RE: Violence in Gaza & Israel
December 31, 2008
We are both disheartened and grieved by the latest episode of heightened strife, senseless destruction, bloodshed, and widespread suffering in the Israel/Palestine conflict. Once again, we are shown how vendetta, collective punishment, and desperate acts of indiscriminate violence do not move forward the cause of social justice and peace. Indeed, if ever a victory is declared, it will be a pyrrhic victory, coming at an unimaginably high cost of life, infrastructure and property. Moreover, the means by which a conflict is conducted fundamentally shape the type of resolution that is achieved post-bellum. And so we pray for all parties – Palestinian as well as Israeli – to halt hostilities and declare a truce so that medicine, food, water, and other essential forms of humanitarian aid can be brought to those in dire need while alternatives are sought for the calming of the violence and the eventual resolution of the conflict.
When humankind has advanced so impressively in technological and material terms, the persistence and primitive nature of violence as a mode of self-assertion and as a means to resolve conflict can only be seen as a shameful backwardness that continues to plague our progress. We urge all people to seek more humane ways to address injustice, oppression, grievance, and fear; more promising paths to societal transformation and to the security and well-being that all people naturally crave. A willingness to imagine the position from the other’s point of view and a readiness to treat the other as you would wish to be treated yourself are necessary first steps to realizing just and sustainable solutions.
May God’s mercy be with the victims of the current violence, destruction, and the deprivation of basic essentials. May we find the wisdom and strength in our hearts and traditions to better promote understanding, real justice, enduring peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation in Israel/Palestine and everywhere.
Timothy J. Gianotti, Ph.D.
Light Upon Light Friday January 9, 2008
Friday January 9 at 7:30 pm
NOTE: Light Upon Light is being held the 2nd Friday of the month in January.
Light Upon Light
Topic: Spiritual Storytelling
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
Previous Topics:
Spiritual Knowledge / Love / Tests & Trials / Loving Universally while Living within Particularity (featuring the writings of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook) / On the Importance of Being a Stranger in the World / Dreams, Death and the Journeys of the Spirit / On the Art of Being Grateful / The Importance of Solitude / Core Paradoxes: freedom in servitude, wealth in poverty, life in death, gaining by spending, spiritual advancement through sin / The World of the Unseen
Next scheduled date:
Friday February 6 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light, Topic: Being a Perpetual Beginner
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Introduction to Islam & Islamic Religious Sciences
NOOR CULTURAL CENTRE ANNOUNCES
TWO COURSES STARTING JANUARY 11, 2009
TWO COURSES STARTING JANUARY 11, 2009
Introduction to Islam: a public service course at the Noor Cultural Centre, with Dr. Timothy J. Gianotti, 2008-2009 York-Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies
Introduction to the Islamic Religious Sciences: a public service course at the Noor Cultural Centre, with Dr. Laury Silvers. See below for course details.
Registration details and discounted savings for both courses are outlined below.
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Introduction to Islam
A public service course at the Noor Cultural Centre, with Dr. Timothy J. Gianotti, 2008-2009 York-Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies
Designed for the intrigued Torontonian as well as for Muslims seeking an academically-grounded deepening in their faith, this 9-week course promises to provide a thoughtful foundation for understanding Islamic belief, practice, and history, even as it opens up new areas for inquiry and study.
Sunday, January 11, 2009 -- Sunday, March 15, 2009
First class from 10:00 to 12:30 pm
all other classes from 10:00 am – 12 noon
no class on Sunday, February 22
SESSION 1 - January 11
Introductions & Getting Started: The Challenge of Studying Religion & the Special Challenge of Studying Islam in a Post 9/11 World
SESSION 2 - January 18
A First Glimpse into the Essence, Belief, and Mechanics of Islam
SESSION 3 - January 25
Islam's Sacred Worldview, or Belief System
SESSION 4 - February 1
Islam's Path of Sacred Action (Obligatory Religious Practices)
SESSION 5 - February 8
The Eastern Branch of the Abrahamic Covenant: Ishmael, the Ka'ba, and the Mythic History of Arabia Prior to the Rise of Islam
SESSION 6 - February 15
The "Age of Ignorance" and the Dawning of Islam
February 22 - no class this week
SESSION 7 - March 1
Prophecy: Muhammad and the Advent of Qur'ānic Revelations in Mecca
SESSION 8 - March 8
Archetypes & Realities: the Birth and “Perfection” of the Islamic Religion in Medina
SESSION 9 - March 15
Pursuing Ultimate Horizons: A Glimpse into the Mysteries of Being and Becoming "Muslim"
PLEASE RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW, click here.
Attendance is limited to 20 participants. Course timetable and fees are detailed below.
WHERE: upper library/classroom, Noor Cultural Centre map
WHEN: Sunday, January 11, 2009 -- Sunday, March 15, 2009
First class from 10:00 to 12:30 pm
all other classes from 10:00 am – 12 noon
no class on Sunday, February 22
COURSE REGISTRATION FEE**: $250.00 due by January 4, 2009, payable by cash or credit card to the Noor Cultural Centre, click here to register or call 416-444-7148, ext. 222 (special rates available for students, seniors and the underemployed)
**A discounted fee is offered if you register for both courses at the same time. The discounted fee is $400.00. Payable by cash or credit card to the Noor Cultural Centre, click here to register or call416-444-7148, ext. 222.
COURSE MATERIALS FEE: $25.00 (this fee is not discounted)
(all required course readings will be provided upon registration)
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Introduction to the Islamic Religious Sciences
A public service course at the Noor Cultural Centre, with Dr. Laury Silvers.
Sunday, January 11, 2009 -- Sunday, March 15, 2009
From 1:00 to 3:00 pm
This course will be an introduction to the Islamic Religious Sciences. We will be learning the major terms, concepts, and methods in the traditional study of the Qur'an, Hadith, and Islamic Law: such as the Qur'an's recitative traditions and collection, Hadith collection and methods of authentication, and legal methods of extracting rulings from the Sources. As we gain familiarity with the issues at stake in each religious science, we will move on to discuss our own concerns with the traditional methods. In particular, we will focus on the ethical questions that arise from the process of interpretation. We will be reading some primary sources, but for the most part our course readings will be secular in orientation with a deep appreciation for traditional methods. In readings and discussions our goal will be to integrate secular and religious intellectual methods in order to become "traditionally literate." In other words, I hope that during this course we will become comfortable having informed and mutually beneficial conversations with other Muslims and non-Muslims on these difficult topics.
SESSION 1 - January 11
Introduction to the Course: Bridging Traditional and Secular Thought
SESSION 2 - January 18
The Nature of the Qur'an, the Recitation Traditions and Collection
SESSION 3 - January 25
Our Issues: Grapes or Houris? Talking about the Divinity of the Qur'an
SESSION 4 - February 1
The Qur'an Commentary Tradition and New Readings
SESSION 5 - February 8
Muhammad's (S) Example, Hadith, Transmission, and Collection
SESSION 6 - February 15
The History and Methods of Hadith Criticism
SESSION 7 - February 22
Our Issues: The Ethics of Telling the Story of the Sunna
SESSION 8 - March 1
The Qur'an and Hadith as Sources for Islamic Law
SESSION 9 - March 8
Characteristic Features of Shariah and the Leading Schools of Law
SESSION 10 - March 15
Our Issues: The Ethics of "Best Practices"
PLEASE RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW, click here.
Attendance is limited to 20 participants. Course timetable and fees are detailed below.
WHERE: upper library/classroom, Noor Cultural Centre map
WHEN: starting January 11, 1 PM to 3 PM each Sunday ending on March 15
COURSE REGISTRATION FEE**: $250.00 due by January 4, 2009, payable by cash or credit card to the Noor Cultural Centre, click here to register or call416-444-7148, ext. 222. (special rates available for students, seniors and the underemployed)
**A discounted fee is offered if you register for both courses at the same time. The discounted fee is $400.00. Payable by cash or credit card to the Noor Cultural Centre click here to register or call 416-444-7148, ext. 222 .
COURSE MATERIALS FEE: $25.00 (this fee is not discounted)
(all required course readings will be provided upon registration)
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PUBLIC STATEMENT
November 27, 2008
RE: MUMBAI ATROCITIES
We condemn these and all acts of viciousness, inhumanity, and terror, and we categorically affirm that such behavior violates Islam and all Divinely inspired religious and spiritual systems.
We pray for all those innocents whose lives have been lost and whose sense of security has been shattered by these evil acts; and we pledge to stand up against the ideologies and twisted theologies that rationalize and condone the indiscriminate killing of innocent people and the targeted persecution of anyone because of race, creed, nationality, or gender.
Even as we pledge our support in the tracking down of those who planned and carried out these abominations, we counsel all peoples of faith to practice restraint, lest more innocent people die in the grief and anger arising from the wounds.
May the light of God's mercy envelop those whose lives were so viciously and unjustly taken, and may the lights of His healing and peace fill the hearts of those who are left behind to mourn and to pick of the pieces of shattered hopes and dreams.
Timothy J. Gianotti, Ph.D.
Toronto
RE: MUMBAI ATROCITIES
We condemn these and all acts of viciousness, inhumanity, and terror, and we categorically affirm that such behavior violates Islam and all Divinely inspired religious and spiritual systems.
We pray for all those innocents whose lives have been lost and whose sense of security has been shattered by these evil acts; and we pledge to stand up against the ideologies and twisted theologies that rationalize and condone the indiscriminate killing of innocent people and the targeted persecution of anyone because of race, creed, nationality, or gender.
Even as we pledge our support in the tracking down of those who planned and carried out these abominations, we counsel all peoples of faith to practice restraint, lest more innocent people die in the grief and anger arising from the wounds.
May the light of God's mercy envelop those whose lives were so viciously and unjustly taken, and may the lights of His healing and peace fill the hearts of those who are left behind to mourn and to pick of the pieces of shattered hopes and dreams.
Timothy J. Gianotti, Ph.D.
Toronto
Light Upon Light Friday December 5, 2008
Friday December 5 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light
Topic: The World of the Unseen
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
Previous Topics:
Spiritual Knowledge / Love / Tests & Trials / Loving Universally while Living within Particularity (featuring the writings of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook) / On the Importance of Being a Stranger in the World / Dreams, Death and the Journeys of the Spirit / On the Art of Being Grateful / The Importance of Solitude / Core Paradoxes: freedom in servitude, wealth in poverty, life in death, gaining by spending, spiritual advancement through sin /
Next scheduled date:
Friday January 9 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light, Topic: Being a Perpetual Beginner
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Circle of Sacred Knowledge
Friday November 28, 2008
Circle of Sacred Knowledge
We continue this Friday with Dr. Timothy Gianotti who will host this monthly open study session devoted to traditional texts of spiritual formation and sacred knowledge.
The circle meets at the Noor Cultural Centre in the upstairs library/classroom space. We conclude well before the congregational (jum'ah) prayer service. While the texts and topics will come from the Islamic spiritual tradition, people from all faiths are invited to participate and stay for the Friday (jum'ah) prayer service which begins at 1:20 pm.
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Circle of Sacred Knowledge
We continue this Friday with Dr. Timothy Gianotti who will host this monthly open study session devoted to traditional texts of spiritual formation and sacred knowledge.
The circle meets at the Noor Cultural Centre in the upstairs library/classroom space. We conclude well before the congregational (jum'ah) prayer service. While the texts and topics will come from the Islamic spiritual tradition, people from all faiths are invited to participate and stay for the Friday (jum'ah) prayer service which begins at 1:20 pm.
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Hajj Workshop
Hajj: The spiritual significance and actual mechanics of performing Hajj
Sunday December 7, 2008 - THIS IS POSTPONED AS EID AL ADHA MAY FALL ON THIS DAY
Noor Cultural Centre
upper level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
10 AM to 11:30 AM
Join Dr. Timothy Gianotti for this workshop being held during the time of the Hajj pilgrimage as we explore the significance this event.
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Sunday December 7, 2008 - THIS IS POSTPONED AS EID AL ADHA MAY FALL ON THIS DAY
Noor Cultural Centre
upper level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
10 AM to 11:30 AM
Join Dr. Timothy Gianotti for this workshop being held during the time of the Hajj pilgrimage as we explore the significance this event.
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North American Weekend of "Twinning" between Synagogues & Mosques
Nov. 21-23, 2008
Temple Emanu-El & Noor Cultural Centre
Weekend of Twinning
with Rabbi Debra Landsberg and Dr. Timothy Gianotti
See Coverage of this event in the Canadian Jewish News here.
As part of an inspirational North American wide initiative to build bridges and friendships between Jews and Muslims, Temple Emanu-El and Noor Cultural Centre have planned a series of cross-visits during the Weekend of Twinning of Synagogues and Mosques, November 21-23, 2008.
In the future we hope to have many occasions to share experiences, education, and build long-term friendships. We are hoping that families will attend throughout and in particular that youth will participate in the Sunday morning program at Noor.
LOCATIONS:
Noor Cultural Centre:
123 Wynford Drive
416.444.7148
www.noorculturalcentre.ca
Just east of the DVP ramp, just west of Concord Place. We're easy to miss, so look out for the condo construction right next to us, and a bus stop and Noor sign just outside.
Temple Emanu-El:
120 Old Colony Rd. East
416.449.3880
www.templeemanuel.ca
Off Bayview at the end of Old Colony, south of the 401 & north of York Mills - about ½ way between.
PROGRAM:
FRIDAY NOV 21
Noor Cultural Centre - 1:00-3:00pm
- 1:00-1:15pm Tour of the Noor Cultural Centre
- 1:20pm Call to prayers
- 1.30-2.00pm Jum'a prayers -- sermon: "From Estrangement to Reunion and Beyond: rethinking the biblical/qur'anic record of Abraham and his sons."
- 2:00-3:00pm Refreshments & fellowship at the Noor.
Temple Emanu-El - 6:00pm
- 6:00pm Shabbat services at Emanu-El, followed by family dinner & shared song
SATURDAY NOV 22
Temple Emanu-El - 10:30am
- 10:30am Saturday morning service at Emanu-El. As on Friday at Noor, the sermon focused on the story of Abraham, but here specifically on the 2 women of the biblical narrative: Sarah and Hagar.
- 12:00 vegetarian potluck lunch.
SUNDAY NOV 23
Noor Cultural Centre - 9:30-11:30am
- 9:30 - 10:00 Breakfast & Fellowship
-10:00 - 10:30 Sacred Music
-10:30 - 11:00 Rabbi Debra and Dr. Timothy offer scholarly reflections on the "Religion of Abraham."
-11:00 - 12:00 Table D
iscussions + Abraham quiz game
Temple Emanu-El & Noor Cultural Centre
Weekend of Twinning
with Rabbi Debra Landsberg and Dr. Timothy Gianotti
See Coverage of this event in the Canadian Jewish News here.
As part of an inspirational North American wide initiative to build bridges and friendships between Jews and Muslims, Temple Emanu-El and Noor Cultural Centre have planned a series of cross-visits during the Weekend of Twinning of Synagogues and Mosques, November 21-23, 2008.In the future we hope to have many occasions to share experiences, education, and build long-term friendships. We are hoping that families will attend throughout and in particular that youth will participate in the Sunday morning program at Noor.
LOCATIONS:
Noor Cultural Centre:
123 Wynford Drive
416.444.7148
www.noorculturalcentre.ca
Just east of the DVP ramp, just west of Concord Place. We're easy to miss, so look out for the condo construction right next to us, and a bus stop and Noor sign just outside.
Temple Emanu-El:
120 Old Colony Rd. East
416.449.3880
www.templeemanuel.ca
Off Bayview at the end of Old Colony, south of the 401 & north of York Mills - about ½ way between.
PROGRAM:
FRIDAY NOV 21
Noor Cultural Centre - 1:00-3:00pm
- 1:00-1:15pm Tour of the Noor Cultural Centre
- 1:20pm Call to prayers
- 1.30-2.00pm Jum'a prayers -- sermon: "From Estrangement to Reunion and Beyond: rethinking the biblical/qur'anic record of Abraham and his sons."
- 2:00-3:00pm Refreshments & fellowship at the Noor.
Temple Emanu-El - 6:00pm
- 6:00pm Shabbat services at Emanu-El, followed by family dinner & shared song
SATURDAY NOV 22
Temple Emanu-El - 10:30am
- 10:30am Saturday morning service at Emanu-El. As on Friday at Noor, the sermon focused on the story of Abraham, but here specifically on the 2 women of the biblical narrative: Sarah and Hagar.
- 12:00 vegetarian potluck lunch.
SUNDAY NOV 23
Noor Cultural Centre - 9:30-11:30am
- 9:30 - 10:00 Breakfast & Fellowship
-10:00 - 10:30 Sacred Music
-10:30 - 11:00 Rabbi Debra and Dr. Timothy offer scholarly reflections on the "Religion of Abraham."
-11:00 - 12:00 Table D
iscussions + Abraham quiz gameLight Upon Light This Friday November 7
Friday November 7 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light
Topic: Core Paradoxes: freedom in servitude, wealth in poverty, life in death, gaining by spending, spiritual advancement through sin
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
Next scheduled date:
Friday December 5 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light, Topic: The World of the Unseen
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
In the Light of the Blessed Tree
We are in the process of constructing this as a resource centre to accompany the book.
Circle of Sacred Knowledge
Friday October 31, 2008
Circle of Sacred Knowledge
Today we begin our exploration of traditional sacred knowledge with a session devoted to the essence and attributes of God.
We welcome everyone to the next session on Friday November 28, from Noon to 1:00 pm.
The circle meets at the Noor Cultural Centre in the upstairs library/classroom space. We conclude well before the congregational (jum'ah) prayer service. While the texts and topics will come from the Islamic spiritual tradition, people from all faiths are invited to participate and stay for the Friday (jum'ah) prayer service which begins at 1:20 pm.
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Circle of Sacred Knowledge
Today we begin our exploration of traditional sacred knowledge with a session devoted to the essence and attributes of God.
We welcome everyone to the next session on Friday November 28, from Noon to 1:00 pm.
The circle meets at the Noor Cultural Centre in the upstairs library/classroom space. We conclude well before the congregational (jum'ah) prayer service. While the texts and topics will come from the Islamic spiritual tradition, people from all faiths are invited to participate and stay for the Friday (jum'ah) prayer service which begins at 1:20 pm.
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Light Upon Light
Friday November 7 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light, Topic: Paradoxes
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
Next scheduled date:
Friday December 5 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light, Topic: Extremes
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
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Light Upon Light, Topic: Paradoxes
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
Next scheduled date:
Friday December 5 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light, Topic: Extremes
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
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Upcoming Events
Friday October 31 at Noon
Circle of Sacred Knowledge
upper level classroom at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Dr. Timothy Gianotti will be hosting an open study session devoted to traditional texts of spiritual formation and sacred knowledge. This will take place in the upstairs library/classroom space of the Noor Cultural Centre from Noon until 1:00 pm, concluding well before the congregational (jum'ah) prayer service. While the texts and topics will come from the Islamic spiritual tradition, people from all faiths are invited to participate and stay for the Friday (jum'ah) prayer service which begins at 1:20 pm.
This is a drop-in format, no fess, no registration required.
Friday November 7 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
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Circle of Sacred Knowledge
upper level classroom at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Dr. Timothy Gianotti will be hosting an open study session devoted to traditional texts of spiritual formation and sacred knowledge. This will take place in the upstairs library/classroom space of the Noor Cultural Centre from Noon until 1:00 pm, concluding well before the congregational (jum'ah) prayer service. While the texts and topics will come from the Islamic spiritual tradition, people from all faiths are invited to participate and stay for the Friday (jum'ah) prayer service which begins at 1:20 pm.
This is a drop-in format, no fess, no registration required.
Friday November 7 at 7:30 pm
Light Upon Light
lower level at the Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
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Light Upon Light 2009 Schedule Announced
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series
2009 Schedule
Time: 7:30pm
Location: Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
Save these 2009 dates in your calendar. We will announce topics on this website closer to the date.
Fri. January 9, 7:30pm
Fri. February 6, 7:30pm
Fri. March 6, 7:30 pm
Fri. April 3, 7:30 pm
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
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2009 Schedule
Time: 7:30pm
Location: Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
Save these 2009 dates in your calendar. We will announce topics on this website closer to the date.
Fri. January 9, 7:30pm
Fri. February 6, 7:30pm
Fri. March 6, 7:30 pm
Fri. April 3, 7:30 pm
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
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Light Upon Light Resumes Fall 2008
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series begins
Friday October 3, 2008.
Time: 7:30pm
Topic: The Importance of Seeking Solitude
Location: Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
Save these dates in your calendar. We will announce topics on this website closer to the date.
Fri. November 7, 7:30pm
Fri. December 5, 7:30pm
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Friday October 3, 2008.
Time: 7:30pm
Topic: The Importance of Seeking Solitude
Location: Noor Cultural Centre, 123 Wynford Drive map
Light Upon Light Spirituality Discussion Series features a variety of spiritually nourishing subjects. This is an inclusive space where participants of all faiths actively contribute in a manner that is respectful to all.
This series is led by Dr. Timothy Gianotti
2008-2009 Noor Fellow in Islamic Studies, York University
2007-2008 Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, York University
Light refreshments will be served. Admittance is $5.
Save these dates in your calendar. We will announce topics on this website closer to the date.
Fri. November 7, 7:30pm
Fri. December 5, 7:30pm
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Eid Mubarak!
We wish a blessed 'Id al-Fitr (feast of breaking fast) to all our friends everywhere. May God accept your prayers, fasting of all kinds, all your good deeds, and all your noble intentions! As we embark upon a new chapter of life from this moment, may the path before us be better than what is behind, and may we better reflect the Divine qualities of mercy, love, justice, forgiveness, and unity throughout this troubled world.
Our warm greetings and heart-felt prayers go out to the Jewish community as they celebrate the "Days of Awe" or "High Holidays" that began with Rosh Hashanah, signalled by the same new moon that marked the Islamic feast we are celebrating. May you have a good, happy and wholesome new year, and may you be inscribed in the Book of Life!
Warm greetings and heart-felt prayers of peace, God's mercy and blessings go out to each and every one of you.
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Our warm greetings and heart-felt prayers go out to the Jewish community as they celebrate the "Days of Awe" or "High Holidays" that began with Rosh Hashanah, signalled by the same new moon that marked the Islamic feast we are celebrating. May you have a good, happy and wholesome new year, and may you be inscribed in the Book of Life!
Warm greetings and heart-felt prayers of peace, God's mercy and blessings go out to each and every one of you.
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Circle of Sacred Knowledge
On the last Friday of each month Dr. Timothy Gianotti will be hosting an open study session devoted to traditional texts of spiritual formation and sacred knowledge. This will take place in the upstairs library/classroom space of the Noor Cultural Centre from Noon until 1:00 pm, concluding well before the congregational (jum'ah) prayer service. While the texts and topics will come from the Islamic spiritual tradition, people from all faiths are invited to participate and stay for the Friday (jum'ah) prayer service which begins at 1:20 pm.
The first three session dates are: Friday October 31, Friday November 28 and Friday January 30, 2009. Time: Noon to 1 PM
We will continue to update this site. For more information email us here.
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The first three session dates are: Friday October 31, Friday November 28 and Friday January 30, 2009. Time: Noon to 1 PM
We will continue to update this site. For more information email us here.
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Dr. Timothy J. Gianotti Biography
Dr. Timothy J. Gianotti is an asscoiate professor of Arabic & Islamic Studies at Renison University College, University of Waterloo, Canada. Prior to joining the faculty at Renison, he served as the Director of Islamic Studies at the American Islamic College (AIC) in Chicago, where he oversaw the students and faculty in AIC's three degree programs (BA, MA, and MDIS - Master of Divinity in Islamic Studies), in addition to teaching at all levels and managing the accreditation portfolio as the chief academic officer. He is also the Founder, Director, and Principal Teacher of the Islamic Institute for Spiritual Formation (IISF) in Toronto.
Holding a B.A. (1988) from the University of Notre Dame (Great Books, Classics), his M.A. (1990) from the University of Toronto (Islamic Intellectual History, Arabic language & literature), and his Ph.D. (1998) also from the University of Toronto (classical Islamic Philosophy & Theology), his undergraduate and graduate studies included several periods of residence in the West Bank and Jordan, where he studied literary Arabic, Islamic History, the traditional Islamic religious sciences, and various topics in Christian and Jewish thought.
Holding a B.A. (1988) from the University of Notre Dame (Great Books, Classics), his M.A. (1990) from the University of Toronto (Islamic Intellectual History, Arabic language & literature), and his Ph.D. (1998) also from the University of Toronto (classical Islamic Philosophy & Theology), his undergraduate and graduate studies included several periods of residence in the West Bank and Jordan, where he studied literary Arabic, Islamic History, the traditional Islamic religious sciences, and various topics in Christian and Jewish thought.
His scholarly research and writing reflect a fascination with the soul, especially as understood by the classical Islamic philosophical, theological, and spiritual traditions. Because this study of the soul naturally leads to the larger “worlds” of the state, the cosmos, and, ultimately, the Hereafter, the arenas of ethics, moral theology, spiritual formation, politics, and eschatology all factor into his preoccupation with human nature. More generally, Dr. Gianotti's teaching and interests span the fields of Islamic spirituality, Islamic theology, Islamic ethics and political thought, medieval Islamic and Jewish philosophy, mysticism within the Abrahamic traditions, Qur'anic interpretation, and the language and imagery of war within Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
He is the author of Al-Ghazali’s Unspeakable Doctrine of the Soul (Leiden: E.J. Brill, 2001) and In the Light of a Blessed Tree: Illuminations of Islamic Belief, Practice, and History (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2011), in addition to an array of articles, book chapters, and theological essays. He is also at work on a new scholarly book with the working title, Walking the Way of the Afterlife: al-Ghazālī on the Jurisprudence of the Heart (fiqh al-qalb). Based largely on al-Ghazālī’s compendium, Reviving Religious Knowledge, this new project explores the inner processes of moral education and character formation within a traditional Islamic framework.
Also a former York-Noor Chair of Islamic Studies, he has served on the Religious Studies faculties of York University (Toronto), the University of Virginia, the University of Oregon, and Penn State University.
Community Feedback
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Community Office Hours
Community Office hours for March 2009 have not yet been set. To request a meeting with Brother Timothy please email us here.
In February 2009 Dr. Timothy Gianotti will be keeping the following community office hours at the Noor Cultural Centre:
Wednesday January 28, 1:30-4 pm
Thursday February 5, 1 pm to 3 pm
Thursday February 12, 1 pm to 3 pm
Timothy will not be in his office on February 19, 2009.
Thursday February 26, 1 pm to 3 pm
You are welcome to drop by for a visit with Timothy. If you have a special need for a more private meeting, please contact us to schedule an appointment.
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In February 2009 Dr. Timothy Gianotti will be keeping the following community office hours at the Noor Cultural Centre:
Wednesday January 28, 1:30-4 pm
Thursday February 5, 1 pm to 3 pm
Thursday February 12, 1 pm to 3 pm
Timothy will not be in his office on February 19, 2009.
Thursday February 26, 1 pm to 3 pm
You are welcome to drop by for a visit with Timothy. If you have a special need for a more private meeting, please contact us to schedule an appointment.
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Islamic Illuminations - About Us
Islamic Illuminations is one of the primary websites through which Dr. Timothy Gianotti reaches out to the broader community. We encourage you to browse freely. By staying tuned to this site, you can keep up to date on Timothy's public speaking engagements, his khutbah schedule acoss the Greater Toronto Area, his public service courses, community office hours, and the study circles, spirituality discussions, and retreats he facilitates.
Islamic Illuminations also represents the somewhat informal organization through which Timothy and the team of luminous souls who volunteer with him bring educational programming and spiritual work to the wider community.
If you have any questions or inquiries or would like to get involved in the work, please email us by clicking here.
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Islamic Illuminations also represents the somewhat informal organization through which Timothy and the team of luminous souls who volunteer with him bring educational programming and spiritual work to the wider community.
If you have any questions or inquiries or would like to get involved in the work, please email us by clicking here.
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Dr. Laury Silvers - Biography
Laury Silvers is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department for the Study of Religion at University of Toronto for the 2008-2010 academic years. Her scholarship focuses on Islam in the Formative Period in particular Sufism, Sufi Metaphysics, and Gender. Her book, A Soaring Minaret: Abu Bakr al-Wasiti and the Rise of Baghdadi Sufism will be published by SUNY Press in 2009. She is preparing a second book, Simply Good Women: Gender in Early Piety and Sufism. In addition to her scholarly work, Silvers writes on ethical and theological matters in Progressive Islam and is active in the Shared Authority Movement in Islam.
Islam & The Environment
February 2008
"Nature as a Sacred Text: A Qur'ānic Introduction to the Majesty and Mystery of the Natural World;" "Rethinking the Caliphate: A Qur'ānic Illumination of Human Responsibility Toward the Environment;" and "Healing the Divorce of the Human Sphere and the Biosphere: Toward an Islamic Theology for the Survival of the Planet and the Human Family," invited public/academic talks for "Islam and the Environment: Confronting a Global Problem by Developing the Proper Virtues of a Muslim," a symposium sponsored by the Muslim Students Association at the University of Winnipeg, February 17, 2008.
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