The Art of Poiesis: Crafting a Progressive Muslim Thought

By Adis Duderija, New Age Islam 19 December 2024 In an age marked by rapid change and complexity, the need for a dynamic and responsive form of thought within the Muslim community has never been more pressing. As articulated by contemporary scholar Ebrahim Moosa, the central task of progressive Muslim thought is to engage in poiesis—a multifaceted process that encompasses creativity, critical thinking, and the imaginative remaking of tradition. This concept challenges us to rethink the role of Islamic scholarship and community engagement in addressing the myriad of ethical dilemmas and existential questions faced by Muslims today. Understanding Poiesis Moosa’s definition of poiesis is rich and varied. As discussed in detail in my bookhe describes it as: - Creativity of an existential threshold position (Dihliz), which allows individuals to engage in critical and creative thinking. - The craft of imagination and inventive making, emphasizing the importance of creativity in reshaping understandings of tradition. - Discursive bricolage, a term that suggests a playful and innovative approach to combining ideas and practices. - The art of doing and reflecting, indicating that action and contemplation must go hand in hand. - The creative and imaginative remaking of tradition, highlighting the necessity of reinterpreting inherited beliefs in light of contemporary realities. This multifaceted understanding of poiesis underscores its significance as a vital process for contemporary Muslim thought. It is not merely about dismantling existing frameworks; rather, it involves the construction of new, emergent knowledge that can address the complex realities of modern life. The Challenge of Deconstruction While many contemporary philosophical movements emphasize deconstruction—an analytical approach aimed at breaking down established narratives and structures—Moosa’s vision transcends this. In contrast to radical postmodernism's often sceptical stance, which can lead to nihilism or paralysis in action, poiesis advocates for a proactive engagement with tradition that is emblematic of progressive Muslim thought/progressive Islam. It embraces creativity as a means of not only critiquing but also reconstructing the frameworks within which Muslims operate. The Process of Poiesis Engaging in poiesis involves several key processes that can help navigate the complexities of contemporary life: 1. Critical Reflection: This entails a deep engagement with both tradition and contemporary realities. Scholars and community members alike must reflect on their beliefs, questioning assumptions and biases that may hinder progress. This process encourages a critical evaluation of how tradition informs current practices and how these practices can be reimagined. 2. Creative Imagination: The act of envisioning new possibilities is central to poiesis. This involves not just reinterpreting texts but also rethinking practices, rituals, and community structures. The creativity inherent in poiesis allows Muslims to explore diverse expressions of faith that resonate with their lived experiences. 3. Collaborative Engagement: Poiesis thrives on dialogue and collaboration. Engaging with diverse voices—scholars, activists, and community members—fosters a richer understanding of the complexities at play. This collaborative approach encourages the sharing of ideas and practices, leading to innovative solutions that draw from a wide array of perspectives. 4. Practical Application: Theoretical insights must translate into action. Engagement in poiesis involves applying creative and critical insights to real-world issues, whether through community initiatives, educational programs, or advocacy efforts. The focus on practical outcomes ensures that the work being done is not merely academic but has tangible benefits for communities. The Role of Education Education plays a pivotal role in facilitating poiesis. It is essential for cultivating critical thinking skills and fostering creativity among the younger generation. Islamic educational institutions must embrace a pedagogical approach that encourages inquiry, dialogue, and imaginative engagement with tradition. 1. Curricula Redesign: Educational programs should be redesigned to include critical studies of Islamic texts alongside contemporary issues. This interdisciplinary approach can empower students to engage with their faith dynamically, equipping them with the tools to navigate the complexities of modern life. One such example can be found here. 2. Encouraging Innovation: Students should be encouraged to think outside the box and propose new interpretations and practices that align with their values and experiences. This can be facilitated through projects, workshops, and community engagement initiatives that emphasize creativity and collaboration. 3. Mentorship and Support: Providing mentorship opportunities for young scholars and activists can foster a supportive environment for poiesis. Experienced mentors can guide emerging voices, encouraging them to explore new ideas and approaches while remaining rooted in their traditions. The Future of Progressive Muslim Thought The task of engaging in poiesis is not just an intellectual exercise; it is an imperative for the survival and flourishing of (critical-progressive)Muslim thought. As Muslim communities face unprecedented challenges, the ability to innovate and adapt becomes crucial. 1. Building Resilience: Through poiesis, Muslim communities can build resilience against the forces of extremism, intolerance, and dogmatism. By fostering a culture of creativity and critical engagement, communities can develop a more robust and inclusive understanding of their faith. 2. Creating New Narratives: The narratives that shape Muslim identity must evolve to reflect contemporary realities. Poiesis allows for the crafting of narratives that honor tradition while also embracing diversity and change. This re-narration can empower individuals to see themselves as active participants in the ongoing story of their faith. 3. Global Solidarity: In a world increasingly marked by division and conflict, poiesis promotes a vision of global solidarity among Muslims and between different faith communities. Engaging creatively with shared values can foster understanding and collaboration, leading to collective action on issues of mutual concern. Ebrahim Moosa's concept of poiesis presents a compelling framework for rethinking contemporary Muslim thought. By emphasizing creativity, critical engagement, and the imaginative remaking of tradition as key features of progressive Muslim thought, poiesis empowers individuals and communities to navigate the complexities of modern life. As Muslims confront an array of ethical dilemmas and existential questions, the call to engage in poiesis is both timely and necessary. It challenges us to honour our traditions while also embracing the creativity and imagination required to forge a path forward. In doing so, we can cultivate a progressive Muslim thoughtthat is dynamic, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our communities and the world at large. ------ Checkout Dr. Adis Duderija’s personal website at: https://dradisduderija.com/ A decades old patron of New Age Islam, Dr Adis Duderija is a Senior Lecturer in the Study of Islam and Society, School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science; Senior Fellow Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, Griffith University | Nathan | Queensland | Australia. His forthcoming books are (co-edited) - Shame, Modesty, and Honour in Islam and Interfaith Engagement beyond the Divide (Springer) URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-society/art-poiesis-crafting-progressive-muslim/d/134070 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism