Convivencia Institute
Located in Al-Andalus Generalife, Second Life
Historically, La Convivencia is a term that refers to the peaceful Òco-existenceÓ of Jews, Christians, and
Muslims in Spain during the period of 711 to 1492 C.E. The earliest Muslim
rulers of what was known as Al-Andalus created this convivencia through their liberal
interpretation of dhimma, that part of the religious law
of Islam that protects the other two 'Peoples of the Book,' i.e., Jews and
Christians. The consequence was
the creation of a community of tolerance where the Jewish, Christian, and
Muslim communities of Spain became part of a larger culture that integrated
elements of each tradition. The
fruit of this dynamic community of tolerance was great literature, philosophy,
science, art, and architecture created by people of different faith traditions
but serving one culture.
Following in this tradition, and
inspired by it successes, the Convivencia Institute seeks to create a community
of inquiry examining how different individuals and cultures can not only
peacefully co-exist in a common polis, but also create new experiences of
empowerment, collaboration, and dialogue. The main activities of the Convivencia Institute will be presentations
on the development of relationships and community, the dynamics of
collaboration and dialogue, and the nurturing of peaceful co-existence among
individuals and communities that have fundamental differences in values and
beliefs.
Micael Khandr (aka) Michael Carey
Director, Convivencia Institute
09-313-3550