The ACPPS is pleased to invite you to the upcoming session of its Annual Seminar on Arabic Philosophy and Islamic Theology in the Classical Age, to be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

We are honored to welcome Dr. Meryem Sebti (Director of Research, CNRS) for a lecture titled:
"The Theologico-Political and Ethical Foundations in Avicenna’s Thought"

According to Avicenna, the prophet holds a unique status among human beings, as the sole recipient of the revealed Law (sharīʿa), which designates him as both the legislator and founder of the just city. This distinction is rooted in the perfect unification of the prophet’s psychic faculties, making him the ultimate man of action.

Unlike philosophers and sages—whose intellect may be elevated but whose imagination does not reach the celestial spheres—the prophet possesses an active power capable of acting upon matter. Avicenna's emphasis on the superiority of the prophet over the philosopher is striking, especially given his view that the theoretical intellect is the noblest human faculty and the key to happiness in the afterlife. This preeminence of the prophet has major doctrinal implications, forming the very foundation of Avicenna’s ethics and political philosophy.
In this lecture, Dr. Sebti will explore these foundational themes, highlighting how Avicenna’s vision of prophecy reshapes the relationship between religion, ethics, and political order.

Please confirm your attendance by filling out this form.

Looking forward to your participation,