Whatever their culture, Muslims have never been content with a passive separation of faith from their daily lives, whether public or private. Scripture itself, as the Prophet Muhammad knew, is ever seen through a cultural lens, as both language and what it communicates are intimately tied to context. 

The cosmopolitanism that runs through Muslim history recalls T. S. Eliot’s comment describing culture as “that which makes life worth living.” Culture frames how the deepest religious values are understood and practiced, from modesty in adornment and solidarity with the underprivileged, to integrity and accountability in political life.

In this afternoon conversation, MFAH curator Christine Starkman interviews scholar Amyn B. Sajoo about the implications of the Muslim holistic view of faith and culture in a world in which secular and Muslim identities seem locked in conflict, and how those implications are expressed in works of contemporary art. A reception and book signing follow.

Tickets are required for this lecture. To secure your seats, buy your tickets in advance! Tickets are available online (printer required to print out ticket), by phone at 713.639.7771, or at any admissions desk at the MFAH. Please e-mail lectures@mfah.org with any questions.

Please e-mail lectures@mfah.org or call 713.639.7771 with questions about tickets.
 

Generously cosponsored by His Highness Prince Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for the Southwestern United States and the Institute of Ismaili Studies (London, UK).