Muslim Council of Elders Explores Contemporary Questions of Science, Revelation, and Philosophy in a Cultural Seminar at the Cairo International Book Fair
The Muslim Council of Elders held its eleventh seminar at the 57th Cairo International Book Fair, titled “Toward a Philosophy that Establishes an Age of Wisdom: A Reading in the Book 'Grasping the Wind – Reflections on Science, Revelation, and Philosophy' with participation of the book’s author, Dr. Mostafa Hejazi. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Smir Boudinar, Director of the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research.
The seminar offered an analytical reading of 'Grasping the Wind', highlighting key intellectual themes the book raises in the fields of science, revelation, and philosophy. It also explored how to build a balanced epistemological vision that contributes to reinforcing the concept of wisdom and strengthening civilizational awareness amid rapidly evolving knowledge landscapes.
Dr. Mostafa Hejazi explained that the book targets writers, educators, and thinkers who seek to revive a new humanistic discourse—one that addresses the mind not to dazzle it, but to stimulate it, and speaks to the spirit not to immerse it in moralizing, but to awaken its innate sense of wonder.
In a philosophical reflection, Dr. Hejazi noted that the book was written specifically for those driven by intellectual restlessness—those searching for an equilibrium between spirit and matter, and those who fear being in a state of understanding without wisdom, faith without intellect, action without thought, or a path without purpose.
He explained that the essence of the book revolves around the search for the “missing questions of truth,” noting that technological advancement has, in some cases, overtaken the human mind, causing it to surrender to appearances. Meanwhile, others remain confined to past eras, clinging to time rather than place, holding on to understandings humanity has long surpassed. He addressed the “fragmented human being,” stressing that one does not need to choose between zero‑sum dualities, but must “resume contemplation”: revelation does not conflict with science, science is incomplete without purpose, and philosophy is an essential means.
The seminar concluded with a signing ceremony for 'Grasping the Wind', offering attendees an open discussion with the author about the book’s ideas and themes, enriching cultural engagement and deepening scholarly dialogue.
'Grasping the Wind – Reflections on Science, Revelation, and Philosophy' is among the latest 2026 releases of Al Hokama’ Publishing. The book contains several key chapters, including: Philosophical Lineage – When Does the Word Become Necessary? Between Two Humanisms; Who Is This Book For? Reflections on Existence, Time, and Meaning; Maqāṣidī Thought – The Philosophy of Contextual Purposiveness; Margins on the Text of Wisdom – Some of the Questions of Truth – On Science, Thought, and Creativity.
The Muslim Council of Elders is participating at the 57th Cairo International Book Fair, held from 21 January to 3 February 2026. The Council’s pavilion features a wide array of publications, in addition to a series of seminars, activities, and events focused on promoting the values of peace and peaceful coexistence among all people.
The pavilion of the Muslim Council of Elders is located next to the Al‑Azhar Pavilion in Heritage Hall No. 4 at the Egypt International Exhibition and Convention Center in the Fifth Settlement.