Course Number & Title: |
REL-2SGC Understanding Islam in Today's World |
Department: |
Religion |
Credit Hours: |
3 Semester Hours |
Prerequisites: |
None |
Fees and Charges: |
None |
An investigation of the basic beliefs and practices in Islam as they are understood and observed in various parts of the world. The course approaches Islam by focusing upon the ways that oral and written traditions combine with cultural factors to create the fabric of contemporary Islamic life. Topics include the foundations of Islam, the sources of legislation in Islam (Qur'an and Hadith), central ritual observances and social aspects of Islam in the contemporary world.
The goal of Understanding Islam In Today's World is to provide the student with an opportunity to learn more about Islam as a living religious tradition. Not only will students gain an understanding of general Islamic principles and practices as set forth in the Qur'an and the sayings of prophet Muhammad, but students will also explore important issues relating the observance of Islam in selected geographical locations throughout the world.
The course will proceed as follows. After investigating the origins of Islam during the life of the prophet Muhammad, we will provide an in-depth study of the Qur'an and the Hadith (sayings of prophet Muhammad) as the basis for Islamic traditions. We will then provide a detailed exploration of the so-called “Five Pillars” of Islam (Testimony, Daily Prayers, Fasting during the month of Ramadan, Almsgiving and the Hajj) as illustrations of ritual observances. Finally, we will explore selected social issues such as the rise of Islamic fundamentalism, the use of violence and the role of women and family life. In order to demonstrate the diversity of expression within contemporary Islam, we will integrate examples of beliefs and practices in countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Iran and Indonesia with those of the United States. Students will be challenged to go into depth in each of these areas with the option of pursuing their own interests as related to the course.
Outcome |
Measure |
Gain an understanding of the origins of Islam as a distinct religious tradition. |
Mid-term Examination and Reflection Papers |
Become familiar with the basic content and major themes of the Qur'an |
Mid-term Examination and Reflection Papers |
Identify and demonstrate familiarity with the sources of Islamic law and methods of legal interpretation |
Mid-term Examination and Reflection Papers |
Become familiar with the core religious practices known as the “Five Pillars” and demonstrate an understanding of their importance for Muslim life |
Reflection Papers |
Gain an understanding of major social issues facing contemporary Islam |
Reflection Papers and Final Presentation |
Foundations, beliefs, practices and social issues are covered. Topics taught in the course include:
• Introduction to Islam in Contemporary World: Unity and Diversity
• Foundations of Islam : Muhammad and the Early Muslim Community
• Sources of Legislation - The Quran, the Hadith and Methods of Interpretation
• Core Religious Practices: The “Five Pillars” with focus upon Daily Prayers and the month of Ramadan
• Social Aspects of Islam: Rise of Fundamentalism; Islam and Violence; Islam and Family Life
Student evaluation and assessment is based upon the following: class participation (10%); three reflection papers of approximately 5-6 pages in length, written to demonstrate an integrative understanding of the course material (50%); midterm exam on foundational information (20%) and final presentation dealing with selected topics drawn from themes in the second half of the course (20%).