Lecture Notes: Neo-Traditionalism in Islam in the West

Introduction

• Discussion on the malaise of modernity and secularism's role.
• Critique of Islamism and progressive movements.
• Overview of the lecture's focus on neo-traditionalism among Western Muslims.

Guest Introduction

• Dr. Wallach Kise introduces his publication titled "Neo-Traditionalism in Islam in the West: Orthodoxy, Spirituality, and Politics."
• Importance of the book's design, created in collaboration with his artist sisters.
• Cover design symbolizes a fusion of tradition and modernity, relating to themes of the book.

Neo-Traditionalism: Definition and Context

• Defines neo-traditionalism as an intellectual movement among Western Muslims.
• Context of the emergence of neo-traditionalism, citing previous scholars' works.
• Personal journey of Dr. Kise starting from undergraduate studies in Istanbul.

Key Themes in the Book

Tradition vs. Modernity

• Focus on the ongoing discourse between traditional Islamic beliefs and modern challenges.
• Critique of radical responses to modern issues.

Emergence of Neo-Traditionalism

• Contributions of various scholars and their perspectives on tradition.
• Shift from traditionalism to neo-traditionalism in response to contemporary challenges.

Factors Contributing to Neo-Traditionalism's Rise

• Anti-intellectualism and the search for deeper spirituality following the rise of extremism.
• A generation seeking a more authentic Islamic identity.

The Role of Prominent Figures

• Discussed the influence of key scholars: Sheikh Hamza Yusuf, Abdul Hakim Murad, Sheikh Umar Farooq.
• Their contributions to shaping neo-traditionalist thought and responses to modernity.

Critique and Self-Reflection

• Need for self-critique within the neo-traditionalist movement to avoid repeating past mistakes.
• Importance of engaging with criticisms from various Islamic schools of thought.

Modernity and Disenchantment

• Max Weber's idea of disenchantment and its relevance for both Islamic and Western thought.
• Examination of how neo-traditionalists perceive modernity's impact on spirituality and community.

Spiritual Retreats

• Discussion on the phenomenon of spiritual retreats and their role in creating community outside modern influences.
• How retreats shape seekers' understanding of tradition and community.

Gender Perspectives

• Examination of the gender dynamics within neo-traditionalist circles.
• The impact of traditional gender roles and anti-feminist sentiments.

Future of Neo-Traditionalism

• Uncertainty about the movement’s future, particularly among younger generations.
• Discussion of the potential decline in interest from post-2000 youth.
• Need for further research into the broader implications of neo-traditionalism.

Conclusion

• Neo-traditionalism has not been extensively studied compared to other movements; calls for comparative studies with other religious trends.
• Dr. Kise is working on a new project regarding Islam and prisons, focusing on adaptation of religious practices in extreme contexts.
• Emphasizes the importance of understanding contemporary Muslim issues beyond stereotypes.