Join us in person for another instalment of our popular Tea Over Books series with Cambridge Muslim College Faculty & Guest Speakers.
About the Event
We have found ourselves asking fundamental questions of late; despite tremendous efforts over the years, why does justice seem out of grasp? Why do such tribulations exist? Why are good people allowed to suffer? And what can be done to bring about positive and lasting change?
Join us at Cambridge Muslim College for our next Tea Over Books event, as three scholars address these questions through the lens of Islamic theology.
Programme Schedule & Description
Schedule
10:00 – Doors Open
10:45 – Welcome & Introduction
11:00 – Lecture 1: Dr Ramon Harvey
11:30 – Lecture 2: Dr Sohaib Saeed
12:00 – Lecture 3: Dr Wim Sulayman Van Ael
12:30 – Lunch & Dhur Break
13:30 – Panel Discussion & Q&A
14:30 – Event Ends
About the Lectures
Stewardship and Sacred History in the Qur’an – Dr Ramon Harvey
Based on the book, The Qur’an and the Just Society
Dr Harvey will discuss the Qur’anic vision for the legitimate delegation of political sovereignty with the idea of stewardship (khilafa), and how this relates to the scripture’s conception of justice, as expressed through natural and divine Law. Examining the narratives of previous nations, and especially prophets, gives us valuable lessons to navigate the ever-recurrent cycles of social corruption.
How the Tables Turn: Insights from Al-Razi and Ibn ‘Ashur – Dr Sohaib Saeed
Based on the book, The Great Exegesis by Imam Razi
“We deal out such days among people in turn” (Al ‘Imran 3:140, Abdel Haleem): what does this verse teach us about our place in the world and our destiny as a believing nation? This presentation draws particularly from the Tafsir of the classical theologian Fakhr al-Din al-Razi, and the modern Tunisian exegete Muhammad al-Tahir Ibn ‘Ashur.
Islam & Theodicy – Dr Wim Sulayman Van Ael
Discussing theodicy within an Islamic framework is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows believers to deepen their understanding of the Quranic perspective on the existence of evil and suffering, thereby enhancing their spiritual resilience in the face of adversity. Secondly, grappling with theodicy fosters a more nuanced comprehension of divine justice, reinforcing the Islamic belief in accountability and the Hereafter. Moreover, it provides a platform for Muslims to articulate their faith to a broader audience, fostering interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding.
Panel Discussion
This part of the day delves further in to each of the previous topics with an opportunity for audience Q&A.
Tickets & More Information
About the Scholars
Dr Ramon Harvey lectures in Islamic theology at Cambridge Muslim College. He undertook his postgraduate studies at SOAS, University of London, and also holds an ʿalimiyya qualification. His publications include monographs and articles in both Islamic theology and Qur’anic studies. Currently, his research focuses on kalām in early Māturīdism and on constructive Islamic theology, especially in conversation with Christian theology, analytic philosophy and phenomenology. He is Series Editor of Edinburgh Studies in Islamic Scripture and Theology, which is published by Edinburgh University Press.
Graduate of Tafsir & Quranic Studies (Al-Azhar) with PhD from SOAS, University of London. Founder-director of the Centre for Advanced Study of the Quran and its Interpretation (CASQI).
Dr. Wim Sulayman Van Ael, a distinguished academic, boasts a rich expertise in Islamic Sciences, Quran studies, and mental health. With a steadfast commitment to education, he serves as a dedicated educator, lecturer, and chaplain, earning recognition for his invaluable contributions to Islamic education, spiritual guidance, and mental health advocacy. Dr. Van Ael earned a Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Theology and holds a wealth of certifications, including Master NLP, Neuropsychology, CBT, and CBT based Mindfulness. In addition to his scholarly achievements, he is a practicing psychotherapist and proudly holds a Doctorate in Islamic Sciences from R. Sorbon, France. Throughout his career, Dr. Van Ael has held significant positions in various prestigious institutions, his influence, and impact are recognized globally, as evidenced by his consistent inclusion in the “500 Most Influential Muslims in the World” since 2017, under the category of Spiritual Guides.”
Frequently Asked Questions
The building is directly behind the college garden and can be accessed on foot via Hills Road. If you park at St Anne’s Terrace or on St Paul’s Road, you can make your way via the College’s main building, Unity House, where there will be clear signs to guide you.
Please arrive by 10 am. The event will start promptly at 10.45 am.
Drinks and light refreshments will be provided throughout the day, with finger sandwiches for lunch.
Unfortunately, we cannot permit entry for children under the age of 12. Children 12 and above can purchase a concession ticket but will have to be accompanied by an adult over 18 years of age.
No, this is a strictly in-person event. It will be recorded but only for internal purposes.
We will offer a full refund five days prior to the event. After that, we will not be able to refund your ticket.
Unfortunately, there is no disability access as the events space at 20 Cambridge Place is on the first floor and only accessible via the staircase. We aim to accommodate an audience of all abilities at future events, God willing.
There is no public parking available on the College grounds.
Paid parking on St Paul’s Road has a 4-hour time limit.
There is a car park at Queen Anne’s Terrace which is a 10-minute walk away.
Explore the different ways to travel to us here.
Any questions? Get in touch by email: courses@cambridgemuslimcollege.ac.uk
