Languages & Literature 

  • This programme teaches students to achieve sustained progress in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Arabic. The programme is structured into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, all running concurrently. Classes emphasise active learning, encouraging students to engage directly with the Arabic language through interactive exercises and dynamic discussions. Collaborative learning is promoted through group activities and peer reviews, allowing students to learn from each other and build a supportive learning community.

     The primary course textbook is “al-‘Arabiyyatu bayna yadaik”, which is augmented with carefully curated materials for classroom and independent study.

    Weekly 1.5-hour sessions, 12-week rolling terms, are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance. These are supplemented by midweek guided peer revision sessions.

     Outcomes

     1. Proficient Communication:

    - Apply Arabic language skills in real-world contexts through interactive activities.

    2. Linguistic and Rhetorical Mastery:

    - Gain comprehensive knowledge of Arabic syntax, morphology, and rhetorical devices.

     3. Textual and Cultural Literacy:

    - Develop the ability to critically analyse diverse Arabic texts and an understanding of Arabic-speaking cultures.

     4. Research Skills:

    - Improve research capabilities by effectively extracting and synthesising information from Arabic sources.

    Day & Time
    Saturdays 11:30am-1:00pm (Lower Intermediate)

    Sunday 10:00am-11:30am (Upper Intermediate)

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Enrolment Open

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • The Latin Language Programme at The Classical Institute offers students an immersive experience in one of the foundational languages of Western civilisation. Under the expert guidance of John Claughton, this course provides a meticulously structured approach to mastering Latin, from its grammatical foundations to the complexities of advanced literary analysis.

    The programme begins with a detailed study of Latin grammar, introduced in a systematic order to support effective memorisation and mastery. As students advance, they will develop a nuanced understanding of Latin syntax and literary structure, which are essential for accurate translation and interpretation of classical texts. Beginner-level students will focus on sentence-level comprehension, learning to appreciate the grammatical structures that underpin Latin literature.

    At the advanced level, students will engage with and translate substantial passages from a variety of Latin authors, including poets, historians, and philosophers. This deep engagement with classical texts offers valuable insights into the cultural, historical, and philosophical traditions of Ancient Rome. The course culminates in students demonstrating their mastery through original compositions, preparing them to read and understand works such as Cicero’s Orations and Virgil’s Aeneid in their original form.

    Weekly 1 hour 15 minutes sessions, 10-week rolling terms, are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

    Outcomes

    1. Grammatical Expertise:

       - Achieve a thorough understanding of Latin grammar and sentence structure.

    2. Advanced Translation:

       - Develop the ability to translate complex Latin texts with precision.

    3. Cultural Literacy:

       - Gain a deep appreciation of the cultural and historical contexts of Ancient Rome.

    4. Literary Composition:

       - Produce original Latin compositions, showcasing advanced linguistic skills.

    Day & Time
    Sundays 6:30pm-7:45pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Enrolment Open

    Lecturer: John Claughton

  • This course offers a thorough progression from foundational understanding to advanced fluency in Classical Persian. Students will engage deeply with the language through studies in grammar, literature, manuscript analysis, and the development of speaking skills. By exploring key texts, such as Saʿdi’s Gulistan, alongside selections from the rich Sufi literary tradition, students will not only gain the ability to read and interpret classical works but also express themselves confidently in spoken Classical Persian. Designed to foster both intellectual depth and practical language skills, this course enables participants to explore the profound literary, cultural, and spiritual traditions of Persian with greater nuance and insight.

    Studying Classical Persian connects learners to centuries of literary and scholarly achievements, offering a deep understanding of the texts that shaped Islamic civilization. The language opens doors to works of poetry, philosophy, and historical narratives that are critical to appreciating the intellectual heritage of the Islamic world.

    Weekly 1 hour 15 mins online sessions, 10-week rolling terms, are designed to facilitate remote learning.

     Outcomes

     1. Grammatical Mastery:

    - Students will be taught grammatical principles, progressing from foundational concepts to advanced and complex constructions.

    2. Speaking Fluency:

    - Students will develop fluency in speaking Persian, advancing from foundational proficiency to more sophisticated and nuanced language use.

     3. Access to Classical Printed Works and Manuscripts:

    - Students will be trained to access classical texts across various disciplines, with a particular emphasis on theological, philosophical, and Sufi traditions, as well as unprinted manuscripts.

     4. Cultural Literacy:

    - Gain a deep appreciation of the cultural and historical contexts of the historical and modern day Persianate lands.

    Prerequisite
    Familiarity with the Arabic, Persian, or Urdu alphabet. An introductory course is available for those who need it.

    Teaching Methodology
    A traditional approach to learning Persian will be employed, using Thackston’s textbook for grammar and classical texts for reading practice. Saʿdi’s Gulistan will serve as the main reading material, with other texts introduced as students progress.

    Day & Time
    Wednesdays 8:00pm-9:15pm (UK time)

    Format
    Online | Limited spaces available

    Registration: Enrolment Open

    Lecturer: Muhammad Ali Mojaradi (Sharghzadeh) Founder of Persian Poetics

  • The Ancient Greek Language Programme at The Classical Institute is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of one of the most influential languages in Western civilisation. Led by John Claughton, former teacher of Classics at Eton College and former Chief Master of King Edward’s School, Birmingham, this course offers a structured and rigorous approach to mastering Ancient Greek.

    Starting with an in-depth focus on grammar, the programme systematically introduces grammatical forms in a logical sequence to enhance memorisation and mastery. As students progress, they will develop a strong foundation in syntax and literary structure, allowing for precise sentence-level analysis and translation. At the beginner level, course materials are tailored to foster a deep understanding of grammatical nuances, enabling students to engage with Ancient Greek texts with clarity and precision.

    In advanced stages, students will independently translate extensive passages from classical authors, gaining insights into the rich cultural, historical, and philosophical contexts of Ancient Greece. Throughout the course, students will demonstrate their proficiency through original compositions, preparing them to read seminal works such as Homer’s Iliad & Odyssey and Plato’s Dialogues in their original language.

    Weekly 1 hour 15 minutes sessions, 10-week rolling terms, are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

    Outcomes

    1. Grammatical Mastery:

       - Develop a comprehensive understanding of Ancient Greek grammar and syntax.

    2. Translation Proficiency:

       - Translate and interpret complex texts from a wide range of Classical Greek authors.

    3. Cultural Insight:

       - Gain an in-depth understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of Ancient Greece.

    4. Original Composition:

       - Compose original texts in Ancient Greek, demonstrating linguistic proficiency.

    Day & Time
    Sundays 8:00pm-9:15pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Open

    Lecturer: John Claughton

  • This programme offers a comprehensive exploration of classical Arabic literature, spanning from the pre-Islamic period to the 3rd/9th century. Through a rigorous analytical approach, students engage with key works of poetry and prose that have significantly shaped the Arabic literary tradition. The course emphasises close reading of primary texts, where students dissect and analyse linguistic, syntactical, and rhetorical features. This is supported by referencing authoritative classical linguistic sources, such as the works of Sibawayh, Ibn Faris, Ibn Jinni, Ibn al-Anbari, Ibn al-Hajib, Ibn Malik, Abu Hayyan, and Ibn Hisham. 

    A unique aspect of this programme is the examination of classical Arabic poetry in relation to the doctrinal principle of i‘jaz al-Qur’an (the inimitability of the Qur'an). Through the study of pre-Islamic and early Islamic poetic forms, students engage in an advanced analysis of the linguistic, rhetorical, and stylistic conventions that defined early Arabic literary expression. This analytical framework provides critical insights into the sophisticated linguistic structures employed by poets, which are essential for understanding the unparalleled eloquence and rhetorical supremacy of the Qur'an. Furthermore, the programme addresses topics related to the philosophy of language, such as the relationship between language and meaning, the nature of linguistic signs, and the interaction between syntax and semantics. In addition, students explore the fascinating and relatively under-explored science of Asrar al-‘Arabiyya (Secrets of the Arabic Language), gaining insights into the subtleties and intricacies of the Arabic linguistic system. Students develop their skills through presentations on advanced topics in syntax, morphology, and rhetoric, gaining both a deeper understanding of the texts and experience in articulating complex linguistic analyses.

    The programme is conducted using a Socratic dialogical method, encouraging active student participation through guided questioning and discussion to foster deeper engagement with the material.The previous programme focused on an in-depth study of “Banat Su‘ad” by Ka‘b ibn Zuhayr. We are now embarking upon a new course focusing on “Lamiyyat al-Arab” by al-Shanfara, a pivotal work within the su‘luk genre, characterised by themes of exile, autonomy, and defiance. It provides a rich context for exploring pre-Islamic Arab values.

    Weekly 1.5-hour sessions, 12-week rolling terms, are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

    Outcomes

    1. Deep Understanding:   

    - Gain a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of pre-eminent works from the pre-Islamic and early Islamic eras.

    2. Analytical Skills:   

    - Develop the ability to perform detailed philological, syntactical, and morphological analysis of classical Arabic texts.

    3. Linguistic Proficiency:   

    - Achieve advanced proficiency in Classical Arabic, including a strong grasp of grammar, morphology, and rhetoric.

    4. Metaphysical Insights:   

    - Study classical Arabic poetry as a foundation for exploring the doctrinal principle of i‘jaz al-Qur’an (the inimitability of the Qur'an).

    5. Cultural and Historical Awareness:   

    - Cultivate an awareness of the social, cultural, and historical contexts that shaped Classical Arabic literature.

    Prerequisite
    Students should have a solid foundation in Classical Arabic, including knowledge of syntax, morphology, and basic rhetoric. Prior experience with classical texts and familiarity with key grammatical sources is preferred

    Teaching Methodology
    This programme employs a Socratic dialogical method, fostering active student participation through guided questioning and in-depth discussions. Students will engage in close readings of primary texts, supported by reference to classical linguistic sources. The course encourages critical analysis and collaborative learning, with opportunities for students to present on advanced topics in syntax, morphology, and rhetoric. Both on-campus and online attendance options are available, ensuring a blended learning experience.

    Day & Time
    Thursdays 8:00pm-9:30pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Open

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

Philosophy & Theology

  • This programme provides a comprehensive exploration of Western philosophical traditions. It traces the development of philosophical thought from its beginnings through to contemporary debates.

    The course begins with an introduction to fundamental philosophical questions about the existence of God, the nature of the mind, the foundations of knowledge, and the good life. It covers in detail the founding philosophical contributions of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, as well as the impact of rationalist and empiricist philosophers including Descartes and Hume. Furthermore, it examines the contributions of later thinkers such as Kant, observing changes in intellectual outlook over time.

    The primary course text is “Socrates to Sartre and Beyond”, by Samuel Stumpf and James Fieser, with supporting texts including “A History of Western Philosophy” by W. T. Jones and “A History of Philosophy” by Frederick Copleston.

    Weekly 1-hour sessions are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

    Outcomes

     1. Comprehensive Understanding:

    - Develop a comprehensive understanding of the major tenets and evolutions of Western philosophical thought.

     2. Critical Analysis:

    - Enhance the ability to critically analyse and engage with philosophical arguments.

     3. Historical Contextualisation:

    - Understand the historical context and influence of various philosophical movements.

     4. Intellectual Development:

    - Grapple with significant philosophical questions and observe changes in intellectual outlook over time.

    Day & Time
    Fridays 9:00pm-10:00pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Reached Capacity

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • This programme provides students with a thorough grounding in Classical Islamic Theology (‘ilm al-kalam). It covers key epistemological and ontological debates, detailing the most prominent Asharite positions and comparing and contrasting these with stances from the other major theological schools, including the Mutazilites and the Hanbalites.

    From an epistemological perspective, students learn the roles of canon and reason in the acquisition of theological knowledge. Regarding ontological concerns, key debates covered include God and His attributes; divine predestination and human free will; existents and contingencies; and Prophetology.

    The primary course text is “Sharh Umm al-Barahin” by al-Sanusi, supplemented by carefully selected extracts from wider Asharite works. These include the early writings of al-Ashari, al-Baqillani, al-Juwayni, al-Qushayri and al-Ghazali; the mid-period contributions of al-Razi and al-Amidi; and the later works of al-Iji and al-Taftazani.

    Weekly 1-hour sessions are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

     Outcomes

     1. Epistemological Understanding:

    - Develop a deep understanding of the respective roles of canon and reason in reaching theological positions.

     2. Ontological Understanding:

    - Build strong foundations in Asharite creedal beliefs and understand the conceptual assumptions underpinning these positions.

    3. Critical Analysis:

    - Enhance the ability to critically analyse and engage with theological arguments and literature.

     4. Historical Contextualisation:

    - Understand the historical context and evolution of Islamic theological thought.

    Day & Time
    Fridays 10:00pm-11:00pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Reached Capacity

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • The Classical Institute is honoured to host an exclusive class with one of the most authentic and distinguished scholars of our era, Professor Shaykh Hasan al-Shafi’i. This monthly class offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from a world-renowned scholar whose life and legacy embody the very ethos of knowledge, scholarship, and human flourishing. It provides access to the highest levels of classical Islamic theology (ʿIlm al-Kalam), taught exclusively in Classical Arabic, preserving the depth, clarity, and nuance of the original tradition. This offering reflects the ethos of The Classical Institute: a commitment to scholarship that is rigorous, enduring, and in deep conversation with the classical tradition.

    This advanced class will be based on Tahdhib al-Kalam by Saʿd al-Din al-Taftazani, a seminal classical text in Islamic philosophy and theology recognised as one of the most significant works in the theological corpus. Regarded as a cornerstone in the development of Islamic theological discourse, this text has shaped the thinking of generations of scholars and continues to be studied in leading centres of Islamic learning, including Al-Azhar. Through guided reading and explanation by Shaykh Hasan al-Shafi’i, students will engage directly with its arguments, structure, and conceptual foundations.

    About the Lecturer

    Professor Shaykh Hasan al-Shafi’i is a leading authority in Islamic Theology and Philosophy, with a distinguished career spanning over six decades.

    He serves as:

    • A member of Al-Azhar’s Senior Scholars Authority

    • Chairman of the Union of Arab Linguistic and Scientific Academies

    • Emeritus Professor of Philosophy and Theology at the University of Cairo

    • Recipient of the King Faisal Prize for Islamic Studies (2022)

    As a living teacher of Al-Azhar, his teaching embodies the highest standards of classical scholarship and intellectual refinement.

    Outcomes

    1. Mastery of Classical Theology

      • Deepen your understanding of advanced theological concepts within the Islamic tradition.

    2. Engagement with Primary Arabic Texts

      • Build the ability to follow and engage with high-level Arabic discourse on theology.

    3. Exposure to Contemporary Classical Scholarship

      • Benefit directly from the scholarship and methodology of a world-renowned authority.

    4. Intellectual and Spiritual Refinement

      • Cultivate both intellectual precision and moral clarity through immersive learning.

    Day and Time: Last Saturday of the month, 8:00pm – 9:30pm (UK time)
    Format: Online (live on Zoom)
    Method of Delivery: Taught in Classical Arabic
    Registration: Free admission, registration required
    Lecturer: Professor Shaykh Hasan al-Shafi‘i

Islamic Intellectual

Thought & Traditions 

  • This programme provides students with a thorough grounding in the fundamental principles, terminology and key topics of logic. Through a Socratic approach in the classroom, students learn key themes including the importance of clear and precise definitions; the classification of terms into categories; the different types of propositions and their structures; the construction of valid syllogisms and the rules that govern them; and the identification and avoidance of common logical fallacies. This course provides students with the rational tools to construct and analyse logical arguments and proofs.

    The primary course text is “Isagoge”, by al-Abhari, supported by curated extracts from the works of al-Farabi, Ibn Sina and al-Ghazali.

    Weekly 1-hour sessions are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

     Outcomes

     1. Proficiency in Islamic Logic:

    - Achieve a comprehensive understanding of the principles of classical Islamic logic.

     2. Advanced Analytical Skills:

    - Develop the ability to critically analyse and construct complex logical arguments.

     3. Historical and Intellectual Contextualisation:

    - Gain a deep appreciation of the historical and intellectual context of mantiq within Islamic scholarship.

     4. Integration of Epistemology and Ontology:

    - Understand and apply the Islamic approach to the interconnection between knowledge and being.

    Day & Time
    Mondays 8:00pm-9:00pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Reached Capacity

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • This programme explores the rich traditions of Sufism through early sources. It focuses on the teachings and intellectual works of key Sufi figures and schools from the 3rd to the 10th Islamic centuries, covering luminaries such as al-Kharraz, al-Junayd, al-Kalabadhi, al-Qushayri, al-Ghazali, al-Jilani, Abu Madyan, Ibn ‘Arabi, Ibn ‘Ata’ Allah, Zarruq, and al-Sha‘rani.

    Lessons comprise a Socratic approach to the discussion of key principles, including precise definitions of Sufi terminology and explanations of spiritual stations, found in catechistic texts.

    Amongst a range of key texts covered in this course are the following: “Kitab al-Sidq” by al-Kharraz, “al-Ta’arruf” by al-Kalabadhi, and “al-Hikam” by Ibn ‘Ata’ Allah.

    Weekly 1.5-hour sessions, 12-week rolling terms, are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance. These are supplemented by midweek guided peer revision sessions.

    Outcomes

     1. Understanding Key Figures:

       - Develop a contextual understanding of prominent Sufi luminaries and their contributions to the Sufi path.

     2. Textual Analysis:

    - Engage in analytical reading and discussion of key Sufi texts.

     3. Doctrinal Understanding:

    - Learn the key doctrines and practices expounded by Sufism.

     4. Personal Reflection:

    - Understand the relevance and practical application of Sufi concepts to personal contexts.

    Day & Time
    Tuesdays 8:30pm-10:00pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Open

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • This programme provides students with a thorough grounding in Shafi’i jurisprudence, from a legal theory (usul al-fiqh) and a substantive law (fiqh) perspective.

    The programme covers aspects related to both the ritual acts of worship (ibadat) and interpersonal dealings (mu’amalat). Students are encouraged to apply their knowledge of the foundational legal rulings in these areas to adopt and debate scenarios relevant to the modern context. Where it is instructive to do so, students compare and contrast the Shafiite position with those adopted by other jurisprudential schools.

    The primary course text is Abu-Shuja’s “al-Ghaya wa al-Taqrib”. This is supplemented by more detailed Shafi’i manuals including al-Minhaj and its commentaries.

    Weekly 1-hour sessions are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

    Outcomes

     1. Foundations of Shafiite Jurisprudence:

       - Understand the inception and evolution of the Shafiite school and its significance within Islamic jurisprudence.

     2. Proficiency in Shafiite Fiqh:

      - Develop a deep understanding of the principles and practical applications of Shafiite legal thought.

     3. Enhanced Legal Reasoning:

      - Analyse complex scenarios and practise the methodology employed to arrive at a resolution within a Shafiite framework.

     4. Theological and Spiritual Insight:

      - Gain profound insights into the theological and spiritual dimensions of Shafiite fiqh.

    Day & Time
    Mondays 9:00pm-10:00pm

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Reached Capacity

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • This programme teaches students to engage with the Quran in a profound and multifaceted manner through systematic reading, exegetical analysis and reflection. Students progress sequentially through the Quran, learning to recite a passage with the correct articulation (tajweed) on a weekly basis. Classes incorporate (i) detailed feedback on individual Quranic recitation with tajweed rules and (ii) group discussion regarding systematic analysis of the passage to elucidate both exoteric and esoteric meanings. There is a particular focus on highlighting theological, jurisprudential, spiritual and linguistic features.

    The primary exegetical reference texts for this course include “Anwar al-Tanzil wa-Asrar al-Ta’wil” by al-Baydawi, “Mafatih al-Ghaib” by al-Razi, and “Lata’if al-Isharat” by al-Qushayri.

    Weekly 1-hour sessions are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

    Outcomes

     1. Proficient Recitation:

       - Learn to recite Quranic passages in accordance with the excellence of the tajweed rules.

    2. Linguistic and Rhetorical Appreciation:

    - Understand the key rhetorical features of Quranic language.

     3. Exegetic Insights:

       - Comprehend the contextual exoteric meanings as well as the esoteric allusions of Quranic passages.

     4. Personal Reflection:

    - Engage with the Qur’an to undertake deep, analytical self-reflection.

    Day & Time
    Saturdays 10:30am-11:30am (Women Only)

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Open

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • This programme provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the science of Qira’at. It introduces the science of Qira'at and its importance in preserving the Quranic text. The programme covers the ten recognised schools of Qira’at, each named after its foremost reciter. The course focuses on teaching one mode at a time through (i) an in-depth explanation of the theoretical tajweed rules and (ii) a systematic and complete reading of the Quran in each mode. As students build their understanding of multiple modes of recitation, they (a) are trained in the method of jam’ al-Qira’at and (b) undertake a comparative study of different Qira’at and their linguistic, theological and legal implications.

    Weekly 1-hour sessions, 10-week rolling terms, are designed for blended learning, supporting both on-campus and online attendance.

    Outcomes

    1. Significance of the Science of Qira’at:

    - Learn an overview of the science of Qira’at and its importance in preserving the Quranic text.

     2. Historical Contextualisation:

    - Understand the historical background and significance of each mode of recitation.

     3. Theoretical Mastery:

    - Learn the detailed theoretical tajweed rules for each mode and the distinction between modes of recitation.

     4. Practical Implementation:

    - Implement tajweed rules through practice and receive tailored feedback and guidance to improve and perfect recitation.

    Day & Time
    Sundays 09:00am-10:00am

    Format
    On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning

    Registration: Open

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

  • This programme immerses students in the study of al-Shatibiyya, a poetic work on the modes of recitation of the Quran. It includes an in-depth study of the text by Imam al-Shatibi, including an exploration of the structure, themes and methodologies employed in the work. The programme supports students in a structured manner to memorise the complete poem and, through detailed analysis of its content and regular practice, students gain a profound understanding of the various canonical recitations.

    The primary course text is “Hirz al-Amani wa Wajh al-Tahani”, better known by reference to its eponym as Al-Shatibiyya, and it is supplemented with texts on Qira'at and Tajweed by various classical scholars.

    Weekly 1-hour online sessions, 10-week rolling terms, are designed to facilitate remote learning.

    Outcomes

    1. Memorisation and Mastery of Al-Shatibiyya:

      - Commit to memory and achieve a thorough understanding of al-Shatibiyya and its role in the science of Qira'at.

    2. Proficiency in Qira'at:

    - Develop proficiency in the seven canonical modes of Quranic recitation.

    3. Critical Analysis:

      - Enhance critical thinking skills through comparative analysis of the modes of recitation.

    Day & Time
    Wednesday 9:15pm-10:15pm

    Format
    Online

    Registration: Open

    Lecturer: Dr Badreldeen Ismail al-Husayni

Classical Text Series  

  • The Classical Islamic Thought Series offers a contemplative and rigorous exploration of two foundational texts in the disciplines of Islamic scholastic theology and Sufi hermeneutics: al-Iqtisad fi al-I'tiqad by al-Ghazzali and Lata'if al-Isharat by al-Qushayri.

    Islamic scholastic theology represents a systematic approach to understanding and defending Islamic beliefs through rational discourse. Originating in early Islamic thought, it developed as a response to theological and philosophical challenges, aiming to reconcile reason with revelation. It involves deep engagement with central questions concerning divine nature, predestination, and the relationship between faith and reason, making it a cornerstone of the Islamic intellectual tradition.

    The Sufi hermeneutics of the Quran involves the study of the Quran’s meanings and interpretations through an allegorical approach that seeks to uncover spiritual insights. This interpretative tradition highlights the Quran’s layers of meaning, moving beyond outer interpretations to reach inner dimensions.

    Each of the two texts selected for study is a masterpiece in its respective field. Al-Iqtisad serves as a pivotal keystone, seamlessly connecting foundational and prolific works of theology. It is al-Ghazzali’s most comprehensive and systematic work in this field. Describing its profound capacity to open new horizons of understanding, al-Ghazzali refers to al-Iqtisad as “an independent, self-contained work that contains the essentials of the science of theology, more adequate in its proofs and more apt to knock at the doors of knowledge than the scholastic jargon found in other works.”

    Lata'if al-Isharat exemplifies Sufi interpretative thought, merging esoteric insights with Quranic exegesis. Its richness, depth, and nuance place it among the most illuminating works on the Quran. Al-Lata'if is a confluence of al-Qushayri’s expertise in exegetical, theological, juridical, and literary discourses. Describing its interpretative nature, al-Qushayri affirms in the introduction that it contains “subtleties of [the Quran’s] mysteries and lights, delicate allusions, concealed allegories, and hidden mysteries.”

    Each session will begin with a close reading of a dedicated passage from the original Arabic text, accompanied by its English translation. This will be followed by a guided, analytical study, laying the foundation for an in-depth, interactive exploration of the text’s meanings and implications. Sessions will adopt a Socratic approach, fostering open dialogue and critical enquiry as participants engage with key exegetical, theological, and spiritual principles.

    To enrich the learning experience, participants will be encouraged to consult supplementary materials from early and later theological and hermeneutical sources. This series is accessible both on-campus and online, allowing flexibility for all interested in participating in this scholarly engagement with classical Islamic thought. Participants may choose to join one or both portions of each session, enabling them to concentrate on a single text or to explore both comprehensively according to their interests. A foundational knowledge of Islamic theology is required for the theology component, given the advanced nature of the discussions.

    Outcomes

    1. Cultivate a nuanced understanding of core concepts in theology and Sufi hermeneutics as articulated in al-Iqtisad and al-Lata'if.

    2. Develop skills in analysing and interpreting complex classical Islamic texts with scholarly rigour.

    3. Contextualise theological and interpretative methodologies within the broader Islamic intellectual tradition.

    4. Strengthen collaborative and critical discussion abilities, engaging deeply with peers in unpacking intricate ideas.

  • The Classical Institute is honoured to announce the launch of the Hadith Tradition Series, a comprehensive academic study of al-Jamiʿ al-Sahih by Imam al-Bukhari, one of the most authoritative and seminal works in Islamic hadith literature. Al-Jamiʿ al-Sahih of Imam al-Bukhari represents the pinnacle of Islamic hadith scholarship, renowned for its meticulous authentication methodology and unparalleled, enduring influence across centuries.

    This series offers a rigorous and systematic engagement with the text, exploring its nuances and contextual significance through expert-led readings, critical discussions, and scholarly analysis. It aims to immerse participants in the depths of this landmark text, examining the isnad (chains of transmission), matn (content), and the intricate interplay between historical context, variant narrations, and the exemplary life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

    By highlighting the exacting intellectual standards underpinning hadith methodology, this series will also engage with and critically address claims made by Western Orientalists in the field of hadith studies. In doing so, it aims to reaffirm the scholarly rigour of Classical Islamic hadith scholarship and contribute to a broader understanding of its enduring relevance in both academic and universal contexts.

    Sessions will adopt a Socratic approach, fostering open dialogue and critical enquiry.

    Series Overview

    This series will explore and cover the following:

    1. Textual Readings and Linguistic Analysis

    Participants will engage with al-Jamiʿ al-Sahih in its original language, uncovering its linguistic intricacies, grammatical structures, and contextual connotations.

    2. Methodology of Compilation

    Participants will study Imam al-Bukhari’s methodology, including his criteria for selecting hadiths, verification of isnads, and structuring and titling of chapters (tarajim al-abwab).

    3. Isnad and Rijal Studies

    The chains of transmission (isnad) will be analysed in-depth, with particular focus on the biographical and critical evaluation of narrators (ʿilm al-rijal). Variations in isnad and their implications for authenticity will be thoroughly examined.

    4. Matn Analysis and Contextual Insights

    Through thematic and textual analysis, participants will explore theological, legal, and ethical dimensions. Contextual readings will situate these ahadith within the broader framework of the Prophet’s life and the socio-political milieu of the time.

    5. Ishari Hermeneutics and Mystical Dimensions

    Participants will explore the ishari hermeneutics of the ahadith, uncovering their deeper spiritual implications.

    6. Study of Variant Narrations

    The series will address variant narrations both within al-Jamiʿ al-Sahih and from other canonical collections, allowing participants to appreciate the dynamics of textual transmission and the rich diversity within the hadith tradition.

    7. Thematic and Contemporary Discussions

    Critical discussions will delve into key themes, examining how al-Jamiʿ al-Sahih has shaped Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and ethics, while also addressing its relevance in contemporary scholarship and discourse.

    Learning Outcomes

    By the end of this series, participants will:

    • Develop and master skills in interpreting classical hadith texts.

    • Attain a nuanced understanding of the science of hadith authentication (ʿilm al-hadith), including isnad analysis and narrator evaluation.

    • Develop a comprehensive perspective on the theological, legal, and ethical implications of al-Jamiʿ al-Sahih.

    • Gain proficiency in tracing and understanding variant narrations and their contextual significance.

    • Engage critically with the methodologies of classical and modern hadith scholarship, contributing to a deeper appreciation of its intellectual and spiritual legacy.

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