The international symposium The Qurʾān – Bridging Tradition and Modernity in Search of Understanding brought two intense and inspiring days of academic exchange to Vienna. Jointly organised by the Pädagogische Hochschule Karlsruhe and the University of Vienna, the event offered a dynamic and international forum for engaging with contemporary Qurʾānic hermeneutics.

Twelve scholars and Qurʾān specialists from seven countries gathered in person (with remote participation options) to share diverse perspectives, questions, and insights into how classical exegetical paradigms might be re-imagined in light of modern intellectual, social, and ethical contexts. Over four thematic panels — spanning linguistic, paradigmatic, deductive, and historical-comparative approaches — participants engaged deeply with methodological innovations and the pressing challenges of hermeneutical renewal.

The depth of discussion, openness of exchange, and methodological plurality made this symposium truly special. Conversations moved beyond disciplinary boundaries, illuminating how tradition and modernity might productively inform each other in the ongoing scholarly quest for understanding the Qurʾān’s enduring relevance. Reflection on themes such as social justice, gender, science, and interreligious context further underscored the symposium’s critical engagement with contemporary discourse. A key outcome of the conference is an edited volume, to be published next year, which will gather selected contributions and expand on the rich dialogues initiated in Vienna.