AP/RLST 1845 6.00

Islamic Traditions

This course examines the beliefs, doctrines and institutions that have constituted the Islamic tradition from its inception until the present. While examining some of the most important primary sources that have emerged within Islamic tradition, particular attention is placed on the variety of interpretive strategies used by Muslim exegetes, theologians, legal scholars, Sufis, feminists, etc. in their approach to a variety of issues related to the sacred texts, the Qur’an and the Hadith. Since Islamic tradition is also viewed as a cultural construct, the course also explores its different manifestations throughout the Muslim world and beyond. In line with that view, the course considers the Islamic tradition in terms of its system (“Great Tradition”) and dynamics (“Little Traditions”), which find expression in a wide scope of doctrines, interpretations, and concerns facing Muslims now and in the past.

This course is designed to offer a basic insight into the historical and ideological unity and diversity of Islam. It is an introductory course aimed to provide a comprehensive survey of this religious tradition in accordance with the expectations of a first-year University course. As part of the Religious Studies program it is meant to offer some basic tools for the study of religion in general, exploring the rules of the discipline and its specific vocabulary. As part of the General Education program, the broader goals of this course are to strengthen and develop transferable critical (academic) skills necessary for successful engagement with course material at the university level, in any academic discipline. Some of these skills include: analytical and critical thinking; effective reading of scholarly texts; research and writing techniques; defining, communicating, and defending a viewpoint; building an argument; collaboration with peers.

RELIGIOUS TRADITION(S) COVERED: Islam

Course Category: General Education Courses, Religious Thoughts and Practices