Middle East Studies Lecture Series: Irfan A. Omar

Al-Khidr is uniquely placed in the Qur’an as a figure who at once unites and divides. His memorials are found in every corner of the globe, but he is also seen as “immortal”–someone who has not “tasted” death. He attests to the idea of unity of knowability yet differentiates between forms of knowledge (esoteric and exoteric). This talk will seek to identify what connects the many sides of this enigmatic figure enigmatic figure who is revered in many Muslim cultures around the world.