Power, Interpretation, and the Enduring Nature of Truth

All things are subject to interpretation whichever interpretation prevails at a given time is a function of power and not truth. – Friedrich Nietzsche Interpretation lies at the heart of human understanding, shaping how societies construct meaning from events, ideas, and phenomena. Yet history reveals a persistent tension: while those in power may dictate interpretation, … Continue reading Power, Interpretation, and the Enduring Nature of Truth

Traditionalists vs. Quranists Compass

In understanding one's political affiliation, one of the tools a person can use is called the political compass. The political compass is a conceptual framework that allows individuals to locate their beliefs on a two-dimensional grid, providing a more nuanced understanding of political ideologies beyond the traditional left-right spectrum. It takes into account both economic … Continue reading Traditionalists vs. Quranists Compass

Notes from The Second Canonization of the Qur’an (324/936)

Below are notes and thoughts from Shady Nasser's book The Second Canonization of the Qur'an (324/936). This book examines the process of Qur’anic canonization, focusing on how the seven canonical readings of the Qur’an were standardized. This "second canonization" was led by Ibn Mujahid in 936 CE (324 AH), a pivotal figure in Islamic history … Continue reading Notes from The Second Canonization of the Qur’an (324/936)

History of the Umayyad Caliphs & History of Islam & The Sunni Dilemma

Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti (1445–1505) was a prominent Egyptian scholar, muhaddith, theologian, and historian widely regarded for his prolific contributions to Sunni scholarship. Born and raised in Cairo, Suyuti was a Shafi'i jurist and belonged to the Ash'ari school of theology. He wrote on a wide array of subjects, including Quranic exegesis, hadith studies, linguistics, and … Continue reading History of the Umayyad Caliphs & History of Islam & The Sunni Dilemma