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These 2 modules give students a deep appreciation of the underlying principles that have given Islam both its historic stability, as well as the requisite dynamism to face up to the challenges of the age. In the first, the principles of Islamic jurisprudence, together with the higher objectives of the law will be explored, with the aim of laying down the ground rules for ethical and principled thinking in areas of contemporary concern. The second of these modules focuses on real and pressing legal and ethical questions facing Muslims in the West, through the use of case studies. These case studies on modern issues explore how timeless principles are utilised and appropriated to address the major legal and ethical dilemmas of the day.
“One of the most pertinent qualities of one seeking to fathom the Maqasid al-Shariah (the higher intent of the law) is to be able to distinguish between the varying intents of the words and actions of the Prophet . The Prophet had many roles that act as references in understanding the statements and acts that ensued from him. Therefore scholars seeking to fathom the area of Maqasid al-Shariah need to be able to clearly distinguish these statements and acts in relation to the role from which they were said” [Ibn ‘Ashur, al-Maqasid]
Entitled ‘Understanding the theory behind Islamic law in the modern age’, this module aims to give students a greater appreciation of the theoretical and practical dynamics involved in understanding Shari'ah law in the modern world. This will be done by observing the sources used in formulating authentic Islamic responses to contemporary issues.
At a glance. Just some of the issues and questions explored.
By the end of this module, students will:
“...One cannot construe the hadith to mean this. Rather it may well be that it constitutes the honoring of the deceased through the preservation of one of their organs so that a living person may benefit from it.”[Sh.Ibrahim al-Yaqubi, Shifa al-Tabarih].
Building on what has been learned in previous modules, this module gives students a behind-the- scenes insight into how scholars look at new issues. These case studies on modern issues explore how timeless principles are used and appropriated to address the major legal and ethical dilemmas of the day.
At a glance. Just some of the issues and questions explored.
These are just some of the detailed case studies and ethical questions facing Muslims in the West that are covered.
By the end of this module, students will:
Engage in discussion and informed debate on the burning moral and ethical issues of the day.
Be able to navigate complex issues through the lens of principled thinking.
Appreciate the benefit of scholarly differences of opinion.
Help others to better understand issues of debate in the community.