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HU Credits:
2
Degree/Cycle:
1st degree (Bachelor)
Responsible Department:
Comparative Religion
Semester:
1st Semester
Teaching Languages:
English
Campus:
Mt. Scopus
Course/Module Coordinator:
Hannelies Koloska
Coordinator Office Hours:
upon appointment
Teaching Staff:
Dr. Hannelies Koloska
Course/Module description:
Explore the dynamic and multifaceted nature of Islam as a vibrant and evolving religious tradition in today's world and its historic anchoring. This course delves into core beliefs, practices, and expressions that shape the lives of Muslims around the globe. Through a wide-ranging study of aspects of everyday life in texts, rituals, and institutions students will gain a deep understanding of Islam's rich tapestry and its relevance in contemporary society.
Course/Module aims:
Comprehensive Understanding: The primary aim of this course is to provide students with a nuanced understanding of Islam as living religious traditions. By examining key elements, historical context, and contemporary relevance, students will develop a well-rounded appreciation for the diverse facets that constitute Islamic faith and practices.
Cultural Sensitivity: Through the exploration of Islam's various components, the course aims to foster cultural sensitivity and cross-cultural awareness. Students will gain insights into the beliefs, practices, and values that shape the lives of Muslims worldwide.
Analytical Skills: This course intends to enhance students' analytical skills by encouraging critical examination of complex topics within Islam. Through discussions, readings, and assignments, students will learn to approach theological, social, and cultural issues with a thoughtful and critical mindset, enabling them to engage in informed conversations.
Interdisciplinary Perspective: The course aims to provide an interdisciplinary perspective by integrating history, theology, and cultural studies.
Cultural Literacy: By delving into the role of Islamic texts, rituals, and practices, the course aims to equip students with cultural literacy in relation to Islam.
Critical Thinking on Diversity: Through the exploration of variations, and challenges within Islamic traditions, the course aims to encourage critical thinking about diversity within the Muslim community. Students will analyze how different interpretations, practices, and historical contexts contribute to the richness of Islam.
Empowerment for Dialogue: By exploring topics like interreligious dialogue and Muslim feminism, the course aims to empower students to engage in meaningful conversations and bridge gaps in understanding between different perspectives within and outside the Islamic tradition.
Learning outcomes - On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Knowledge and Understanding:
1. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the core beliefs, principles, and teachings of Islam as a living religious tradition.
2. Identify and explain the role of key elements within Islam, including the Qur'an, the Prophet Muhammad, communal rituals, and sacred places.
3. Recognize the historical, cultural, and geographical diversity within the Islamic tradition and its impact on contemporary Muslim communities.
Critical Thinking and Analysis:
4. Analyze and interpret primary sources and scholarly perspectives related to Islam, fostering critical thinking and the ability to engage in informed discussions.
5. Evaluate the significance of the Qur'an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad in shaping ethical frameworks and daily practices among Muslims.
6. Examine the complexities of intra-faith and interfaith dynamics, including conflicts, questions of variations, and dialogue, within the Islamic tradition.
Cultural and Interpersonal Competence:
7. Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and awareness of diverse practices and interpretations within the global Muslim community.
8. Engage in respectful and empathetic conversations about Islam's role in various cultural contexts, showing an understanding of its impact on individual and communal identities.
Application and Synthesis:
9. Apply insights gained from studying Islamic rituals, practices, and teachings to critically assess their role in shaping Muslim lives and societies.
10. Synthesize knowledge about gender dynamics, interreligious dialogue, and modern challenges to assess the evolving nature of Islam in a globalized world.
Communication and Engagement:
11. Communicate ideas effectively through discussions, presentations, and written assignments, showcasing a nuanced understanding of Islam's multifaceted aspects.
Attendance requirements(%):
100, In case of absence, the teacher has to be notified (not more than 2 times).
Teaching arrangement and method of instruction:
-group/pair or individual works
-interactive learning
Course/Module Content:
Content
Class 1: What is Islam
This class asks how we can talk about Islam and define it.
I. Constituents:
This module delves into the fundamental components that define Islam as a living tradition.
Class 2: The Qur’an: The Omnipresence of the Text: Students will explore the central role of the Qur'an in the lives of Muslims and will learn how the Qur'an permeates every aspect of a Muslim's life, from daily recitations to ethical guidance.
Class 3: The Prophet: Respect, Remembrance, and Veneration: This class focuses on the reverence and love Muslims hold for the Prophet Muhammad. Students will study how his life and teachings influence daily practices.
Class 4: The Community: Individual Worship and Communal Rituals: This class examines the importance of communal rituals, such as fasting during Ramadan and individual worship, such as ritual prayer and supplication, within the Muslim community.
Class 5: The Places: Pilgrimage and Visits to Holy Places: Students will explore the significance of pilgrimage (Hajj) and visits to holy places (Ziyarat).
II. Formation and Conflicts:
This module delves into the formation of Islamic practices and the conflicts that have emerged within the traditions.
Class 6: Authority and Power: Imams, Muftis, and Religious Teachers:
Students will analyze the different sources of authority within Islam, including Imams, Muftis, and religious teachers. They will examine how these figures shape religious interpretation and guide the community.
Class 7: Ambiguity and Variations: Sufism:
This class explores Sufism, a mystical dimension of Islam. Students will study the diversity of Sufi practices and philosophies, gaining insights into how these variations contribute to the broader Islamic tradition.
Class 8: Hospitality and Dispute: Interreligious Dialogue:
Students will examine the concept of hospitality and its role in fostering interreligious dialogue among Muslims.
Class 9: Resistance and Assimilation: The Role of Martyrs:
This class investigates the role of martyrs in Islamic history and contemporary society
III. Preservation and Challenges:
This module addresses the preservation of Islamic traditions and the challenges faced by Muslims today.
Class 10: Education: Children and Islam:
Students will explore the vital role of education in passing down Islamic traditions to the next generation. They will study the methods and challenges of teaching Islam to children in diverse cultural contexts.
Class 11: Gender Questions: Muslim Feminists:
This class delves into the intersection of gender, feminism, and Islam. Students will examine the perspectives of Muslim feminists and their efforts to address gender-related issues within the framework of Islamic teachings.
Class 12: Virtual Islam: Muslim Communities Online:
Students will explore the emergence of virtual Muslim communities and the ways in which technology has shaped the practice of Islam. They will analyze the benefits and challenges of practicing and expressing faith in digital spaces.
Class 13: Summary
Required Reading:
TBA
Additional Reading Material:
TBA
Grading Scheme :
Essay / Project / Final Assignment / Referat 40 %
Active Participation / Team Assignment 10 %
Submission assignments during the semester: Exercises / Essays / Audits / Reports / Forum / Simulation / others 20 %
Mid-terms exams 10 %
Presentation / Poster Presentation / Lecture 10 %
Attendance / Participation in Field Excursion 10 %
Additional information:
This course will be taught in English.
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