Course Description

 

This course combines Islamic wisdom with contemporary knowledge, the course focuses on the Islamic perspective to understanding humans, their psyche, and their nature. The Islamic approach is unique in this field due to its reliance upon revelation and sacred sources for knowledge and understanding.

 

I. Objectives 

• Be familiar with the field of psychology and the various sub-disciplines as well as related fields.

• Understand the difference between the secular and Islamic approaches to the study of human nature and personality.

• Understand the complex relationship between psychology and religion.

• Compare and contrast the sources of knowledge used for the Islamic and secular perspectives.

• Comprehend psychology, the nature of humans and purpose in life from an Islamic perspective, utilizing wisdom from sacred sources.

 

II.  Class Content

Introduction to Psychology and Human Nature
 
Contemporary Perspectives in Psychology

Thinking Critically with Psychological Science

Basics of Human Nature

The Heart (Al-Qalb)

Personality

Motivation

Emotion

Intelligence, Reason and Wisdom

States of Consciousness

Memory

Conditioning and Learning

Social Influences upon Humans

Unseen Influences upon Humans

Abnormal Psychology

Health Psychology

Religiosity, Spirituality and Mental Health

Trials and Tribulations of Life

Counseling and Psychotherapy

Developmental Psychology
 

 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

• Hamdan, A. (In press). Psychology from the Islamic Perspective. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: International Islamic Publishing House.
   

B. Supplementary Texts:

• PDF Notes

Course Description
 

This course is an introduction to the mainstream western theories and principles of counseling psychology. Theoretical approaches to the counseling process will be presented with examples of its clinical application. These western paradigms will be evaluated for its congruence with Islamic beliefs and tradition. Islamic concepts and ideas will be presented in an attempt to integrate these theories into the process of counseling. These will include reference to the Islamic scholarly tradition of healing. 
 

I. Objectives 

• Encourage critical thinking and instill the motivation for personal study in the area of counseling psychology from the Quran and Sunnah.  
• Introduce the western theories of counseling, while distilling this information through an Islamic filter so as to facilitate an enhanced integrative learning process.
• Introduce Islamic ideas of counseling towards a synthesis of western and Islamic approaches of the topic at hand.  
• Emphasize and transfer theory into practical application (non-clinical), both personally (self-awareness) and communally.  
• Understand the components that contribute to psychopathology and health.  

II. TEXTBOOKS 

A. Required Text:

• Corey, G. (2009). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (8th edition). Belmont, CA: Thomson Corporation.

 

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This course will cover the main theories, principles, and methods of Child Psychology. The Islamic perspective on the nature, characteristics, and development of children will be discussed within each module. Scientific theories and prin-ciples will also be integrated in various topics.

This course will include an introductory presentation of the vast field of psychology. It will cover a basic exposure to ways of understanding human behavior through theory and research. It will also contain a survey of research methods, and applications of psychology drawn from the natural science and social science bases of the discipline (displaying the field as both a science and an art). There will be an emphasis on critical thinking, ethical issues as they relate to the Quran and Sunnah, and the diversity of human experience in examining the science and practice of contemporary psychology.

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Personality can be defined as "a characteristic pattern of thinking, feeling, and acting.” Personality consists of traits or characteristics which exist on a continuum and influence our thoughts, motivations, and behaviors in various situations across time. This course, building upon what was learned in Islamic Psychology, is designed to introduce students to the study of Personality – how it is defined, what it consists of, how it develops, and how it influences our thoughts and behaviors. The focus of the course is on the Islamic perspective of personality, based upon the Qur’an and Sunnah. Several modernpsychological theories and concepts will also be discussed and critiqued. A major portion of the course will cover the concept, process and means of purification of the soul, a fundamental component in the discourse on personality.

This course will include an exposure to the recognition of psychopathology - covering all of the most common major mental disorders and its expression, social/environmental issues that impact mental health and forensicpsychological assessment in Islamic Jurisprudence. This course will also touch upon the following: knowing one’s boundaries in offering counseling services and an explanation of the different occupational specialties that address mental health such that appropriate referrals can be made. Some critical analysis of how current diagnosis is formulated and conceptualized will be explored within the context of historical Muslim scholarly understandings of illness in general.

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The focus of the course is on Health Psychology based upon the Qur‘aan and Sunnah. This course will serve as a comprehensive introduction to the field of health psychology and examines how the areas of health, illness and medicine can be studied from a psychological perspective. It combines with Islamic wisdom and knowledge and focuses on the examination on how psychological, social, and biological factors interact with and enable individuals to maintain their health, coping with afflictions, and recovering from serious illness. These relations are examined through association of health behaviours, illness behaviours, health promotion, stress management, coping strategies, patient provider relations, pain management, and the coping with contemporary problems such as alcohol, drug misuse, HIV/AIDS and chronic illnesses. This course will provide you with an overview of the major topics, current issues, and evidenced based practice surrounding these areas.

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Course Description

 

This course is comprised of a study of the fundamental issues in the Science of Tawheed/ ‘Aqeedah most relevant today. It gives an overview of the categories of Tawheed and Shirk.

 

I. Objectives 

• To enable the student to understand the origins of the Science of Tawheed.

• To further develop the student’s grasp of the basic three categories of Tawheed and their antithesis Shirk.

• To develop the student’s basic knowledge regarding some of the controversial issues related to Tawheed.

• To enable students to critically analyze the customs and culture which affects the implementation of Tawheed in Muslim countries today.

• To teach students correct approach to understanding the Islaamic Creed.

 

II.  Class Content

A. Definition of ‘Aqeedah

B. Importance of ‘Aqeedah

C. Unique Characteristics of Islamic ‘Aqeedah

D. Definitions of Eemaan and Islaam and their characteristics 

E. Belief in Allaah 
1. Proofs For Allaah’s Existence
2. The Appearance of Atheism in Modern Times
3. Tawheed: Ruboobiyyah, Uloohiyyah, & Asmaa wa sifaat
4. Kufr and its categories
5. Shirk and its categories
6. Nifaaq and its categories

 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

• Bilal Philips, The Fundamentals of Tawheed, Bilal Philips,

 B. Supplementary Texts:

• ‘Abdullah Al-Athari, Islamic Beliefs

Course Description

This course is a survey of the principles of Quranic exegesis. The first half of the curriculum focuses on ‘uloom al-Qur’an (background knowledge required of anyone who undertakes explanation of the Qur’an, especially its use of the Arabic language). The second half is a survey of works of tafseer, including the major classical works of tafseer bil-ma’thoor and tafseer bil-ra’y as well as modern trends in tafseer, particularly thematic tafseer.

 

I. OBJECTIVES

1. To enable the student to understand the origins of the science of usool al-tafseer.

2. To familiarize the student with the nature of revelation and the unique qualities of the Qur’an, including its unparalleled preservation, it’s seven ahruf and its recitations.

3. To acquaint the student with the proper methodology for Qur’anic exegesis.

 

II. CLASS CONTENT 

     1. Introduction to the Science of Tafseer

     2. Books of Tafseer

     3. Translations of the Qur'an

     4. Wahy

     5. The Revelations of the Qur'aan

     6. Collection of the Qur'aan

     7. The Qur'aanic Text

     8. Dialects and Recitations 

     9. Reasons for Revelation

     10. Makkan and Madeenan Revelations

     11. Naasikh and Mansookh

     12. Muhkam and Mutashaabih

     13. Literary Forms of the Qur'aan

     14. The Language of the Qur'aan 

 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

     Bilal Philips, Usool at-Tafseer

     Study notes by Riaz Ansary

B. Supplementary Texts:

     Yasir Qadhi, An Introduction to the Sciences of the Qur'aan

     Ahmad Von Denffer, 'Ulum al-Qur'aan (Eng. Trans.)

     As-Suyootee, al-Itqaan fee 'Uloom al-Qur'aan

     Az-Zarkashee, al-Burhaan fee 'Uloom al-Qur'aan

     Mannaa' al-Qattaan, Mabaahith fee 'Uloom al-Qur'aan

     Muhammad 'Alee az-Zarqaanee, Manaahil al-'Irfaan fee 'Uloom al-Qur'aan

Course Description

This course is comprised of a study of the fundamental issues of Islamic jurisprudence. Only fiqhul muamalaat (trade transactions) will be covered in this course. The sound sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) is presented with authentic conclusive evidence. Where ever required modern day examples are mentioned and incorporated. The dire need to know the Islamic rulings of techniques and systems in place in modern day businesses is not ignored.

 

I. TEXTBOOKS 

A. Required Text:

     Salih Al-Fawzaan, A Summary of Islamic Jurisprudence, vol.2

B. Supplementary Texts:

   Fiqhus Sunnah, Sayyid Sabiq,

  

I. OBJECTIVES

1. Providing the student with knowledge enabling him to understand the acts of worship and their correct ettiquette

2. Clarifying the wisdom behind the legislation of acts of worship and their effects on human behavior.

 

II. CLASS CONTENT 

A. Salaah.

     1. Tahaarah

    Minor and Major Purification and their rules

    Wiping Socks, Categories of Water, Ritual Impurity, Menstruation

     2. Definition of Salaah, Its Status, Importance and Wisdom

     3. Prayer Times

     4. Conditions for Validity

     5. Obligatory and Recommended Portions of Prayer, Invalidators

     6. Sujoodus-Sahw (Prostrations for Forgetfulness)

     7. Making up Prayers

     8. Recommended Prayers

     9. Congregational Prayers and their Rules

     10. Method of Salaatul-Mareed

     11. Funeral Prayers

 

B. Zakaah

     1. Definition, Status, Importance and Wisdom

     2. Conditions for Obligation

     3. Types of Wealth Requiring Zakaah

     4. Heads of Expenditure for Zakaah

 C. Sawm

     1. Definition, Status, Importance and Wisdom

     2. Conditions for Fasting

     3. Atonement for Invalidation

     4. Permissible Acts While Fasting

     5. Seclusion and its Rules

 

D. Hajj

     1. Definition, Status, Importance and Wisdom

     2. Obligation and Its Types: Mufrid, Muqrin and Mutamatti

     3. Obligatory and Recommended Acts of Hajj

     4. Scrificial Animals and Atonement

     5. Ruling Concerning Visitation of the Prophet’s Mosque

 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

     Salih Al-Fawzan, A Summary of Islamic Jurisprudence, vol. 1

B. Supplementary Texts:
 

     Sayyid Sabiq, Fiqh us-Sunnah I-V (Eng. Trans.)
 

 

Course Description

This course is comprised of a study of the fundamental issues of Islamic Law. The book of Marriage is full of issues regarding family matters where nikaah issues, marital discord, and more are discussed. It is a course in which both married and unmarried students will find immense benefit. While going through all the academic lingo of the subject you will Insha Allah benefit from it for your personal life and those around you. 
 

I. TEXTBOOKS 

A. Required Text:

• Salih Al-Fawzaan, A Summary of Islamic Jurisprudence, vol.2

B. Supplementary Texts:

• Fiqhus Sunnah, Sayyid Sabiq,
• Azzawaaj al Islami by Shaykh Mahmood Al Masri,
• Isharun Nisaa by Shaykh Usamah bin Kamal 

This course looks at the cultural foundations of Islam in order to enable the student to distinguish it from cultural traditions and practices commonly associated with Islam, as well as to understand reasons for the current cultural clash.

Course Description

 

This course covers the third Category of Tawheed: Tawheed al-Asmaa was-Sifaat, The significance of belief in revelation, Understanding belief in Destiny, Signs of the Last Day and the Day of Resurrection, Status of the Prophet’s Companions, Obedience to Rulers, and Abandonment of Deviants.

 

I. Objectives 

• To enable the student to understand the rules governing the correct understanding of the Divine Names and Attributes of Allah.

• To further develop the basic belief in revelation found in both the Qur’aan and Sunnah.

• To teach students about the Fifth Pillar of Faith: Belief in the Last Day and its portents.

• To develop the student’s basic knowledge of the Sixth Pillar of Faith: Belief in the Divine Destiny (Qadaa and Qadar).

• To enable students to comprehend the significance of the Status of the Prophet’s Companions

 

II.  Class Content

A. Al-Asmaa
 1. Linguistic and Technical definitions of Ism

2. Opinions of Scholars Regarding Ism, Tasmiyah and musammaa

3. Allaah’s Names are Fixed

4. Allaah’s Beautiful Names found in the Sunnah

The Effect of Knowledge of Allaah’s Names on a Muslim’s Behavior 
 

B. The Methodology for Understanding the Divine Attributes
1. Linguistic and Technical Definitions of Sifah

2. The Concept of Sifaat among the Salaf: Sifaat Thaatiyyah and Sifaat Ikhtiyaariyyah

3. The Concept of Sifaat among the Ash’arites: Sifaat al-Ma‘aanee, Sifaat Ma‘nawiyyah, Sifaat Salbiyyah, and Sifaat Khabariyyah

4. The Methodology for Understanding the Divine Attributes
i. The Three Rules of the Salafee Methodology
ii. Ta‘teel; its reality and examples among deviant sects
iii. Ta’weel; its reality and examples among deviant sects
iv. Tashbeeh; its reality and examples among deviant sects

5. Opinions of the Scholars Regarding Seeing Allaah
 

C. Qadaa and Qadar

1. Linguistic and Technical Definitions of Qadaa and Qadar

2. Levels of Faith in Qadaa and Qadar

3. Using Qadar as Justification for Sin

4. Divine Will and Human Will

5. Sects which Deviated Concerning Qadaa and Qadar

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

• Bilal Philips, A Commentary on Ibn Qudaamah’s Radiance of Faith,
• BilalPhilips, A Commentary on The Chapter on Qadar (A‘laam as-Sunnah of al-Hakamee)

 B. Supplementary Texts:

• ‘Abdullah Al-Athari, Islamic Beliefs,
• Ibn Abil-‘Izz, Sharh al-‘Aqeedah at- Tahaawiyyah (Eng. Trans.),
• Umar al-Ashqar, Divine Will and Predestination

 

Course Description

This course is a survey of usool al-fiqh (the principles of Islamic jurisprudence). The main topics of study are the daleels that are universally considered authoritative, followed by the controversial daleels (excluding those most relevant to al Maqaasid al-Shar‘iyyah), linguistic issues relevant to interpretation of the texts, the nature of Sharee‘ah rules, and issues concerning ijtihaad.

I. Objectives

1. To enable the student to understand the origins of the Science of Usool al-Fiqh.

2. To familiarize the student with the proofs for the authority of the various types of evidence recognized in Usool al-Fiqh and the arguments of those who reject various proofs.

3. To acquaint the student with the main rules regarding interpretation of textual evidence as well as the most important controversies surrounding some of them.

4. To give the student a clear framework for understanding the nature of rules employed in fiqh.

5. To familiarize students with the methodology for dealing with apparently contradictory evidence.

6. To acquaint the student with the main issues related to ijtihaad.

II. Class Content

1. An introduction to the science of Usool al-Fiqh: Its origin and development and the difference between Usool al-Fiqh and Fiqh.

2. Identification of fields of knowledge that have contributed to Usool ul Fiqh i.e. the Qur’aan, Sunnah, Arabic Language, logic and Fiqh

3. Examining the concept of Ijtihad as found in the early times.

4. Issues regarding the Hukm Shar‘ee (Islamic Law) and what is related to it.

5. Defining declarative law ( al-hukum al-wad’ee) in detail with its sub-divisions and ways of identifying categories when appropriate.

6. Discussing the nature of Shariah Laws

7. Role of intellect and free will in determining the legal capacity.

8. An overview of types of evidence: Qat’ee and Zannee, Primary and Secondary, transmitted and rational

9. Issues related to the Qur’aan

10. The Issues related to Sunnah

11. The issue of Abrogation (Naskh)

12. The Language- Clarity of Language and linguistic issues

13. Research on Command and Prohibition: Definition; ways that command and prohibition are conveyed in Arabic. The legal value of it, an order after a prohibition, and non-literal uses of it

14. Research on the General and Specific: Definitions of the ‘Aam and Khaas, generalization terminology

15. Research on the Unlimited and the Limited: Definitions of the Mutlaq and Muqayyid, the working relationship between the two.

16. Research on the Textual Implications: The Stated (Mantooq) and Unstated ( Maskoot)

17. Discussion on Ijmaa’: Definition, books on Ijmaa’ and the controversy on the authority of Ijmaa’

18. Study on Qiyaas: Definition, proof for those who reject the Qiyaas and the conditions pertaining to the original and new cases.

19. Research on Istis-haab (Presumption of Continuity): definition, recognition and evidence for its authority and its types.

Textbook

1. Required Text:

Bilal Philips, A Commentary on Usool al- Fiqh Made Easy

1. Supplementary Texts:

Study notes by Riaz Ansary

Imran Ahsan Khan Nyazee, Outlines of Islamic Jurisprudence

Muhammad Hashim Kamali, Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence

This course focuses on an important area in Islamic Jurisprudence which is the discipline of legal maxims. The Subject of Islamic legal maxims aphoristically subsumes all the spectrums that purpose of Shari’ah is all about. There are six basic Islamic legal maxims agreed upon among the Islamic scholars on which the tenet of Islamic law is based. Each one of these six legal maxims has some subsidiary maxims which are either functioning as further explanation to the grand maxim or condition and restriction to it. This course attempts to analyze those six legal maxims and their sub-maxims in addition to some more comprehensive maxims.

I. Objectives

1. Introduce the history, character and significance of Islamic legal maxims.

2. Be familiar with the legal maxims of Islamic law and the various subsidiary maxims as well as other comprehensive maxims.

3. Use the source materials of maxims of Islamic law.

4. Introduce fundamental principles and applications of Islamic law.

5. Comprehend Fiqhi issues based on legal maxims.

6. Acquire knowledge of the particulars of Fiqh from various chapters of Fiqh.

II. CLASS CONTENT

1. Introduction to Islamic Legal maxims: Defining the Maqaasid, identifying their importance, categories and sources.

2. Relationship Between Islamic Legal Maxims and other disciplines of Fiqh thought.

3. Role and History of Islamic legal Maxims: Role of Islamic legal maxims in common Ijtihad and in contemporary ijtihad and Historical development of Islamic legal maxims before compilation of Fiqh

4.  Study of Islamic legal maxims as distinct discipline

5. An Overview of Major Maxims: Meaning, origins, history and application of each with its subsidiary and minor maxims.

6. Other comprehensive and general maxims.

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

PDF notes

B. Supplementary Texts:

Philips, Dr Bilal, A compilation of Islamic Legal Maxims.

C. Recommended Texts:

Laldin, Dr Mohammad Akram, A Mini Guide to Shari’ah & Legal Maxims.

Al-Amiri, R S. (2003). Legal Maxims in Islamic Jurisprudence: Their History, Character and Significance, University of Birmingham, UK: Islamic Texts Society

Al-Bornu, M. S. Al-Wajiz Fi Idahi Qawa’idil Fiqh al-Kulliyah (Arabic version), 1998, Al-Risalah Publishers, Lebanon.

Course Description

 

This course covers ‘Aqeedah topics not covered in the first two semesters as presented in the oldest and most classical work on the Islamic creed from the 9th century.

 

I. Objectives 

• To enable the student to understand the rules governing the principles of the Islamic creed.

• To further develop the basic belief in revelation found in both the Qur’aan and Sunnah.

• To develop the student’s basic knowledge of the first Pillar of Faith: Belief in the Prophet and the proofs for his prophethood.

• To enable students to comprehend the significance of the Status of the Community and the importance of adhering to it.

• To teach students about the position of faith between the principle of hope and fear and its significance.

• To clarify for students how they may benefit the dead through acts of worship and the concept of supplication and divine response.

II.  Class Content

A. Belief in Messengers

1. Linguistic and Technical definitions of a prophet and messenger, and the relationship between the two
2. Characteristics of a Messenger
3. Assignments of a Messenger
4. Prophethood
5. Evidence Establishing the Prophethood
6. Revelation; its definition, method and doubts concerning it

B. Walee and Wilaayah

1. Linguistic and Technical Definitions of Walee
2. Characteristics of Allaah’s Close Friends
3. Wilaayah Cannot be Inherited

C. Belief in the Books of Revelation

1. Linguistic and Technical Definitions of a Divine Book
2. Conditions of a Divine Book
3. Humanity’s Need for Divine Books
4. Belief in the Divine Books in General and Specific
5. Books Which Must be Known

 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

• Abu Jafer at-Tahawe / Ali ibn Abil-‘Izz (Trans. Syed Iqbal Zaheer),
• TheFundamentals of Islamic Creed, Canada: Al Attique Publishers Inc., 2nd ed., 2000.

 B. Supplementary Texts:

• Ali ibn Abil-‘Izz (Trans. Dr Muhammad ‘Abdul Haqq Ansari), Commentary on the
  Creeed of at-Tahawi, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Al Imam Muammad Ibn Sa’ud Islamic University, 1st ed., 2000.

 

Course Description

The course provides students with an opportunity to study the Hadeeths regarding the things which the Prophet (peace be upon him) considered to be the best. These are based on a book entitled The Best in Islam series which was written by Dr. Bilal Philips. The students will be able to know which practices are the best in Islam, act upon them and earn reward from Allah.


I. OBJECTIVES

A. Providing the student with the knowledge of the hadeeths that are pertaining to the things which are considered to be the best in Islam.
 

B. Providing a detailed explanation of the best things in Islam.
 

C. Linking up the explanation of the hadeeths with contemporary events and issues so as to provide relevance to the students.

D. Making students aware of need to act upon these hadeeths and propagate them to others.
 

II. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

 Dr. Bilal Philips, A transcription of the lectures by Dr. Bilal Philips

B. Supplementary Texts:

None
 

 

Course Description

This course is a critical study of the history of Islamic legislation and the evolution of its various schools of law. 

A. Required Texts: 

Bilal Philips, The Evolution of Fiqh,
Bilal Philips, The Chennai Treatise

B. Supplementary Texts: 

‘Abdur Rahman Doi, The Shariah

 

Course Description

This level of Tajweed teaches beginners the pronunciation skills and basic Tajweed rules needed to ensure correct recitation of the Qur’aan.

I. Objectives

1. To establish a bond between the student and Allah’s Book by learning its proper recitation.

2. Enabling the student of the Islamic Online University to correctly recite the Noble Qur'an and thoroughly preparing him to carry the university's message that is based on Allah's Book.

3. Clarifying the excellence of reciting the Noble Qur'an and studying it.

4. To make the student familiar with Qur'aanic pronunciation skills and the most common rules of Tajweed, theoretically and practically.


II. Class Content

 

 

A. The Qur'aan (recitation only)

B. Tajweed

Ad-Duhaa to An-Nas  Al-Ghashiyah to Al-Layl Al-Mutaffifin to Al-'A`la An-Naba' to Al-'Infitar Al-'Insan & Al-Mursalat Al-Muddaththir & Al-Qiyamah Al-Qalam to Al-Muzzammil Al-Mulk At-Tahrim  At-Talaq At-Taghabun Al-Munafiqun Al-Jumu`ah As-Saf

Introduction to Tajweed, and the virtues of learning and reciting the Qur'an Types of Lahn Rules of Isti'aathah the Basmalah Introduction to the articulation points Articulation points The characteristics of the letters The characteristics of Hams and Jahr The characteristics of Shiddah, Tawassut and Rakhaawah The characteristics of Isti'laa', Inkhifaad, Itbaaq and Infitaah The characteristics of Safeer and Qalqalah The characteristics of Leen and Inhiraaf The characteristics of Tikraar, Tafash-shee and Istitaalah

  

 

III. Textbook

A. Required Text:

Kareema Carol Czereinski, Tajweed rules of the Qur’aan, Vol. 1 and 2

B. Supplementary Texts:

Umm Muhammad, A Brief Introduction to Tajweed

Course Description

This course is a survey of the principles upon which the study of hadeeth rests. The historical milieu that surrounded the developments of this science are taken into account and the methodology of this science that gradually appeared is rendered against its historical environment along with an analysis of its content. The various classification schemes are discussed and how the many developments of the science, although possibly seen independent of each other, are interconnected accumulating finally into a comprehensive critical appreciation of Islamic sources.

I. OBJECTIVES

1. Educating and training students regarding Hadeeth terminology specific to the Hadeeth sciences.

2. Understanding the rules used by the hadeeth scholars for grading hadeeths according to their reliability.

3. Developing in the students an ability to distinguish the hadeeth of the Prophet (Peace be upon him) from that which is not.

 

II. CLASS CONTENT

     1. Introduction: The Status of the Sunnah in Islamic Law

     2. Hadeeth Science and its terminologies

     3. Division of Narrations: 1. Mutawaatir and 2. Ghayr Mutawaatir

     4. Division of Narrations: 1. Maqbool and 2. Mardood

     5. Hadeeth Mawdoo‘

     6. Division of Narrations: 1. Marfoo‘, 2. Mawqoof and 3. Maqtoo‘

     7. Hadeeth Qudsee

     8. Sahaabah: Definition and their characteristics.

     9. At-Taabi‘oon and those who followed them until the end of the era of narration.

     10. Mardood due to faults in the narrators: Either due to lack of Integrity (‘Adaalah) or lack of Accuracy ( Dabt)

     11. Methods of Hadeeth Narration

     12. Conditions for Hadeeth Narration

     13. Textual Harmonization,

     14. Hadeeth Books,

     15. Women Scholars of Hadeeth

 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

     Bilal Philips, Usool al-Hadeeth 

B. Supplementary Texts:

     Suhaib Hasan, An Introduction to the Science of Hadith

     Muhammad Siddique, Hadith Literature

     Mustapha Azami, Early Studies in Hadeeth Literature

     Ibn Katheer, al-Baahith al-Hatheeth

     Ibn Salaah, Tadreeb ar-Raawee

Course Description
 

This course covers the inhabitants of the spirit world beginning with the Angels, the Jinn and human souls.

 

I. Objectives 

• To develop the student’s basic knowledge of the Second Pillar of Faith: Belief in the Angels.

• To enable the student to understand the spirit world and to distinguish between fact and fiction regarding its inhabitants and their relationships.

• To enable students to comprehend the significance of Satan and to be aware of his snares and his weapons.

• To teach students about spiritual ailments and how they are to be treated according to the Qur’aan and Sunnah.

• To clarfy for students the wisdom behind Satan’s creation and role of evil in the world.

II.  Class Content

A. Belief in the Angels and the Last Day

1. Linguistic and Technical definitions of an Angel
2. Proofs for the Existence of Angels
3. Reality of Angels
4. Characteristics of Angels
5. Categories of Angels 
6. Relationship Between Angels and Humans

B. Jinn and Devils

1. Linguistic and Technical Definitions of Jinn and Devils
2. Evidence for the Existence of the Jinn
3. Reality of the Jinn
4. Control over the Jinn
5. Relationship Between Jinn and Humans

C. Belief in the Last Day

1. The Necessity for Belief in the Last Day
2. Reasons Used by Those who Doubt the Last Day
3. Signs of the Hour; Minor and Major
4. Events Leading Up to the Last Day
5. Events of the Last Day

 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

• Umar al-Ashqar, The World of the Noble Angels

• Umar al-Ashqar, The World of the Jinn and Devils

• Umar al-Ashqar, The Day of Resurrection

• Ibn Abil-‘Izz, Sharh al-‘Aqeedah at-Tahaawiyyah (Eng. Trans.)

B. Supplementary Texts:

• Abdullah Al Athari, Islamic Beliefs: A Brief Introduction to the ‘Aqeedah of Ahlus Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah

• Al-Qurtubee, Luqat al-Murjaan fee Ahkaam al-Jaann

• Al-Qurtubee, at-Tathkirah fee Ahwaal al-Mawtaa wa Umoor al-Aakhirah

Course Description

This level of Tajweed teaches intermediate students pronunciation skills and the general Tajweed rules needed to ensure correct recitation of the Qur’aan. 

I. Objectives

1. To establish a bond between the student and Allah’s Book by learning its proper recitation.

2. Enabling the student of the Islamic Online University to correctly recite the Noble Qur'an and thoroughly preparing him to carry the university's message that is based on Allah's Book.

3. Clarifying the excellence of reciting the Noble Qur'an and studying it.

4. To make the student familiar with Qur'aanic pronunciation skills and the most common rules of Tajweed, theoretically and practically.


II. Class Content

 

A. The Qur'aan (recitation only)	B. Tajweed
Adh-Dhariyat to  Al-Qamar   Ar-Rahman to Al-Hadid   Al-'Ahqaf & Muhammad   Ash-Shuraa   Az-Zukhruf   Ad-Dukhan & Al-Jathiyah   Fussilat   Az-Zumar   Sad    As-Saffat    Ya-Sin   Fatir   Saba'    Al-'Ahzab   Luqman & As-Sajdah   Ar-Rum	Tafkheem and Tarqeeq   The rules of noon saakina and tanween   The rules of meem saakina   The Ghunnah   The rules of laam saakinah   The rules of al-mutamaathilain, al-mutajaanisain, al-mutaqaaribain, and al-mutabaa’idain   The rules of Idghaam   The rules of madd   The rules of hamzat al-Wasl   The rules of starting, stopping, and pausing

 

III. Textbook

A. Required Text:

Kareema Carol Czereinski, Tajweed rules of the Qur’aan, Vol. 1, 2 and 3

B. Supplementary Texts:

Umm Muhammad, A Brief Introduction to Tajweed

 

Course Description

This course deals with Islamic Criminal Law. In this course, we will discuss the various rulings related to the Hudood punishments, also we will find out the differences between legal retribution and prescribed punishments, as well as how to implement it and by whom. All these in order to prevent other incidences of such crimes from occurring. In other words it serves as a deterrent for the culprit and a forewarning for others. These laws are implemented by the state and it is not in the hands of individuals to execute as they like. All these punishments and before that, all the precautionary steps taken by Islam so that the doors leading to acts of evil is eliminated from the beginning, are some of the highlights of this study.

I. OBJECTIVES

1. To enable the student to understand the origins of Islamic Law.

2. To illustrate the importance of the law of legal retribution and prescribed punishments.

3. To be able to understand the importance of this law for peace and security.

4. To exemplify the result of implementing this law in any land, anytime.

II. CLASS CONTENT

1. Diyah (Blood Money)

1. Definition, importance and need, amounts of diyah, conditions for bearing the responsibility of paying the money

2. Indemnity for body organs; senses and functions; and for wounds and fractures

3. Expiation for murder, compurgation

1. Hudood (Prescribed Punihment)

1. Definition, importance and need

2. Prescribed punishment for zina, slander, intoxicants, stealing, highway robbery etc.

1. Fighting the rebels

2. Legislation regarding apostasy

3. The book of food

1. Halaal and Haraam Issues, types of food, evidence related to it

2. Conditions of slaughtering

3. Hunting: Conditions, what to do before and after hunting etc.

1. Oaths and Vows: Definition, types of oaths, permissible and non-permissible and conditions of oath

III. TEXTBOOKS

1. Required Text:

• Dr. Salih Al Fawzan, A Summary of Islamic Jurisprudence Vol 2

 

1. Supplementary Texts:

• Shaykh Muhammad Saleh Al Uthaimeen, Sharhul Mumti\\\'e

• Sayyid Sabiq, Fiqhus Sunnah

• Muhammad Subhi bin Hasan Hallaq, Qur’an and Sunnah

Course Description

 

Arabic Grammar Level 1 introduces students to Arabic grammar in a unique way based on the frequency of vocabulary usage. Level 1 focuses completely on the major nominal grammatical constructions. Its lessons are taught using English as the medium of instruction in order to give the student a basic understanding of Arabic grammar from an English grammatical perspective.

I. TEXTBOOKS 

A. Required Text:

•      Bilal Philips, Arabic Grammar made easy (Book One)

 
 

 

Course Description
 

This course is a study in details of al-Kahf chapter which's verses contains a number of precious teachings, related to many fields of human life. 

 

I. Objectives 

• Facilitating human understanding of the meanings of Allaah's words.

• Familiarizing the student with the methodology of scholars of Tafseer who interpreted Allaah's Words in the Qur'aan.

• To enable the students how to dispute the allegations are made by enemies of Islam about al-quran in general and about some matters this chapter talks about specially.

• To acknowledge them with various values of Islamic manner.

• To acknowledge them with various ways of the Islamic propagation.
   

II.  Class Content

Analytical Tafseer - Soorah al-Kahf
 

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

• Bilal Philips, Tafseer Soorah al-Kahf     
   

B. Supplementary Texts:

• Saifur-Rahman Al-Mubarakpuri, Tafsir Ibn Kathir (English Trans.)
• Ibn Jareer at-Tabaree, Jaami' al-Bayaan
• Al-Qurtubee, Al-Jaami' li Ahkaam al-Qur'aan
• Ar-Raazee, Mafaateeh al-Ghayb
• Al-Aloosee, Rooh al-Ma'aanee
• Az-Zamakhsharee, Tafseer al-Kashshaaf
• Abus-Sa'ood, Tafseer Abis-Sa'ood
• Ibn al-Jawzee, Zaad al-Maseer
• Ash-Shawkaanee, Fat'h al-Qadeer

 

 

This course is comprised of a study on da’wah in contemporary times, its schools from the time of the prophetic era until the present, with special focus on the major Islamic movements of the 20th century

1. Developing in the student awareness about the importance of studying Da’wah in this era and the need for it.

2. Providing students with the understanding of the different schools, da’wah movements, current and the ways to unite them and how to limit the areas of difference among them.

3. Identifying the problems and challenges in the field of Da’wah in order to enable meet them effectively.

II. CLASS CONTENT

1. Methods of Da’wah and their categories: definitions of manaahij (methods); main contemporary methods according to origin:

   1. Divine Method
   2. Secular Method
   3. False Religious Method
   4. Man-made Religious Method
2. Nature of the Way of Da’wah

3. Characteristics of the Divine Method:

   1. Generality or Specifics,

   2. Collective [group method] or Individual

4. Foundations of the Way of Da’wah

1. Qur’an and Sunnah

2. Qur’aan and authentic tafseer,

3. Authentic Sunnah and Correct Interpretation

5. Practical Utilization of Da’wah Methods: Discussion and Debate and Contemporary Response to Missionary Da’wah – Ahmad Deedat; Dr Jamal Badawi; and Dr Zakir Naik

6. Practical Utilization of Da’wah Methods: Non- Muslims and Muslims

7. Special Methods of Da’wh:

1. Observational/Scientific Methods

2. Emotional Methods

3. Rational/Intellectual Methods

4. Interrogative Methods

8. Means of Da’wah

9. Problems of Da’wah:

1. Internal Problems
2. External Problems

10. The Divine Method of Da’wah: Companions’ of Prophets and different early scholars approach and insight in dawah and its influence on society and Islam.

11. 16th & 17th Centuries Colonization: The major dais’ of the time and the effect of their call on the societies.

12. 20th Century Islamic Movements

13. Sufism impact in India and Pakistan and Ansarus Sunnah Muhammadiyyah in Egypt & Sudan

 

The Comprehensive Islamic Call by Dr Muhammad Zain al-Hadi; Da’wah in Contemporary Times – Notes, Dr Bilal Philips

1. Al-Makhraj min al-Fitnah – Muqbil ibn Haadi al-Waadi’ee

2. Words of Advice Regarding Da’wah by Abdul Azeez ibn Baz

3. The Islamic Awakening by Muhammad ibn Salih al-Uthaymin

4. How to Call People to Islam by Abdul Badei Saqr

 

Course Description

 

Arabic Grammar Level 1 introduces students to Arabic grammar in a unique way based on the frequency of vocabulary usage. Level 1 focuses completely on the major nominal grammatical constructions. Its lessons are taught using English as the medium of instruction in order to give the student a basic understanding of Arabic grammar from an English grammatical perspective.

I. TEXTBOOKS 

A. Required Text:

•      Bilal Philips, Arabic Grammar made easy (Book One)

 
 

 

Course Description

 

This course covers the major sects which split off from the main body of Muslims.

 

I. Objectives 

• Clarifying for students that the foundational principle in Islaam is a call to unity and firm adherence to the Qur’aan and Sunnah.

• Emphasizing in the student’s understanding that division is always the product of extremism and deviant thought.

• Creating an awareness of ancient sects which appeared in Muslim history to enable the student to understand contemporary sects from their historical roots.

• Providing the student with an historical background of destructive roles played by deviant sects during Islamic history.
   

II.  Class Content

A. Reasons for the appearance of sects.

B. Khaarijites; their origin, opinions, and sub-sects.

C. Shi’ites: Twelvers, Zaydites, Ismailites

D. Baatinites Past and Present: Qaramantians, Babakites, Nusairites, Druze, Bahai, Qadianites.

E. Scholastic Theology

1. Minor Sects: Their names, origins, and teachings
 Jabrites, Qadarites, Murji’ites, Mushabbihah 

2. Major Sects: Their names, origins, and teachings
i. Mu‘tazilites
ii. Ash‘arites
iii. Maatureedites

III. TEXTBOOKS

A. Required Text:

• Bilal Philips, The Devil’s Deception;
• Bilal Philips, The Imaamate;
• Bilal Philips, Mislamic Sects

 B. Supplementary Texts:

• Gibb and Kramers, Shorter Encyclopedia of Islam, Glasse, The Concise Encyclopaedia of Islam

 

Course Description

Arabic 201 is specifically designed to provide students with the fundamental skills in mastering proper pronunciation and conversing in everyday situations while introducing relevant vocabulary.

I. Objectives 

• To enable students to read and understand basic modern standard Arabic.
• Correcting the student’s reading and conversational skills as well as developing his ability to express his opinions and thoughts in correct phrases.
• To enable students to carry out basic conversations with their fellow students of Arab origin.  

II. TEXTBOOKS 

A. Required Text:

•  Al-Arabiyatu Bayna Yadayk Volume 1