Program Overview

ISL312 Religious Service and Community Leadership

This subject examines the concept of leadership from an Islamic perspective, taking the theological, spiritual, ethical, psychological, and sociological aspects of leadership into consideration. It also takes into account the changing dynamics for Muslims in contemporary times and seeks to develop skills to deal with these changes in a constructive and proactive manner. The essential qualities required from a Muslim leader are covered, including theological reflection, ethics, spirituality, worship, welfare, education, and social justice.

Availability

The subject is available in Session 3, with 90 students, and is offered online through the United Theological College.

Subject Information

Grading System

The grading system for this subject is HD/FL.

Duration

The subject is one session in duration.

School

The subject is offered by the Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• demonstrate ability to communicate Islam in a relevant and applicable manner to members of the Australian community
• lead the Australian Muslims in the communal practices of Islam
• discuss and analyse critically models of mosque management in a changing world
• demonstrate a critical understanding of establishing intercultural and interfaith relations with members of the wider community
• demonstrate a critical understanding of the different Islamic thoughts and views held within the Muslim community
• demonstrate a critical understanding of Australian law and society

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• Importance of community in Islam
• Principles of serving in Islam
• Moral and legal responsibility of religious leaders
• Fundamentals of human psychology from an Islamic perspective
• Counselling and mentoring
• Introduction to Australian law and society
• Interfaith and intercultural relations
• Principles of effective leadership in Islam
• Rhetoric and communication
• Understanding of mosque environment and congregational diversity
• Leading congregational prayers, eid prayer, Jum'ah (Friday) prayer, and janazah (funeral) prayer
• Responding to religious questions