Reading the Book of Nature
Summer Retreat – Reconnect with Nature Through the Qur’anic Lens
Program Details
A 6-day program of Immersive Learning and Reflection The retreat is thoughtfully structured to blend learning, reflection, and relaxation. Highlights include:
Costs and Registration
- USD see above (excluding airfare to Turkiye)
- Accommodation for 6 days / 5 nights
- All meals (locally sourced and fresh)
- Transportation within Turkiye (including Istanbul-Barla-Istanbul)
- Guided nature walks, workshops, and cultural activities
- In Barla: “Istanbul Apartments” by Istanbul Foundation for Science and Culture – 2 bedrooms with 2 single beds in each room, 2 bathrooms, large living room, and a fully equipped modern kitchen.
- In Çamdağı: villas by Istanbul Foundation for Science and Culture – 3 bedrooms (2 single beds per bedroom) with large living room, a fully equipped kitchen, large veranda, one full bathroom and two “a la turka” (eastern) toilets.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Pay the full amount of $950.00 to secure your spot.
- Receive confirmation and pre-arrival instructions within 48 hours.
- English-speaking Muslims
- Passionate about Islam, the Qur’an and Isalmic environmentalism
- Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
- Cancellations before May 31, 2025: Full refund minus a $50 administrative fee.
- Cancellations between June 1, 2025 and June 30, 2025: 50% refund.
- Cancellations after July 1, 2025: No refund.
Drone video from Barla and Çam dağı, İsparta province, Türkiye
Embark on a transformative journey in the serene landscapes of Çamdağı and Barla, Turkiye, from July 14-19, 2025. “Reading the Book of Nature Summer Retreat” offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Qur’anic concept of nature as Divine signs (ayāt) and learn how to read those signs. Designed for English-speaking Muslims, academics, and professionals, this immersive retreat promises a unique blend of spiritual reflection and ecological awareness.
Discover the Divine in Nature
The “Reading the Book of Nature Summer Retreat” is a unique, 6-day-long program designed to deepen your connection with the natural world through an Islamic perspective. Inspired by the timeless teachings of the Qur’an, Islamic teleological approaches, and the language of nature, this retreat will transform the way you perceive and interact with the environment.
Objectives
- Discover nature as a manifestation of Allah's signs (ayāt).
- Cultivate tranquility and spiritual awareness through immersive nature experiences.
- Learn to integrate Islamic principles with ecological stewardship.
- Build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.
The Book of Nature
Guided by the concept of Kitāb al-Kawn (the Book of Nature), participants will explore the Qur’anic invitation to reflect on the natural world as a means of understanding Allah’s wisdom and purpose.
Nature's Sanctuary: Çamdağı and Barla
Nestled in the heart of Turkiye, Çamdağı (“Pine Mountain”) and Barla offer an idyllic retreat setting with breathtaking views, pristine forests, and tranquil surroundings. Known as a place of profound spiritual inspiration for Bediuzzaman Said Nursi—the world-renowned Muslim scholar and author of the celebrated Risale-i Nur Qur’an commentary (d. 1960)—Barla invites you to connect with nature and nurture your soul. Participants will stay in comfortable, fully equipped apartments and villas, seamlessly blending modern convenience with the serenity of the natural world. Whether wandering through mountain slopes and pine forests or reflecting by the serene lakeside, Çamdağı and Barla in Isparta province provide the perfect sanctuary for learning, contemplation, and renewal. Come and experience the harmony of faith, nature, and tranquility in this unforgettable retreat setting.
Speakers & Experts
Shaikh Muhammad Foulds
Hearts SEE, UK
An Islamic environmentalist with a deep connection to nature, Shaikh Muhammad Foulds is a trained safari guide, tracker, and falconer who integrates Islamic spirituality with ecological stewardship. His retreats and teachings inspire a profound appreciation for the natural world as a divine revelation with its own language.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tuna
Duke University, USA
A leading scholar in contemporary Muslim thought and the history of Islam in Russia, Dr. Tuna specializes in Said Nursi studies and the rich heritage of the Kazan Tatars. His work bridges historical insights with modern challenges, offering a unique perspective on Islamic intellectual traditions.
Dr. Ildus Rafikov
Maqasid Institute, USA
An interdisciplinary scholar, Dr. Rafikov explores the connections between economics, philosophy, history, and science through an Islamic lens. His innovative approach uncovers the harmony between divine wisdom and human inquiry.
Dr. Yamina Bouguenaya
Receiving Nur, USA
A passionate educator and researcher, Dr. Bouguenaya is dedicated to exploring the spiritual and intellectual dimensions of Islamic teachings. Her work emphasizes the transformative power of faith in understanding the natural world and our place within it.
Mr. Said Yüce
Istanbul Foundation for Science and Culture, Turkiye
An esteemed expert in Risale-i Nur studies and President of the Istanbul Foundation for Science and Culture (IFSC), Mr. Yüce is a leading voice in promoting the integration of faith and reason and an expert in Said Nursi studies. His insights illuminate the profound connections between Islamic spirituality and the natural sciences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Comfortable clothing suitable for nature walks
- Journaling supplies (notebooks, pens)
- Personal items, including medications
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
- A Qur’an or digital Qur’an app for personal reflection
- Please inform us of any allergies, dietary restrictions, or health conditions during registration.
- Participants are responsible for their own health insurance.
- A first-aid kit will be available on-site, but we recommend bringing any personal medications or medical supplies you may need.
July in Barla and Çamdağı is hot and dry, with average highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 14°C (58°F) and plenty of sunshine—perfect for outdoor activities.
The program is tailored for individuals aged 18 and above who will be participating as students in the retreat. If you wish to bring your family, please, contact us.
In Barla – full mobile 4.5G coverage and internet connectivity (including wi-fi in the apartment building), while in Çamdağı mobile communication with internet connectivity is also available but the signal is weaker (with good signal strength on top of the mountain and weaker signal below. Türkcell mobile connection is reportedly better than Türktelekom or Vodafone). Nevertheless, the participants are encouraged to minimize digital distractions to fully immerse in the retreat experience.
The retreat will feature a balanced mix of lectures, group discussions, nature walks, halaqahs, cultural activities, site visits and personal reflection time. A detailed schedule will be provided.
Fresh local meals will be provided daily, including breakfast, lunch and dinner. Apartments at Barla and Villas at Çamdağı are also well equipped with cooking facilities. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions during registration so we can accommodate your needs.
Participants will be transferred to the retreat location from Istanbul to Isparta by a local flight (Turkish airlines) and by bus therefrom, and similarly back to Istanbul at the end of the event. Participants are responsible for their own flight to Istanbul..
Yes! The retreat includes guided nature walks, outdoor reflection sessions, and optional hiking opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes of Çamdağı and Barla. Participants will also visit Isparta, Barla, Gelincik mountain and Medet valley.
Modest Islamic attire is recommended for all participants. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is encouraged for outdoor activities.
Absolutely! Choose to explore the beautiful region of Isparta or other parts of Turkiye after the retreat. However, you are responsible for own travel plans and accommodations outside of the retreat schedule. We can provide recommendations for local attractions and activities if needed.
The Istanbul Foundation for Science and Culture has graciously agreed to provide free one night accommodation in their guest house to participants arriving to Istanbul one day early.
Rooms at “Istanbul apartment” in Barla and at Çamdağı villas are for two persons. Participants, wishing to occupy one full room, must notify us beforehand. Such rooms may be provided subject to availability and additional cost of US$800 per person for the whole event (total USD1750.00).
- Male and female participants will have their own separate apartments.
- Outdoor activities and indoor lectures and talks will be joint.