The Archbishop of Canterbury has conferred the Hubert Walter Award for Reconciliation and Interfaith Cooperation on Professor Mona Siddiqui. Professor Siddiqui is Professor of Islamic and Interreligious Studies at the School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh. The presentation took place at Lambeth Palace, 4 April 2019, followed by Evening Prayers in the Archbishop’s Chapel. The Archbishop, The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby, has described Professor Siddiqui as “one of the UK’s most eloquent and articulate advocates for interfaith dialogue and a most cogent commentator on current affairs, religion and public life.” Professor Siddiqui says, "It’s an honour and very humbling to receive such a significant award. While I don't see myself as a campaigner or catalyst for interfaith reconciliation, I hope that my academic and public discussions around Islam and Christianity, and religion and ethics more broadly, help people of all backgrounds to find a greater and more nuanced understanding of some of the most pressing social and political issues today.” About the award The Hubert Walter Award for Reconciliation and Interfaith Cooperation was first awarded by Archbishop Justin Welby in March 2016. It is named after Hubert Walter, Archbishop of Canterbury from 1193 to 1205, who had dialogue with non-Christians at a time of inter-faith conflict. Professor Siddiqui In 2011 Professor Siddiqui became first person to hold a chair in Islamic and Interreligious Studies when she joined the University of Edinburgh. Her research is primarily in the field of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) and ethics and Christian-Muslim relations. Her books on aspects of Islamic thought and Christian-Muslim relations include The Good Muslim: Reflections on classical Islamic law and theology, Christians, Muslims and Jesus and Hospitality in Islam: Welcoming in God’s name. A personal and theological reflection, My Way: A Muslim woman's journey, is based on her own experience. A regular commentator in the media, known especially for her appearances on BBC Radio 4 and BBC Radio Scotland’s Thought for the Day, she is much in demand nationally and internationally for her measured and intelligent insights into events. In 2016 Professor Siddiqui was invited by the Home Office to lead an independent review of shari`a councils in the UK. She is a visiting professor at several universities and the recipient of numerous research awards. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, she holds six honorary doctorates and an honorary fellowship of the Royal Society of Scottish Architects, for her contributions to public life. In 2011, she was appointed OBE for her services to interfaith relations. Links Lambeth Palace press release Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby The Archbishop’s awards Professor Siddiqui’s web profile This article was published on 2024-03-19
