Monday, April 21, 2025

Honoring Our Legacy, Shaping Our Future: Towards a New Muslim Contribution to Civilization

 



THE IQRA 2025 CONFERENCE

 

Honoring Our Legacy, Shaping Our Future: Towards a New Muslim

Contribution to Civilization

 

Introduction

In a rapidly changing world, Muslim societies stand at a critical juncture where

challenges can be transformed into opportunities. Building on our rich heritage

while embracing contemporary advancements, this conference seeks to

catalyze a new civilizational renaissance in Islamic contributions to global.

progress. Now is the time for the Quran to reclaim its central role in

educational curricula across all levels—from early childhood to post-doctoral

studies—by presenting it through a contemporary lens that aligns with each.

educational stage, while preserving its spiritual and scientific essence.

 

Through strategic collaboration among scholars, experts, leaders, and

innovators, we aim to forge practical pathways for turning current challenges

into future strengths. As we recognize the inadequacy of traditional education

models in keeping pace with our constantly evolving world, we emphasize the

urgent need to adopt modern educational frameworks rooted in STEM

principles (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) at all levels.

This approach will equip new generations with the tools of our time, reconnect.

the present with the past, and build bridges toward a future that achieves the

envisioned civilizational empowerment.

Vision Statement

To inspire and empower Muslim societies to lead in the fields of education,

science, and technology, while catalyzing the transformation of current

challenges into strategic advantages, honoring Islamic principles, and

contributing to global human advancement.

Mission Statement

 

To create a collaborative platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and

innovators from Muslim communities to share knowledge, advance scientific.

and technological breakthroughs and develop practical strategies. Our goal is

to produce a comprehensive manual for Muslim world leaders, guiding them

towards meaningful local and global development through the strategic

transformation of challenges into opportunities.

 

Key Thematic Areas and Objectives

 

1. Knowledge & Education Transformation

- Leveraging demographic dividend through education

- Integrating traditional Islamic knowledge with modern sciences

- Developing adaptive education systems for the AI era

- Creating centers of excellence in emerging technologies

 

2. Scientific & Technological Innovation

- Rebuilding the tradition of Islamic scientific excellence

- Creating innovation ecosystems in Muslim-majority countries

- Developing collaborative research networks

- Focusing on breakthrough technologies

 

3. Economic Empowerment & Resources

- Developing Islamic fintech solutions

- Creating sustainable economic models

- Building economic cooperation frameworks

 

- Leveraging natural resources sustainably

 

4. Social Cohesion & Leadership

- Building bridges between Islamic schools of thought

- Developing youth leadership programs

- Enhancing women’s participation

- Creating platforms for intra-Islamic dialogue

 

5. Environmental Stewardship

- Developing Islamic perspectives on environmental protection

- Creating sustainable development models

- Implementing green technologies

 

6. Healthcare & Wellbeing

- Advancing medical research and innovation

- Developing healthcare systems

- Promoting preventive healthcare

 

7. Cultural Expression

- Preserving and promoting Islamic arts

- Developing contemporary cultural expressions

- Building cultural bridges

8. Media & Communication

 

- Developing effective communication strategies

- Building media capabilities

- Promoting positive narratives

 

9. Implementation Frameworks

- Creating practical action plans

- Developing monitoring systems

- Ensuring sustainable implementation

 

Conference Structure and Detailed Program

 

Day 1: Foundations for Transformation

 

Morning Session: Knowledge & Education Transformation

- 09:00 - 09:45: Opening Ceremony

- 09:45 - 10:30: Keynote: Rebuilding the House of Wisdom

- 10:30 - 10:45: Break

- 10:45 - 12:00: Panel: Education Systems for the AI Era;

- 12:00 - 13:00: Workshop: Integrating Traditional and Modern Knowledge;

- 13:00 - 14:00: Lunch Break

 

Afternoon Session: Scientific & Technological Innovation

- 14:00 - 14:45: Keynote: ;Reviving the Golden Age of Islamic Science;

 

- 14:45 - 16:00: Panel: Building Innovation Ecosystems;

- 16:00 - 16:15: Break

- 16:15 - 17:30: Interactive Session: Technology Transfer Networks.

- 17:30 - 18:00: Day 1 Summary and Reflection

Day 2: Economic & Social Development

 

Morning Session: Economic Empowerment & Resources

- 09:00 - 09:45: Keynote: Islamic Finance in the Digital Age.

- 09:45 - 11:00: Panel: Resource Optimization Strategies.

- 11:00 - 11:15: Break

- 11:15 - 12:30: Workshop: Building Economic Cooperation Frameworks;

- 12:30 - 14:00: Lunch Break

 

Afternoon Session: Social Cohesion & Leadership

- 14:00 - 14:45: Keynote: Unity in Diversity;

- 14:45 - 16:00: Panel: ;Youth Leadership in the Muslim World;

- 16:00 - 16:15: Break

- 16:15 - 17:30: Interactive Session: ;Women in Development;

- 17:30 - 18:00: Day 2 Summary and Reflection

 

Day 3: Implementation & Future Planning

Morning Session: Implementation Frameworks

- 09:00 - 09:45: Keynote: From Vision to Action;

 

- 09:45 - 11:00: Panel: ;Success Stories and Case Studies;

- 11:00 - 11:15: Break

- 11:15 - 12:30: Workshop: Creating National Action Plans;

- 12:30 - 14:00: Lunch Break

 

Afternoon Session: Integration & Synthesis

- 14:00 - 15:30: Working Groups: Development of Specific Action Plans

- 15:30 - 15:45: Break

- 15:45 - 17:00: Plenary: Presentation of Recommendations

- 17:00 - 18:00: Closing Session: The Path Forward;

 

Enhanced Engagement Elements

 

1. Interactive Components

- Q&A Sessions after each presentation (10 minutes)

- Breakout Sessions for informal discussions (10 minutes)

- Workshop activities for hands-on learning

- Digital polling and feedback systems

 

2. Technology Integration

- Virtual participation options

- Digital collaboration tools

- Online resource repository

 

- Mobile conference app

 

3. Networking Opportunities

- Structured networking sessions

- Mentorship matching

- Project collaboration spaces

- Expert consultation corners

Expected Deliverables

 

1. Conference Publications

- Collection of presented papers

- Comprehensive civilization-building manual

- Action plans for specific regions/countries

- Digital resource library

 

2. Implementation Framework

- Detailed strategy documents

- Timeline for implementation

- Resource allocation guidelines

- Success metrics and KPIs

 

3. Follow-up Mechanisms

- Quarterly progress review meetings

 

- Online collaboration platform

- Implementation support network

- Regular impact assessment reports

 

Post-Conference Support Structure

 

1. Resource Mobilization

- Funding network development

- Partnership building

- Resource sharing platform

 

2. Monitoring & Evaluation

- Progress tracking systems

- Impact assessment frameworks

- Regular reporting mechanisms

 

3. Continuous Engagement

- Online community platform

- Regular virtual meetups

- Newsletter and updates

- Regional implementation support

 

Success Metrics

 

1. Short-term Indicators

- Number of actionable initiatives launched

- Partnership agreements signed

- Resource commitments secured

- Implementation plans created

 

2. Long-term Measures

- Educational transformation progress

- Scientific output increases

- Economic cooperation achievements

- Social cohesion improvements

 

Contact and Registration Information

Go to our website for Up-to-date information:

www.Iqra.study

 

Number of the required speakers based on the integrated program structure:

 

Day 1:

- Opening Keynote (1)

- Education Systems for the AI Era; Panel (3-4 panelists)

- Workshop Lead for Integrating Traditional and Modern Knowledge; (1-2)

 

- Afternoon Keynote (1)

- Building Innovation Ecosystems; Panel (3-4 panelists)

- Technology Transfer Networks Session Lead (1-2)

Day 2:

- Morning Keynote (1)

- Resource Optimization Strategies; Panel (3-4 panelists)

- Workshop Lead for Economic Cooperation; (1-2)

- Afternoon Keynote (1)

- Youth Leadership; Panel (3-4 panelists)

- Women in Development Session Lead (1-2)

 

Day 3:

- Morning Keynote (1)

- Success Stories and Case Studies; Panel (3-4 panelists)

- Workshop Lead for National Action Plans; (1-2)

- Working Groups Coordinators (3-4)

- Closing Session Speaker (1)

 

Total speakers needed:

- Keynote Speakers: 6

- Panel Members: 12-16

- Workshop/Session Leads: 6-8

- Working Group Coordinators: 3-4

 

- Opening/Closing Speakers: 2

 

Grand Total: Approximately 29-36 speakers

 

IQRA 2025 Conference Speaker Profiles

 

Keynote Speakers (6)

 

Opening Keynote: Rebuilding the House of Wisdom;

First keynote speaker: Safi Kaskas

Leading figures from major Islamic universities or research institutions

 

Scientific Innovation Keynote: Reviving the Golden Age of Islamic Science;

Profile needed:

- Renowned scientist from Muslim world

- Significant contributions to modern scientific advancement

- Experience in leading major research institutions

- Understanding of both Islamic scientific heritage and contemporary

developments

 

Economic Transformation Keynote: Islamic Finance in the Digital Age;

Profile needed:

- Leading expert in Islamic finance

 

- Experience with fine tech innovations

- Track record in implementing successful financial systems

- International recognition in economic development

 

Social Cohesion Keynote: Unity in Diversity;

Profile needed:

- Respected social leader or diplomat

- Experience in interfaith and intercultural dialogue

- Track record of building bridges between communities

- Strong understanding of contemporary Muslim society challenges

 

Implementation Keynote: From Vision to Action;

Profile needed:

- Successful leader with proven track record in transformation

- Experience in leading major national or international projects

- Strong background in strategic planning and execution

- Understanding of Muslim world development challenges

 

Closing Keynote:  The Path Forward ;

Profile needed:

- Distinguished statesperson or thought leader

- Experience in international development

- Vision for Muslim world renaissance

 

- Ability to inspire and mobilize action

 

Panel Members (12-16)

 

Education Panel (3-4 members)

- University president/dean from leading Islamic institution

- EdTech innovator with focus on religious education

- Expert in curriculum development and educational reform

- Specialist in youth education and development

 

Innovation Ecosystems Panel (3-4 members)

- Technology Park /innovation hub director

- Successful tech entrepreneur from Muslim world

- Research and development expert

- Innovation policy specialist

 

Resource Optimization Panel (3-4 members)

- Sustainable development expert

- Natural resources management specialist

- Economic planning authority

- Islamic finance practitioner

 

Youth Leadership Panel (3-4 members)

 

- Young successful entrepreneur

- Youth movement leader

- Education innovation specialist

- Social media/digital influence expert

 

Workshop/Session Leads (6-8)

 

Traditional-Modern Knowledge Integration (2)

- Islamic studies modernization expert

- Contemporary science education specialist

 

Technology Transfer Networks (2)

- International technology transfer expert

- Innovation ecosystem builder

 

Economic Cooperation Frameworks (2)

- International trade specialist

- Regional cooperation expert

 

Women in Development (2)

- Women’s education leader

- Female business/social entrepreneur

 

Working Group Coordinators (3-4)

 

Implementation Frameworks

- Strategic planning expert

- Project management professional

- Monitoring and evaluation specialist

- Change management expert

 

Desired Characteristics for All Speakers

 

Professional Requirements

- Minimum 10-15 years’ experience in their field

- International recognition and reputation

- Published works or recognized achievements

- Strong communication skills in English (additional languages preferred)

 

Regional Representation

- Ensure balanced representation from:

- Middle East

- South Asia

- Southeast Asia

- Africa

- Western Muslim communities

 

Gender Balance

- Aim for minimum 40% women speakers

- Ensure female representation across all sessions

- Include women in leadership roles

Age Diversity

- Mix of experienced leaders and emerging voices

- Include young innovators and thought leaders

- Balance traditional expertise with contemporary perspectives

 

Speaker Support Requirements

 

Pre-Conference

- Detailed briefing materials

- Clear session objectives

- Presentation guidelines

- Collaboration opportunities with other speakers

 

During Conference

- Technical support

- Translation services if needed

- Session moderators

- Documentation support

 

Post-Conference

- Follow-up engagement opportunities

- Publication support

- Network building

- Implementation support

 

Selection Process Recommendations

 

1. Initial Identification

- Research potential candidates

- Review publications and achievements

- Assess speaking experience

- Evaluate relevance to conference themes

 

2. Evaluation Criteria

- Expertise and experience

- Communication ability

- Innovation in thinking

- Commitment to development

- Track record of impact

 

3. Engagement Process

 

- Early outreach (7 months before conference)

- Clear role definition

- Commitment confirmation

- Content development support

 

 

 

مؤتمر اقرأ 2025

إحياء تراثنا، تشكيل مستقبلنا: نحو إسهام إسلامي جديد في الحضارة الإنسانية

 

المقدمة

في عالم يتغير بسرعة، تقف المجتمعات الإسلامية عند مفترق طرق حاسم حيث يمكن تحويل التحديات

إلى فرص. انطلاقًا من إرثنا الثري وتبني التطورات المعاصرة، يسعى هذا المؤتمر إلى إطلاق نهضة

جديدة في الإسهامات الإسلامية للحضارة العالمية. وقد آن الأوان ليعود القرآن الكريم إلى صدارة

المناهج التعليمية في جميع المراحل - من الحضانة إلى ما بعد الدكتوراه - عبر تقديمه بفهم معاصر

يتناسب مع كل مستوى تعليمي، مع الحفاظ على جوهره الروحي والعلمي.

 

من خلال التعاون الاستراتيجي بين العلماء والخبراء والقادة والمبتكرين، نهدف إلى صياغة مسارات

عملية لتحويل التحديات الحالية إلى نقاط قوة مستقبلية. وإذ ندرك أن برامج التعليم التقليدي لم تعد تُجدي

في عالمنا المتجدد باستمرار، فإننا نؤكد على ضرورة تبني نماذج تعليمية حديثة قائمة على مبادئ

STEM (العلوم، التكنولوجيا، الهندسة، الرياضيات) عبر جميع المراحل، مما يمكّن الأجيال الجديدة من

امتلاك أدوات العصر، ويسهم في إعادة وصل الحاضر بالماضي، وبناء جسور نحو مستقبل يُحقق

التمكين الحضاري المنشود.

 

الرؤية

إلهام وتمكين المجتمعات الإسلامية للريادة في مجالات التعليم والعلوم والتكنولوجيا، مع تحفيز تحويل

التحديات الحالية إلى مزايا استراتيجية، واحترام المبادئ الإسلامية، والإسهام في التقدم البشري العالمي.

الرسالة

إنشاء منصة تعاونية لقادة الفكر وصناع السياسات والمبتكرين من المجتمعات الإسلامية لمشاركة

المعرفة وتعزيز الابتكارات العلمية والتكنولوجية وتطوير استراتيجيات عملية. هدفنا إنتاج دليل شامل

لقادة العالم الإسلامي يوجههم نحو تنمية محلية وعالمية ذات معنى عبر التحويل الاستراتيجي للتحديات

إلى فرص.

 

المحاور والأهداف الرئيسية

1. تطويرالمعرفة والتعليم

 

- الاستفادة من العامل الديموغرافي عبر التعليم.

- دمج المعرفة الإسلامية التقليدية مع العلوم الحديثة.

- تطوير أنظمة تعليمية متكيفة مع عصر الذكاء الاصطناعي.

- إنشاء مراكز تميز في التقنيات الناشئة.

 

2. الابتكار العلمي والتكنولوجي

- إحياء تقاليد التميز العلمي الإسلامي.

- بناء أنظمة ابتكارية في الدول ذات الأغلبية المسلمة.

- تطوير شبكات بحثية تعاونية.

- التركيز على التقنيات الثورية.

 

3. التمكين الاقتصادي والموارد

- تطوير حلول التكنولوجيا المالية الإسلامية.

- إنشاء نماذج اقتصادية مستدامة.

- بناء أطر تعاون اقتصادي.

- الاستفادة المستدامة من الموارد الطبيعية.

 

4. التماسك الاجتماعي والقيادة

- بناء جسور بين المذاهب الإسلامية.

- تطوير برامج قيادية للشباب.

- تعزيز مشاركة المرأة.

- إنشاء منصات للحوار الداخلي الإسلامي.

 

5. الاستدامة البيئية

- تطوير رؤى إسلامية لحماية البيئة.

- إنشاء نماذج تنمية مستدامة.

- تطبيق تقنيات صديقة للبيئة.

 

6. الصحة والرفاهية

- تعزيز البحث والابتكار الطبي.

- تطوير أنظمة الرعاية الصحية.

- نشر ثقافة الطب الوقائي.

 

7. التعبير الثقافي

- الحفاظ على الفنون الإسلامية وتعزيزها.

- تطوير تعبيرات ثقافية معاصرة.

- بناء جسور ثقافية.

 

8. الإعلام والاتصال

- تطوير استراتيجيات اتصال فعالة.

- بناء قدرات إعلامية.

- تعزيز الروايات الإيجابية.

 

9. أطر التنفيذ

- وضع خطط عمل عملية.

- تطوير أنظمة مراقبة.

 

- ضمان تنفيذ مستدام.

 

هيكلية المؤتمر والبرنامج التفصيلي

 

اليوم الأول: أسس التحول

- الجلسة الصباحية: تحويل المعرفة والتعليم

- 09:00 - 09:45: حفل الافتتاح.

- 09:45 - 10:30: الكلمة الرئيسية: ;إعادة بناء بيت الحكمة;.

- 10:30 - 10:45: استراحة.

- 10:45 - 12:00: ندوة: ;أنظمة التعليم لعصر الذكاء الاصطناعي;.

- 12:00 - 13:00: ورشة عمل: ;دمج المعرفة التقليدية والحديثة;.

- 13:00 - 14:00: استراحة غداء.

 

- الجلسة المسائية: الابتكار العلمي والتكنولوجي

- 14:00 - 14:45: الكلمة الرئيسية: ;إحياء العصر الذهبي للعلوم الإسلامية;.

- 14:45 - 16:00: ندوة: ;بناء أنظمة الابتكار;.

- 16:00 - 16:15: استراحة.

- 16:15 - 17:30: جلسة تفاعلية:;شبكات نقل التكنولوجيا;.

- 17:30 - 18:00: ملخص اليوم الأول.

 

اليوم الثاني: التنمية الاقتصادية والاجتماعية

- الجلسة الصباحية: التمكين الاقتصادي

 

- 09:00 - 09:45: الكلمة الرئيسية: ;التمويل الإسلامي في العصر الرقمي;.

- 09:45 - 11:00: ندوة: ;استراتيجيات تحسين الموارد;.

- 11:00 - 11:15: استراحة.

- 11:15 - 12:30: ورشة عمل: ;بناء أطر التعاون الاقتصادي;.

- 12:30 - 14:00: استراحة غداء.

 

- الجلسة المسائية: التماسك الاجتماعي

- 14:00 - 14:45: الكلمة الرئيسية:;الوحدة في التنوع;.

- 14:45 - 16:00: ندوة: ;قيادة الشباب في العالم الإسلامي;.

- 16:00 - 16:15: استراحة.

- 16:15 - 17:30: جلسة تفاعلية: ;المرأة في التنمية;.

- 17:30 - 18:00: ملخص اليوم الثاني.

 

اليوم الثالث: التنفيذ والتخطيط المستقبلي

- الجلسة الصباحية: أطر التنفيذ

- 09:00 - 09:45: الكلمة الرئيسية: ;من الرؤية إلى العمل;.

- 09:45 - 11:00: ندوة:;قصص نجاح ودراسات حالة;.

- 11:00 - 11:15: استراحة.

- 11:15 - 12:30: ورشة عمل: ;وضع خطط عمل وطنية;.

- 12:30 - 14:00: استراحة غداء.

 

- الجلسة المسائية: التكامل والتركيب

- 14:00 - 15:30: مجموعات عمل: تطوير خطط عمل محددة.

 

- 15:30 - 15:45: استراحة.

- 15:45 - 17:00: جلسة عامة: عرض التوصيات.

- 17:00 - 18:00: الجلسة الختامية: ;الطريق إلى الأمام;.

 

عناصر تفاعلية مُعزَّزة

1. المكونات التفاعلية

- جلسات أسئلة وأجوبة.

- جلسات نقاش غير رسمية.

- أنظمة اقتراع رقمية.

 

2. التكامل التكنولوجي

- مشاركة افتراضية.

- منصات تعاون رقمية.

 

3. فرص التواصل

- جلسات شبكية مبنية.

- مساحات تعاون للمشاريع.

 

المخرجات المتوقعة

1. منشورات المؤتمر

- أوراق بحثية.

- دليل تنموي شامل.

 

2. إطار التنفيذ

- وثائق استراتيجية.

- مؤشرات أداء (KPIs).

 

3. آليات المتابعة

- منصات تعاون عبر الإنترنت.

- تقارير تقييم تأثير.

 

معلومات التواصل والتسجيل

راجع موقع أقرأ على الانترنت

www.iqra.study

 

Restoring the Qur’an as the Foundation of Muslim Education

 

The Qur’an is the greatest gift Allah has sent to humanity. It is not merely a

book to be recited—it is a profound guide containing the Sunan of Allah that

govern the Universe, society, and personal life. Yet, despite millions of Muslims

owning and reading the Qur’an, many do not fully realize its significance as the

foundational source of wisdom for all aspects of life.

 

This must change.

 

The International Qur’an Research Association (IQRA’) is actively working to

make the Qur’an foundational at all levels of education—from kindergarten to

post-doctorate studies. Our mission is to ensure every Muslim has access to a

contemporary understanding of the Qur’an, tailored to their level of learning

and ability to grasp its depth.

 

This requires serious scholarly effort, and IQRA’ has assembled a dedicated

think tank of Qur’an scholars and scientists who are committed to this work.

They are rolling up their sleeves, exploring new methods, and creating a

structured approach that will make Qur’anic knowledge accessible, relevant,

and transformative for every Muslim worldwide.

 

We believe that the mosque should once again function as a center of learning

and enlightenment—just as it did during the time of Prophet Muhammad

(). The Qur’an must reclaim its role in shaping hearts, minds, and societies.

 

Insha’Allah, we will share tangible results soon. But this effort requires

collective dedication.

 

For too long, divisions have weakened us. Our history has seen fragmentation,

misunderstandings, and lost opportunities for unity. It is time to rise above

these divisions and reunite—through knowledge, dialogue, and a shared

commitment to restoring the Qur’an’s central role in our lives.

 

This is our call to action. Muslims must work together to bring this vision to life

and ensure that the Qur’an is understood as more than a book—it is a living

guide that shapes every aspect of human consciousness.

 

Let’s make this happen. Let’s restore the Qur’an to its rightful place and rebuild

the unity our Ummah desperately needs.

 

Safi Kaskas

President

International Qur’an Research Association IQRA’

 


Wednesday, April 2, 2025

A Contemporary Approach to Understanding the Quran: Breaking Free from Outdated Interpretations

The Quran, as the final revelation, is a dynamic and timeless text. However, its interpretation has often been confined to historical frameworks that no longer align with modern knowledge and societal contexts. A number of prominent contemporary Islamic thinker advocate for a fresh, rational, and evolving methodology to engage with the Quran—one that acknowledges the advancements in human knowledge and the necessity of reinterpreting scripture in light of the 21st century.

Traditional interpretations of the Quran were shaped by the intellectual and cultural milieu of early Islamic centuries. While these interpretations served their time, they are not inherently sacred or immutable. Many contemporary thinkers argue that clinging to outdated exegesis stifles intellectual and moral progress. The Quran itself emphasizes the relativity of human understanding:

"For every news (or matter), there is a reality, and you will come to know." (Quran 6:67)

This verse underscores that human comprehension of the Quran is not static but evolves with time.

KEY PRINCIPLES OF A CONTEMPORARY READING

The Quran as a Self-Sufficient Text


The Quran does not require external sources (such as Hadith or classical jurisprudence) for its interpretation. It is self-contained, and its meanings must be derived from within its own linguistic and conceptual framework.

Past interpretations, while valuable, are products of their historical context and should not be treated as definitive.

Linguistic Precision and Absence of Synonymity

Every word in the Quran has a distinct meaning; there is no redundancy. Modern linguistics and semantic analysis must be applied to uncover these nuances

Classical Arabic dictionaries and grammar rules (e.g., Sibawayh’s grammar) should not restrict our understanding, as the Quran’s language transcends pre-Islamic norms.

Distinction Between the Prophetic and the Legislative

The Quran differentiates between:

  • Prophetic content (Nubuwwah): Theological and cosmological truths, open to reinterpretation as human knowledge expands.
  • Legislative content (Risalah): Legal injunctions, which are fixed in principle but flexible in application within defined limits (e.g., inheritance laws).

Many "Islamic laws" that are present in our fiqh books are actually human interpretations, not divine commandments.

Moving away from Outdated Jurisprudential Tools and Methodologies

Concepts like naskh (abrogation) and qiyas (analogical reasoning) have played a significant role in classical Islamic jurisprudence; however, they are methodological tools developed by later scholars to systematize rulings—not explicit, immutable commands of the Quran itself.

The Role of Human Reason and Scientific Progress

The Quran encourages the use of reason and empirical evidence. Modern science, sociology, and ethics must inform our understanding of its verses.
For example, Quranic references to natural phenomena (e.g., embryology, cosmology) should be read in light of current scientific knowledge.

Dynamic Application of Legal Boundaries (Hudud)

The Quran sets broad ethical and legal boundaries, not rigid rules. Societies must determine how to implement these principles in ways that align with modern justice and human rights.

For instance, the prohibition of riba (usury) must be understood in today’s economic systems, not 7th-century trade practices

WHY PAST INTERPRETATIONS ARE INSUFFICIENT


Historical Limitations


Early scholars lacked access to modern linguistics, science, and global ethical frameworks. Their interpretations were bound by their era’s knowledge.

For example, classical exegesis often relied on pre-Islamic poetry to explain Quranic terms, which is inadequate for today’s context.

The Myth of "Final" Interpretations

The claim that earlier scholars (e.g., Ibn Abbas, Al-Tabari, Ibn Kathir) exhausted the Quran’s meanings is unfounded. The Quran itself anticipates evolving understanding:

"We will show them Our signs in the universe and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that this ˹Quran˺ is the truth. Is it not enough that your Lord is a Witness over all things?" (Quran 41:53)

Cultural Bias

Many traditional rulings are rooted in the patriarchal and tribal customs of 7th-century Arabia rather than timeless divine ethics. A modern interpretation should emphasize the Quran’s overarching moral principles over rigid, historically conditioned applications.

The Crisis of Relevance

An overreliance on historical legal interpretations, without considering their socio-cultural context, has sometimes resulted in challenges such as gender disparities and social tensions. Renewing our approach to Islamic thought—by grounding it in the Quran’s timeless justice and compassion—can help address modern ethical concerns while remaining faithful to Islam’s higher objectives.

CONCLUSION: TOWARD A LIVING QURAN

The Quran is not a relic of the past but a living guide for all times. To honor its universality, we must engage with it critically, using modern tools of analysis and an unwavering commitment to justice and reason. The Modern thinker Muhammad Shahrur asserts, "Reform is meaningless unless it challenges foundational assumptions." By liberating Quranic interpretation from the shackles of outdated tradition, we can reclaim its transformative power for the 21st century and beyond.

Sunday, December 15, 2024

Monday, December 2, 2024

Sunday, December 1, 2024

IQRA Professional Members December 2024

 


Cyma Almakky

Her journey with the Quran began 20 years ago, and she has since considered herself a lifelong student, continually uncovering insights and applying them to daily life. Her focus is on exploring the contemporary, philosophical, and psychological dimensions of the Quran, understanding how these aspects promote clarity, peace, and growth in mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Cyma also teaches the Quran, empowering individuals to connect with Allah (SWT) in their own way. Her approach fosters self-sufficiency, helping people navigate their spiritual journey free from fear and doubt, leading to a deeper, personal connection with both the Quran and Allah (SWT).

With 24 years of experience as a designer and businesswoman in the fashion and interior design industries, Cyma has recently shifted her focus to ventures that promote mental independence and agency. Above all, she is driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the Ummah.

Academically, Cyma holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and is a certified English language teacher (RSA/CELTA).

Email: ceewai9@yahoo.com

Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/cyma.almakky



 

Friday, November 29, 2024

Professional executive committee members of IQRA November 2024

 


Nabeel M.A Alkhalidy

Nabeel M A Alkhalidy is an educator and researcher, renowned for his extensive contributions to Quranic studies. He has dedicated over two decades to the study and teaching of Arabic. He has spent a significant part of his life dedicated to learning the Islamic sciences in areas of Quran, Arabic, Fiqh and Aqeedah.

He is currently advancing his studies in Quranic Exegesis and Etymology, focusing particularly on Quranic linguistics. His research involves collaborations with fellow scholars to explore various dimensions of Quranic linguistics and Exegesis. A cornerstone of his work is the development of a unique curriculum that emphasizes interpreting the Quran through the interpretative tools given to us in the Quran. Nabeel believes that this approach uncovers new and enriched interpretations that are relevant to our times given to us by our Merciful Creator to guide us in the 21st century and beyond.

Nabeel graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1999 and works in the medical field. He is also a content creator and manages the popular YouTube channel "Learn Quranic Arabic," sharing insights into Quranic Arabic with a global audience. This initiative reflects his commitment to utilizing modern digital mediums to disseminate knowledge and engage with students and educators worldwide.

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nabeelalkhalidy

Academia:https://independent.academia.edu/Alkhalidy

Email:nabeel@sibawayinstitute.com



Adnan J. Shah

Founder & CEO

Adnan Shah is an Innovative, energetic, and accomplished senior IT executive with over 20 years of track record. Proficient in managing complex and sizeable federated IT environments, he is a seasoned executive with broad experience developing organizational strategy and vision through partnership and collaboration.  

He completed his tenure in the federal government as Deputy CIO for Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In doing so, he oversaw a team of two hundred-plus people to deliver value and a multi-hundred million dollar budget for technology and innovation to achieve the desired goals. 

As Chief Executive Officer at SAJ Technologies, Adnan leads the effort to bring innovation and leadership to the multiple technologies’ portfolio. Adnan holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State & George Mason University and an MBA from Georgetown University.

((As the Founder and CEO of SAJ Technologies, I leverage my 20+ years of IT experience and executive experience to help clients achieve their business goals. I launched SAJ Technologies in 2022 with a mission to provide cutting-edge technology solutions, process engineering, and agile methodologies to optimize performance and efficiency.
Prior to starting my own company, I was the Deputy Chief Information Officer for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, where I managed a large and complex IT environment with over 200 staff and a multi-hundred-million-dollar budget. I led several strategic initiatives, such as migrating the bureau's IT infrastructure to the cloud, establishing a shared services model, and adopting a data-driven approach to decision making. I also ensured the security and performance of the bureau's IT systems and services. My passion is to innovate and collaborate with partners and stakeholders to deliver value and impact.))

Email:adnan@sajtech.com

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/adnan-shah-002599262/