Islam Verstehen: Geschichte und Gegenwart

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.