Islamic studies
Islamic studies is an academic field dedicated to the study of Islam, including its theology, law, history, culture, and contemporary developments. The discipline encompasses the examination of religious texts, social structures, political movements, and cultural practices among Muslim communities worldwide (Esposito, 2002).[1]
Scope and Areas of Study
Islamic studies covers a wide range of topics, often divided into the following areas:
Theology and Doctrine
This area examines Islamic beliefs (ʿAqīdah) and doctrines, including the study of the Qur'an, Hadith, Tawhid, prophethood, and eschatology. Scholars analyze interpretations from different schools of thought, including Sunni Islam, Shia Islam, and other sects (Haddad & Esposito, 1998).[2]
Islamic Law (Sharia)
The study of Sharia involves both classical legal texts and contemporary interpretations. It includes the analysis of the Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Madhhab schools, and issues such as family law, finance, and human rights (Hallaq, 2009).[3]
History and Civilization
Scholars investigate the historical development of Muslim societies, including the Rashidun Caliphate, Umayyad Caliphate, Abbasid Caliphate, Ottoman Empire, and contemporary nation-states. This area also studies cultural achievements in science, philosophy, literature, and art (Lapidus, 2014).[4]
Politics and Society
This branch examines political Islam, modern social movements, governance, and issues such as Islamism, extremism, and relations with other societies. It also considers contemporary challenges, including globalization and interfaith dialogue (Esposito, 2002).[5]
Language and Literature
Islamic studies often includes the study of Arabic and other languages, as well as classical and modern literature, poetry, and philosophical works produced in Muslim societies (Makdisi, 1981).[6]
Methodology
The discipline combines historical, textual, and social-scientific methods. Researchers may examine primary texts, conduct fieldwork, and use comparative and interdisciplinary approaches to understand both classical Islam and contemporary Muslim societies (Esposito, 2002).[7]
Institutions and Academic Programs
Islamic studies is taught worldwide in universities and research centers. Notable programs include:
- Georgetown University – Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding[8]
- Harvard University – Department of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations[9]
- Oxford University – Faculty of Oriental Studies[10]
Contemporary Relevance
Islamic studies contributes to understanding global issues, including religious pluralism, interfaith relations, political dynamics in Muslim-majority countries, and responses to extremism. Scholars aim to provide balanced and historically grounded perspectives to counter stereotypes and misinformation (Esposito, 2011).[11]
References
- ↑ Esposito, J. L. (2002). What Everyone Needs to Know about Islam. Oxford University Press. https://global.oup.com/academic/product/what-everyone-needs-to-know-about-islam-9780195148391
- ↑ Haddad, Y. Y., & Esposito, J. L. (1998). Islamic Law: Theory and Practice. Syracuse University Press. https://press.syr.edu/9780815629007/islamic-law/
- ↑ Hallaq, W. B. (2009). Sharia: Theory, Practice, Transformations. Cambridge University Press. https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/sharia/
- ↑ Lapidus, I. M. (2014). A History of Islamic Societies. Cambridge University Press. https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/history-of-islamic-societies/
- ↑ Esposito, J. L. (2002). Unholy War: Terror in the Name of Islam. Oxford University Press. https://global.oup.com/academic/product/unholy-war-9780195148391
- ↑ Makdisi, G. (1981). The Rise of Colleges: Institutions of Learning in Islam and the West. Edinburgh University Press. https://www.euppublishing.com/book/9780748600101
- ↑ Esposito, J. L. (2002). What Everyone Needs to Know about Islam. Oxford University Press. https://global.oup.com/academic/product/what-everyone-needs-to-know-about-islam-9780195148391
- ↑ Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding. Georgetown University.
- ↑ Harvard NELC Department
- ↑ Oxford Oriental Studies
- ↑ Esposito, J. L. (2011). Islam and Politics. Syracuse University Press. https://press.syr.edu/9780815630636/islam-and-politics/