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January 01, 1970

Meena Sharify-Funk

About Meena Sharify-Funk

Meena Sharify-Funk is an Associate Professor and former Chair for the Religion and Culture Department at Wilfrid Laurier University who specializes in Islamic studies with a focus on contemporary Islamic and Sufi thought and identity. She also is the mom of a beautiful 11 year-old child who consistently reminds her how to live a life of awe and wonder.  Sharify-Funk has written and presented a number of articles and papers on Islamic and Sufi hermeneutics, women and Islam and the role of cultural and religious factors in peacemaking. She has written, co-authored and co-edited several books including Contemporary Sufism: Piety, Politics and Popular Culture (2018), Unveiling Sufism: From Manhattan to Mecca (2017), Encountering the Transnational: Women, Islam, and the Politics of Interpretation (2008), Contemporary Islam: Dynamic, Not Static (2006) and Cultural Diversity and Islam (2003).  

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  2. I must say that Islam is a perfect religion and Ramadan is one of the holy months in Islam that is not only beneficial for us spiritually but also body wise. Happy Ramadan to Everyone!

  3. This blog on the “holy fool” character of Mullah Nasruddin is a captivating exploration of the intricate themes and cultural significance found within Islamic folklore. The author does an excellent job of illustrating how Nasruddin’s tales utilize humour and satire to critique societal norms, challenge assumptions, and prompt critical thinking.

    The inclusion of various anecdotes and examples truly brings Nasruddin’s character to life, showcasing his irreverent yet clever nature. I particularly appreciated how the author delved into different themes present in the stories, such as the “bazaar haggling mentality,” the critique of the Insha’Allah mentality, and Nasruddin’s challenges to rationalism. These themes not only provide insightful commentary on Islamic theology and philosophy but also serve as universal reflections on human behaviour and belief systems.

    The author’s approach of engaging students in group discussions and analysis of the themes and visual representations of Nasruddin adds an interactive element to the learning experience. By encouraging students to question assumptions and explore the deeper meanings behind the stories, the author fosters critical thinking and a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness embedded within the tales.

    The final story about Nasruddin searching for his lost key under the streetlamp is a perfect way to conclude the blog. It encapsulates the essence of Nasruddin’s character, using wit and irony to highlight the human tendency to focus on what is visible and convenient rather than addressing the root of the issue.

    Overall, this blog post provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of Mullah Nasruddin and the enduring appeal of his stories. It serves as a reminder that humour and satire can be powerful tools for social commentary and encourages readers to embrace deep questioning and laughter as essential elements of intellectual exploration. Well done!

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