Program Overview

Introduction to ISL404 Islamic Worldview

This subject introduces students to the fundamental beliefs, practices, spiritual concepts, values, and perspectives that shape the Islamic worldview. It focuses on how the primary texts of Islam, the Qur'an and narrations (hadith) attributed to Prophet Muhammad, cover these themes together with the views of classical and modern Muslim scholars and theologians.

Subject Description

The subject covers the monotheism of Islam, six essentials of beliefs, five pillars of Islam, and Islam's views on human nature, life, universe, and the Islamic response to the question of suffering.

Availability

The subject is available in Session 1, with 30 students, and is offered online through the United Theological College.

Subject Information

• Grading System: HD/FL
• Duration: One session
• School: Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

• be able to demonstrate an understanding of the Islamic view of monotheism
• be able to articulate critically the purpose of the creation of the universe and humankind in accordance with the Islamic worldview
• be able to demonstrate an understanding of the Islamic religious practices and key Islamic spiritual concepts
• be able to evaluate critically the fundamental social values of Islam
• be able to discuss critically the fundamental beliefs, practices, spiritual concepts, values, and perspectives that shape the Islamic worldview
• be able to carry out independent research using scholarly sources in Islamic studies

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• Monotheism (tawhid) and concept of God in Islam
• Purpose of the creation of the universe and human life
• Human nature and three facets of life
• The unseen world
• Prophethood, revelation, scriptures, and the Qur'an
• Analysis of the life of Prophet Muhammad
• Suffering, good, and evil
• Religious practices
• Key spiritual concepts
• Fundamental social values of Islam

Residential School

This subject contains a 2-day Optional Residential School, which aims to provide an opportunity for exploration of the coursework covered and assessment of student learning. The residential school facilitates an interactive session between the teaching academics, students, and sections of the Islamic community.