It is 4.15 am in Melbourne and the author Aydogan Kars speaks with an infectious enthusiasm whilst displaying a particularly erudite disposition. The attendees of the Islamic Studies Reading Group peer intently at our Zoom screens, hoping to capture a new dimension of understanding of his book ‘Unsaying God: Negative Theology in Medieval Islam’. Indeed an inspiring work it focusses on Apophatic Theology, a branch of philosophy that aims to describe God by what He isn’t, instead of stating what He is. A core part of its rationale is recognising the significant limitations to the use of language and the boundaries of human comprehension.
The second book for this term was ‘Muhammad and the Empires of Faith’, by Sean W. Anthony. In order to capture the essence of this tome we find ourselves at the centre of our faith – the Sirah itself. The work relates the development of sirah-maghazi literature, an early genre of Islamic writing that deeply enlightens our understanding of the events that took place in the time of our beloved Prophet (PBUH). As a consequence this potentially becomes a central plank in our knowledge of how the tradition of oral transmission was supplemented by scribes creating documents through the direction of scholars.
Such an iterative dissection of intriguing texts is the underlying theme of this inspiring, recent initiative by CMC. Meeting in-person two or three times a term the close collaboration with Cambridge University provides the opportunity to alternate the venue between the beautiful College and the Faculty of Divinity.
Typically, Professor Claire Gallien has selected books that not only trigger new directions of thinking, but entice through their challenge in connecting the dots. The conversations are proof that it really is all about the journey. Her meticulous preparation means that attendees are given clear guidance on the areas of focus. Conveniently she also distributes a comprehensive selection of the key chapters plus relevant background material that aids in setting context.
Each session has a relaxed feel to it, making you comfortable both in your surroundings and with the people sitting around you. An air of informality pervades the room. To simply listen and absorb the analysis is absolutely fine, removing any pressure that may dissuade some from joining. Equally attendees are gently encouraged to share their thinking within a non-judgemental space.
In closing, such a cerebrally challenging but enjoyable and pioneering activity befits perfectly the brand that is Cambridge Muslim College.