Theology in Thirty-Six Dialogues (and Sixty Lessons)

“Theology in Thirty-Six Dialogues (and Sixty Lessons) makes Islamic theology accessible via creative translation and the clear articulation of complex ideas. Rumee Ahmed vividly renders Abu Yusr al-Pazdawi's foundational Hanafi-Maturidi text, guiding readers through essential questions on God, free will, the afterlife, and more. This engaging translation is a breath of fresh air that reveals the dynamic spirit of classical Muslim thought. Compelling reading for students and specialists alike.” -- Ebrahim Moosa, Mirza Family Professor of Islamic Thought and Muslim Societies, University of Notre Dame, author of What is a Madrasa? and Ghazali and the Poetics of Imagination
“Beautifully written, this book is a lively and engaging rendition of a challenging medieval text. Through al-Pazdawi’s dialectical imagination, Ahmed is able to tease out and showcase, in a wonderfully organic and natural manner, the rich diversity of the Islamic intellectual tradition, and when it was only five centuries old. This translation makes a lasting and unique contribution to the existing literature.” -- Shadaab Rahemtulla, Senior Lecturer in Islamic Studies, University of Edinburgh
“This is a timely and innovative work. Not only does it put forth a previously untranslated work, but Ahmed provides a new opening in how we think about and present translations. His introduction on its own is rich in contextual grounding, clearly cognizant of both the form and purpose of the source text. The range of topics covered is fascinating and compelling and this work truly constitutes a major contribution to research which will appeal to scholars and lay readers alike.” -- Sofia Rehman, Visiting Research Fellow, University of Leeds