Introduction to Balanced Islamic Studies

Sep 5, 2024

Lecture on Islamic Studies

Introduction

  • Gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to commence Islamic studies.
  • Aim: To understand Islam comprehensively and guide students toward faith and piety.
  • Congratulations to new students at University Nesya.

Current Context

  • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, classes are conducted online.
  • Online learning can be beneficial with extensive resources available.

Encouragement for Students

  • Students are urged to engage deeply with literature related to Islamic studies.

Understanding Islam

  • The course aims to guide students toward a balanced understanding of Islam.
  • Challenges with Extremes:
    • Literal Extremism: Rigid and radical interpretation.
    • Liberal Extremism: Overly loose interpretation.
  • The course promotes a middle path: "ummatan wasathan" (moderate community).

Current Trends among Youth

  • Literal Group: Strict interpretation of practices like prayer.
    • Example: Belief that neglecting prayer leads to disbelief.
  • Liberal Group: Focus on shahada for salvation, disregarding other practices.
    • Example: Assurance of paradise by merely declaring faith.

Balanced Understanding: Ummatan Wasathan

  • Neither literal nor liberal, but a true understanding of Islam.
  • Types of Disbelief (Kufr) in Islam:
    • Denial of God's existence.
    • Associating partners with God.
    • Denial of Prophet Muhammad.
    • Ingratitude for Allah's blessings.

Developing a Comprehensive Understanding

  • Holistic approach to interpreting Quranic verses and Hadith.
  • Avoiding partial interpretations; aiming for integrative comprehension.

Educational Approach

  • Encourage students to learn from diverse sources.
  • Faculty serve as facilitators, not authoritarian figures.
  • Transparency in teaching, with clear references to sources.

Characteristics of Ummatan Wasathan

  • Tawasuth: Moderation, avoiding extremes.
  • Tawazun: Balance in understanding.
  • Tasamuh: Tolerance among Muslims and others.

Conclusion

  • Aim for a thorough, deep understanding of Islamic teachings.
  • Practice knowledge in daily life.
  • Encourage open discussions and comparisons to broaden understanding.

With these principles, students are expected to gain a more profound and applicable understanding of Islam, fostering a community of balanced and tolerant believers.