Ibn al-Arabi Foundation, its Publications, Current Projects, and Details

Shaykh al-Akbar Muhyiddin Ibn al-Arabi stands as a towering figure in the landscape of Islamic mysticism, his profound and intricate teachings having resonated across centuries. In contemporary times, the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation in Pakistan serves as a dedicated non-profit organization with the central aim of reviving and disseminating the rich intellectual heritage of this influential scholar . At the helm of this endeavor is Abrar Ahmed Shahi, a distinguished scholar who founded the institution with a vision to make Ibn al-Arabi’s complex works accessible to a wider audience. This report undertakes a deep research overview of the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation, exploring its history, mission, objectives, published works, ongoing projects, and providing detailed information regarding its founder, Abrar Ahmed Shahi.

Genesis

The genesis of the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation can be traced back to the 17th of Ramadan in the year 1428 according to the Islamic calendar, corresponding to 2007 in the Gregorian calendar . This date holds particular significance as it marks the birthday of Shaykh al-Akbar Muhyiddin Muhammad Ibn al-Arabi himself, underscoring the profound reverence and connection the founders held for the subject of their mission . The foundation was established through the collaborative efforts of two young individuals, Abrar Ahmed Shahi and Hamesh Malik . This initial partnership laid the groundwork for an organization that would become a pivotal center for Ibn al-Arabi studies in Pakistan and beyond.

Spiritual Guidence

A notable development in the foundation’s journey occurred in November 2015 when it began operating under the spiritual guidance of Shaykh Ahmad Muhammad Ali from Egypt . Shaykh Ahmad Muhammad Ali is recognized as a disciple of Shaykh al-Akbar Ibn al-Arabi and a leading figure in the contemporary Akbarian tradition within Egypt . This transition in spiritual leadership potentially introduced new perspectives and approaches to the foundation’s work, with the expectation that publications released after this period would reflect this new guidance . The foundation’s initial steps in disseminating Ibn al-Arabi’s teachings began in 2008 with a focus on translating his shorter works into Urdu . This early emphasis indicates an initial strategy to make the foundational concepts of Ibn al-Arabi accessible to the Urdu-speaking populace.

Objectives

The Ibn al-Arabi Foundation operates with a clearly defined mission, objectives, and vision that guide its multifaceted activities. Its central mission is the revitalization of the diverse sciences intricately associated with the teachings of Shaykh al-Akbar Ibn al-Arabi . This commitment to revival suggests a perceived need to re-emphasize and bring renewed attention to the depth and relevance of Ibn al-Arabi’s intellectual legacy in the contemporary world. To achieve this overarching mission, the foundation pursues several key objectives. A primary objective is the meticulous production of authentic and critically edited Arabic editions of Ibn al-Arabi’s extensive body of works . This involves a rigorous scholarly approach, utilizing the best available manuscript sources to ensure accuracy and reliability in the foundational texts . Complementary to this is the objective of translating these classic texts, primarily into contemporary and readily understandable Urdu . This focus on Urdu translations highlights a strategic decision to cater to a significant linguistic demographic, potentially bridging a gap in accessible resources for Urdu speakers interested in Ibn al-Arabi’s thought. Furthermore, the foundation aims to publish bilingual editions of these works, presenting the original Arabic text alongside the Urdu translation . This approach serves a dual purpose, facilitating study for those familiar with either language and enabling comparative analysis for researchers. The foundation’s broader vision extends to establishing a comprehensive platform within Pakistan dedicated entirely to the works and teachings of Muhyiddin Ibn al-‘Arabi . This ambitious vision includes the development of a resource center and library, envisioned as a valuable asset for both established scholars and individuals newly drawn to Ibn al-Arabi’s universal ideas . Recognizing the importance of education and outreach, the foundation also intends to offer courses and workshops centered on the various sciences associated with Ibn al-Arabi’s teachings . This educational component aims to introduce and familiarize individuals with his profound concepts, thereby fostering a deeper understanding and broader awareness of his intellectual contributions . The foundation also aspires to spread awareness of Ibn al-Arabi’s teachings to a wider global audience . Recognizing the interconnectedness of scholarship and the potential for synergistic efforts, the foundation seeks to actively collaborate with international organizations that share a similar vision and mission . This collaborative approach aims to amplify the impact of their work and contribute to a more comprehensive global understanding of Ibn al-Arabi’s thought. In line with contemporary trends in knowledge dissemination, the foundation also envisions making authentic reading materials and other relevant resources available on its website as a waqf ‘amm, a religious endowment for public benefit . This initiative reflects a commitment to building a community of individuals interested in Ibn al-Arabi’s sciences by providing free and easily accessible resources.

Publications

Since its inception, the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to its objectives, resulting in a substantial body of published works. To date, the foundation has successfully edited and translated more than 35 books and shorter treatises (rasā’il) of Shaykh al-Akbar Ibn al-Arabi . Of these, over 20 have been published in the form of bilingual editions, presenting the original Arabic text alongside a contemporary Urdu translation . This significant output in a relatively short period underscores the dedication and efficiency of the foundation’s team. Examples of notable publications include critical editions and Urdu translations of significant works such as Malfuzat Ibn al-Arabi (a collection of Ibn al-Arabi’s sayings), Fusus al-Hikam (The Bezels of Wisdom), and Anqa Mughrib (The Most Inaccessible Phoenix) . These titles represent core texts within the Akbarian tradition, and their availability in meticulously prepared bilingual editions is a valuable contribution to the field. Recognizing the needs of modern scholarship, the foundation has also introduced an initiative to sell Arabic critical editions of all its published books in a searchable PDF format . This allows scholars worldwide to access these high-quality resources instantly, overcoming geographical barriers and facilitating in-depth textual analysis . The foundation operates the Ibn al-Arabi Bookstore, which it claims to be the only bookstore in Pakistan dedicated to offering quality books specifically on Ibn al-Arabi and Sufism . This bookstore serves as a central hub for individuals seeking resources related to Ibn al-Arabi’s teachings. The bookstore offers a selection of titles in both Urdu and English, catering to a diverse readership . Furthermore, the foundation provides worldwide delivery services for its publications, ensuring that these valuable resources can reach interested individuals regardless of their location . One specific publication, Mawaqi al-Nujum (The Locations of the Stars), is available in an Arabic and Urdu format . The Rasail Ibn al-Arabi (Treatises of Ibn al-Arabi) have been published in four volumes, featuring critical Arabic editions and Urdu translations by Abrar Ahmed Shahi . These volumes collectively contain eleven shorter works by Ibn al-Arabi, each meticulously edited and translated, representing a significant contribution to the accessibility of his lesser-known writings . The foundation’s online shop further showcases the range of their publications, including different editions of Fusus al Hikam, Kitab al-Isra (The Book of Nocturnal Journey), Anqa Mughrib, and Ma’arif o Malfuzat Ibn al-Arabi . Notably, the online shop also indicates a need for donations towards the publication of “Kitab al-Tajalliyat” (The Book of Divine Manifestations) by Ibn al-Arabi, highlighting the ongoing nature of their publishing endeavors and their reliance on community support . Additionally, “Rooh Al Quds” (The Spirit of Holiness) by Ibn Arabi, edited by Abrar Ahmed Shahi, is available on the Internet Archive, indicating another avenue through which their publications are being disseminated . A list on Goodreads titled “Ibn al-Arabi Foundation’s publications” further confirms the foundation’s active role in publishing works related to Ibn al-Arabi .

Activities

The Ibn al-Arabi Foundation is actively engaged in several ongoing projects and maintains a vibrant schedule of activities aimed at furthering the understanding of Ibn al-Arabi’s teachings. Currently, a major undertaking is the first-ever complete Urdu translation of Ibn al-Arabi’s monumental work, Futuhat al-Makkiyya (The Meccan Revelations) . This ambitious project signifies a significant commitment to making this seminal text, renowned for its vast scope and profound insights, accessible to the Urdu-speaking world in its entirety . Recognizing the scale and complexity of this endeavor, the foundation has explicitly stated its need for funding to bring this project to fruition . This reliance on external financial support underscores the non-profit nature of the organization and the importance of community contributions in facilitating its scholarly activities. Beyond this major translation project, the foundation organizes weekly gatherings known as “Ibn al-Arabi Baithak” . These sessions serve as a regular platform for individuals to come together and learn about the various aspects of Ibn al-Arabi’s teachings through lectures and discussions . The foundation also maintains an active presence on YouTube through its dedicated channel, “Ibn al-Arabi Foundation” . This channel features a growing collection of lectures and discussions on Ibn al-Arabi’s works, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to learn more about his philosophy and mysticism . A backup YouTube channel named “Ibn al-Arabi Baithak” further expands their online reach . The term “Ibn al-Arabi Study Circle” also appears in connection with their YouTube activities, suggesting a community-driven aspect to their online learning initiatives . While an event mentioned on the Ibn Arabi Society’s website relates to Ibn al-Arabi, it is distinct from the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation’s activities, highlighting the broader international interest in the subject . The “Our News” section on the foundation’s official website indicates a continuous flow of updates and announcements regarding their ongoing activities and new developments .

Founder Abrar Ahmed Shahi

Abrar Ahmed Shahi stands as the distinguished scholar and the driving force behind the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation, having founded the organization with a deep commitment to the legacy of Shaykh al-Akbar Muhyiddīn Ibn al-Arabi . His contributions to the field of Islamic studies are particularly notable in the realm of translating and editing the intricate works of Ibn al-Arabi . Shahi’s scholarly focus lies primarily on producing critical editions of Ibn al-Arabi’s writings, complemented by comprehensive Urdu translations and insightful critical analyses . His dedication has resulted in the successful editing and publication of numerous significant works, including “Kitāb al-Isfar ‘an Natā’ij al-Asfār” (The Book of Unveiling of the Results of Travels), “Rūḥ al-quds fī munāṣaḥat al-nafs” (The Holy Spirit in the Counseling of the Soul), and “K. Mukhtaṣar al-durrat al-fākhira” (The Concise Book of the Precious Pearl) . These editions are highly valued for their scholarly rigor and their accessibility to the Urdu-speaking audience.

In addition to his editing work, Shahi has translated a variety of other key texts from Arabic into Urdu, significantly enriching the understanding of Islamic mysticism and philosophy within the Urdu-speaking world . These translations include “Rasā’il Ibn al-Arabi” (The Treatises of Ibn al-Arabi), “Tadbīrāt al-Ilāhiyya fī Islāh al-mamlaka al-Insāniyya” (The Divine Governance of the Human Kingdom), and the foundational “Fusus al-Hikam” . Beyond his direct engagement with textual scholarship, Shahi has established a strong online presence for the foundation, notably through its official website and the active YouTube channel, both of which he has successfully developed and maintained since the foundation’s inception in 2007 .

The foundation’s website serves as a crucial resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering access to information about their publications, activities, and even a collection of digitized manuscripts and a database of articles related to Ibn al-Arabi’s sciences . Shahi’s academic journey includes an M. Phil in Comparative Religions from the International Islamic University Islamabad and a Bachelor’s degree in the same field . This academic background in comparative religions provides a strong intellectual foundation for his work on Ibn al-Arabi, situating it within a broader understanding of religious and mystical traditions. Furthermore, Shahi possesses proficiency in various computer skills relevant to translation, publication, digitization, and website management, which are instrumental in supporting his scholarly endeavors and the foundation’s operations in the digital age . His expertise is recognized within the academic community, as evidenced by his listing as the President of the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation with the Islamic Manuscript Association (TIMA), where he is identified as an expert in Ibn al-Arabi’s works and translation, having successfully edited over ten critical editions . Early in his engagement with Ibn al-Arabi’s legacy, Shahi compiled a “Brief Biography of Shaykh al-Akbar Muhyiddin Ibn ‘Arabi” in 2014, indicating a long-standing commitment to understanding the life and context of this influential figure . His publications are also listed on platforms like Goodreads, showcasing his authorship and contributions to the field . The Ibn al-Arabi Foundation’s website features a dedicated section for “Abrar Shahi,” providing information about his translated works, life journey, published books, and the “Ibn al-Arabi Baithak” sessions, further highlighting his central role in the organization . His extensive work has resulted in the editing and translation of over 30 works by Ibn ‘Arabi, with the foundation publishing over 20 books under his guidance . Additionally, Shahi maintains a presence on social media platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn, and he also shares his work on Academia.edu, further extending the reach of his scholarship .

The impact and significance of the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation and the work of Abrar Ahmed Shahi are considerable, particularly in making the complex and profound teachings of Ibn al-Arabi accessible to a wider audience . The foundation’s commitment to producing high-quality Urdu translations and critical editions has been instrumental in bridging the linguistic gap and allowing Urdu speakers to engage directly with Ibn al-Arabi’s thought . This is especially significant considering that many of Ibn al-Arabi’s shorter works have not been translated into European languages, underscoring the unique contribution of the foundation’s Urdu translation efforts . By making these texts available, the foundation enhances the understanding and appreciation of Islamic mysticism and philosophy within the Urdu-speaking world and beyond . The foundation also serves as a vital resource for scholars through its website, which provides access to manuscript information and a database of articles, fostering further research and academic engagement with Ibn al-Arabi’s work . The ongoing project of creating the first complete Urdu translation of Futuhat al-Makkiyya holds immense significance for Urdu scholarship, promising to unlock the vast knowledge contained within this seminal text for a new generation of readers and researchers. The foundation’s vision to collaborate with international organizations reflects an understanding of the global importance of Ibn al-Arabi’s legacy and a desire to participate in a broader international scholarly dialogue . While academic resources from other institutions and scholars highlight the continued global academic interest in Ibn al-Arabi, the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation plays a crucial role in preserving and disseminating this intellectual heritage within a specific linguistic and cultural context, ensuring its continued relevance and study.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation, under the dedicated leadership of its founder Abrar Ahmed Shahi, stands as a vital institution for the revival and dissemination of the teachings of Shaykh al-Akbar Muhyiddin Ibn al-Arabi. Through its meticulous production of critical Arabic editions and comprehensive Urdu translations, the foundation has made significant strides in making Ibn al-Arabi’s complex works accessible to a broader audience, particularly within the Urdu-speaking world. The ongoing projects, such as the monumental Urdu translation of Futuhat al-Makkiyya, alongside regular activities like the “Ibn al-Arabi Baithak” and their active online presence, demonstrate a sustained commitment to their mission. The extensive scholarly contributions of Abrar Ahmed Shahi, evident in his numerous edited volumes and translations, underscore his pivotal role in furthering the understanding and appreciation of Ibn al-Arabi’s profound intellectual legacy. The impact of the Ibn al-Arabi Foundation extends beyond mere translation and publication; it fosters a community of learning and contributes significantly to the preservation and accessibility of a crucial aspect of Islamic intellectual heritage for both current and future generations.

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