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Introduction to Islamic Theology


Course
Enrolment for this course is currently closed.

Introduction-to-Islamic-Theology

About The Course

Explore the depths of Islamic Theology in this comprehensive course that delves into its rich history, key theological schools, and major controversial themes. From the foundations of pre-Islamic thought to the influential figures of Muʿtazilī, Māturīdī, Ashʿarī, and Atharī theology, each session provides a nuanced understanding of core beliefs, historical milestones, and distinctive features.

Course Team

Shaykh Haroon Sidat
Shaykh Haroon Sidat (CARDIFF UNIVERSITY, UK)
Dr. Mehmet Bulgen
Dr. Mehmet Bulgen (Lecturer, Al Balagh Academy, UK)
Mufti Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari
Mufti Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari (Traditionally-trained Islamic scholar)
Shaykh Dr. Rafāqat Rashid
Shaykh Dr. Rafāqat Rashid (Co-founder of al-Balagh Academy)
Dr. Shoaib Ahmed Malik
Dr. Shoaib Ahmed Malik (A scholar and Visiting Researcher at St. Mary’s University, Twickenham (UK))
Dr Carl Sharif El-Tobgui
Dr Carl Sharif El-Tobgui (Lecturer, Al Balagh Academy, UK)

At A Glance

  • 12+ Live Online Sessions 12+ Live Online Sessions
  • Duration: 12 Weeks Duration: 12 Weeks
  • Sundays, 5 PM - 6:30PM (London, UK) Sundays, 5 PM - 6:30PM (London, UK)
  • Video Recordings Available Video Recordings Available
  • Access to Mobile App Access to Mobile App
  • Certificate Certificate
  • From £14.99/Month (For 4 Months) From £14.99/Month (For 4 Months)

Enroll Now

  • Starts on 4th February 2024
  • Course Fee:
    Pay in Full: £79.99 £59.99
    Pay in 4 Installments: £14.99 per month
  • Registration Deadline: 3th February 2024

Al Balagh Scholarship

AlBalagh Scholarship is available for learners who cannot afford the fee. Learn More and Apply

Course Overview

Explore the depths of Islamic Theology in this comprehensive course that delves into its rich history, key theological schools, and major controversial themes. From the foundations of pre-Islamic thought to the influential figures of Muʿtazilī, Māturīdī, Ashʿarī, and Atharī theology, each session provides a nuanced understanding of core beliefs, historical milestones, and distinctive features.

Learning Outcomes

  • Comprehensive Knowledge of Islamic Theological Schools: Students will acquire a comprehensive understanding of major Islamic theological schools, including Muʿtazilī, Māturīdī, Ashʿarī, and Atharī, exploring their foundational beliefs, key figures, and distinctive features.
  • Critical Analysis and Discernment: Develop critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate theological arguments, controversies, and themes, enabling students to discern the strengths and weaknesses inherent in different theological perspectives.

Here is the course outline:

Welcome Aboard: Course Introduction

Session 1 - Introduction to the Course

An introductory course in Islamic Theology typically aims to provide a foundational understanding of key beliefs, concepts, and principles within Islam.

Session 2 - History of Islamic Theology

Explore evolution, key figures, and milestones shaping Islamic theology, highlighting its diverse historical development and influential thinkers.

Session 3 - Muʿtazilī Theology

Explore Muʿtazilī theology: rationalist approach, Allah's attributes, free will, reason in revelation, and its impact on Islamic thought.

Session 4 - Māturīdī Theology

Study Māturīdī theology: emphasis on scripture, moderate stance on reason, attributes of Allah, and its impact on Islamic thought.

Session 5 - Ashʿarī Theology

Explore Ashʿarī theology: emphasis on divine attributes, predestination, reconciling reason with revelation, and its theological significance.

Session 6 - Atharī Theology

Atharī theology: Literalist approach, reliance on textual sources, rejection of theological speculation, and adherence to tradition's authority.

Session 7 - Criteria for Aqeedah

Explore criteria defining Islamic beliefs (Aqeedah): Qur'an, Hadith, scholarly consensus, reason, and their role in shaping theology.

Session 8 - Reason vs. Revelation (Aql vs. Naql)

Examine tension: rational reasoning (Aql) versus scriptural revelation (Naql) in Islamic theology, exploring their interaction and significance.

Session 9 - Theodicy and the Problem of Suffering

Session 10 - Major Controversial Themes (Part 1)

Continuation: Investigate gender roles, law vs. ethics, human rights, jihad, and their diverse interpretations within Islamic theology.

Session 11 - Major Controversial Themes (Part 2)

25 May

Session 12 - What Invalidates Iman, and How to decide on Kufr

Study actions nullifying faith (Iman) and determining disbelief (Kufr) in Islamic theology, exploring criteria and considerations.

Completion

The following certificates are awarded when the course is completed:

Introduction to Islamic Theology
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