Course Description
"Islam Verstehen: Geschichte und Gegenwart" is an enlightening and comprehensive course offered by RWTHx that aims to provide a foundational understanding of Islam, its rich cultural history, and its contemporary relevance. This course seeks to dispel misconceptions and provide a balanced, realistic view of Islam by offering in-depth knowledge about its core principles, practices, and diverse interpretations.
What Students Will Learn
- The fundamental beliefs of Islam
- The life and significance of Prophet Muhammad
- Islamic practices (e.g., Sharia law, family life)
- Islamic religion and tolerance
- Violence and peace in Islam
- Women in Islam
Prerequisites
This is an introductory-level course, and no prior knowledge or specific skills are required. It is open to anyone interested in learning about Islam, regardless of their background or religious affiliation.
Course Coverage
- Overview and fundamentals of Islam
- The Quran and Sunna
- Prophet Muhammad's life and importance
- Central religious beliefs and practices
- Islamic law (Sharia) and its application
- Family structures and daily life in Islam
- Relationship between Muslims and non-Muslims
- Secularization and Islam
- Potential for violence and peace in Islam
- Diversity within Islam (e.g., Ahmadiyya community)
- Women's position in Islam
Who This Course Is For
- Students interested in religious studies or cultural anthropology
- Non-Muslims seeking to understand Islam better
- Anyone looking to broaden their knowledge of world religions
- Individuals wanting to combat prejudices and misconceptions about Islam
- Those interested in interfaith dialogue and understanding
Real-World Applications
- Promoting interfaith understanding and dialogue in diverse communities
- Enhancing cultural sensitivity in professional settings
- Improving communication with Muslim colleagues, friends, or neighbors
- Contributing to more informed discussions on Islam in social and academic contexts
- Developing a more nuanced understanding of global affairs and conflicts involving Islamic countries
- Combating Islamophobia and promoting religious tolerance
Syllabus
Week 1: Overview and Fundamentals
- Introduction to Islam
- The Quran and Sunna
- Prophet Muhammad's life and significance
- Central religious beliefs and practices
Week 2: Islamic Life
- Sharia (Islamic law)
- Family structures in Islam
- Daily life and practices
Week 3: Islam and the World
- Relationship between Muslims and non-Muslims
- Secularization and Islam
- Violence and peace potentials in Islam
Week 4: Diversity in Islam
- Introduction to Islamic diversity
- Case study: The Ahmadiyya community
Additional Topic (Week 5): Women in Islam
- Exploring the position of women in Islamic societies
- Contemporary debates and perspectives
This course is part of the "Introduction to Theology" series, which includes other courses on Biblical Theology, Historical Theology, Philosophy of Religion, and Practical Theology aspects.