Call for Papers – Islamic Colloquia of Edinburgh (ICE)

Submission Deadline: March 28 2025 (Friday) 

Abstract Decisions: Early April 2025 

Conference Dates: First week of July 2025 (Tentative)

We are pleased to announce the first annual online conference of the Islamic Colloquiums of Edinburgh (ICE), hosted by the University of Edinburgh. ICE is dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and research on Islamic Theology, Philosophy, and the relationship between Islam and Science. As an annual platform for scholars and students worldwide, ICE aims to explore key questions and topics that contribute to the advancement of Islamic thought.

The theme for this year’s conference is Miracles in Islam. Miracles have played a pivotal role in Islamic theology and philosophy, shaping perspectives on divine intervention, prophecy, and the relationship between faith and reason. The four-day conference will be structured around the following thematic areas, with each theme having a dedicated day:

1. Miracles in Islamic History 

   This session invites papers that explore how miracles have been understood and interpreted throughout Islamic history. Topics may include classical theological and philosophical discussions, as well as the influence of different Islamic thinkers and schools on the understanding of miracles.

2. Miracles in the Modern World 

   This theme focuses on miracles in light of developments in modern philosophy and science. Submissions may examine contemporary reflections on miracles and how modern insights have influenced or could influence Islamic theological discussions on the topic.

3. ʾIʿjāz al-Qurʾān: The Inimitability of the Qurʾān 

   This segment focuses on the doctrine of ʾiʿjāz, the inimitability of the Qurʾān, which asserts the Qurʾān's miraculous linguistic and literary excellence. Submissions may address its historical development, theological dimensions, and the critical reception and challenges it has faced both within and outside Islamic discourse.

4. Scientific Miracles in the Qurʾān 

   This session explores the modern discourse on ‘scientific miracles’ in the Qurʾān, a phenomenon which claims that many modern scientific discoveries were prefigured in the Qurʾānic text. We welcome papers that critically analyse the origins, theological implications, and academic controversies surrounding this perspective.

• Sign-ups for the conference can be completed through the corresponding Google Form.
• Abstracts should be 300 words or less.
• Please indicate which of the four thematic areas you are applying for.
• Submissions must be sent by Friday, March 28th, 2025.
• Decisions on abstracts will be communicated in early April 2025.

• This conference is in collaboration with the Ibn ʿAshur Centre for Quranic Studies.
• Selected papers will be considered for publication after the conference. However, acceptance to present at the conference does not guarantee acceptance for publication.

For any questions, please get in touch with Dr. Shoaib Ahmed Malik via email: shoaib.malik@ed.ac.uk.

We look forward to your contributions to what promises to be an enriching and thought-provoking conference!