A Devotional Qur'an - An Interview with Shawkat Toorawa

A Devotional Qur'an - An Interview with Shawkat Toorawa

Author: Younus Y. Mirza June 27, 2025 Duration: 54:43
When I started writing my book The Islamic Mary: Maryam Through the Centuries, I was drawn to the Qur'anic chapter of Mary or Surat Maryam. As I started to research the chapter, I came across the work of Shawkat Toorawa who focuses on the sound, rhyme and rhythm of the Qur'an and points out some of Surat Maryam's unique qualities and characteristics. I was thus excited to see that he has come out with a new book entitled The Devotional Qur'an which translates key chapters and vers...

In The Islamic Mary, Younus Y. Mirza guides us through a nuanced exploration of Maryam, a figure revered across faiths yet understood in uniquely profound ways within Islam. This isn't a lecture series, but a thoughtful conversation that delves into her significant presence in the Qur'an and the rich tapestry of Islamic tradition that has contemplated her life and meaning for centuries. The discussions naturally extend into the vital realm of Christian-Muslim relations, using Maryam as a focal point for understanding shared heritage and respectful dialogue. Mirza frames this podcast as an intellectual and spiritual journey, one that intertwines with his own scholarly work on a forthcoming book. Listeners will find themselves immersed in episodes that examine Biblical and Qur'anic figures, drawing connections and distinctions through the lens of Interreligious Studies. The result is a deeply engaging series that appeals to anyone curious about spirituality, comparative religion, or the powerful stories that shape our world. By focusing on this singular, pivotal woman, the podcast opens up expansive questions about faith, history, and the possibilities for mutual understanding.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 95

The Islamic Mary
Podcast Episodes
Reflection on Season 1 of the Islamic Mary Podcast [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:02
I reflect on season 1 of the Islamic Mary podcast, from commenting on the verses on Maryam, to doing reflections on my travels, to interviewing special guests. I also speak about the future which will focus on the unique…
Maryam and Divine Questioning [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:12
Once Maryam is told that she will give birth to Jesus/'Isa, she asks a question: "How can this be?" Her question is part of a Qur'anic theme where righteous figures, such as Abraham/Ibrahim, seek to understand the divine…
Discussion with the Editor at Fortress Press [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:41
I spoke to my editor and my book the Islamic Mary should come out in Fall 2025! In this episode, I share my discussion with the publisher, read an excerpt from the epilogue and discuss how Maryam has been a guide to me i…
Maryam and Jesus [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:53
After Maryam's birth and miracles, the Qur'an finally speaks about the birth of Jesus/'Isa. Jesus/'Isa is considered to be a "glad tiding" and blessing and his birth parallels with that of John/Yahya. The Qur'an makes an…
Maryam and Intimacy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:11
I speak about how the Qur'an speaks directly to Maryam as well as other Qur'anic women and addresses their hopes, aspirations and fears. The direct communication leads to the discussion of the importance of intimacy with…
Reflection on the Building Bridges Seminar [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:27
I speak about my experience at the Building Bridges Seminar, a special initiative on Christian-Muslim relations. I share how the Seminar focuses on relationships, scripture and tradition and could potentially create new…