International Qur'an Conference, Will and Knowledge on June 23-24, 2023 in Berlin, Germany

n 23 and 24.6.2023, the Foundation for Islamic Studies (SIS) will host an international Qur'an conference. The theme of this conference this time is "Will and Knowledge". Since the human will is considered a central quality of man and also an expression of his freedom, it is a troubling question for man whether this will is actually free. For religious people, this raises important theological questions, such as the will and knowledge of God, the will and knowledge of man, and the relationship between man and God. An important role in this context, for example, is played by the questions of predestination or divine predestination.

The aim of this conference is to clarify the Qur'an's view on this topic and, if necessary, to find out which interpretations have been taken into account too little or not in order to develop new perspectives.

From the Koran, one can approach our topic from different perspectives. In terms of content, the relationship between the will and knowledge of God and the will and knowledge of man plays a decisive role in theology. According to the Qur'anic understanding, the will of God manifests itself in the will of man as a community. It is also of interest to what extent the knowledge of God is distinguished from the knowledge of man in the Koran. A mystical approach to our topic is e.g. made possible by the "doctrine of manifestation" – with the names and attributes of God listed in the Qur'an, one can get closer to the topic in this way. Philosophically, the questions of God's will and how the terms are to be understood can be dealt with. A historical-critical approach can examine the exchange of the Qur'an and the environment in the context of will and knowledge.

This online conference will be attended by renowned Qur'anic experts from all over the world.

As has been briefly outlined, we can approach the topic in several ways. Therefore, all scientists who can contribute to this interesting topic from their research work are cordially invited to give a lecture on it and exchange ideas with renowned colleagues.

If you are interested in a lecture, please send an email with some brief information about yourself, scientific career, and title to the following email address: [email protected]

If you are interested in the event and would like to follow it live – free of charge and without obligations – please register at the following email address: [email protected]