This course provides a basic overview of the essential concepts, frames and doctrines within the dimension of imān. Students will acquire an understanding of both the essential doctrinal beliefs of Islam and why those beliefs are true. They will also look at the topic of theology in Islam as a universal discipline that provides the foundations of one’s religious and spiritual lives. Furthermore, students will engage this unique theological tradition to navigate contemporary intellectual challenges to religion, provide practical tools for education and unlock a robust creative civilizational engagement with the world.

This course intends to provide a comprehensive foundational introduction to the core principles of what it means to be Muslim through actions, echoing the component of “islam” of the Hadith Jibril. Through reflection on topics such as acting upon beliefs, purification through worship, and the dynamics of prayer, fasting, and community building, students are guided to reflect deeply on what it means and how one is meant to worship God. Delving into the intricacies of marital companionship, divorce dynamics, and familial and community rights, students also gain insights into the practical application of Islamic values in their daily lives. With a perspective rooted in the Maliki school of law, these classes offer not only essential practical knowledge but also a rooted guidance on navigating the diverse facets of life, thus laying a solid foundation for understanding and embodying the fundamental principles of Islam in praxis.

This module will familiarize the learner with the key elements of spirituality in Islam or referred to in the tradition as tazkiyat al-nafs (spiritual purification), tasawwuf (Sufi methodology), and ma‘rifa (gnosis). Students will study primary classical texts that expound upon the paradigms and approaches utilized by Muslim scholars and theologians to advance and nurture the development of the human soul.