The Last Great War of Antiquity | A Conversation with Mr. James Howard-Johnston Sképsislamica 2026-09-21 | The Last Great War of Antiquity | A Conversation with Mr. James Howard-Johnston
Female Infanticide? Rethinking a Pre-Islamic Narrative | A Conversation with Dr. Ilkka Lindstedt Sképsislamica 2025-08-24 | In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, Terron and Roxanna sit down with Dr. Ilkka Lindstedt to discuss his article “The Qurʾān and the Putative Pre-Islamic Practice of Female Infanticide.”The Qurʾān criticizes the practice of burying infant daughters alive, but how much historical evidence do we actually have that this was widespread in pre-Islamic Arabia? Was this a lived social reality, or part of a broader Late Antique moral narrative?Dr. Lindstedt walks us through the Qurʾānic verses, early Arabic poetry, and later Islamic-era sources, questioning the traditional interpretation of waʾd al-banāt (female infanticide). We also explore how this narrative fits into Jewish and Christian discourses on infanticide, how classical exegetes shaped its meaning, and what this reveals about the construction of Arabia’s pre-Islamic past.If you’ve ever wondered whether the story of female infanticide in Arabia is history, memory, or myth — this conversation is for you.
The Prophet in Islamic Art: History, Imagery, & Debate | A Conversation with Prof. Christiane Gruber Sképsislamica 2025-07-15 | In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Christiane Gruber—renowned art historian and author of The Praiseworthy One: The Prophet Muhammad in Islamic Texts and Images—to explore one of the most misunderstood and controversial aspects of Islamic visual culture: pictorial representations of the Prophet Muhammad.We discuss: • Why and where Muslims historically created figural images of the Prophet • How artistic traditions in Persian and Turkish contexts flourished despite theological hesitations • The metaphorical and mystical dimensions of prophetic imagery • What these images tell us about Muslim devotional life across the centuries • And how contemporary controversies—from the Hamline University incident to cartoon scandals—clash with the historical record🎨 From heroic narratives to visual metaphors, this conversation sheds light on a legacy and asks what’s lost when images made by Muslims are treated as forbidden.📌 Featuring:Professor Christiane GruberArt Historian | University of MichiganDirector of Khamseen: Islamic Art History Online
Understanding Salafism | A Conversation with Dr. @YasirQadhi Sképsislamica 2025-07-10 | 🎙️ We’re very pleased to welcome Dr. Shaykh Yasir Qadhi to the Real Talk Podcast to discuss his latest book, Understanding Salafism: Seeking the Path of the Pious Predecessors 📘🕌This important work offers an in-depth history and analysis of one of the most misunderstood movements in Islam.Join us as we explore the origins and development of Salafism—from the contributions of early proto-Salafi scholars to the complex realities and futures the movement faces today.Dr. Yasir Qadhi’s book gives us an unparalleled opportunity to understand the unique contexts that shaped each iteration of Salafism across time and space. It also helps correct common misconceptions—both those perpetuated by the movement’s adherents and its critics alike 🔍📜💬 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe—and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!📚 For a copy, follow the link:🔗 amazon.co.uk/Salafism-Between-Fiction-Yasir-Qadhi-ebook/dp/B08LDY1HJW#
Female Divinity & Power Before the Qur’an | A Conversation with Dr. Emran El-Badawi Sképsislamica 2025-07-01 | ✨ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast 🎙️, we welcome Dr. Emran El-Badawi to the channel to discuss his two groundbreaking books: Queens and Prophets—and the one we’ll be focusing on mostly—Female Divinity in the Quran.Join us as we travel back in time ⏳ to the ancient Near East to examine the political and spiritual authority women once held, and discover what was lost—or reimagined—when scriptural monotheism rose to prominence, overshadowing the sacred female deities that had a long history of worship in a Near Eastern context.📚 Be sure to check out the two works that inspired this podcast:• Queens and Prophets: How Arabian Noblewomen and Holy Men Shaped Paganism, Christianity and Islam 👉 amazon.co.uk/Queens-Prophets-Noblewomen-Paganism-Christianity/dp/0861544455• Female Divinity in the Qur’an: In Conversation with the Bible and the Ancient Near East 👉 amazon.co.uk/Female-Divinity-Quran-Conversation-Ancient/dp/3031617991
Late Antiquity Makes Islam Make Sense Sképsislamica 2025-06-09 | I would say that Islam makes more sense when it's in conversation with other traditions historically, even in terms of interfaith dialogue, than when it's not. The people that are doing late antique studies are trying to show that Islam is not the “other”, but it's us, part of something much larger and interesting. We’re all in this together. We're talking about the early period, if we want to talk about contemporary trends in Quranic studies or contemporary trends in hadith studies, then obviously that's not so relevant. But I do think for someone that works in that period, it's very exciting. I've sent a couple students to Yale to work on the sort of Late Antique period. I maintain that Late Antique studies reveal the Quran as part of a much larger environment of human meaning-making and ingenuity in the face of uncertainty https://www.academia.edu/125146380/Interview_with_Prof_Aaron_Hughes_American_Orientalism_and_Understanding_the_Quran_in_the_Light_of_Late_Antiquity
Al-Ruwāfa Inscription and the Tribe of Thamūd Sképsislamica 2025-06-09 | "The most recent detailed examination of these inscriptions by Michael Macdonald reinforces the argument that the ‘Thamoudenon ethnos’ was a military unit raised from Thamud for service with the Roman army. The Romans habitually recruited non-Roman troops from the periphery into auxiliary units or even regular regiments of the Roman army all over the empire, and references to Thamud are found again in the Notitia Dignitatum, a record of imperial offices and army dispositions at the turn of the fifth century ad.It is remarkable that two successive governors of Arabia appear on the Ruwafa inscriptions, suggesting a fairly sustained commitment to this far-flung corner of the empire."- Rome, Persia, And Arabia: Shaping the Middle East from Pompey to Muhammad🎧 Check Out the Full Podcast:Arabs, Arabias, and Epigraphy with Mr. Michael Macdonald📺 youtu.be/2Z3R3yponzM
Tracing the Name Allah Through Ancient Inscriptions | Prof. Ahmad Al-Jallad Sképsislamica 2025-05-26 | 📜 Based on his most recent article, Ancient Allah: An Epigraphic Reconstruction, we welcome back Prof. Ahmad Al-Jallad—renowned epigraphist and scholar of pre-Islamic Arabia—to explore the deep history behind one of the most foundational names in monotheism.In this episode, we dive into a remarkable Safaitic inscription discovered by Al-Jallad in 2024 to uncover what it reveals about the historical shifts surrounding the divine name Allah—its role in Near Eastern cosmology, and how it rose to prominence through the epigraphic record tracing back to its most ancient attestations.📝 If you’re interested in how inscriptions can reshape our understanding of Pre-Islamic Arabian religious history, we highly recommend reading the full article 🔗 academic.oup.com/jss/advance-article/doi/10.1093/jss/fgaf012/8129546?utm_source=authortollfreelink&utm_campaign=jss&utm_medium=email&guestAccessKey=3263d58f-6955-46c6-84a8-e0af7e4edcd9&login=false
The Politics Behind Islamic Origins - Prof. Aaron W. Hughes Sképsislamica 2025-04-10 | In this episode of Real Talk, we sit down with Professor Aaron Hughes to explore the complex and often controversial field of Islamic origins. Drawing from his influential works The Tyranny of Authenticity and The Current Status and Problems of Islamic Origins, Hughes challenges how Islamic history is studied, who gets to study it, and why the politics of authenticity, identity, and ideology continue to shape the field.We cover a wide range of questions:- How have things changed in Islamic Studies since Tyranny was published?- Why does the study of Islam’s origins demand a "meta" level of theory and method?- What does it mean to approach the Qur’an through the lens of Late Antiquity?- And how do scholars navigate the appropriation of their work by political actors—or even YouTubers?Alongside these critical reflections, Hughes weighs in on contemporary debates surrounding revisionist scholarship, insider/outsider tensions, and whether a truly “critical” Qur’an project is even possible.This is a wide-ranging, challenging, and timely conversation for anyone interested in religion, history, or the politics of academic knowledge.
The Imam of the Christians - Prof. Philip Wood Sképsislamica 2025-03-16 | In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, Terron and Roxanna sit down with Professor Philip Wood to explore the fascinating world of Christian leadership under the Abbasid Caliphate. Drawing from his book, The Imam of the Christians: The World of Dionysius of Tel-Mahre, c. 750–850, Wood unpacks how the Jacobite Patriarch Dionysius strategically engaged with Islamic political traditions, reframing his authority through Abbasid concepts like the imamate.Be sure to check out The Imam of the Christians: The World of Dionysius of Tel-Mahre, c. 750–850 📖✨ https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691212791/the-imam-of-the-christians?srsltid=AfmBOork1eBa9fTnoLDRzM5_5pd9WfLuAPnOzQQeHpRkhSw--V1irD7AYou can also find more from Professor Wood on his Academia.edu page 📚➡️ https://aku.academia.edu/PhilipWood
Alexander the Great: A Christian King? Sképsislamica 2025-02-08 | This clip explores biblical interpretations by Aphrahat regarding Alexander and Rome, culminating in a depiction of Alexander as a Christian king in the Neṣḥānā
Understanding Islam Through Kharijite History #islamicstudies Sképsislamica 2025-02-04 | This clip discusses how understanding Kharijite history can enhance our comprehension of Islamic history and social dynamics.
Power Struggles: Rome, Persia & Legacy of Alexander #islamicstudies Sképsislamica 2025-02-02 | This clip explores the historical and political complexities surrounding Alexander, the Neṣḥānā author, and their implications within the context of the Roman Empire and Sassanian culture.
Abd al-Wahhab: The Black Arab Hero and the Complexities of Identity, Heroism, and Hybridity Sképsislamica 2025-01-31 | The clip explores the complexities of identity, heroism, and hybridity through the character of Abd al-Wahhab and his representation in various contexts.
Medieval Police Used Torture?!? #islamicstudies #podcast #islamichistory Sképsislamica 2025-01-26 | ...
Black Knights: Arabic Epic and the Making of Medieval Race - Dr. Rachel Schine Sképsislamica 2025-01-24 | In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Rachel Schine to explore her groundbreaking monograph, Black Knights: Arabic Epic and the Making of Medieval Race. Her research provides fresh insights into how these epic narratives shaped and reflected notions of Blackness and identity, uncovering fascinating intersections between literature, history, and race in deeply thought-provoking ways.For those interested in learning more, you can purchase Dr. Schine's book, Black Knights, directly from the University of Chicago Press here https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/B/bo236340054.htmlYou can also explore many of her insightful articles on her Academia.edu profile https://umcp.academia.edu/RachelSchine
Did the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Learn About Abraham and Ishmael from the Jews in Medina? #islamicstudies Sképsislamica 2025-01-11 | “When and how the Prophet or the Arabs became aware of Abraham as the ancestor of monotheism, and developed the idea that he had founded the Kaaba, has been a topic of scholarly debate since the mid-nineteenth century at least. Dozy held that the tradition that Abraham had built the Kaaba already existed in Mecca before the time of the Prophet and was adopted by him there. Snouck Hurgronje, on the other hand, argued that the idea was developed by Muhammad only in Medina when, as a result of his quarrel with the Jews there, he consciously sought to give his religion an Arab identity while still maintaining its roots in the monotheist tradition. The latter view has generally been the orthodoxy in western scholarship since the time of Snouck, although more recently there has been some criticism of it based on the argument that certain verses of the Quran referring to Abraham and counted by Snouck as Medinan should in fact be interpreted as having been revealed in Mecca.” - The Idea of Idolatry and the Emergence of Islam
Shocking Insights on Hajjs Transformation! #islamicstudies #podcast #islamichistory #interview Sképsislamica 2025-01-07 | ...
Who Are the REAL Believers in Medina #islamicstudies #podcast #islamichistory #interview Sképsislamica 2025-01-07 | ...
Epigraphy and Pre-Islamic South Arabia #preislamicarabia #southarabia #inscriptions #islamicstudies Sképsislamica 2024-12-24 | How epigraphic evidence helps us reconstruct the history of pre-Islamic Southern Arabia, and why these firsthand sources can be both invaluable and biased.
Multiple Quran Authors? - Dr. Ilkka Lindstedt #islamichistory #IslamicStudies #QuranicAuthorship Sképsislamica 2024-12-19 | ...
Revisiting Orientalism & the Foundations of Religious Studies - Guy Stroumsa Sképsislamica 2024-12-08 | In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we were delighted to sit down with Guy Stroumsa, one of the leading figures in comparative religion, for a thought-provoking discussion on Orientalism and the foundations of modern religious studies. Together, we revisit the legacy of Orientalist scholarship beyond Edward Said's critique, exploring its intellectual contributions to fields like philology and historical criticism. Drawing from his works A New Science: The Discovery of Religion in the Age of Reason and The Idea of Semitic Monotheism, Dr. Stroumsa examines how early scholars approached religion as a universal human phenomenon and challenged pre-existing narratives.Whether you're a student of religion, history, or culture—or simply curious—this conversation offers a nuanced perspective on a complex topic. Be sure to check it out, and don’t forget to like, share your thoughts in the comments section, and hit the subscribe button for more content!
Between Tradition and Change | A Conversation with Br. @UmarLeee Sképsislamica 2024-12-06 | 🎙️ In this episode of The Real Talk Podcast, we explore the evolution of the Salafi movement in America through the lens of Matthew D. Taylor’s Scripture People, and unpack the personal and spiritual challenges of navigating faith after leaving rigid ideologies 🧠📖🕌We’re joined by Umar Lee, who shares powerful reflections on his time in Indonesia, thoughts on the documentary Revolusi, and the future of Muslim political engagement in the U.S. 🇺🇸🌍🗣️ We also tackle critical issues within the Muslim community, including:▪️ Recent abuse scandals and the urgent need for accountability▪️ An in-depth look at Dr. John Andrew Morrow’s Islam and Slavery and its implications for understanding our historical and ethical responsibilities💭 Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that dives deep into history, culture, politics, and contemporary challenges shaping the Muslim world.⸻🔗 Check out more from Umar Lee:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/StLouisStranger📰 Substack: umarlee.substack.com👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more critical conversations that don’t shy away from the tough topics.✌️ Until next time—peace.
It is Permitted for the Amir: Coercion in Abbasid Law | A Conversation with Dr. Mohammed Al-Lehbi Sképsislamica 2024-11-23 | 🎙️ In this episode of The Real Talk Podcast, Terron and Roxanna explore the intricate world of criminal justice during the Abbasid period, joined by Dr. Mohammed Al-Lehbi—a scholar specializing in law and governance in the Islamic Near East and Mediterranean during Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages ⚖️🏛️📜Drawing on Dr. Al-Lehbi’s groundbreaking 2022 article, “It is Permitted for the Amīr but not the Qāḍī,” the discussion unpacks:🔹 The role of the shurṭa (police/military enforcement)🔹 The historical roots of coercion in pre-Islamic and Late Antique governance🔹 How such coercive practices were legitimized under Abbasid rule🔹 The ethical dilemmas faced by Islamic jurists🔹 The tension between pragmatism and legal principle in Islamic governance🧠 This episode provides valuable insight into how the Abbasid state negotiated the balance between law, power, and justice—and what that means for understanding Islamic governance both then and now.⸻🔗 Resources:📖 Read Dr. Al-Lehbi’s article:“It is Permitted for the Amīr but not the Qāḍī” on Academia.edu👉 https://www.academia.edu/94770950/_It_is_Permitted_for_the_Am%C4%ABr_but_not_the_Q%C4%81%E1%B8%8D%C4%AB_The_Military_Administrative_Genealogy_of_Coercion_in_Abbasid_Criminal_Justice🖋️ Explore Dr. Al-Lehbi’s blog contributions on the Islamic Law Blog:👉 https://islamiclaw.blog/author/mohammed-allehbi/📚 Stay tuned for his upcoming monograph!⸻👍 If you enjoy engaging discussions on history, law, and governance, don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE for more episodes featuring leading scholars in Islamic Studies!
A Critical Discussion on Slavery in Islam | A Conversation with Dr. John A. Morrow Sképsislamica 2024-11-16 | 🎙️ In this episode of The Real Talk Podcast, we dive into the complex history and modern implications of slavery in the Islamic world 🧵🕌⛓️Joined by Dr. John Andrew Morrow, we explore a wide range of topics—from the Trans-Saharan slave trade to the role of concubinage in shaping Islamic society. We critically examine how slavery was justified, practiced, and eventually abolished in various Islamic contexts.📚 Dr. Morrow provides comparisons between Islamic and Western models of slavery, discusses the legacy of key historical figures like Mariya the Copt, and helps us navigate the ethical challenges posed by past practices.Through thought-provoking questions and rich historical analysis, we consider how modern Muslims can engage with this contentious legacy while reflecting on broader issues of identity, morality, and interpretation 🔍💭⸻📘 Recommended Reading for Further Exploration: 1. Black Morocco: A History of Slavery, Race, and Islam –🔗 amazon.com/Black-Morocco-History-Slavery-African/dp/1107651778 2. Possessed by the Right Hand: The Problem of Slavery in Islamic Law and Muslim Cultures –🔗 amazon.com/Possessed-Right-Hand-Problem-Cultures/dp/9004364811 3. Abolition of Slavery in Islamic and Western Contexts by William Gervase Clarence-Smith –🔗 amazon.com/Abolition-Slavery-William-Gervase-Clarence-Smith/dp/0195221516 4. L’Esclavage en Terre d’Islam by Malek Chebel (French) –🔗 amazon.com/LEsclavage-Terre-dIslam-Documents-French-ebook/dp/B00TAUOGZ6 5. L’Esclavage dans l’islam: Traditions arabes et principes coraniques by Tidiane Diakité –🔗 amazon.com/Lesclavage-islam-traditions-arabes-principes/dp/2841611604 6. The Legacy of Arab-Islam in Africa by John Azumah –🔗 amazon.com/Legacy-Arab-Islam-Africa-Inter-religious-Dialogue/dp/1851682732 7. Islam and Slavery by John Andrew Morrow –🔗 amazon.com/Islam-Slavery-John-Andrew-Morrow/dp/1680536370 8. Slavery and Islam by Jonathan A.C. Brown –🔗 amazon.com/Slavery-Islam-Jonathan-C-Brown/dp/1786076357
Beyond the Grave: Muslim Burial Archeology | A Conversation with Prof. Andrew Petersen Sképsislamica 2024-11-04 | 🎙️ In this episode of The Real Talk Podcast, we dig into the fascinating role of burial sites in uncovering the cultural and religious layers of early Islamic societies—joined by Prof. Andrew Petersen 🪦📜🕌We begin by exploring why archaeologists consider burial sites vital windows into the past, and how early Islamic burials offer unique insights that distinguish them from those of other cultures.Our conversation then turns to the surprising consistency of Islamic burial practices across regions and sects—especially remarkable given the Qur’an’s limited guidance on specific funerary rituals 🔍🌍We also examine the influence of pre-Islamic traditions, asking whether Islamic burial customs represent a break from or a continuation of earlier practices, particularly when compared to other Abrahamic faiths ✡️✝️☪️🧠💬 Check us out as we unravel these thought-provoking perspectives and bring history to life—beyond the grave!👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more insightful conversations on Islamic history and archaeology.
The Integrity of the Quran | A Conversation with Dr. Seyfeddin Kara Sképsislamica 2024-09-02 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most controversial topics in Islamic studies: the preservation of the Qur’an. A subject that continues to spark intense debate in the world of social media polemics and apologetics, this discussion centers on Dr. Seyfeddin Kara’s groundbreaking book:The Integrity of the Qur’an: Sunni and Shi‘i Historical Narratives 📖🕋🔥Dr. Kara explores claims that certain verses—some with major juristic implications—were omitted during the Qur’an’s collection and canonization.💡 What sets his work apart is the innovative use of textual and isnad-cum-matn analysis to trace the historical origins of these traditions. He examines the views of both Sunni and Shi‘i scholars who supported such claims, pushing the methodological boundaries of isnad-cum-matn analysis in ways that challenge conventional assumptions 📜🔍👀 Watch as we unpack these complex debates and reflect on the broader implications of Dr. Kara’s intriguing findings for Qur’anic studies and Muslim thought.📚 For more insights from Dr. Seyfeddin Kara, check out his book:🔗 edinburghuniversitypress.com/book-the-integrity-of-the-qur-an.html📘 And explore more of his research on Academia:🔗 https://rug.academia.edu/SeyfeddinKara👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE to stay up to date with more honest, nuanced conversations about Islamic history and scholarship.
Muhammad and His Followers in Context | A Conversation with Dr. Ilkka Lindstedt Sképsislamica 2024-08-14 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we dive into a fascinating conversation with Dr. Ilkka Lindstedt of Helsinki University about his latest book:Muhammad and His Followers in Context: The Religious Map of Late Antique Arabia 📖🕋🌍Dr. Lindstedt’s work emphasizes the importance of understanding the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his followers within their Arabian milieu, drawing on epigraphic and contemporary sources to bring the context to life.Rather than treating early Islam as a stark break from the pre-Islamic period, Dr. Lindstedt problematizes that contrast—reconstructing and contextualizing the early reception of the Qur’an, and tracing how Islam gradually evolved into a reified religious identity in the post-Prophetic era 🔍📜🧠💥 Special Offer:Sign up at 👉 brill.com/mycart/cart and enter the Summer Sale code DGBSS24 to get Muhammad and His Followers in Context for 50% off—valid until August 31, 2024! 🛍️📚📘 Check out more of Dr. Lindstedt’s work on his Academia page:🔗 https://helsinki.academia.edu/IlkkaLindstedt👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more engaging conversations on Islamic history, thought, and context.
The Emergence of Arabic Poetry | A Conversation with Dr. Nathaniel A. Miller Sképsislamica 2024-07-24 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Nathaniel A. Miller to discuss his forthcoming book,The Emergence of Arabic Poetry: From Regional Identities to Islamic Canonization 📖🗣️🌍Dr. Miller takes us on a captivating journey through the history of Arabic poetry, reexamining this literary tradition to uncover fresh insights into pre-Islamic Arabia and the societal role of poetry during the first two centuries of Islam. From tribal expression to religious canon, this conversation unpacks the transformation of Arabic poetry like never before 🔍🕋🪶📚 For more from Dr. Nathaniel A. Miller, be sure to check out his new book, published by University of Pennsylvania Press:🔗 pennpress.org/9781512825305/the-emergence-of-arabic-poetry🐦 You can also follow Dr. Miller on X (formerly Twitter):🔗 https://x.com/ClassyArabic👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into Islamic history, literature, and thought.
The Ascent of Ishmael: Abrahamic Genealogy in the Qur’an | A Conversation with Dr. Mohsen Goudarzi Sképsislamica 2024-06-18 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Mohsen Goudarzi to discuss his 2019 paper titled “The Ascent of Ishmael”, which explores the significance of biblical genealogy in the Qur’an 📜🧬Dr. Goudarzi argues that the Qur’an anchors the Prophet Muhammad’s mission to his community’s descent from Abraham through Ishmael, challenging recent scholarship that downplays this genealogical framework.The paper also examines Ishmael’s contrasting portrayals in the Qur’an and pre-Islamic literature, and it questions the idea that Abraham and Ishmael’s roles in Islam’s early development were purely Medinan constructs. 🧠📖🕋If you’re interested in Qur’anic studies, identity formation, and scriptural intertextuality, this episode offers a deeply insightful conversation with one of the field’s sharpest voices.📚 Check out Dr. Goudarzi’s article “The Ascent of Ishmael: Genealogy, Covenant, and Identity in Early Islam”—along with more of his work—on his Academia page:🔗 https://harvard.academia.edu/MohsenGoudarzi?swp=tc-au-41329340👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE to stay up to date with more thought-provoking conversations.✌️ Until next time—peace.
Metaphors of Death and Resurrection in the Quran | A Conversation with Dr. Abdulla Galadari Sképsislamica 2024-06-12 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast with Terron & Roxanna, we sit down with Dr. Abdulla Galadari to discuss his latest book:Metaphors of Death and Resurrection in the Qur’an: An Intertextual Approach with Biblical and Rabbinic Literature 📘☪️✡️📖Dr. Galadari shares what motivated him to write this groundbreaking work and walks us through his analysis of verses 2:259 and 2:260 in the Qur’an. He demonstrates how death and resurrection are sometimes conceptualized metaphorically in the Qur’an, and how these concepts intersect with Biblical and Rabbinic literature—shedding light on the deep intertextuality embedded in the text 🔍💭📜🧠 Whether you’re interested in Qur’anic studies, comparative scripture, or theological symbolism, this episode offers a thought-provoking dive into a rarely explored dimension of the Qur’an.📚 Be sure to check out Metaphors of Death and Resurrection in the Qur’an—it’s open access on Dr. Galadari’s Academia page, where you can also explore more of his work:🔗 https://www.academia.edu/56183049/Metaphors_of_Death_and_Resurrection_in_the_Qur_an_An_Intertextual_Approach_with_Biblical_and_Rabbinic_Literature💬 Like, share, subscribe, and let us know your reflections in the comments below!
The Quran as a Historical Source - Mr. James Howard-Johnston Sképsislamica 2024-05-17 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome back to the channel the eminent Mr. James Howard-Johnston to discuss the contents of his recent article, “The Qur’an as a Historical Source” 📜✨ (link below ⬇️).James Howard-Johnston is a Lecturer in Byzantine Studies at the University of Oxford, and author of the monumental Witnesses to a World Crisis: Historians and Histories of the Middle East in the Seventh Century — a masterclass in deep source analysis. His work examines the formative phase of Islam through both Islamic and non-Islamic sources, offering an unparalleled look at this pivotal historical period.In this discussion, we explore:🔍 Why he considers the Qur’an a key historical source📆 What a chronological reading of the text—alongside other materials—can reveal about the Prophet’s evolving role as both a spiritual and political leader of a religion that reshaped the world🔗 Link to the article:degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/jiqsa-2024-0006/html💬 Be sure to like, share, subscribe, and let us know your thoughts on this powerful and thought-provoking discussion!
The Qur’ān & the Bible in Light of Historical Critical Studies -@bartdehrman & @DrJavadTHashmi Sképsislamica 2024-04-26 | 🎙️ In this exciting episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we dive into a captivating discussion with Prof. Bart D. Ehrman and Dr. Javad T. Hashmi!They give us an exclusive sneak peek into their forthcoming course on The Bible and the Qur’an, where they’ll explore and compare the historical problems surrounding both sacred texts 📖⚖️If you’re intrigued by their upcoming course, don’t miss your chance to join in!🔗 Sign up here: https://skepsislamica–ehrman.thrivecart.com/bibleandquran✌️ Like, share, subscribe, and let us know what questions you’d ask if you were taking the course!
South Arabia in Late Antiquity - Dr. @imarkoutchoukali9249 Sképsislamica 2024-03-26 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Imar Koutchoukali to discuss aspects of his dissertation on South Arabia in Late Antiquity.Dr. Koutchoukali’s research focuses on linguistic and socio-political transformations during this period, exploring key historical events that may have sparked significant changes in the region leading into the early Islamic era.📜 We’ll examine pivotal events such as:▪️ The rise of the Himyarites to power▪️ The persecution of Christians in Najran by the Jewish Himyarite ruler Yusuf Dhu Nuwas during his revolt against alleged Aksumite wardship▪️ Abraha’s expedition into central Arabia🪶 Furthermore, we’ll analyse how epigraphic material aligns with—or diverges from—literary accounts of South Arabian history, offering fresh insight into the region’s complex past.If you’re fascinated by South Arabia during Late Antiquity, this episode with Terron & Roxanna, featuring Dr. Imar Koutchoukali, promises to be an enlightening discussion.📘 Be sure to check out Dr. Koutchoukali’s dissertation “Our ʿirbīt is not like your ʿarabiyya” for a deep dive into these topics:🔗 Dissertation Link⸻📚 Here’s a preliminary list of sources mentioned during the podcast for those who want to dive deeper into the subject: • Bashear, Suliman. 1989. “Yemen in Early Islam: An Examination of Non-Tribal Traditions.” Arabica 36(3): 327–61. • Cook, David. 2008. “The Ashab al-Ukhdud: History and Hadith in a Martyrological Sequence.” JSAI 34: 125–48. • Gajda, Iwona. 2009. Le royaume de Himyar à l’époque monothéiste. Paris: De Boccard. • Retsö, Jan. 2003. “When Did Yemen Become ‘Arabia Felix’?” PSAS 33: 229–35. • Robin, Christian Julien. 2013. “À propos de Ymnt et Ymn…” In Entre Carthage et l’Arabie heureuse, ed. Briquel-Chatonnet et al., 119–40. • Robin, Christian Julien & Rijziger, Sarah. 2018. “‘The Owner of the Sky, God of Israel’…” Der Islam 95(2): 271–90. • Rodinson, Maxime. 2004. Mohammad. Paris: Éditions du Seuil. • Silverstein, Adam. 2019. “Who Are the Aṣḥāb al-Ukhdūd?” Der Islam 96(2): 281–323. • Ulrich, Brian. 2019. Arabs in the Early Islamic Empire: Exploring al-Azd Tribal Identity. Edinburgh University Press. • Webb, Peter. 2016. Imagining the Arabs: Arab Identity and the Rise of Islam. Edinburgh University Press.
Towards an Islamic Liberation Philosophy - Ust. @AliSHarfouch Sképsislamica 2024-03-09 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast with Terron & Roxanna, we sit down and talk to Ust. Ali S. Harfouch about his latest publication titled “Against the World: Towards an Islamic Liberation Philosophy.”📖 Check out the book here: ekpyrosispress.com/2023/09/20/available-now-against-the-world-towards-an-islamic-liberation-philosophy-by-ali-s-harfouch👍 Be sure to like, share, subscribe, and comment below if you have anything constructive to add to the conversation.You can find more of Ust. Ali S. Harfouch by clicking the links below ✌️🔗😊🔹 youtube.com/@AliSHarfouch🔹 asharfouch.com🔹 twitter.com/asharfouch
Reflections on Global Islam | A Conversation with Br.@UmarLeee Sképsislamica 2024-02-18 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast with Terron and Roxanna, we sit down with Umar Lee to discuss his recent trips to England, Turkey, and Bosnia.The conversation begins with Lee reflecting on his time in London and sharing his perspective on its Muslim community. Other topics include—but are not limited to—Mohammad bin Salman (MBS) and the significant changes he is initiating in Saudi Arabia, where Lee responds to whether these initiatives could be a shock to Saudi society and lead to negative consequences.📚 During the podcast, we also delve into two books recommended by Lee for the relevance of their content—pertaining to the phenomenon of online conversions to Islam and the over-romanticizing of Islamic history by Muslims.👍 Be sure to like, share, subscribe, and comment below if you have anything constructive to add to the conversation.You can find more of Br. Umar Lee by clicking the links below ✌️🔗😊🔹 youtube.com/@UCn0D5epLsNAnpQfAgMzvSSw🔹 umarlee.substack.com🔹 goodreads.com/user/show/25950480-umar-lee
The Mas̲navī: Rumis Persian Qurʾān - @sharghzadeh Sképsislamica 2024-02-11 | The Masnavi, written by the Persian poet Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi, is sometimes referred to as the "Persian Quran" due to its profound spiritual and philosophical content. Rumi's Masnavi is a significant work of Sufi literature and is highly regarded for its teachings on mysticism, love, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.The comparison to the Quran, the holy book of Islam, is not meant to suggest that the Masnavi is a replacement or equivalent to the Quran. Instead, it highlights the depth and spiritual significance attributed to Rumi's work within the context of Persian literature and Sufi philosophy. The term underscores the reverence and impact the Masnavi has had on Persian-speaking communities, akin to the profound respect Muslims hold for the Quran in the Islamic tradition.Be sure to check out the full episode! 🔗 youtu.be/p4ORsN5SdcQ
Haslar Royal Naval Cemetery - Prof. Andrew Petersen Sképsislamica 2024-02-11 | In 1850, two frigates from the Ottoman navy visited Portsmouth. The crew went ashore in Gosport during their extended visit and received a warm welcome from the locals. Unfortunately, some of the men from the two ships succumbed to cholera, likely contracted on board. Although initially treated at Haslar Hospital, they eventually passed away and were initially buried on the hospital grounds before being later relocated to the naval cemetery.Be sure to check out the full episode! 🔗 youtu.be/FoCFlYf_z3Y
The Kabas Origins through Epigraphic Records - Prof. Ahmad Al-Jallad Sképsislamica 2024-02-11 | In the following segment, we engage in a conversation with Prof. Al-Jallad, exploring what Epigraphic records can tell us about the origins of the Ka'ba and the developmental history of Mecca as a settlement.Be sure to check out the full episode! 🔗 youtu.be/_mN-pMJCKaQ
The Syriac Legend of Alexanders Gate - Dr. Tommaso Tesei Sképsislamica 2024-01-19 | 🎙️ In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Tommaso Tesei to discuss the contents of his latest monograph on the Neṣḥānā d-Aleksandrōs, titled The Syriac Legend of Alexander’s Gate: Apocalypticism at the Crossroads of Byzantium and Iran 📖🌍Dr. Tesei’s work offers a fresh perspective on often-overlooked aspects of Byzantine–Persian political debates. By bringing these marginalised discussions to the forefront, he proposes a potentially earlier origin for the Syriac Legend—challenging widely held assumptions and offering a recontextualised understanding of its political influences 🔍🏛️🧠📜 During the episode, we also explore the development of themes and motifs found in other Imitatio Alexandri works that eventually made their way into the Neṣḥānā. Dr. Tesei sheds light on how the Neṣḥānā’s author employed unique narrative elements not found in comparable texts, giving the work its distinctive character.📚🕌 In the final part of the conversation, we examine the Syriac Legend of Alexander in relation to the Dhul Qarnayn pericope found in Chapter 18 of the Holy Qur’an, offering rich insights into intertextuality across religious and cultural traditions.👉 Be sure to check out Dr. Tesei’s latest publication:🔗 amazon.co.uk/Syriac-Legend-Alexanders-Gate-Apocalypticism/dp/0197646875💬 Like, share, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments—this is one you won’t want to miss!
Uncovering the Archeology of Islam in Britain | A Conversation with Prof. Andrew Petersen Sképsislamica 2024-01-12 | In this episode, we’re honoured to be joined by the brilliant Professor Andrew Petersen for a fascinating deep dive into the archaeology of Islam in Britain 🏛️🕌Prof. Petersen unpacks the often-overlooked history of Islamic presence in Britain—revealing its archaeological traces and deeper historical significance. From hidden artifacts to forgotten sites, this one’s packed with insight 🔍📜🎧 Don’t miss this journey through layers of time and heritage!👇 For more from Professor Petersen:📽️ The Archaeology of Islam in Britain (2012): youtu.be/x0iEsl2IwRA?si=9D7CzTw5rrpltpam📚 Academia.edu: https://lamp.academia.edu/AndrewPetersen📸 Instagram: instagram.com/andrewduncanpetersen/?hl=en
Insights into Persian Poetics - @sharghzadeh Sképsislamica 2023-12-23 | In this episode of the Real Talk Podcast with Terron and Roxanna, we journey through the spiritually profound world of Persian poetry with our esteemed guest, Muhammad Ali Mojaradi (Sharghzadeh) 🎤📜. Together, we trace its evolution from pre-Islamic times, highlighting the deep impact of Islam on its development during the medieval period 🌙✨.We explore the intricate themes woven into Persian poetry and its powerful influence on the socio-political landscape 🏛️🖋️. Additionally, we take a critical look at the contemporary movement toward de-Islamization in Persian poetic works, discussing what this shift means for the future of this revered literary tradition 🔍📚.Join us for a conversation that not only celebrates the rich heritage of Persian poetry but also offers unique insights into its transformative journey through history 🌍💫.For more insights from Muhammad Ali Mojaradi, visit his website 🌐👉 persianpoetics.com/.You can also follow him on twitter.com/sharghzadeh) 🐦 and instagram.com/sharghzadeh 📸 to stay updated on his latest work and reflections.
Exploring the Existence of Christianity in Pre Islamic Hijaz Sképsislamica 2023-12-01 | In this clip, Prof. Al-Jallad examines the archaeological and epigraphic evidence to determine whether there was a Christian presence in the Hijaz region before the advent of IslamCheck Out the Full Podcast: Epigraphy and Religion and Language in Pre-Islamic Arabia with Prof. Ahmad Al-Jallad youtu.be/_mN-pMJCKaQ
The Concept of Martyrdom on the Battlefield: A Comparative Look at Heracles and Muhammad ﷺ Sképsislamica 2023-12-01 | The concept of martyrdom, closely linked to Holy War, was very prevalent in the Middle East during Late Antiquity.Check Out the Full Podcast: The Last Great War of Antiquity with Mr. James Howard-Johnston youtu.be/gTmy92uV-aw
Were Patricia Crone and Michael Cook Muhammad Mythicist? Sképsislamica 2023-12-01 | Did Patricia Crone and Michael Cook deny or doubt the existence of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ?Check Out the Full Podcast: Did Muhammad Exist?: An Academic Response to a Popular Question with Dr. Joshua Little youtu.be/Tm9QU5uB3To
Did al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf Canonise the Quran?: Evaluating a Revisionist Hypothesis - Dr. Joshua Little Sképsislamica 2023-11-23 | n this episode of Real Talk with Terron and Roxanna, we're excited to welcome back Dr. Joshua Little for an in-depth presentation 🎙️📖. He explores a revisionist hypothesis about the canonization of the Qur’an, examining the theory that it was an initiative led by al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf, the governor of Iraq under the Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik 🕌. Dr. Little dives into both Muslim and non-Muslim literary sources to see whether this hypothesis holds up under critical scrutiny 🔍📚.And to find more of Dr. Little’s work,check out his website 🌐👉 islamicorigins.com/. 📚✨ 2:43 - Table of Contents4:18 - Introduction10:15 - Part 1: The Historical Context10:24 - Political Chronology14:33 - al-Hajjaj b. Yusuf al-Thaqafi18:03 - Part 2: Manuscripts and Canonisation18:15 - The Manuscript Evidence23:38 - Evidence from Quranic Scholarship29:41 - Evident Canonisation32:36 - The Bounds for Canonisation34:00 - Part 3: Accounts of al-Hajjaj and the Quran34:08 - Muslim Sources / Christian Sources34:16 - John of Damascus (c. 730 CE)45:52 - The Monk of Beth Hale (late 8th / early 9th C. CE)49:24 - Pseudo-Leo (late 8th or late 9th C. CE)54:55 - Pseudo-Abraham (c. 813-833 CE)55:39 - al-Kindi (9th C. CE?)57:28 - Summary of Christian Accounts58:14 - Ali b. Mushir (d. 804-805 CE)1:00:05 - Abu Bakr b. ‘Ayyash (d. 809 CE)1:00:55 - Muhammad b. Fudayl (d. 810-811 CE)1:01:46 - Ibn Zabalah (d. post-814 CE)1:02:47 - ‘Abbad b. Suhayb (d. post-817 CE)1:05:06 - al-Sahmi (d. 823 CE)1:05:54 - Ibn Shabbah (d. 876 CE)1:06:45 - Ibn ‘Abd al-Hakam (d. 882 CE)1:09:18 - al-Baladhuri (d. post-883 CE)1:09:51 - Ibn Qutayba (d. 889 CE)1:10:19 - Hamzah al-Isfahani (d. 970-971 CE)1:12:16 - Ibn ‘Atiyyah (d. 1147 CE)1:13:38 - Summary of the Muslim Accounts1:14:16 - Sidenote on Sources1:15:24 - Summary1:16:16 - Part 4: Arguments for al-Hajjaj as the Canoniser of the Quran1:16:37 - Note: Three Distinct Hypotheses1:18:11 - Cont.1:18:43 - Argument # 1: Early Non-Muslim Silence1:19:07 - Argument # 2: Lack of Infrastructure and Technology1:19:36 - Argument # 3: Absence of Pre-Marwanid Qurans1:20:07 - Argument # 4: Christian Reports1:20:39 - Argument # 5: Muslim Reports1:21:04 - Summary1:21:32 - Part 5: Arguments against al-Hajjaj as the Canoniser of the Quran1:21:59 - Counter # 1: Non-Muslim Silence = Equivocal1:24:28 - Cont.1:26:38 - Counter # 2: Infrastructure and Technology1:31:08 - Counter # 3: Christian Reports = Dubious1:32:57 - Counter # 4: Muslim Reports against al-Hajjaj1:55:23 - Counter # 5: Pre-Marwanid Manuscripts1:59:42 - Counter # 6: Exegetical Confusion2:02:05 - Counter # 7: Lack of Anachronisms2:05:05 - Counter # 8: Pre-Marwanid Manuscript Style2:07:02 - Counter # 9: Dating + Stemma2:08:02 - Counter # 10: Anti-Marwanid Sects2:11:16 - Counter # 11: Hadith Rejectionism2:17:00 - Summary2:18:57 - Counters to Re-Canonisation2:22:39 - Part 6: What Actually Happened? Tying in all the evidence2:22:46 - Explaining the Evidence2:23:52 - What Likely Happened2:26:42 - Loose Ends2:28:55 - Conclusion/Summary2:30:05 - Q&A + Discussion For those who are interested in exploring more of Dr. Little's work, I highly recommend visiting his website, islamicorigins.com I find it extremely useful, particularly for its in-depth content on topics related to hadith.
Did Muhammad Exist?: An Academic Response to a Popular Question - Dr. Joshua Little Sképsislamica 2023-10-27 | And to find more of Dr. Little’s work,check out his website 🌐👉 islamicorigins.com/. 📚✨4:06 - Introduction17:00 - Part 1: The Sources for Muhammad20:14 - Part 2: Problems with Biographical Hadith21:28 - Problem 1: Prior Probability of Fabrication25:32 - Problem 2: Reports of Fabrication26:28 - Problem 3: The Lateness of the Sources29:39 - Problem 4: Bias35:40 - Problem 5: Propaganda38:33 - Problem 6: Anachronisms46:45 - Problem 7: Supernatural49:54 - Problem 8: Implausible Scenarios55:14 - Problem 9: Internal Contradictions55:57 - Problem 10: External Contradictions57:25 - Problem 11: Implausible Transmission1:02:28 - Problem 12: The Lateness of Isnads1:09:08 - Problem 13: The Madinan Bottleneck1:13:00 - Problem 14: The Mode of Transmission1:13:41 - Problem 15: The Growth of Material1:14:38 - Problem 16: Early Rapid Distortion1:18:49 - Problem 17: Artificial Narrative Structures1:23:30 - Problem 18: Storyteller Construction1:25:11 - Problem 19: Exegesis in Disguise1:27:09 - Problem 20: Amnesia and Discontinuity1:30:28 - Problem 21: No Effective Countermeasures1:36:43 - Summary1:37:37 - Part 3: The Rise of Muhammad Mythicism1:41:30 - Consequent Skepticism1:44:21 - Consequent Mythicism1:46:27 - Crone and Cook: Revisionist but not Mythicist1:49:11 - The Western Mythicist Tradition1:52:57 - Nevo and Koren1:53:35 - Ohlig et al.1:54:00 - Jansen1:54:45 - Robert Spencer1:57:33 - Part 4: The Arguments for Muhammad Mythicism1:57:38 - Argument 1: Argument from Silence1:58:32 - Argument 2: “Muhammad” = Jesus2:00:37 - Argument 3: Mythic Biography2:02:20 - Summary2:02:30 - Part 5: Criticisms of Muhammad Mythicism, Part 1: The Worst-Case Scenario2:02:38 - For the Sake of Argument...2:05:16 - Counter 1: Pan-Islamic Agreement2:10:00 - Counter 2: Trans-Sectarian Agreement2:13:31 - Counter 3: Inexpedient Agreement2:15:47 - Counter 4: Non-Mythic Biography2:20:32 - Counter 5: Silence ≠ Non-Existence2:25:49 - Counter 6: “Muhammad” ≠ “Chosen One”2:31:33 - Counter 7: “Muhammad” is a Proper Name2:35:48 - Counter 8: No Jesus Connection2:39:15 - Counter 9: Silence ≠ Non-Existence Again2:43:00 - Summary of Worst-Case Scenario2:45:30 - Part 6: Criticisms of Muhammad Mythicism, Part 2: The More Optimistic Scenario2:45:55 - Counter 10: Early Common Links2:47:17 - Counter 11: The Constitution of Madinah2:49:00 - Counter 12: The Quran2:52:26 - Counter 13: Non-Muslim Writings2:58:52 - Thomas the Presbyter (c. 640 CE)3:00:09 - The Chronicler of Khuzistan (c. 660 CE)3:00:53 - Pseudo-Sebeos (c. 660s CE)3:03:44 - Counter 14: The Reliability of Genealogy3:06:08 - Summary of More Optimistic Scenario3:07:37 - Part 7: Some Comments on Mythicist Methodology3:07:43 - The Mythicist Strategy3:09:40 - Explanations that create more problems than they solve3:10:34 - Unnecessary Contradictions3:12:25 - Conclusion3:13:00 - Questions
Epigraphys Untapped Insights into Pre Islamic Arabian Beliefs - Prof. Ahmad Al-Jallad Sképsislamica 2023-10-23 | Prof. Al-Jallad on why inscriptional evidence has been previously under-utilised in academic studies trying to reconstruct pre-Islamic beliefs.Check Out the Full Podcast: Epigraphy and Religion and Language in Pre-Islamic Arabia (youtu.be/_mN-pMJCKaQ)
There Was No Hamzah in Quranic Arabic? - Dr. Marijn van Putten Sképsislamica 2023-10-23 | How do we know there was no hamzah, and that it was added later? And what does that mean for the unbroken oral tradition?Check Out the Full Podcast: What kind of Arabic is the Qur’an? (youtu.be/mn4Ch4jhK5s)
Was the Conversion of Joram van Klaveren to Islam a Radical Shift in His Politics? -Dr. Walaa Quisay Sképsislamica 2023-10-08 | Check Out the Full Podcast: Neo Traditionalism in Islam in the West (youtu.be/Z82DXbmIZaE)
The Public vs. Private Dichotomy in the History of Islam - Prof. Rudi Matthee Sképsislamica 2023-10-08 | Check Out the Full Podcast: A History of Alcohol in the Islamic World (youtu.be/oc9BvFOF9Ww)
