of the Qur’an, including the skill and art of calligraphy
• Consider activities that draw on the Qur’an as a source of comfort, healing and protection
• Explore Sufi beliefs and practices as derived from the Qur’an

Course Leaders

Dr Walid Ghali is an Associate Professor at AKU-ISMC. He received his PhD from the Faculty of Arts, Cairo University, in 2012. Dr Ghali is Head Librarian at the Aga Khan Centre, where his current research focuses on the Islamic manuscript traditions, including Qur’anic manuscripts. He also teaches various subjects for MA students including Introduction to Sufism, Arabic Literature, and Muslim Thinkers in the 19th Century.

Professor Farouk Topan is a Professor Emeritus at AKU-ISMC. He has published widely on his research interests which cover Islam in East Africa, Swahili literature, language, and culture. His published works include Polemics and Language in Swahili Translations of the Qur’an: Mubarak Ahmad (2001), Abdullah Saleh al-Farsy (1982) and Ali Muhsin al-Barwani (2006), The Qur’an and Its Readers Worldwide: Contemporary Commentaries and Translations (2015), Approaches to the Qur’an in Sub-Saharan Africa (2019).

Date and time

23 – 24 May | 13:00 – 15:00; 15:30 – 17:30 (London time)

Note

The course will be delivered via Zoom. Readings and further details will be provided later upon registration.

This course will not be recorded.