How to Globalize your Heart: Lessons from Ibn 'Arabi and the Sufis

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After completing degrees in history and social work, Rory Dickson decided to pursue his interest in religion and spirituality academically. He is presently completing a PhD in Religious Studies, jointly at Wilfrid Laurier University where he also teaches and the University of Waterloo.

Rory’s research focuses on Sufism in North America, and the teachings of Ibn 'Arabi.

Rory’s areas of interest include Sufism, Ibn 'Arabi, Islam, contemplative and mystical traditions. His thesis research focuses on how contemporary Sufi teachers are living their tradition in North America.

He has published articles in The Journal of Contemporary Islam and McGill's religious studies journal, ARC.

In this presentation/workshop we will discuss Sufi understandings of unity and diversity: How can we open our minds and hearts to others? On what basis can we simultaneously appreciate the radical differences between peoples and religions, while coming to understand their fundamental unity?

Ancient Sufi principles of oneness will be explored, with particular reference made to the works of the great Sufi metaphysician Ibn 'Arabi (d. 1240 CE).