Overview

Islam is the world’s fastest-growing religion, yet for most people, its beliefs and practice remain obscure despite having a close religious connection with Judaism and Christianity. For this reason, this module has been designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to Islamic faith, history and practice. The module will introduce students to the study of Islamic theology by exploring the emergence and development of Islam, from its origins in the seventh century to its modern revival. Therefore, the module will guide students through the following aspects of the study of Islam: (1) Introduce students to the history and development of early and modern Islam (against the background of social and cultural contexts); (2) Examine core Islamic beliefs and practices; and (3) Investigate the wider Islamic tradition by surveying Islamic law, philosophy and mysticism.

This introductory module explores the origins, beliefs and practices of Islam. The module will introduce students to the study of Islamic theology by exploring the emergence and development of Islam, from its origins in the seventh century to its modern revival. Therefore, the module will guide students through the following aspects of the study of Islam: (1) Introduce students to the history and development of early and modern Islam (against the background of social and cultural contexts); (2) Examine core Islamic beliefs and practices; and (3) Investigate the wider Islamic tradition by surveying Islamic law, philosophy and mysticism.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(D +) Shows some knowledge of key areas of the module with an acceptable presentation of arguments.

-good (B+) Shows detailed knowledge of key areas covered in the module with the arguments presented in a logical and coherent way.

-excellent -(A+) Shows comprehensive and very detailed understanding of the material covered in the module, based on extensive background reading.

Learning Outcomes

• To be aware of the heterogeneous nature of Islamic faith and to be aware of the historical, sectarian and cultural differences between Muslims

• To demonstrate an understanding of Islamic society and philosophy, as well as an understanding of the key issues facing contemporary Muslims

• To demonstrate an understanding of the Islamic faith and practice, as well as an understanding of the main approaches and methodologies in the study of the Islamic religion

• To demonstrate an understanding of the development of the historical and sociological importance of the Islamic core sources: namely the Qur’an and Hadith and the function they play in the synthesis of Islamic belief and practice

• To show understanding of how Islam as a faith relates to wider social, cultural and political contexts