In this series, the VISIONS blog will post excerpts from the Report on Engaging Sectarian De-Escalation based on the "Proceedings of the Symposium on Islam and Sectarian De-Escalation at the Harvard Kennedy School."

... Read more about Religious Pluralism & Muslim Identity in the West & Islamic World

Project Associate Mohammad Sagha writes on the Bektashi Shi'a community based in Michigan, USA for the Visions Blog. He explores debates on orthodoxy and heterodoxy within Islam and the need to examine the diversity and pluralism within modern Shi’ism which is often overlooked in larger debates of Islam and the Muslim world.

By Mohammad Sagha

... Read more about The Bektashi Shi’as of Michigan: Pluralism and Orthodoxy within Twelver Shi’ism

In this series, the VISIONS blog will post excerpts from the Report on Engaging Sectarian De-Escalation based on the "Proceedings of the Symposium on Islam and Sectarian De-Escalation at the Harvard Kennedy School."

Moderator

José Antonio Sabadell

Panelists

Heidi E. Lane, Muhamed H. Almaliky, Hassan Ahmadian, Lukman Faily

Summary

This panel, entitled Geopolitics in Iran and Iraq examines the evolution of the geopolitical relationship between Iran and Iraq in addition to the nature of the Middle East dialogue between the United States, Iran, and Iraq.... Read more about Geopolitics in Iran and Iraq

Arbaeen marks the 40th day following the tragedy of Karbala. For centuries the Shias have protested against the oppressions and discriminations against the Prophet's household during Arbaeen. Saddam Hussein banned the Arbaeen walk during his rule, but after his fall it was reintroduced in 2003. In recent years, more than 20 million pilgrims annually arrive in Karbala from around the world during Arbaeen. This narrative recounts a personal journey and experience to Karbala on one of these historic walks.

By Mohd Faizal Musa

... Read more about 1452 Poles to Karbala