Reza Aslan, born on March 3, 1972, in Iran, is a renowned religious scholar and author known for his insightful works on Islam and Christianity. At the age of seven, he moved with his family to Concord, California, where he would spend his formative years.
Aslan attended Santa Clara University for his undergraduate studies before going on to Harvard Divinity School, where he delved deeper into the study of religion. He then pursued a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the prestigious Writers' Workshop at the University of Iowa. Later, he earned a doctorate in sociology and religious history from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Aslan's career in academia began in 2000 when he started teaching Islamic Studies at the University of Iowa. Throughout his career, he has been a passionate advocate for interfaith dialogue and understanding. His writings have been widely acclaimed for their insightful and thought-provoking perspectives on religion.
Aslan is married to American entrepreneur Jessica Jackley, with whom he has two children. Despite his busy schedule as an author and teacher, he remains dedicated to his family and values the importance of work-life balance.
Aslan's maternal aunt, Leila Forouhar, achieved fame as a successful pop singer, highlighting the diverse talents within his family.
Overall, Reza Aslan continues to be a prominent figure in the fields of religion and academia, inspiring readers and students alike with his profound insights and engaging writing style.