Scott Kugle beschäftigt sich mit der islamischen Kultur, wobei sein Schwerpunkt auf dem Sufismus sowie Fragen von Gender und Sexualität innerhalb muslimischer Gesellschaften liegt. Seine Arbeit untersucht kritisch historische und kulturelle Kontexte und analysiert das Zusammenspiel zwischen mystischen Traditionen und sozialen Normen. Kugles Ansatz zeichnet sich durch ein tiefes Verständnis für die Komplexität der islamischen Spiritualität und ihre vielfältigen Ausdrucksformen aus. Seine Forschung bietet wertvolle Einblicke in die abwechslungsreiche und dynamische Natur muslimischer Identitäten.
Critical Reflection on Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender Muslims
This analysis explores the compatibility of Islamic scripture, jurisprudence, and Hadith with a sexually sensitive interpretation of Islam. It argues that these foundational texts not only allow for a more open approach to sexuality but also actively support and endorse it, challenging traditional views and promoting a progressive understanding within the faith.
The narrative centers on Muhsin, an activist with the Al-Fitra Foundation, who champions the rights of gay, lesbian, and transgender Muslims in South Africa. He emphasizes the need for reconciliation between faith and sexuality in a context often viewed as incompatible. "Living Out Islam" features interviews with activists, highlighting their struggles and triumphs in asserting their identities within Islam. This movement seeks dignity and integrity, showcasing the vital role of support groups in fostering social change and justice for LGBTQ+ Muslims in secular societies.
"Wherever it may be, the candle burns, and in burning it gives others light. That is the way you must be." When the soul burns with love, the ego softens like wax and dissolves, and others benefit by the light it transmits. So taught Pir Rasheed Kaleemi, a Sufi master who lived in Hyderabad, India. The Merciful Door narrates what his American disciple learned from him over a decade of living in India and translating his teachings into practice in America. This book, born out of a direct request from Pir Rasheed himself, records the intimate conversations, mystical teachings, spiritual practices, and Qawwali songs that they shared. How is the soul related to the spirit? What is the body and how do we discover its hidden treasures? What is the eternal sound and how do we listen of it in music and in nature? How can we navigate interpersonal challenges, gender difference, sexual desire, political conflict and religious fundamentalism? The Sufi teacher offers his disciple insights from the Quran, the Prophet Muhammad's example, and the rich depths of Sufi poetry in Persian and Urdu to illuminate these questions and other guidance. The book also reveals teachings of the Kaleemi Order, which combines Chishti and Qadiri initiations, with ancient roots in Arabia and India and modern global branches.