On Monday, October 1, 2025, the Master’s Program in Arabic Language and Literature (MBSA), Faculty of Adab and Humanities, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, held a guest lecture featuring distinguished Moroccan scholar Dr. Iguider Abderrahmane from Université Cadi Ayyad, Marrakech. The lecture carried the theme: “Reading the Legacy of Arabic Literary Criticism: Between Preservation (Rooting) and the Possibilities of Interpretation.”

More than a scholarly discussion, the session served as a strategic platform to reinforce intellectual integration between Islamic traditions and modern critical approaches to Arabic literary heritage. Dr. Abderrahmane's presence marked MBSA’s concrete step in broadening its international academic network while enriching the discourse of Arabic literary criticism from a forward-looking Islamic perspective.

Arabic Literary Criticism: Between Tradition and Contemporary Interpretation

In his presentation, Dr. Iguider emphasized the importance of preserving the classical heritage of Arabic literary criticism as an essential part of the cultural and intellectual identity of the Muslim world. He argued that this heritage holds not only aesthetic values but also reflects the dynamic intellectual dialogue of scholars, poets, and critics of the classical Islamic era.

“Preservation is not stagnation,” he stressed, “but rather a way to unearth profound meanings that remain relevant to our current generation.”

Beyond preservation, Dr. Iguider highlighted ta’wil (interpretation) as a critical method that opens new possibilities for re-reading classical texts. Islamic hermeneutical perspectives, he noted, allow a fruitful intersection between legacy and modern contexts without compromising scholarly integrity.

This discussion aligns with UIN Sunan Kalijaga’s integrative-interconnective academic paradigm, which aims to bridge Islamic knowledge with contemporary methodologies and scholarly approaches.

Academic Participation and International Engagement

The lecture was attended by students, faculty members, and invited academic guests. Dr. Andi Holilulloh, S.Pd.I., M.A., MCE., Head of the MBSA Program, delivered the opening remarks and expressed his appreciation for Dr. Iguider's willingness to share his insights.

“Having a native Arabic scholar like Dr. Iguider enriches our academic environment, strengthens scholarly capacity, and broadens our intellectual horizons,” Dr. Andi remarked.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A segment, reflecting participants’ deep interest in the topic. The event contributed significantly to expanding academic perspectives on Arabic literary studies in light of current global challenges.

A Moment of Intellectual Exchange

This guest lecture reaffirmed the importance of fostering international academic dialogue and strengthening scholarly collaboration. It also offered valuable insights into how Arabic literary heritage can be interpreted critically and constructively in today's intellectual landscape.

Interested in advancing your Arabic studies in a globally connected and values-driven academic community?
Learn more about the MA in Arabic Language and Literature Program at bsamagister.uin-suka.ac.id
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