The third issue of Ijtihad Journal for Islamic and Arabic Studies continues its mission to advance critical, pluralistic scholarship on Islam and Arab thought in European and Western contexts. From 25 submissions received from universities and research centers across Denmark, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, and Germany, seven articles were selected following editorial screening and double-blind peer review, as well as the editorial by Dr. Mohamed Dahiri.
The issue opens with Dr. Abdelmalek Hibaoui, who examines the central role of Arabic in German Oriental studies from the 12th century to today. Dr. Rachid Modni analyzes the role of Moroccan diaspora communities in public diplomacy, while Abdellatif Labkadri explores colonial-era discourse in the Rif through Vincent Sheean’s writings. Dr. Said Naqchi addresses Islamic-Christian dialogue, highlighting tensions between scriptural directives and societal barriers. Dr. Hamza Fazry investigates Qur’anicity in relation to logic and kalam, and Dr. Mustafa Touati critiques Muhammad Shahrour’s secularist reading of polygamy verses. Dr. Nabil Tantani discusses methodological pathways of ijtihad in Maliki jurisprudence, emphasizing moderation.
The issue also features reviews: Achraf Laroussi on Tijani Boulaouali’s The Manufacturing of Extremism in the West, and Dr. Mimoun Daoudi on Islam in Europe by Spyris A. Sofos and Rosa Tsagarousianou. It includes Dr. Mohammed Hashas’s introduction to contemporary Moroccan thought, translated by Sara Elhadi, plus updates on Ijtihad Center activities.

The editorial board reaffirms its call for high-quality submissions, thanking contributors and reviewers for their dedication to advancing balanced, rigorous scholarship.