Mahmoud Muhammad Taha was the leader of a small group of Muslim modernist activists in the Sudan in the 1960s and 70s. Taha and his followers advocated what they called the Second Message of Islam, a new and deeper understanding of the Koran that was more in line with modern demands of democracy and the rights of women and non-Muslims. In 1985 Taha was convicted of apostasy under Sudan’s new Islamic law and hanged.

In his recent book Sufi Evolutionism, Michel Hoebink investigates the little-known mystical theology underlying Taha’s reform. This theology is based on medieval Sufi concepts and pioneers an Islamic theory of evolution and the notion of the Koran as a historical text, some parts of which were relevant for the seventh century but no longer today.

A panel of speakers including the author will explore Taha’s groundbreaking ideas and their enduring relevance, while also reflecting on current developments in Sudan.

After a short introduction by the author, panel members Liana Saif, Imad Babikir, and Steve Howard will address different aspects of Taha’s thought. We will close with an interactive Q&A.

Programme overview

20.00 - 20.05 Main introduction
20.05 - 20.10 Michel Hoebink introduces his book
20.10 - 21.00 Panel discussion
21.00 - 21.30 Interactive Q&A

Practical information

This event takes place at VOX-POP (Binnengasthuisstraat 9), ground floor. Entry is free and open to everyone, however, we do kindly ask you to registrate.