The 37th Dialogue: An Evening of Theology in Conversation
Join Professor Rumee Ahmed (University of British Columbia) for an interactive evening of theological discussion inspired by his new book, Theology in Thirty-Six Dialogues (and Sixty Lessons): A Cultural Translation of al-Pazdawi’s Kitāb Uṣūl al-Dīn, published by University of Toronto Press.
Al-Pazdawi taught theology through conversation rather than lecture, and the event follows his lead. Instead of a formal talk, the audience will take an active part in the discussion, working through some of the big questions at the heart of the book.
Event details
- Date: Wednesday 11 November 2026
- Time: 5–6.30pm
- Venue: Newlyn Seminar Room (GR.07), University of Leeds
Programme
- Opening dialogue (10 mins): Professor Ahmed and a guest perform a short dialogue from the book.
- Author in conversation (20 mins): A discussion with Professor Ahmed about the book and its approach.
- The audience as interlocutors (20–30 mins): In small groups, attendees take up a question drawn from the book’s lessons, such as “Can God be described in human language?” or “Does reason or revelation come first?” Each group then puts forward a position for Professor Ahmed to defend or challenge.
- Live disputation (20 mins): Professor Ahmed responds to the audience’s positions in real time, thinking aloud, conceding points and drawing distinctions.
- The 37th dialogue (10 mins): Together, the room drafts one new question that the book doesn’t ask.
The event is open to all. Everyone is welcome, whatever their views, and no prior knowledge is needed.
The book is open access, so anyone who would like a preview before the evening can read it free online.
