Defending the Sunnah

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Defending the Sunnah

About The Course

Unlock the power of knowledge and strengthen your faith in the Defending the Sunnah course. Delve deep into the art of articulating and safeguarding the authority of Hadith against objections and criticisms. Join us on this transformative journey to become a confident advocate, equipped with the tools to uphold the credibility of the Sunnah. Empower yourself to navigate modern challenges, engage in effective communication, and emerge as a steadfast defender of Islamic tradition. Join now and be part of a community dedicated to preserving the essence of Hadith.

Course Team

Shaykh Haroon Sidat

(Research Associate, Cardiff University, UK)

Ustadh Usman Shaikh

(MPhil in Islamic Studies,University of Oxford)

Shaykh Dr Rafaqat Rashid

(Academic Director, Al Balagh Academy, UK)

Mufti Syed Abrar Qasmi

(Founder, Director, AlBalagh Academy)

Mufti Abdul Waheed

(Researcher & Lecturer In Fiqh, Jkn Fatawa Dept & Marriage Counsellor)

Shaykh Mustaqeem Shah

(Lecturer, AL Balagh Academy, UK)

Ustadh Safaruk Chowdhury

(Humanities Team Member, IB Theory of Knowledge Coordinator, Tutor in History and Religious Studies)

Shaykh Amin Kholwadia

(Founder of Darul Qasim, Chicago, USA)

AT A GLANCE

16 Live Online Sessions

Duration : 6 months

Sundays 3PM - 4PM (London, UK)

Video Recordings Available

Access to Mobile App

Personalised Feedback

Digital Certificate

From £14.99/Month

(For 4 Months)

Enroll Now

Starts on 17th November 2024

Course Fee

Pay in Full: ~~£79.99~~ £59.99

Pay In 4 Installments: £14.99 per month

Registration Deadline:

16th November 2024

Al Balagh Scholarship

AlBalagh Scholarship is available for learners who cannot afford the fee.

Learn More and Apply

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Sessions

Module 1

1. Introduction to the Course

● Course Overview and Objectives.
● The Importance of Sunnah in Islamic Scholarship.
● Overview of Challenges Faced in Modern Times.
● Methodology of Critical Analysis and Response.
● Developing Effective Communication Skills.

Module 2

2. Introduction to Orientalism and Hadith Studies

● Historical Context of Orientalism.
● Defining and Understanding Orientalist Approaches.
● Critical Examination of Orientalist Approaches.
● Evolution and Influence of Orientalist Thought.
● Orientalism’s Impact on Modern Thoughts.

Module 3

3. Key Orientalists - Goldziher, Schacht, and Beyond

● Goldziher and Joseph Schacht: Investigating Their Contributions.
● Dissecting the works of John Wansbrough, Patricia Crone, Michael Cook, and Other Influential Orientalists.
● Methodological Critiques and Impacts.
● Case Study: Orientalist Perspectives on Specific Ahadith.
● Practicum: Presenting Rebuttals to Orientalist Arguments.

Module 4

4. Methodological Analysis of Orientalist Approaches

● Contrasting Methodologies: Goldziher's "Muslim Studies" vs. Islamic approaches.
● Biases in Orientalist Studies: Critiquing Wansbrough's "Quranic Studies".
● Case Study: Misinterpretations in Crone and Cook’s "Hagarism".
● Impact Assessment: Orientalist influence on modern Islamic thought.
● Practicum: Role-play refuting Orientalist claims.

Module 5

5. Case Studies: Orientalist Claims vs. Traditional Understandings

● In-Depth Analysis of Prominent Orientalist Claims.
● Scholarly Islamic Responses to Orientalist Critiques.
● Exploring Divergences in Interpretation and Methodology.
● Contemporary Responses from Muslim Scholars.
● Practicum: Mock Debates on Orientalist vs. Islamic Perspectives.

Module 6

6. Historical Overview of The Kharijites, the Mu'tazila, and the Quranists

● Origins of Hadith-Rejecting Sects: The Kharijites and the Mu'tazila.
● The Quranists: Their doctrinal stance on rejecting Hadith.
● The Zaydi Shia and the Ibadiyyah Movement: Approaches towards Hadith.
● Refuting Sectarian Views: Addressing key arguments against Hadith authority.
● Role Play Practicum: Simulating dialogues with sect perspectives.

Module 7

7. Theological and Jurisprudential Implications

● Impact of Rejecting Hadith on Islamic Theology and Law.
● Debates and Dialogues with Sectarian Groups.
● Analyzing Sectarian Interpretations of the Quran.
● Case Study: Rebutting Sectarian Claims with Scholarly Evidence.
● Practicum: Debating and Refuting Sectarian Arguments.

Module 8

8. Modern Criticisms of Ahadith: From Feminists to Liberals

● Modern Criticism Landscape: Overview of contemporary critiques of Hadith.
● Feminist Critiques Analysis: Focus on Amina Wadud and Asma Barlas.
● Secular-Liberal Perspectives: Examining viewpoints by Irshad Manji and others.
● Case Study: Studying El Fadl's and Wadud's perspectives.
● Practicum: Developing rebuttals to modern critiques.

Module 9

9. Critical Evaluation of Modern Reinterpretations: From Sir Syed to Javeed Ahmad Ghamdi

● Examining Controversial Figures: Assessing the divergence from mainstream Hadith views.
● Principles and Criteria for Valid Hadith Interpretation.
● Sir Syed's Hadith Perspective: Critical analysis of his approach.
● Case Study: Scrutinizing Javeed Ahmad Ghamdi's Misinterpretations.
● Rebuttal Tactics: Crafting counterarguments to modern interpretations.

Module 10

10. Case Studies: Exploring Controversial Hadith Narratives

● Deep Dive into Five Controversial Ahadith.
● The Hadith of Hazrat Aisha's Age at Marriage.
● The Hadith on Female Testimony.
● The Hadith of the Satanic Verses.
● Scholarly Analysis and Refutations of Criticisms.

Module 11

11. Hadith and Science: Analyzing Dawkins, Krauss, and Harris

● Navigating Apparent Contradictions Between Science and Hadith.
● Examining Richard Dawkins' Perspective on Hadith and Science.
● Scrutinizing Lawrence Krauss' Views on Hadith in the Context of Science.
● Dissecting Sam Harris' Views on Hadith in Light of Scientific Understanding.
● Case Study: Analyzing a Specific Hadith Narrative in Relation to Scientific Findings.

Module 1 2

12. Hadith and Medical Science: Navigating Apparent Contradictions

● The Existence of the Soul: Harmonizing Hadith and Medical Science.
● The Abortion Debate: Exploring the 40 and 120-Day Hadith in Medical Context.
● Bridging Islamic Thought with Contemporary Medical Knowledge.
● Case Study: Addressing Complex Modern Medical Challenges.
● Practicum: Resolving Doubts in Medical Contexts.

Module 1 3

13. Hadith and the Debate of Evolution vs. Adamic Exceptionalism

● Understanding the Debate: Evolution vs. Adamic Exceptionalism in Islamic Thought.
● Analyzing Hadith Narratives in Light of Evolutionary Theory.
● Adamic Exceptionalism: Theological Perspectives and Dilemmas.
● Case Study: Examining Evolutionary Theory in Light of Hadith Narratives.
● Practicum: Formulating Islamic Stances on Evolution and Adamic Exceptionalism.

Module 1 4

14. Integrating Hadith with Modern Knowledge and Thought

● Case Studies on Harmonizing Hadith with Contemporary Knowledge.
● Methodologies for Reconciling Modern Perspectives.
● Addressing Ethical Dilemmas in Modern Contexts.
● Case Study: Applying Traditional Wisdom in Contemporary Times.
● Practicum: Developing Comprehensive Responses to Modern Queries.

Module 1 5

15. Practical Tools for Addressing and Resolving Doubts

● Developing Skills for Addressing Doubts in Various Contexts.
● Tools and Strategies for Effective Reconciliation.
● Enhancing Critical Thinking and Response Skills.
● Case Study: Real-World Scenarios and Responses.
● Practicum: Role-Playing and Simulation Exercises.

Module 1 6

16. Q&A Session

● Addressing student questions on topics covered throughout the course, including Hadith studies, Orientalism, modern criticisms, and theological implications.
● Facilitating interactive discussion to encourage student engagement and participation.
● Reinforcing critical thinking skills by guiding students in analyzing and synthesizing information in response to their inquiries.

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Course Overview

Defending the Honour of Sunnah:

Welcome to a comprehensive exploration of the Defending the Sunnah, a transformative journey that equips you with the tools to defend the Sunnah against challenges and doubts.
By the end of this enlightening course, you'll emerge as a confident and articulate advocate of the Hadith's authority, ready to address objections with clarity and conviction.

Safeguarding the Sunnah: Analyzing Orientalism, Hadith Rejecting Views, and Modern Criticism:

This course Defending the Sunnah comprises 16 dynamic sessions that take you on a captivating journey through the fascinating world of Orientalism, Hadith studies, and modern criticism, including the analysis of hadith-rejecting sects like the Quranists, Kharijites, Mutazilites, Shia approaches, and more.
Each session unravels the secrets behind influential figures such as Goldziher, Schacht, and modern critics like Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and Amina Wadud.
You'll dissect Orientalist approaches, navigate the landscape of modern critics, explore the theological and jurisprudential implications of rejecting Hadith, and even delve into the misinterpretations of prominent figures like Sir Syed and Javeed Ahmad Ghamdi.
By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the Sunnah's significance and the tools to effectively defend it against modern criticism.

Become an Ambassador of Sunnah in Today's World – Empower Yourself to Defend and Articulate with Confidence:

In today's world, various efforts aim to cast doubts on the authority of Sunnah from different fields. It is our responsibility to equip ourselves with the skills to articulate and defend it effectively.
This course is thoughtfully designed for a diverse audience, catering to both beginners and advanced learners. It is open to parents, educators, activists, Ulama, Imams, and anyone passionate about safeguarding the Sunnah against contemporary objections.
By enrolling in Defending the Sunnah, you will not only gain the confidence to articulate responses but also enhance your critical thinking abilities. Furthermore, you will learn to apply traditional wisdom to address modern challenges effectively.
Defending the Sunnah equips you with practical skills to confront doubts in various contexts, making you a valuable asset in upholding the authority of Hadith.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Critical Analysis: Analyse objections and criticisms against the Sunnah from diverse sources.
Effective Communication: Develop effective communication skills to articulate the importance and credibility of Hadith.
Historical Perspective: Understand the historical roots of Orientalism, Hadith-rejecting sects, and their contemporary impact.
Contemporary Engagement: Engage with modern criticisms of Hadith, including feminist and secular perspectives.
Defending the Sunnah: Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to defend the authority and authenticity of the Sunnah in today's world.

Learning Outcomes

Developing Critical Skills: You will be skilled at identifying and dissecting challenges to the authority of Sunnah.
Acquiring Persuasive Communication: You will acquire the expertise to communicate the significance of Sunnah to diverse audiences, addressing their doubts and objections persuasively.
Gaining Comprehensive Knowledge: You will gain comprehensive knowledge of the historical context of Orientalism, the beliefs and perspectives of Hadith-rejecting sects, and their impact on contemporary Islamic thought.
Enhancing Modern Critique Responses: You will develop the capacity to engage with modern critiques of Hadith, offering well-reasoned responses to feminist and secular objections.
Mastering Defence Skills: You will gain practical skills to address doubts and objections in various contexts, making you an ambassador of Sunnah equipped to defend its authority in the modern era.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Al Balagh courses recognised or accredited?

Al Balagh courses do not provide an externally accredited or recognised qualification. Our own expert team works at the course content. With over 52,000 + learners, we are continuously growing and our vision is to make Al Balagh qualifications renowned worldwide through our expert team, without seeking formal accreditation or recognition from external institutional bodies.
Al Balagh courses prioritize the development of knowledge and understanding within the Islamic tradition, delivered by a team of experienced instructors. While we currently focus on creating high-quality course content from our expert team, formal external accreditation is not currently pursued. Our commitment lies in fostering a vibrant learning community for our over 52,000+ students, and we continually strive to enhance the educational value of our qualifications.

How is this online course structured?

Our online course comprises live interactive online sessions, pre-recorded videos, online course material that include, presentations, reading material & online learning activities. Students may ask questions and get their doubts cleared from their respective lecturers, if any. Our dedicated academic support team will assist you as required.

The course utilizes a well-structured, weekly module format. Each module offers a variety of engaging materials (live sessions, videos, presentations, readings, activities) to cater to diverse learning styles. You can ask questions directly to instructors during live sessions, and a dedicated academic support team is available throughout the course.

When will I have access to the online course material?

Upon successful enrollment, you will get access to ILM Portal (our advanced online learning portal) within 24 hours. (login details and important contact information will be provided on your registered email address)

Following successful enrollment, you will be granted access to the Learning Management System i.e. https://ilm.albalaghacademy.org/ (our advanced online learning platform) within 24 hours. Your login credentials and other pertinent contact information will be sent to your registered email address.

Will I get notification for live sessions?

You will be able to view all course wise live session details including joining links on your ILM Portal calendar. Weekly email reminders are also sent out on your registered email address. If you find any difficulty with the link/calendar please contact us immediately via Email: [email protected] or by Phone: +447946835578 . Our dedicated support team will ensure that your problem gets resolved at the earliest

To ensure your participation in live sessions, we provide multiple notification methods:

Learning Portal Calendar: A convenient feature of the ILM Portal is a calendar displaying all upcoming live sessions with their respective joining links.

Weekly Email Reminders: In addition, you will receive weekly emails to your registered address containing reminders and joining links for live sessions.

Should you require any assistance accessing live sessions, our dedicated support team is readily available to help. Feel free to contact them via Email: [email protected] or Phone: +447946835578.

Is it mandatory to attend live sessions?

Attending live sessions, while not mandatory for course progression, is strongly encouraged. Prominent scholars and educators highlight the unique value of live attendance, emphasizing its role in the authentic transfer of knowledge. Live participation fosters an interactive learning environment, allowing for real-time questions, discussions, and clarifications that are not as easily replicated through recorded materials. This live engagement is seen as essential for a deeper understanding and connection to the subject matter, echoing the tradition and Adab of scholarly learning.

While live sessions are not mandatory for course completion, they are highly recommended.
These sessions offer a unique opportunity to engage directly with instructors and fellow students. The interactive nature of live sessions allows for immediate clarification of questions and fosters a deeper understanding of the course material, reflecting the value traditionally placed on active learning in scholarship.

I missed a live session. Can I get the video recordings?

If you miss a live session, don't worry! You can access the recorded sessions, presentations, and relevant materials on your course dashboard within 24-48 hours after the live class is delivered. Our admin team uploads the content promptly so you can catch up on what you missed and be well-prepared for the next live class. Simply log in to the ILM Student portal and find the materials under the respective course section if you miss a scheduled live lecture.

In the event that you are unable to attend a live session, no need to worry. Recordings of the sessions, along with any accompanying presentations and relevant materials, will be made available on your course dashboard within 24-48 hours of the session's completion. The administrative team prioritizes the prompt uploading of these resources to ensure you can effectively catch up on missed content and remain prepared for subsequent sessions. To access these recordings, simply log in to the ILM Student portal and navigate to the designated section for your course.

Can I download the video recordings on my device (Desktop/Laptop/Mobile/Tab)?

We understand that having constant access to educational content is important for our students. However, to maintain the integrity and security of our course materials, videos are not available for download directly from the Learning Management System (LMS). We ensure that our LMS is accessible at all times and from various devices, allowing you to study at your convenience, wherever you have internet access. If you have any concerns about accessing the materials or need assistance with the LMS, please do not hesitate to contact our support team for help.

To ensure the continued quality and security of our course materials, video recordings are not downloadable directly from the Learning Management System (LMS). However, we understand the value of flexible learning, and our LMS is optimized for access across various devices (desktop, laptop, mobile, tablet) with an internet connection. This allows you to revisit course content at your convenience and continue your studies wherever you may be. Should you encounter any difficulties accessing materials or navigating the LMS, our dedicated support team is readily available to assist you.

I have doubts but I cannot attend the live session. Any other way to ask my questions?

For any doubts or discussions, join the dedicated Course WhatsApp Groups where you can engage with peers for question clarification and discussions. Course instructors may be part of these groups at their discretion. If you need to contact a specific instructor, please reach out to the Admin Team.

To facilitate in-depth learning and peer interaction, we offer dedicated Course WhatsApp Groups. These groups provide a platform for you to engage with fellow students and clarify any questions that may arise during your studies. While course instructors may participate at their discretion, the primary focus is on fostering peer-to-peer learning and discussion. Should you require individual assistance or wish to connect with a specific instructor directly, please don't hesitate to contact our supportive Admin Team.

How do I interact with my classmates?

You can interact with your classmates on our WhatsApp Groups exclusive for the course students. To join the official WhatsApp group, log in to your course on https://ilm.albalaghacademy.org/ and access the "Join Official WhatsApp Group'' tab. Go to Start → Sessions → Welcome Aboard: Course Introduction → Join Official WhatsApp Group

Joining the group will allow you to connect with fellow course students for discussions and updates.

What is the process for reaching out to the instructor?

For inquiries about instructor contact information, please reach out to the course administrator directly. Instructor details will be shared only with their explicit consent. However, participants are encouraged to connect through group discussions.

( Please note, they often have demanding schedules and may not always be able to address individual queries. We encourage you to attend live sessions and utilize the Q&A period for questions. For queries post-lecture, feel free to contact our administrators, and we will do our best to assist. Responses from instructors will depend on their availability. Thank you for your understanding.)

When will the final exam be held?

The Final Exam will be held at the end of the course(approximately one month after the final live lecture of the course) and will be a Graded And Timed Exam.

How long will I have access to the online course(s)?

In case you find any trouble accessing your account, then please contact us immediately via email: [email protected] or by phone: +447946835578. Our dedicated support team will ensure that your problem gets resolved at the earliest. The time taken to resolve issues depends on the team's availability and working hours. We guarantee prompt resolution of your queries. Please be aware that it typically takes around 24 hours to resolve any technical issues.

Should you encounter any difficulties logging in to the ILM Online Student portal, please don't hesitate to contact our dedicated support team. They are readily available to assist you via email at [email protected] or by WhatsApp at +447946835578. We strive to resolve all technical issues promptly, typically within 24 hours.

How can I apply for the Al Balagh Scholarship?

Al Balagh Academy values seekers of knowledge more than anything. Please visit here to apply for a scholarship. Our team will assess your application and respond in 2 - 3 working days.

What is the course grading policy?

Our course grading policy is designed to ensure a comprehensive understanding and mastery of the subject matter. To successfully pass, students are required to achieve a minimum grade of 40% across all courses. Here's how your performance will be evaluated:

Weekly Assessment Exams (60% of total points): Throughout the course, you will encounter approximately 5-6 online objective assessments aimed at testing your understanding and honing your skills. These weekly checkpoints are pivotal in tracking your progress and ensuring you're on the right path.
Course Final Exam (40% of total points): The culmination of your learning journey is marked by the course final exam. This decisive assessment evaluates your grasp of the entire course content.

Achieving a score of 40% or above is essential to pass the course. This balanced approach between regular assessments and a comprehensive final exam ensures that you not only retain information but also apply your knowledge effectively.

Course Assessment and Grading:
This course utilizes a grading system designed to evaluate your comprehension and application of the course material. To successfully complete the course, a minimum overall grade of 40% is required.

Evaluation Components:

Weekly Online Assessments (60%): Throughout the course, you will complete several online objective assessments (approximately 5-6). These weekly quizzes serve as checkpoints to gauge your understanding and identify areas that may require further study.
Course Final Exam (40%): A comprehensive final exam will assess your grasp of the entire course content.

Passing the Course:
A minimum score of 40% on all assessments is necessary to pass the course. This approach balances regular evaluations with a final exam, ensuring both knowledge retention and application.

When can I expect to receive my Certificate of Achievement?

Following successful course completion, you will be eligible to receive your digital certificate of achievement. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

Completion of All Course Modules: Full engagement with all designated course materials, including readings, assignments, and assessments, is mandatory.
Attainment of the Minimum Passing Threshold: A minimum grade of 40% is required to qualify for the certificate of achievement.

Who do I contact if I still have doubts related to my courses?

For Course-Related Inquiries:
Should you encounter any questions or require assistance throughout your studies, our dedicated support team is readily available to assist you. Their primary objective is to facilitate your academic success.

📞 Admissions Team (Payment, Scholarships, Enrollment, or information about New Courses):

- Email: [email protected]

- WhatsApp (Admission): http://wa.me/447946835804

🚀 Short-Term Course Support (Assessment, Course-related, or IT-Technical issues):

- Email: [email protected]

- WhatsApp (Course Support): http://wa.me/447946835578

Please note: While the support team works diligently to address inquiries promptly, response times may vary.

Is there a mobile app for accessing my courses?

Maximize your learning flexibility with our newly updated mobile app! Enjoy seamless access to your courses anytime, anywhere. Click on the links below to download the app tailored to your device:

For Android users: Download from the Google Play Store

For iOS users: Download from the App Store

Dive into a world of convenient and accessible learning today!

Are Al Balagh courses recognised or accredited?

How is this online course structured?

When will I have access to the online course material?

Will I get notification for live sessions?

Learning Portal Calendar: A convenient feature of the ILM Portal is a calendar displaying all upcoming live sessions with their respective joining links.

Weekly Email Reminders: In addition, you will receive weekly emails to your registered address containing reminders and joining links for live sessions.

Should you require any assistance accessing live sessions, our dedicated support team is readily available to help. Feel free to contact them via Email: [email protected] or Phone: +447946835578.

Is it mandatory to attend live sessions?

I missed a live session. Can I get the video recordings?

Can I download the video recordings on my device (Desktop/Laptop/Mobile/Tab)?

I have doubts but I cannot attend the live session. Any other way to ask my questions?

How do I interact with my classmates?

Joining the group will allow you to connect with fellow course students for discussions and updates.

What is the process for reaching out to the instructor?

When will the final exam be held?

The Final Exam will be held at the end of the course(approximately one month after the final live lecture of the course) and will be a Graded And Timed Exam.

How long will I have access to the online course(s)?

How can I apply for the Al Balagh Scholarship?

Al Balagh Academy values seekers of knowledge more than anything. Please visit here to apply for a scholarship. Our team will assess your application and respond in 2 - 3 working days.

What is the course grading policy?

Weekly Assessment Exams (60% of total points): Throughout the course, you will encounter approximately 5-6 online objective assessments aimed at testing your understanding and honing your skills. These weekly checkpoints are pivotal in tracking your progress and ensuring you're on the right path.
Course Final Exam (40% of total points): The culmination of your learning journey is marked by the course final exam. This decisive assessment evaluates your grasp of the entire course content.

Evaluation Components:

Weekly Online Assessments (60%): Throughout the course, you will complete several online objective assessments (approximately 5-6). These weekly quizzes serve as checkpoints to gauge your understanding and identify areas that may require further study.
Course Final Exam (40%): A comprehensive final exam will assess your grasp of the entire course content.

When can I expect to receive my Certificate of Achievement?

Following successful course completion, you will be eligible to receive your digital certificate of achievement. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

Completion of All Course Modules: Full engagement with all designated course materials, including readings, assignments, and assessments, is mandatory.
Attainment of the Minimum Passing Threshold: A minimum grade of 40% is required to qualify for the certificate of achievement.

Who do I contact if I still have doubts related to my courses?

📞 Admissions Team (Payment, Scholarships, Enrollment, or information about New Courses):

- Email: [email protected]

- WhatsApp (Admission): http://wa.me/447946835804

🚀 Short-Term Course Support (Assessment, Course-related, or IT-Technical issues):

- Email: [email protected]

- WhatsApp (Course Support): http://wa.me/447946835578

Please note: While the support team works diligently to address inquiries promptly, response times may vary.

Is there a mobile app for accessing my courses?

Maximize your learning flexibility with our newly updated mobile app! Enjoy seamless access to your courses anytime, anywhere. Click on the links below to download the app tailored to your device:

Defending the Sunnah