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CEI is thrilled to invite you to an exclusive evening of conversation with Professor MAS Abdel Haleem, SOAS Professor of Islamic Studies and world-renowned English translator of the Qur’an and Dr Saquab Ashraf, founder of CEI, Qur’an scholar, and former student of Professor Abdel Haleem.

All proceeds will go towards establishing The Q-Institute: a state-of-the-art centre in London for Qur’anic teaching, research and community activities.

WHY IS THIS EVENT UNIQUE?

Into the Ocean will be a rare meeting of two scholars bridging the gap between public and academic reflection on the Qur’an.

At 93 years of age, Professor Abdel Haleem spent a lifetime engaging with and enabling access to the Qur’an. As well as being author of the world-famous “The Qur’an: A New Translation”, Professor Abdel Haleem is also known for founding the “Journal of Qur’anic Studies”, as well as authoring “Understanding the Qur’an: Themes and Styles” and “A Dictionary of Qur’anic Usage”.

A former student of Professor Abdel Haleem, Dr Saquab Ashraf has dedicated more than twenty years to increasing access to Qur’anic reflection. Dr Ashraf has studied traditional Islamic sciences in the UK and Yemen, and holds a PhD from the University of Oxford on the use of the word “Qul” in the Qur’an. Through CEI’s Q-Club, Dr Ashraf has hosted thousands of Londoners engaging with Professor Abdel Haleem’s translation of the sacred text.

WHAT WILL BE DISCUSSED?

This event is a rare opportunity to directly hear Professor Abdel Haleem share his experiences, with the famous author known to seldom conduct live interviews.

In this intimate event, you’ll hear from the Professor directly, and will have a chance to pose him your questions on navigating the oceans of the Qur’an. Topics will include the origins of the author’s connection with the Qur’an, his experiences and challenges in translation, and his reflections on connecting the sacred text with millions of readers in the English-speaking world. In addition, Dr Saquab Ashraf will share his reflections on bridging the gap between cafés and conference halls, and connecting thousands in London with Professor Abdel Haleem’s translation.

WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?

As well as exploring the oceans of the Qur’an, your attendance will help to make the holy text accessible for generations to come, as all proceeds will go towards establishing The Q-Institute.

The Q-Institute will be a dedicated space for accessible Qur’anic reflection at the heart of London. With world-class teaching venue, research and community facilities (including a café and art gallery), the Q-Institute will be the destination of choice for formal and informal study of the Qur’an. Find out more at https://justgiving.com/campaign/ceiuk.

EVENT DETAILS

DATE: October 24th, 2024

ADDRESS: Conway Hall, 25 Red Lion Square, Holborn, London, WC1R 4RL

TIME: Doors open at 6:50pm and close at 7:20pm sharp – please arrive on time to guarantee your seat.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR PLACE

Book your place at Into the Ocean with three simple steps: GIVE, EMAIL, RECEIVE

1) GIVE: Make a minimum donation of £15 per person to attend live at Conway Hall, or £7 per person to access the online livestream. (Donations greater than these amounts are welcomed - 100% of funds go towards the Q-Institute!)

2) EMAIL: Send an email to event@ceiuk.com confirming:

I) Details of attendee(s) covered by your donation (name, email address, in-person or online attendance);

II) Your JustGiving donation reference number (shown just after you pay, and on your receipt).

3) RECEIVE: We will send you a confirmation email which you can show us on the day of the event.