Beyond Sectarianism

Thaver’s latest book explores Shia Islam and religious identity through the writings of 10th century Iraqi scholar Sharif al-Radi. Thaver argues that, although al-Radi is often characterized as a Shia scholar, he was influenced by the world of Muslim scholarship more broadly. By taking al-Radi out of a sectarian context, Beyond Sectarianism (Penn Press) invites readers to consider their own assumptions about Muslim sectarianism — in the 10th century and today. 

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PAW's October 2026 cover, featuring a photo of a loaf of challah bread and the headline "The Braids That Bind."
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October 2026

Holding on to Jewish life; Katy Anderson Keating ’08’s career in wine; Hollywood loves Princeton.