al-'Aql wal-'Adl

INITIATIVE FOR ISLAMIC STUDIES

CURRICULUM

Theology and Law, Stage 1

starting Winter Semester 1997/98

I Continuous Classes

  1. Arabic
    various grades according to previous knowledge
  2. Exegesis of the Qur'an, continuous
    regular participation for at least two semesters

II Study Days

  1. Ethics and Law (Fiqh and 'Ilm al-Akhlâq)
    Acts of Worship, Self-Education, Economical Ethics, Contracts, Family Law, Social and Political Ethics, Schools of Law etc.
  2. Theology and Philosophy (Kalâm, Hikma and 'Irfân)
    Development, Schools of Thought, Special Issues (Tawhid, Prophecy, Anthropology, Reason and Revelation, Individual and Community, Justice, Eschatology etc.
  3. History and Culture
    History of the Muslim World, Cultural History, Contemporary Issues

III Block Seminars (two weekends each)

Semester A: Methods of Exegesis of the Qur'an
Semester B: Methods of Hadith Studies
Semester C: Methods of Jurisprudence (Usul al-Fiqh)
Semester D: Issues and Methods of Theology
Semester E: Issues and Methods of Philosophy
Semester F: Introduction to Mysticism

(Detailed programmes are availeble for each semester)

General Remarks

The courses and seminars take place in mosques, in the teachers' homes and in other suitable rooms. Tactful behaviour in class is part of the study programme. There is a possibility for practical activities like teaching children and younger students, organizing events and doing religious and social work. The students are expected to attend suitable lectures and seminars at the university for at least two semesters and to take part in at least one interreligious project.

Progress is frequently checked through papers, homework, projects and tests. The final certificate contains information about the student's achievements in each field and, in case of successful studies, the permission to teach in the framework of general education and interreligious projects.

The Initiative for Islamic Studies is independent from both financial support and any interference with the curriculum. All costs are covered through contributions by the students that, however, must not exceed contributions current in public adult education.

As yet, teaching language is German, and part of the materials are available in German language. In the course of time, the materials will hopefully be available in English as well.

Working Regulations for the Initiative for Islamic Studies
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