Liberal Islamic Theology in Conservative Russia: Taufik Ibragim’s “Qurʾānic Humanism”

Abstract This article studies the work of Moscow-based Syrian academic scholar Taufik Ibragim. Originally a Marxist historian Islamic philosophy and kalām , after end ussr Ibragim became one Russia’s most authoritative scholars also Qurʾān tradition more broadly. Since mid-2000s, has publicly propagated concept “Qurʾānic humanism”, which is meant to demonstrate tolerance humanist character Islam in general, against extremism stagnation Muslim thought. In his opposition dominant political “traditionalism” landscape, links back heritage Tatar educational religious reformers (Jadids) late nineteenth early twentieth centuries. Without reference any other contemporary thinker, advocates reform adapt it conditions modern Russia. His interpretations appeal elite, as well Jadid-oriented muftiate Russian Federation ( dumrf ) Moscow, until recently Ibragim’s concepts vague that muftiates claim follow. But insistence on rational approach challenging authority ḥadīth have brought enmity many conservative muftis theologians Russia, reformism under increasing attack.