*Related Event on Shi'ism* - Ismaili Studies Conference: The State of the Field

This conference is intended to take stock of the field of Ismaili studies in terms of a broad range of themes from history, literature, philosophy and the intellectual traditions of Ismailis, to topics on contemporary Ismailism. It will also be an opportunity to showcase the contributions of The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) to this field since its establishment in 1977, including the publications of the IIS and its various research units.

Contemporary scholarly works, mainly spearheaded by the IIS, have been instrumental in correcting misinformation and myths and raising awareness about Ismailis not only in terms of historical sources but also with regard to philosophical, social, political and broader civilisational aspects of the life of Ismailis throughout history. The growth of modern Ismaili studies and the creation of an institution dedicated to this field has placed this discipline of scholarly research on the academic map, uncovering many areas, which are now increasingly studied in an interdisciplinary manner by students and scholars alike.

In this conference, a variety of scholars from different disciplines are presenting papers in eleven themed panels in order to stimulate further discussions and deliberations on Ismaili studies. This conference is intended to reflect some of these developments.

For more information and registration see here.

Image credit: Opening of Kitāb al-Majālis wa’l-musāyarāt (The Book of Sessions and Excursions) by al-Qadi al-Nuʿman (d. 363/974). This manuscript was copied in 1355/1966. Courtesy Ismaili Special Collections Unit (ISCU), MS 541 (Ar).