https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i49VfZBoUoM&list=PLRagz8v-1fF46AdZpWw9aUhMfNDRByxJc&t=1s
🔻"The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ", Lec01
speaker, Dr. Hassan Ansari
Nov 18, 2025
🟥 Lecture in Persian, can be watched with closed caption (CC) and auto-translate on our channel.
Summary:
In this session, which was the first of the sessions discussing the book al-‘Uthmāniyya, the following topics were addressed:
1) An introduction to al-Jāḥiẓ, the author of al-‘Uthmāniyya, and an overview of his works.
2) A discussion about methods of book composition in the late second and early third Islamic centuries.
3) A brief account of the status of the class of kuttāb (scribes) as the intellectuals of the period, the tradition of bureaucratic administration in the early Abbasid era, and an analysis of the cultural conditions of al-Jāḥiẓ’s time.
4) The situation of the Shi‘a during the time of Imam al-Riḍā (peace be upon him) and the era in which al-‘Uthmāniyya was written. During this period, Shi‘i scholars gradually emerged as a distinct group among the learned classes and intellectuals, and came to have connections with the Abbasid establishment.
5) Why did the Mu‘tazilites of Baghdad propose the doctrine of the superiority (afḍaliyyah) of Amīr al-Mu’minīn as a solution in response to the Shi‘i doctrine of "explicit designation" (nass)?
6) What was the view of later Sunni scholars on this issue, especially under the influence of Sufism and Ibn ‘Arabī’s mysticism?
#al_uthmaniyya_al_jahiz
🔻"The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ", Lec01
speaker, Dr. Hassan Ansari
Nov 18, 2025
Summary:
In this session, which was the first of the sessions discussing the book al-‘Uthmāniyya, the following topics were addressed:
1) An introduction to al-Jāḥiẓ, the author of al-‘Uthmāniyya, and an overview of his works.
2) A discussion about methods of book composition in the late second and early third Islamic centuries.
3) A brief account of the status of the class of kuttāb (scribes) as the intellectuals of the period, the tradition of bureaucratic administration in the early Abbasid era, and an analysis of the cultural conditions of al-Jāḥiẓ’s time.
4) The situation of the Shi‘a during the time of Imam al-Riḍā (peace be upon him) and the era in which al-‘Uthmāniyya was written. During this period, Shi‘i scholars gradually emerged as a distinct group among the learned classes and intellectuals, and came to have connections with the Abbasid establishment.
5) Why did the Mu‘tazilites of Baghdad propose the doctrine of the superiority (afḍaliyyah) of Amīr al-Mu’minīn as a solution in response to the Shi‘i doctrine of "explicit designation" (nass)?
6) What was the view of later Sunni scholars on this issue, especially under the influence of Sufism and Ibn ‘Arabī’s mysticism?
#al_uthmaniyya_al_jahiz
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[01] Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century, Dr. Hassan Ansari
🟥 Lecture in Persian, can be watched with closed caption (CC) and auto-translate.
The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ
Summary:
In this session, which was the first of the sessions…
The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ
Summary:
In this session, which was the first of the sessions…
Audio
وضعیت نزاع های مذهبی در نیمه اول سده سوم قمری بر اساس کتاب العثمانیة تأليف جاحظ، دکتر حسن انصاری
جلسه اول: در اين جلسه که نخستين جلسه از جلسات بحث درباره کتاب العثمانية بود درباره اين موضوعات بحث شد: ۱) معرفی جاحظ نويسنده کتاب العثمانية و معرفی آثار او؛ ۲) بحثی درباره شيوه های تأليف کتاب در اواخر سده دوم و اوائل سده سوم؛ ۳) مختصری درباره جايگاه طبقه کاتبان به عنوان روشنفکران دوران و سنت ديوانسالاری در دوره متقدم عباسی و تحليلی از وضعيت فرهنگی عصر جاحظ؛ ۴) وضعيت شيعه در دوره امام رضا (ع) و عصر تدوين کتاب العثمانية. در اين دوران عالمان شيعه به تدريج به عنوان طبقه ای از طبقات اهل علم و روشنفکری و مرتبط با دستگاه عباسی مطرح شدند؛ ۵) چرا معتزله بغداد نظريه افضليت امير المؤمنين را به عنوان راه حلی در مقابل نظريه "نص" شيعه مطرح کردند؟ ۶) ديدگاه اهل سنت در دوره های بعدی تحت تأثير تصوف و عرفان ابن عربی در اين زمينه چه بود؟ (۱۸ نوامبر، ۲۰۲۵)
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
جلسه اول: در اين جلسه که نخستين جلسه از جلسات بحث درباره کتاب العثمانية بود درباره اين موضوعات بحث شد: ۱) معرفی جاحظ نويسنده کتاب العثمانية و معرفی آثار او؛ ۲) بحثی درباره شيوه های تأليف کتاب در اواخر سده دوم و اوائل سده سوم؛ ۳) مختصری درباره جايگاه طبقه کاتبان به عنوان روشنفکران دوران و سنت ديوانسالاری در دوره متقدم عباسی و تحليلی از وضعيت فرهنگی عصر جاحظ؛ ۴) وضعيت شيعه در دوره امام رضا (ع) و عصر تدوين کتاب العثمانية. در اين دوران عالمان شيعه به تدريج به عنوان طبقه ای از طبقات اهل علم و روشنفکری و مرتبط با دستگاه عباسی مطرح شدند؛ ۵) چرا معتزله بغداد نظريه افضليت امير المؤمنين را به عنوان راه حلی در مقابل نظريه "نص" شيعه مطرح کردند؟ ۶) ديدگاه اهل سنت در دوره های بعدی تحت تأثير تصوف و عرفان ابن عربی در اين زمينه چه بود؟ (۱۸ نوامبر، ۲۰۲۵)
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
Dua Kumayl & Lecture, Nahj al-Balagha Series
🔻Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
🌐 Hybrid, EN Lecture
Date
Thursday December 4th, 2025
7:15 pm to 9:30 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
MIT Tang Center, E51-395, 2 Amherst St, Cambridge, MA 02142
Schedule
7:15-7:25 Quran Recitation
7:25-8:00 Dua Kumayl
8:00-8:45 Nahj al-Balagha Series, in English, H. I. Doagoo (joining by zoom)
Topic: "Letter 53, Letter of Imam Ali (p) to Malik al-Ashtar", Lec10
8:45-8:50 Q&A
8:50-9:00 Ziyarat Warith
9:00-9:30 Dinner
Zoom Participation (hybrid):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/95948516788
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
🔻Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
🌐 Hybrid, EN Lecture
Date
Thursday December 4th, 2025
7:15 pm to 9:30 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
MIT Tang Center, E51-395, 2 Amherst St, Cambridge, MA 02142
Schedule
7:15-7:25 Quran Recitation
7:25-8:00 Dua Kumayl
8:00-8:45 Nahj al-Balagha Series, in English, H. I. Doagoo (joining by zoom)
Topic: "Letter 53, Letter of Imam Ali (p) to Malik al-Ashtar", Lec10
8:45-8:50 Q&A
8:50-9:00 Ziyarat Warith
9:00-9:30 Dinner
Zoom Participation (hybrid):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/95948516788
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
https://youtu.be/wMcZat3h7kA?list=PLRagz8v-1fF46AdZpWw9aUhMfNDRByxJc&t=8
🔻"The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ", Lec02
speaker, Dr. Hassan Ansari
Nov 25, 2025
🟥 Lecture in Persian, can be watched with closed caption (CC) and auto-translate on our channel.
Summary:
In this session, after an introduction about Jāḥiẓ, his cultural milieu, and a presentation of some of his other works whose understanding is necessary for discussing the ‘Uthmāniyya, we reached the main topic: an analysis of the religious situation at the time Jāḥiẓ composed his book. Why did Ma’mūn choose Imam al-Riḍā (peace be upon him) as his heir apparent? What danger did the Abbasids perceive from the Shia during the period of Ma’mūn and his successors? In what historical context was the doctrine of naṣṣ proposed by the Imami Shia during this era? Conversely, why did the Mu‘tazilites, by putting forward the notion of the imāmat mafḍūl, attempt to neutralize the doctrine of naṣṣ? Why was Ahmad ibn Hanbal’s doctrine of “quadripartition” (tarbīʿ) considered anti-Shia and aimed at countering the Imami doctrine of naṣṣ? What were the doctrines of public interest (maṣlaḥa) and juristic reasoning (ijtihād) in the matter of selecting a caliph?
Did Amīr al-Mu’minīn consider himself a caliph, or is the concept of Shia imamate fundamentally unrelated to the institution of the caliphate? What were the efforts of Amīr al-Mu’minīn (peace be upon him) to weaken the caliphate constructed at Saqīfa? How was the doctrine of the distortion of the Qur’an (taḥrīf al-Qur’ān) formulated as a response to the problem of the caliphate and the events of Saqīfa?
#al_uthmaniyya_al_jahiz
🔻"The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ", Lec02
speaker, Dr. Hassan Ansari
Nov 25, 2025
Summary:
In this session, after an introduction about Jāḥiẓ, his cultural milieu, and a presentation of some of his other works whose understanding is necessary for discussing the ‘Uthmāniyya, we reached the main topic: an analysis of the religious situation at the time Jāḥiẓ composed his book. Why did Ma’mūn choose Imam al-Riḍā (peace be upon him) as his heir apparent? What danger did the Abbasids perceive from the Shia during the period of Ma’mūn and his successors? In what historical context was the doctrine of naṣṣ proposed by the Imami Shia during this era? Conversely, why did the Mu‘tazilites, by putting forward the notion of the imāmat mafḍūl, attempt to neutralize the doctrine of naṣṣ? Why was Ahmad ibn Hanbal’s doctrine of “quadripartition” (tarbīʿ) considered anti-Shia and aimed at countering the Imami doctrine of naṣṣ? What were the doctrines of public interest (maṣlaḥa) and juristic reasoning (ijtihād) in the matter of selecting a caliph?
Did Amīr al-Mu’minīn consider himself a caliph, or is the concept of Shia imamate fundamentally unrelated to the institution of the caliphate? What were the efforts of Amīr al-Mu’minīn (peace be upon him) to weaken the caliphate constructed at Saqīfa? How was the doctrine of the distortion of the Qur’an (taḥrīf al-Qur’ān) formulated as a response to the problem of the caliphate and the events of Saqīfa?
#al_uthmaniyya_al_jahiz
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وضعیت نزاع های مذهبی در نیمه اول سده سوم قمری بر اساس کتاب العثمانیة تأليف جاحظ، دکتر حسن انصاری
جلسه دوم: در اين جلسه بعد از مقدمه ای درباره جاحظ و محيط فرهنگی او و معرفی برخی ديگر از آثارش که برای بحث عثمانيه دانستنش لازم است به موضوع اصلی رسيديم: تحليلی از وضعيت مذهبی در عصر تأليف کتاب جاحظ؛ چرا مأمون امام رضا (ع) را به ولايت عهدی خود انتخاب کرد؟ عباسيان چه خطری را از ناحيه شيعه در دوره مأمون و اخلافش متوجه خود می دانستند؟ نظريه "نص" در چه سياقی تاريخی از سوی شيعه اماميه در اين دوره مطرح شد؟ در مقابل چرا معتزليان با طرح امامت مفضول سعی در بی اثر کردن نظريه "نص" داشتند؟ نظريه "تربيع" از احمد بن حنبل چرا نظريه ای ضد شيعی و برای دفع نظريه "نص" اماميه بود؟ نظريه مصلحت و اجتهاد در امر انتخاب خليفه چه بود؟
حضرت امير آيا خود را "خليفه" می دانست یا امامت شيعی اساسا ربطی به نهاد خلافت ندارد؟ تلاش های حضرت امير (ع) برای تضعيف خلافت برساخته سقيفه چه بود؟ نظريه تحريف قرآن چطور به عنوان پاسخی به مشکل خلافت و سقيفه برساخته شد؟ (۲۵ نوامبر، ۲۰۲۵)
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
جلسه دوم: در اين جلسه بعد از مقدمه ای درباره جاحظ و محيط فرهنگی او و معرفی برخی ديگر از آثارش که برای بحث عثمانيه دانستنش لازم است به موضوع اصلی رسيديم: تحليلی از وضعيت مذهبی در عصر تأليف کتاب جاحظ؛ چرا مأمون امام رضا (ع) را به ولايت عهدی خود انتخاب کرد؟ عباسيان چه خطری را از ناحيه شيعه در دوره مأمون و اخلافش متوجه خود می دانستند؟ نظريه "نص" در چه سياقی تاريخی از سوی شيعه اماميه در اين دوره مطرح شد؟ در مقابل چرا معتزليان با طرح امامت مفضول سعی در بی اثر کردن نظريه "نص" داشتند؟ نظريه "تربيع" از احمد بن حنبل چرا نظريه ای ضد شيعی و برای دفع نظريه "نص" اماميه بود؟ نظريه مصلحت و اجتهاد در امر انتخاب خليفه چه بود؟
حضرت امير آيا خود را "خليفه" می دانست یا امامت شيعی اساسا ربطی به نهاد خلافت ندارد؟ تلاش های حضرت امير (ع) برای تضعيف خلافت برساخته سقيفه چه بود؟ نظريه تحريف قرآن چطور به عنوان پاسخی به مشکل خلافت و سقيفه برساخته شد؟ (۲۵ نوامبر، ۲۰۲۵)
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
Forwarded from ZEKR, MIT Shia Muslim Association (Ahlulbayt Islamic Society)
Dua Kumayl & Lecture, Nahj al-Balagha Series
🔻Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
🌐 Hybrid, EN Lecture
Date
Thursday December 4th, 2025
7:15 pm to 9:30 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
MIT Tang Center, E51-395, 2 Amherst St, Cambridge, MA 02142
Schedule
7:15-7:25 Quran Recitation
7:25-8:00 Dua Kumayl
8:00-8:45 Nahj al-Balagha Series, in English, H. I. Doagoo (joining by zoom)
Topic: "Letter 53, Letter of Imam Ali (p) to Malik al-Ashtar", Lec10
8:45-8:50 Q&A
8:50-9:00 Ziyarat Warith
9:00-9:30 Dinner
Zoom Participation (hybrid):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/95948516788
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
🔻Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
🌐 Hybrid, EN Lecture
Date
Thursday December 4th, 2025
7:15 pm to 9:30 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
MIT Tang Center, E51-395, 2 Amherst St, Cambridge, MA 02142
Schedule
7:15-7:25 Quran Recitation
7:25-8:00 Dua Kumayl
8:00-8:45 Nahj al-Balagha Series, in English, H. I. Doagoo (joining by zoom)
Topic: "Letter 53, Letter of Imam Ali (p) to Malik al-Ashtar", Lec10
8:45-8:50 Q&A
8:50-9:00 Ziyarat Warith
9:00-9:30 Dinner
Zoom Participation (hybrid):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/95948516788
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3JPOkzsSFM&list=PLRagz8v-1fF4Oi2EToPQJrvgbB3VgyVkk&t=1s
🔻"Hikmah in the Qur'an", Lec08
speaker, Dr. Farhad Ghoddoussi
Nov 23, 2025
Topic: Meaning of Hikmah (Wisdom) in relation to the Ethical Commandments (Decaloque) (Q17:22–39)
Summary:
In the eighth lecture, we discussed the meaning of *hikmah* in verse Q17:39 as part of the pericope Q17:22-39. In this verse—"These are among [the precepts] that your Lord has revealed to you of *Hikmah* (wisdom). Do not set up another god besides Allah, or you will be cast into hell, blameworthy and banished [from His mercy]" (Q17:39)—the Qur'an explicitly states that the precepts or commands listed in the previous verses are examples of *hikmah* (wisdom) revealed to the Prophet.
In this pericope, the Qur'an employs a literary device known as *inclusio* (also called envelope structure or bracketing)—that is, using the same word, phrase, or idea to mark the beginning and end of a passage, thereby framing it. Specifically:
"Do not set up another god besides Allah, or you will sit blameworthy, forsaken." (Q17:22)
"Do not set up another god besides Allah, or you will be cast into hell, blameworthy and banished [from His mercy]." (Q17:39)
Both verses prohibit taking partners with God (polytheism, idolatry, etc.), thus employing the envelope device to underscore the importance of monotheism as the foundation of all belief and conduct. More specifically, the envelope stresses that monotheism should be, so to speak, the alpha and omega of all thought and action, and that it serves as a wall enclosing and guarding the teachings of the passage—teachings that endure only for as long as the wall stands in its place.
This passage (Q17:22-39) is a compact statement of Islamic commandments. The focus of these commandments—no fewer than twenty-five—is social conduct, ranging from discharging one's obligations to one's parents to refraining from cheating in commercial transactions. The passage is punctuated with exhortations to adopt an attitude marked by gentleness, humility, moderation, and conscientiousness.
In verses Q17:30-37, believers are asked to avoid certain actions. In verse Q17:38, it is stated: "The evil of these is detestable to your Lord," which suggests that the Qur'an accepts the intrinsic evilness of some actions, independent of and prior to God's command—something that can be known through human intelligence. Thus, the revealed Qur'anic *ḥikmah* merely confirms that inherent state, effectively equating it with natural morality.
Besides examining the commandments in individual verses, we read some of the corresponding hadiths for further understanding and clarification. We also discussed the relationship, similarities, and differences between this passage of the Qur'an (Q17:22-39) and the Biblical passage known as the Decalogue, or the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17).
#hikmah_quran
🔻"Hikmah in the Qur'an", Lec08
speaker, Dr. Farhad Ghoddoussi
Nov 23, 2025
Topic: Meaning of Hikmah (Wisdom) in relation to the Ethical Commandments (Decaloque) (Q17:22–39)
Summary:
In the eighth lecture, we discussed the meaning of *hikmah* in verse Q17:39 as part of the pericope Q17:22-39. In this verse—"These are among [the precepts] that your Lord has revealed to you of *Hikmah* (wisdom). Do not set up another god besides Allah, or you will be cast into hell, blameworthy and banished [from His mercy]" (Q17:39)—the Qur'an explicitly states that the precepts or commands listed in the previous verses are examples of *hikmah* (wisdom) revealed to the Prophet.
In this pericope, the Qur'an employs a literary device known as *inclusio* (also called envelope structure or bracketing)—that is, using the same word, phrase, or idea to mark the beginning and end of a passage, thereby framing it. Specifically:
"Do not set up another god besides Allah, or you will sit blameworthy, forsaken." (Q17:22)
"Do not set up another god besides Allah, or you will be cast into hell, blameworthy and banished [from His mercy]." (Q17:39)
Both verses prohibit taking partners with God (polytheism, idolatry, etc.), thus employing the envelope device to underscore the importance of monotheism as the foundation of all belief and conduct. More specifically, the envelope stresses that monotheism should be, so to speak, the alpha and omega of all thought and action, and that it serves as a wall enclosing and guarding the teachings of the passage—teachings that endure only for as long as the wall stands in its place.
This passage (Q17:22-39) is a compact statement of Islamic commandments. The focus of these commandments—no fewer than twenty-five—is social conduct, ranging from discharging one's obligations to one's parents to refraining from cheating in commercial transactions. The passage is punctuated with exhortations to adopt an attitude marked by gentleness, humility, moderation, and conscientiousness.
In verses Q17:30-37, believers are asked to avoid certain actions. In verse Q17:38, it is stated: "The evil of these is detestable to your Lord," which suggests that the Qur'an accepts the intrinsic evilness of some actions, independent of and prior to God's command—something that can be known through human intelligence. Thus, the revealed Qur'anic *ḥikmah* merely confirms that inherent state, effectively equating it with natural morality.
Besides examining the commandments in individual verses, we read some of the corresponding hadiths for further understanding and clarification. We also discussed the relationship, similarities, and differences between this passage of the Qur'an (Q17:22-39) and the Biblical passage known as the Decalogue, or the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17).
#hikmah_quran
YouTube
[08] Hikmah in the Qur'an, Dr. Farhad Ghoddoussi
Topic: Meaning of Hikmah (Wisdom) in relation to the Ethical Commandments (Decaloque) (Q17:22–39)
Summary:
In the eighth lecture, we discussed the meaning of *hikmah* in verse Q17:39 as part of the pericope Q17:22-39. In this verse—"These are among [the…
Summary:
In the eighth lecture, we discussed the meaning of *hikmah* in verse Q17:39 as part of the pericope Q17:22-39. In this verse—"These are among [the…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGMCQCByEE4&list=PLRagz8v-1fF64syWCOntMn8fHSwQMxjFp&t=1s
🔻"Nahj al-Balagha, Letter 53", Lec10
speaker, H. I. Hasan Doagoo
Dec 4, 2025
Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
#Nahj_al_Balagha_Letter_53
🔻"Nahj al-Balagha, Letter 53", Lec10
speaker, H. I. Hasan Doagoo
Dec 4, 2025
Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
#Nahj_al_Balagha_Letter_53
YouTube
[10] Nahj al-Balagha, Letter 53, H. I. Hasan Doagoo
Reflections on Letter 53, Letter of Imam Ali (p) to Malik al-Ashtar
Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
#nahjulbalaghaenglish #nahjulbalagha #islam #quran #religion #islamiclectures #historyofislam #islamictheology…
Lecture 10: Justice, Merit, and Social Structure in Imam ʿAlī’s Letter to Mālik al-Ashtar
#nahjulbalaghaenglish #nahjulbalagha #islam #quran #religion #islamiclectures #historyofislam #islamictheology…
Quran Study, Chapter 20, Surah Ta-Ha
We will begin the tafsīr of Sūrah Ṭā-Hā (Qur’an, Chapter 20) next Friday, December 12, insha’Allah. This sūrah presents profound themes of divine guidance, the mission of Prophet Mūsā (Moses) عليه السلام, and the reassurance given to the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ during the early Makkan period. It opens by clarifying that the Qur’an was not revealed to burden, but rather to remind, uplift, and purify sincere hearts.
A major portion of the sūrah recounts the life of Mūsā—from his early childhood, his calling at the burning bush, and his confrontation with Pharaoh, to the deliverance of Banī Isrā’īl. These narratives highlight enduring lessons of patience, trust in Allah, courage, and steadfastness in the face of oppression.
The sūrah also warns against being deceived by worldly attractions, illustrated through the episode of Sāmirī and the golden calf, showing how easily people can deviate when they lose sight of divine guidance. It concludes with reminders of the Day of Judgment, the consequences of arrogance, and the importance of establishing regular prayer as a source of spiritual stability and inner peace.
Overall, Sūrah Ṭā-Hā offers spiritual comfort, moral clarity, and timeless guidance on faith, humility, resilience, and leadership—making it a powerful and transformative chapter for reflection and study.
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
We will begin the tafsīr of Sūrah Ṭā-Hā (Qur’an, Chapter 20) next Friday, December 12, insha’Allah. This sūrah presents profound themes of divine guidance, the mission of Prophet Mūsā (Moses) عليه السلام, and the reassurance given to the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ during the early Makkan period. It opens by clarifying that the Qur’an was not revealed to burden, but rather to remind, uplift, and purify sincere hearts.
A major portion of the sūrah recounts the life of Mūsā—from his early childhood, his calling at the burning bush, and his confrontation with Pharaoh, to the deliverance of Banī Isrā’īl. These narratives highlight enduring lessons of patience, trust in Allah, courage, and steadfastness in the face of oppression.
The sūrah also warns against being deceived by worldly attractions, illustrated through the episode of Sāmirī and the golden calf, showing how easily people can deviate when they lose sight of divine guidance. It concludes with reminders of the Day of Judgment, the consequences of arrogance, and the importance of establishing regular prayer as a source of spiritual stability and inner peace.
Overall, Sūrah Ṭā-Hā offers spiritual comfort, moral clarity, and timeless guidance on faith, humility, resilience, and leadership—making it a powerful and transformative chapter for reflection and study.
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
ZEKR, MIT Shia Muslim Association
Quran Study, Chapter 20, Surah Ta-Ha We will begin the tafsīr of Sūrah Ṭā-Hā (Qur’an, Chapter 20) next Friday, December 12, insha’Allah. This sūrah presents profound themes of divine guidance, the mission of Prophet Mūsā (Moses) عليه السلام, and the reassurance…
✳️ MIT Quran Study was established in 2007 with a focus on Tafsir and Special Topics. A few years later, we added Dua Kumayl & Lecture to our offerings. Since then, we have continued to expand and strengthen our initiatives—including our online Lecture Series—with the support of MIT and the broader community, alhamdulillah.
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
upcoming events, Dec 7-12, 2025
▫️Sun, Dec 7, 7:15-9:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Special Topics, 09, "Hikmah in the Qur'an", Farhad Ghoddoussi, Wayne State University, Michigan.
▫️Tue, Dec 9, 8:30-10:15 pm (virtual, FA w/ Subs)
Lecture Series, 3, "The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH", Hassan Ansari, IAS, Princeton.
▫️Fri, Dec 12, 7:30-9:30 pm (hybrid, EN)
Quran Study, Surah Ta-Ha.
- All times US Eastern Time
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
▫️Sun, Dec 7, 7:15-9:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Special Topics, 09, "Hikmah in the Qur'an", Farhad Ghoddoussi, Wayne State University, Michigan.
▫️Tue, Dec 9, 8:30-10:15 pm (virtual, FA w/ Subs)
Lecture Series, 3, "The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH", Hassan Ansari, IAS, Princeton.
▫️Fri, Dec 12, 7:30-9:30 pm (hybrid, EN)
Quran Study, Surah Ta-Ha.
- All times US Eastern Time
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
Special Topic Lecture Series, Lec09
🔻Topic: Meaning of Hikmah (Wisdom) in the Story of Luqman (Q31:12–19)
🌐 Virtual, EN Lecture
Date
Sunday December 7th, 2025
7:15 pm to 9:00 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
Online, Detail Below
Schedule
7:15-7:20 Login to Zoom
7:20-8:45 Lecture, in English, Dr. Farhad Ghoddoussi
Topic: “Hikmah in the Qur’an”, Lec09
8:45-9:00 Q&A
Zoom Participation (virtual):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/92377466698
- About Speaker (Bio)
#hikmah_quran
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
🔻Topic: Meaning of Hikmah (Wisdom) in the Story of Luqman (Q31:12–19)
🌐 Virtual, EN Lecture
Date
Sunday December 7th, 2025
7:15 pm to 9:00 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
Online, Detail Below
Schedule
7:15-7:20 Login to Zoom
7:20-8:45 Lecture, in English, Dr. Farhad Ghoddoussi
Topic: “Hikmah in the Qur’an”, Lec09
8:45-9:00 Q&A
Zoom Participation (virtual):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/92377466698
- About Speaker (Bio)
#hikmah_quran
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
درس گفتارهای تاریخ اندیشه و تمدن اسلامی
🌐 بصورت مجازی، به فارسی
«وضعیت نزاع های مذهبی در نیمه اول سده سوم قمری بر اساس کتاب العثمانیة تأليف جاحظ»
توسط دکتر حسن انصاری
جلسه سوم، سه شنبه ۹ دسامبر، ۸:۳۰ تا ۱۰:۱۵ شب (به وقت شرق آمریکا)
Zoom Participation (webinar):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/93933325521
در باره سخنران:
https://www.ias.edu/hs/ansari
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
🌐 بصورت مجازی، به فارسی
«وضعیت نزاع های مذهبی در نیمه اول سده سوم قمری بر اساس کتاب العثمانیة تأليف جاحظ»
توسط دکتر حسن انصاری
جلسه سوم، سه شنبه ۹ دسامبر، ۸:۳۰ تا ۱۰:۱۵ شب (به وقت شرق آمریکا)
Zoom Participation (webinar):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/93933325521
در باره سخنران:
https://www.ias.edu/hs/ansari
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
Special Topic Lecture, Dedicated to the Birth Anniversary of Lady Fatima al-Zahra (sa)
🔻Topic: The Verse of Mubahala
🌐 Virtual, EN Lecture
Date
Sunday December 14th, 2025
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
Online, Detail Below
Schedule
6:00-6:05 Login to zoom
6:05-6:50 Lecture, in English, H. I. Hasan Doagoo
Title: “The Qur’anic Portrait of Lady Zahra (a): A Shi‘i Narrative, Part I — The Verse of Mubahala”
6:50-7:00 Q&A
Zoom Participation (virtual):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/92377466698
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
🔻Topic: The Verse of Mubahala
🌐 Virtual, EN Lecture
Date
Sunday December 14th, 2025
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
Online, Detail Below
Schedule
6:00-6:05 Login to zoom
6:05-6:50 Lecture, in English, H. I. Hasan Doagoo
Title: “The Qur’anic Portrait of Lady Zahra (a): A Shi‘i Narrative, Part I — The Verse of Mubahala”
6:50-7:00 Q&A
Zoom Participation (virtual):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/92377466698
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
Quran Study, Surah Ta-Ha [20:1-8]
🌐 Hybrid, EN Lecture
Date
Friday December 12th, 2025
7:30 pm to 9:30 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
MIT Tang Center, E51-376, 2 Amherst St, Cambridge, MA 02142
Schedule
7:30-7:40 Ziyarat Ale-Yasin
7:40-8:45 Exegesis (Tafsir), in English, Dr. Ehsan Elahi
Topic: “Chapter 20, Surah Ta-Ha, Verses 1-8”
8:45-9:00 Q&A
9:00-9:30 Dinner
Zoom Participation (hybrid):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/95948516788
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
🌐 Hybrid, EN Lecture
Date
Friday December 12th, 2025
7:30 pm to 9:30 pm (Eastern Time)
Location
MIT Tang Center, E51-376, 2 Amherst St, Cambridge, MA 02142
Schedule
7:30-7:40 Ziyarat Ale-Yasin
7:40-8:45 Exegesis (Tafsir), in English, Dr. Ehsan Elahi
Topic: “Chapter 20, Surah Ta-Ha, Verses 1-8”
8:45-9:00 Q&A
9:00-9:30 Dinner
Zoom Participation (hybrid):
https://mit.zoom.us/j/95948516788
- About Speaker (Bio)
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
🌷يَا فَاطِمَةُ ٱلزَّهْرَاءُ، يَا بِنْتَ مُحَمَّدٍ، يَا قُرَّةَ عَيْنِ ٱلرَّسُولِ، يَا سَيِّدَتَنَا وَمَوْلاَتَنَا، إِنَّا تَوَجَّهْنَا وَٱسْتَشْفَعْنَا وَتَوَسَّلْنَا بِكِ إِلَىٰ ٱللَّهِ، وَقَدَّمْنَاكِ بَيْنَ يَدَيْ حَاجَاتِنَا، يَا وَجِيهَةً عِنْدَ ٱللَّهِ، اِشْفَعِي لَنَا عِنْدَ ٱللَّهِ.🌷
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sm15si2mk78&list=PLRagz8v-1fF46AdZpWw9aUhMfNDRByxJc&t=1s
🔻"The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ", Lec03
speaker, Dr. Hassan Ansari
Dec 9, 2025
🟥 Lecture in Persian, can be watched with closed caption (CC) and auto-translate on our channel.
Summary:
In this session, we provided a comprehensive explanation of the historical and religious circumstances of al-Jāḥiẓ’s era that led to the composition of al-ʿUthmāniyya, as well as the reasons and motives that prompted him to write this book and his own view of it. We also discussed the perspectives of two other powerful intellectual schools of thought in Baghdad during his time—namely the Shiʿa and the Muʿtazila—regarding this book, along with their reactions to al-Jāḥiẓ and this work of his. By listening to this discussion, those interested may gain a fairly complete picture of the religious climate of Baghdad in al-Jāḥiẓ’s era.
#al_uthmaniyya_al_jahiz
🔻"The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ", Lec03
speaker, Dr. Hassan Ansari
Dec 9, 2025
Summary:
In this session, we provided a comprehensive explanation of the historical and religious circumstances of al-Jāḥiẓ’s era that led to the composition of al-ʿUthmāniyya, as well as the reasons and motives that prompted him to write this book and his own view of it. We also discussed the perspectives of two other powerful intellectual schools of thought in Baghdad during his time—namely the Shiʿa and the Muʿtazila—regarding this book, along with their reactions to al-Jāḥiẓ and this work of his. By listening to this discussion, those interested may gain a fairly complete picture of the religious climate of Baghdad in al-Jāḥiẓ’s era.
#al_uthmaniyya_al_jahiz
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[03] Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century, Dr. Hassan Ansari
🟥 Lecture in Persian, can be watched with closed caption (CC) and auto-translate.
The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ
Summary:
In this session, we provided a comprehensive explanation…
The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH Based on al-ʿUthmāniyya by al-Jāḥiẓ
Summary:
In this session, we provided a comprehensive explanation…
Audio
وضعیت نزاع های مذهبی در نیمه اول سده سوم قمری بر اساس کتاب العثمانیة تأليف جاحظ، دکتر حسن انصاری
جلسه سوم: در اين جلسه توضيح کاملی ارائه داديم درباره شرائط تاريخی و مذهبی دوران جاحظ برای تأليف کتاب العثمانية و همچنين اسباب و دلائلی که او اين کتاب را نوشت و نظر خودش درباره کتابش. همچنين ديدگاه دو مکتب فکری قدرتمند ديگر بغداد عصر او يعنی شيعيان و نيز معتزله درباره اين کتاب و واکنش های آنان به جاحظ و اين تأليفش را بحث کردیم. با شنيدن اين بحث شايد تصوير نسبتا کاملی از اوضاع مذهبی بغداد عصر جاحظ برای علاقمندان فراهم شود. (۹ دسامبر، ۲۰۲۵)
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
جلسه سوم: در اين جلسه توضيح کاملی ارائه داديم درباره شرائط تاريخی و مذهبی دوران جاحظ برای تأليف کتاب العثمانية و همچنين اسباب و دلائلی که او اين کتاب را نوشت و نظر خودش درباره کتابش. همچنين ديدگاه دو مکتب فکری قدرتمند ديگر بغداد عصر او يعنی شيعيان و نيز معتزله درباره اين کتاب و واکنش های آنان به جاحظ و اين تأليفش را بحث کردیم. با شنيدن اين بحث شايد تصوير نسبتا کاملی از اوضاع مذهبی بغداد عصر جاحظ برای علاقمندان فراهم شود. (۹ دسامبر، ۲۰۲۵)
#العثمانیة_جاحظ
@azbarresihayetarikhi
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
Forwarded from ZEKR, MIT Shia Muslim Association (Ahlulbayt Islamic Society)
https://youtube.com/live/mjHOVFOEL54
🔻Book Review
"Fatima, Daughter of Muhammad", Christopher P. Clohessy
Moderator: Farhad Ghoddoussi
Jan 14, 2024
Chapters:
0:00 Greetings
2:25 Biography of Father Dr. Christopher Paul Clohessy
5:42 His personal background and upbringing
11:52 Introductory remarks regarding the book "Fâṭima, Daughter of Muhammad"
51:07 Metaphysical virtues and being a role model
58:19 The challenges of secularism and the image of woman
1:02:49 Sunni image of Lady Fatima (a.s.)
1:10:23 On Professor Madelung later views regarding Lady Fatima
1:13:51 How Lady Maryam left this world according to Catholic Theology
1:16:29 Comparison of the image of Lady Mary in Catholic vs Protestant Theology and Lady Fatima in Shi'i vs Sunni Theology
1:19:27 Dressing of Lady Maryam and Lady Fatima and the general issue of Hijab
1:24:35 Concepts of Mahdi and Messiah in Shi'i Islam and Catholic Theology
1:31:15 Hadith evaluation and source criticism in regard to those used in the book
1:37:18 Burial of lady Fatima and the similarity that no grave is associated with both Lady Maryam and Lady Fatima
1:42:34 Suffering in Shi'i Islam and Christianity (evaluation of late Mahmoud Ayoub's works in regard to the redemptive suffering)
1:50:24 On Abul Fadhl Al-Abbas (a.s.) as an inspiring role model
🔻Book Review
"Fatima, Daughter of Muhammad", Christopher P. Clohessy
Moderator: Farhad Ghoddoussi
Jan 14, 2024
Chapters:
0:00 Greetings
2:25 Biography of Father Dr. Christopher Paul Clohessy
5:42 His personal background and upbringing
11:52 Introductory remarks regarding the book "Fâṭima, Daughter of Muhammad"
51:07 Metaphysical virtues and being a role model
58:19 The challenges of secularism and the image of woman
1:02:49 Sunni image of Lady Fatima (a.s.)
1:10:23 On Professor Madelung later views regarding Lady Fatima
1:13:51 How Lady Maryam left this world according to Catholic Theology
1:16:29 Comparison of the image of Lady Mary in Catholic vs Protestant Theology and Lady Fatima in Shi'i vs Sunni Theology
1:19:27 Dressing of Lady Maryam and Lady Fatima and the general issue of Hijab
1:24:35 Concepts of Mahdi and Messiah in Shi'i Islam and Catholic Theology
1:31:15 Hadith evaluation and source criticism in regard to those used in the book
1:37:18 Burial of lady Fatima and the similarity that no grave is associated with both Lady Maryam and Lady Fatima
1:42:34 Suffering in Shi'i Islam and Christianity (evaluation of late Mahmoud Ayoub's works in regard to the redemptive suffering)
1:50:24 On Abul Fadhl Al-Abbas (a.s.) as an inspiring role model
YouTube
"Fatima, Daughter of Muhammad", Christopher P. Clohessy
Book Review, MIT, January 14, 2024
"Fatima, Daughter of Muhammad" is a work written by Christopher P. Clohessy a Catholic priest which aims to study the life of Fatima (SA) as recorded in the earliest available Sunni and Shi'i works. Among the impulses for…
"Fatima, Daughter of Muhammad" is a work written by Christopher P. Clohessy a Catholic priest which aims to study the life of Fatima (SA) as recorded in the earliest available Sunni and Shi'i works. Among the impulses for…
upcoming events, Dec 14-19, 2025
▫️Sun, Dec 14, 6:00-7:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Special Topic Lecture, "The Qur’anic Portrait of Lady Zahra (A): A Shi‘i Narrative", Hasan Doagoo, McMaster University, Canada.
▫️Sun, Dec 14, 7:15-9:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Special Topics, 10, "Hikmah in the Qur'an", Farhad Ghoddoussi, Wayne State University, Michigan.
▫️Tue, Dec 16, 8:30-10:15 pm (virtual, FA w/ Subs)
Lecture Series, 4, "The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH", Hassan Ansari, IAS, Princeton.
▫️Thu, Dec 18, 7:15-9:30 pm (hybrid, EN)
Dua Kumayl & Lecture, speaker: Sadik Kassim.
▫️Fri, Dec 19, 7:30-9:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Quran Study, Special Topic, "Surah Ta-Ha - The Merciful and His Divine Authority". (additional session, virtual)
- All times US Eastern Time
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT
▫️Sun, Dec 14, 6:00-7:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Special Topic Lecture, "The Qur’anic Portrait of Lady Zahra (A): A Shi‘i Narrative", Hasan Doagoo, McMaster University, Canada.
▫️Sun, Dec 14, 7:15-9:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Special Topics, 10, "Hikmah in the Qur'an", Farhad Ghoddoussi, Wayne State University, Michigan.
▫️Tue, Dec 16, 8:30-10:15 pm (virtual, FA w/ Subs)
Lecture Series, 4, "The State of Religious Conflicts in the First Half of the Third Century AH", Hassan Ansari, IAS, Princeton.
▫️Thu, Dec 18, 7:15-9:30 pm (hybrid, EN)
Dua Kumayl & Lecture, speaker: Sadik Kassim.
▫️Fri, Dec 19, 7:30-9:00 pm (virtual, EN)
Quran Study, Special Topic, "Surah Ta-Ha - The Merciful and His Divine Authority". (additional session, virtual)
- All times US Eastern Time
visit us:
https://sites.mit.edu/zekrmit/
@zekrMIT