Programme Overview
Fakhr al-Din al-Razi (d. 606/1210) authored one of the most significant classical works in Islamic philosophical theology on God’s relation to space and body, as well as the interpretation of anthropomorphic scriptural texts. This programme undertakes a close, sequential reading of Taʾsis al-taqdis (Establishing Sanctification), beginning with the opening sections of the text and proceeding carefully through its arguments.

Conducted in English, the course combines close reading of the Arabic text with an accompanying English translation, while situating al-Razi’s arguments within their broader theological and philosophical context. This includes relevant strands of Avicennan philosophy, the Karrami and Hanbali spatialist doctrines that al-Razi explicitly refutes, and later responses to Taʾsis al-taqdis, particularly those of Ibn Taymiyya, in order to clarify the contours of the debate.

The Arabic text and English translation are drawn from Professor Hoover’s critical edition and translation (in progress), which will be provided to participants in stages over the course of the programme.

Course Content

The programme proceeds sequentially through Taʾsis al-taqdis. Students will:

• Read Taʾsis al-taqdis in Arabic alongside an English translation

• Examine al-Razi’s theological positions on divine transcendence, space, and corporeality

• Explore the intellectual and philosophical context of the work, including relevant strands of Avicennan philosophy

• Consider major responses to al-Razi’s arguments, especially those articulated by Ibn Taymiyya

• Gain familiarity with the theological positions al-Razi was explicitly refuting, including Karrami and Hanbali spatialist doctrines

While the primary focus remains on al-Razi’s text, opposing positions are introduced and explained as needed to ensure students grasp the wider theological landscape.

Textbook
Primary readings consist of Fakhr al-Din al-Razi’s Taʾsis al-taqdis, studied in Arabic alongside an English translation prepared by Professor Hoover. These materials will be provided incrementally throughout the programme.
No additional textbook purchase is required.

Day & Time
Saturdays, 8:00-9:30pm (UK time)

Delivery & Schedule
Taught Online | Commencing Saturday 18 April 2026. Sessions for this year will take place every six weeks on the following dates:

• Saturday 18 April

• Saturday 30 May

• Saturday 11 July

• Saturday 5 September

• Saturday 17 October

• Saturday 28 November

Fees and Financial Support

This programme does not require any fees and is offered as part of The Classical Institute’s commitment to serious classical education.

Admissions
Admission is open to applicants with a serious interest in theology, philosophy, and the history of ideas. Prior academic study of Islamic theology or philosophy is not required, though participants should be prepared for sustained reading and serious intellectual engagement.

Enrolment is required. Continued participation is contingent upon full attendance; failure to attend all sessions may result in withdrawal from the programme.

Professor
Professor Jon Hoover