ARABIC & ISLAMIC STUDIES COURSE CATALOGUE

ISLAMIC INSTITUTE OF TORONTO

Assalaamu Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa baraakatuh

May the Peace, blessings and mercy of God almighty be with you.

I am pleased to present the Course Catalogue for the Islamic Institute of Toronto.

The Islamic Institute of Toronto is a premier Islamic Educational Institution, located in Toronto, Canada offering post-secondary courses in Arabic Language, Islamic Jurisprudence, Ethics and Spirituality, Islamic History and Civilization, Comparative Religion and Civic Engagement amongst others. The IIT is committed to the Prophetic legacy of promoting Islamic education that is authentic and relevant to the times in which we live. Our aim is to develop a solid core of professional teachers who are qualified in both the subject matter and the methods of delivery; who reflect the universal Islamic values in their personal lives and who share the vision of a better world through the Qur'anic imperatives of teaching and learning. Our education programs are complemented by a wide variety of other social and recreational programs, giving our students and wider community the opportunity to interact and develop together. Children and youth are also given the opportunity and encouraged to volunteer, so that learned concepts come to life in a tangible manner. Our philosophy is that the ultimate objective of any worldly endeavour is the achievement of felicity in the next world; therefore we will seek to create harmony between the intellectual, physical and spiritual dimensions of each individual student. Our institution will be a safe and respectful place where students, teachers and community members will work harmoniously to achieve academic excellence and to grow in knowledge, faith and practice; where there is recognition and understanding of the rights of fellow students and teachers, fellow human beings and love for the country in which we live. We encourage you to explore our list of courses and to join us on the journey of enlightenment.

Fareed Amin President

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Arabic language and literature

Classical Arabic Language - Madina Books 1-3

This course of study is designed to teach classical Arabic with an Islamic orientation. Emphasis is

on grammar and morphology of the language. The course of study is based on the method of

the well-known classical language instructor Dr. V. Abdur Rahim whose texts are used in many

Islamic institutions. Divided into three levels, this course is a thorough study of classical

grammar and is geared especially to students who wish to have a better understanding of the

meaning of the Qur'an and to engage in higher studies in the field of Islam.

Advanced Arabic

The late Sayyid Abu al-Hasan Ali Nadvi, who was an eminent scholar of Islam and a prolific writer of Arabic, once said: “The best way to learn Arabic is through lively engagement with actual texts.” This course exposes students to a variety of Arabic texts (simple to more complex) for a better mastery of the Arabic language in terms of comprehension and usage. It goes beyond the rules of grammar and syntax to help students learn – in a gradual way - the rich vocabulary and style of the living language.

Arabic Language Café

Studying the Arabic Language in the Western world has always been a challenge, primarily because of the lack of immersion in an Arabic-speaking environment. While we cannot replicate this environment, the Arabic Language Café is a novel concept for students of the language to engage in conversation with Native Arabic speakers in an informal environment. Through conversation, mentoring, engagement with Arabic media, songs and lectures the

student will be able to build proficiency in the language.

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Access to Qur’anic Arabic

This course will utilize the text book 'Access to Qur'anic Arabic' which introduces grammar,

vocabulary and comprehension in a graded and coherent fashion. It covers a large part of the

basic structure of Arabic. In examples and explanations, it uses words and phrases that occur

frequently in the Qur'an. The Access to Qur'anic Arabic course should be a useful starting point

for a more detailed study of the Qur'an and Arabic in general.

Prerequisite: Students must be able to read Arabic and have an idea about writing at least the

Arabic or Urdu alphabet. Some assistance will be given to develop the skill to join letters to

form words.

Comprehensive Arabic Language Level 1

This comprehensive course aims to teach students reading, vocabulary and speaking. It also

teaches the student to paraphrase, listen and write. This course is based on the text "Al-Kitab Fi

Ta'allum.." and explores both classical Arabic (Fushā) as well as the cultural expressions of

various Arabic-speaking Communities.

Comprehensive Arabic Language Level 2

This comprehensive course builds on the concepts covered in Level 1 and aims to enhance students' proficiency in reading, vocabulary and speaking. It also teaches the student to paraphrase, listen and write. This course is based on the text Al-Kitāb Fī Ta'allum and explores both classical Arabic (Fushā) as well as the cultural expressions of various Arabic Speaking Communities.

The resources used in this course include audio/video as well as additional resources such as online newspapers and magazines, radio broadcasts and other media.

For this Level 2 Course students must meet the course admission requirements. At a minimum, students must have successfully covered the material in Level 1, or be interviewed by the instructor to determine eligibility for admission.

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Tajwīd al-Qur’an or the Art of Qur'anic recitation

Recite the Qur’an by Learning to read Arabic

This is a course designed to take a student with little or no knowledge of Arabic to a point

where they can recognize and recite the Qur'an. Emphasis will be placed on the correct

pronunciation of each of the Arabic letters. At the end of the course the student will be able to

read the Qur'an, Insha'Allah.

Intermediate Tajwīd

Covering select topics in intermediate Tajwīd, this class will build on concepts that students

have already studied at a basic level and also introduce new subjects in the study of Tajwīd.

Classes include both theory/explanation and recitation. Course topics include: isti'aadhah and

basmalah, nun sakinah, idghaam, hamzatul wasl, madd, rare rules of Tajwīd.

This course is open to brothers and sisters who have completed the beginners' Tajwīd course at IIT, or who have prior knowledge of the basic rules of Tajwīd (e.g. heavy/light letters, meem/nun sakinah, madd).

Islamic Beliefs & Doctrines (‘Aqīdah)

Islam 101

This weekly discussion group/workshop is focusing on the "40 Ahaadeeth of Islamic Revival"

written by Shaikh Abdullah Hakim Quick as a road map to bringing about change within the

individual, the family and the community.

These selected Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) form the basis of discussion areas

that are relevant to our daily life as Muslims.

Lively discussions around the issues of the heart, real strength, decency and vulgarity, the

power of words, the two faced one, and balance in religion, are just a few of them.

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How to Renew your Faith (Complete Advice in Sincerity)

Are you suffering from post Ramadan depression? Would you like to be able to revive your

faith? This course is a dynamic set of lectures based on a classical work done by one of the

great scholars of Islam: Sidi Ahmad Zarrūq of Fez, Morocco. His ideas bring a unique approach

to self analysis and reconstruction.

Taught in a relevant style to meet our present crises, this series is a must for all Muslims who

wish to raise their level of Islam.

Understanding Islam

This is a special set of lectures developed to meet the needs of those who recently embraced

Islam. This course explains the foundations of the Islamic faith and answers many of the

confusing questions about Islamic beliefs and practices. The course is also designed to benefit

the many young Muslims who are reviving their faith and seek authentic and relevant answers

in their quest for the truth.

Rays of Faith

This is an ongoing class that gives a contemporary look at the foundations of faith found in the

famous Hadīth Jibrīl (Islām, ’Imān and Ihsān). The course will give the student a basis in the

classical understanding of these important concepts and then look at the present Muslim world

and the 21st century experiences of Muslim people.

This class is geared toward students who have finished the first level of “Understanding Islam”

and who wish to revive their faith or get a deeper look at what is happening in the world today,

in light of Islamic beliefs.

Journey to the Hereafter, Signs of the Day of Judgement

A course exploring the mysteries of life and death while taking a journey through the major and

minor signs of Qiyāmah (Judgement Day) such as the Mahdī, Dajjāl, The descent of Jesus

(pbuh), and Gog and Magog. A real eye opener taught from authentic sources.

The Seven Under Allah’s Shade

An exposition of the beautiful Hadith of the Blessed Messenger of Allah, focusing on 7 qualities

of the faithful which summarize many tenets, principles and morals of Islam based on the

authentic Hadith of the Prophet.

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‘Āqīdah in the Qur'an

This course is a study of the fundamental issues of ‘Aqīdah based on a thematic study of the Qur'an. It is an attempt to understand the Qur’anic world view as it deals with the perennial issues of human existence such as God and His nature, knowledge of God, man, his nature and destiny, moral freedom and responsibility. It will also seek to address the Qur'anic perspective on the issues of freedom of conscience, religious plurality, besides addressing the classical themes of prophet hood, nature of the Prophet and the idea of a perfect man, death, resurrection, heaven and hell, and the ultimate end of man.

The course will be based on an analytical study of the verses of the Qur’an in conjunction with

the relevant, authentic traditions of the Prophet, peace be upon him, utilizing the original

sources in Arabic. For the purpose of this course, all students must have a copy of the latest

authorized edition The Message of the Qur’an, published by The Book Foundation (2004).

Āqīdah Tahāwiyyah (Islamic Creed based on Imam Tahawī’s manual of ‘Aqīdah)

Imām Abū Ja'far al-Tahawī (239-321 A.H), was a brilliant scholar of hadith and fiqh; he has

authored a number of influential works that have been highly cherished by scholars. His

reputed work on aqidah, commonly known as al-‘aqīdah ai-Tahawiyyah, has received wide

acclaim from scholars belonging to all the leading schools of jurisprudence throughout

centuries. Considered as the best concise, and yet comprehensive, statement of all the

essential points of the Islamic creed as cherished and adhered to by the majority of Muslims

throughout centuries, it stays clear of the various deviations that have crept into Muslims

throughout the ages. A study of this work is bound to improve our understanding of the pure

Islamic doctrine as cherished by Muslims throughout the ages.

Islamic Ethics and Morals (Akhlāq)

Foundations of Islamic Ethics and Spirituality (based on Ihyā’ Ulūm al-dīn of

Imām Ghazāli)

As it has been rightly said, Islam is all ethics and morals. Therefore, there cannot be any true appreciation of Islam and its religious dimensions without deep understanding of ethics and morals as the basis of Islamic religious life. Perhaps no other work has remained as an unfailing

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source of wisdom and insight for spiritual and moral edification like Ihyā‘ Ulūm a--ddīn of Imām Ghazāli , as recognized by scholars in successive generations. This course is an intensive study of this classical work. We intend to study the inner dimensions of various acts of worship, mysteries of the heart, diseases of heart, methods of purification nurturing of essential virtues culminating in love of Allah and preparing oneself to meet Him.

Essentials of Islamic Morals and Spirituality

This course seeks to study the essentials of Islamic ethics, morals and spirituality as enshrined in

the Qur’an and as articulated by the eminent Islamic scholars. The course will begin with a

study of the Islamic manners related to our daily lives, and then go on to study the spiritual

diseases that corrupt our souls, and the cognitive and practical methods of purification; the

course will be concluded by a study of the essential virtues characteristics of the Prophetic

character and explore ways of incorporating them into our own lives.

The course will be based on the following works: Islamic manners by Shaikh Abd al-Fattah Abu

Ghuddah; Bidayat al-hidayah by Imam Ghazali and Ihyā’ ulūm al-dīn of Imām Ghazāli

Islamic Jurisprudence and Related Sciences

Fiqh 101

What are the essentials of Prayer? What are the rules of Purification? What invalidates ghusl,

wudhu or prayer? When is ghusl obligatory? What breaks Salāh? Who should lead? What is

sujud al-sahw? When and how do you make it? If you would like to find out the answers to

these questions, and more, through in-class discussion, then this is the class for you!

Zakāh - Alms

This course will provide an understanding of zakāh, studying the various aspects of this pillar in

Islam. It will cover those who are obligated to pay zakāh, the amounts they have to pay, the

types of wealth on which zakāh must be paid, how zakāh is collected and it connection to

Muslim governance.

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Preparing for Ramadhān

In this course we will learn the wisdom and inner dimensions of fasting in relation to other acts

of worship such as salāh, zakah and hajj; acquaint ourselves with the fiqh of Ramadaan and

fasting as well as the practical tips to improve our observance of Ramadaan. It is, in a nutshell,

the best way to prepare for the most blessed month in the Islamic Calendar.

Reflections on Fasting in Ramadaan

This series will look at fasting in Islam, its concept and different forms; Fasting in the Month of

Ramadaan; its importance and rules.

Various issues related to Ramadaan such as moon sighting, Salatul-Taraaweeh, 'Itikaf, zakātul-

Fitr, Laylatul-Qadr and the ‘Eid prayer will be reviewed in detail.

Special emphasis will be made on bringing out the spirit of Ramadaan and some of the secrets

and benefits of Fasting. This series will be beneficial to not only new Muslims but youth and

adults who want to know more about their faith and practices.

Salāh – Ritual Prayer

This course will provide an understanding of Salāh, the second pillar of Islam. It will deal with

the requirements, conditions, types and acts of Salāh. At the end of the course, participants will

have a greater understanding of Salāh and practical knowledge of performing the prayer as

done by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Hajj – Pilgrimage

This course will provide an understanding of hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam and the once-in-a-

lifetime obligation on Muslims. At the end of the course, participants will have a greater

appreciation of the importance, excellence and prerequisites of the pilgrimage and will gain

practical knowledge of how to perform the rituals (manāsik) of hajj.

Farā’id - The Laws of Inheritance in Islam

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said that the first knowledge to disappear from the Muslim Ummah will be the knowledge of the laws of inheritance – Farā’id. Thus, it is vital that Muslims pay special attention to this science.

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This course will, Inshā Allāh, teach students the many issues to be considered when estate planning, or writing a will. Students will learn the list of potential heirs and the conditions that enable each person to inherit, or prevent him from inheriting. Students will also be able to do simple divisions of the assets of a deceased.

Fiqh a-‘Ibādāt (Jurisprudence based on a specific madhhab)

This is a course which takes our study of fiqh to the next level. It looks at fiqh as developed in a

particular school, for instance, in this case the Hanafī school, which has been widely adhered to

by a majority of students. By basing on a particular text within a school, we enable the students

to gain a methodical understanding of fiqh. This study is essential for developing familiarity of

fiqh as it has evolved through various schools, while it also helps students to move toward a

more advanced study of jurisprudence (to follow later in the upcoming courses) on al-fiqh al-

muqaran (comparative fiqh) as well as those on principles of jurisprudence, qawa‘id al-fiqh and

al- maqāsid.

Fiqh al-Hadith (Jurisprudence based on Hadīth)

Al-Muwattā of Imām Mālik (d. 179/795) is the earliest work of hadīth that has been preserved intact. Highly cherished by scholars of hadith and jurists alike, it has been rightly considered by scholars as the basis for all later works of hadith and a fundamental source of fiqh as it has evolved later. Imam Muhammad al-Hasan al-Shaybani, the second foremost disciple of Imam Abū Hanīfah, as well as Imam Shāfi‘ī had been direct disciples of Imām Mālik; both of them were greatly indebted to al-Muwattā in their elaborations of fiqh. The study of this esteemed work, therefore, while initiating students to study of hadith, will greatly enhance their understanding of jurisprudence. In our study we will be freely drawing upon the erudite comments of Imam Shāh Waliullāh al-Dihlavī (d. 1763) as contained in his reputable commentary of al-Muwattā known as al-Musawwā, thereby facilitating harmony and reconciliation among schools of jurisprudence. This course complements the previous course on fiqh.

Fiqh al-Mua’malāt (Jurisprudence of Transactions)

This course is a study of social relations in Islam which may include such issues as financial transactions, endowments, laws of inheritance , marriage, divorce, and child care, foods and drinks (including ritual slaughtering and hunting), penal punishments, warfare and peace, judicial matters (including witnesses and forms of evidence).

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Usūl-al-Fiqh (Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence)

This course examines the methods involved in deriving fiqh. We learn about the primary and

secondary sources and how they are interpreted to establish fiqh rules. We also look at why

scholars differ on rulings and whether we are bound to follow a single school of thought.

Learning the background of fiqh rulings will help guide and establish your daily practice of Islam.

Funeral Rites in Islam

A one day workshop on how Muslims should observe the last rites for a beloved one. The

workshop will include the Islamic perspective on caring for the ill person as well as the religious

and practical rites that must be performed when someone passes away.

Fiqh of Minorities - its meaning, significance and applications

This course seeks to explore the dynamic nature of fiqh as it applies to specific situations of

Muslims living in the West, faced as they are with issues unforeseen in Muslim countries.

In order to gain a fair understanding of the scope of the issues involved, we will first consider

the nature of fiqh, its evolution, and it adaptations in varying circumstances. We will then

discuss some of the principles, higher objectives and golden rules that became crystallized in

the process, which served as guides in applying the Shari’a.

Next, we will review the specific conditions and challenges of Muslims living in the West.

Finally, we will explore the applications of the insights (from the above discussions) to issues

such as practicing Islam in the workplace, citizenship, participation in politics, interaction with

fellow citizens, festivities and celebrations, issues of gender relations, marriage, divorce, child

custody, Shari’a and court system, mortgage, meat, foods, medicines, alcohol, etc.

It is hoped this course will provide a sound understanding of the issues of living in a non-Muslim

society.

Fiqh of Minorities in Canada - at Emmanuel College

The course will deal with the issues of relating the Shari'ah (the Divine Law) to the living

experience of Muslims in Canada with its emphasis on the secular, democratic and pluralistic

traditions. The course will also review the concept of Shari'ah and its interpretations in history

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before dealing with the specific issues/challenges facing Muslims and finally focus on the

solutions proffered by some eminent Muslim jurists. The course will help both Muslims and

non-Muslims to discern the dynamic nature of the Shari'ah while helping Muslims navigate

their journey through life in a world that is different from the milieu of the initial revelation.

Development of Fiqh and the Emergence of the Schools of Jurisprudence

The Islamic vision as revealed in the sources of Islam came to be applied to the ever-changing situations facing Muslims, from the death of the Prophet (pbuh) down through the centuries. The process of applying the rules of the revealed texts to changing times was achieved through a dynamic interaction of reason and revelation. The precedents were set by the Prophet's immediate successors known as the pious caliphs as they sought to tackle the issues facing Muslims in the wake of the expansion of Islam and the challenge of governance of vast territories that came under the Islamic rule. The precedents that were established, and the continuous reflections on the revealed sources, eventually resulted in the emergence of schools of jurisprudence as represented by the great imams, later to be recognized as founders of the four schools of jurisprudence. In this course, we seek to trace the development of fiqh and the emergence of schools of jurisprudence by a close study of the texts of the Qur'an and Sunnah and tracing the history of the development of fiqh at the hands of the caliphs, their disciples, and the scholars and jurists who built an edifice of juristic thought, which eventually gave rise to a rich legacy of jurisprudence.

Financial Transactions in Islam

Islamic Finance Principles and Laws, and Islamic Finance products have become the centre of

attention for major world financial institutions. International conferences, seminars and

forums on this critical and highly sought-after subject have become must-attend venues for

professionals to familiarize themselves with the peculiarities and regulations of Islamic laws

in regard to financial transactions.

This course offered by the Islamic Institute of Toronto offers an alternative to international

conferences by providing a sustained course of study, once weekly for 10 weeks. It will cover

all the aspects of Islamic Finance and will empower students with a wealth of knowledge

that they can personally apply and teach to others with confidence.

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Islamic Spirituality (Tasawwuf/Ihsān)

Spiritual Empowerment in Islam

This course is intended to deepen our understanding and practice of Islamic spiritual wisdom in

ways that can help us change our destructive emotions and habits, and acquire positive, life-

transforming virtues and morals. The course has been adapted from Imam Ghazāli's world

renowned masterpiece Ihya ulum al-deen which has been widely acclaimed as a mine of Islamic

spiritual psychology.

Inner dimensions of Islamic worship

A special five-session course on the spirit and soul of the four acts of worship, with practical tips

to improve our performance. This course will go beyond the most obvious aspects of Prayer,

Almsgiving, Fasting, Pilgrimage, and explain how to reap the rich harvests of spiritual, moral and

social upliftment of worship. At the end of this course students will have an understanding of

the inner resources that Islam offers.

Purification Of The Heart - Steps on the Path towards Ihsan (Moral and Spiritual

Excellence)

The Prophet said, "Ihsan (spiritual excellence) is to worship Allah as though you see Him

always." (Reported by Muslim)" He also said, "Verily, in the body there is a piece of flesh. If is

sound, the body is all sound. If it is corrupt, the body is all corrupt. Verily, it is the heart."

(Reported by Bukhari)

The Qur'an and the Sunnah provide the perfect way to moral excellence and spiritual

fulfillment; it has been further expounded by pious predecessors, scholars and mentors in

successive generations-thus producing a rich legacy of literature savored by all seekers.

In this course, we hope to study this wisdom in a succinct manner as an agenda for daily living.

The purpose is to take religious observances to a higher level of excellence in order to help

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experience the verities of faith, resulting in deepening of faith and achieving certainty of

conviction.

The course will be based on the works of the eminent scholars of the tradition such as

Qushayri, Ghazali and Ibn al-Qayyim.

The course will be beneficial to every Muslim desiring to practice Islam at a deeper level.

This course is offered in ten sessions.

Qur'anic Exegesis (Tafsīr)

Vocabulary of the Qur'an

In this course students will explore the vocabulary of the Qur'an with the aim of understanding

the gist of the Qur'an while it is being recited. Focusing more on individual words and their

derivatives, the course will begin by exploring the common words that make up the bulk of the

Qur'an, starting with the last ten chapters. By knowing these words and their appearances in

various places in the Qur'an, students will begin to piece together the basic meanings of the

Qur'an as it is being recited or listened to.

Lessons in Tafsir (Qur’an Exegesis): A thematic study of Sūrat al-Baqarah

The Qur’an is the eternal guide and constitution of Islam; it is the ever fresh spring that we

must draw upon everyday of our lives in order sustain and cherish an authentic Islamic

existence. Unfortunately, the Muslims today have largely neglected the Book except for

memorization and chanting, while, as a matter of fact, it was primarily revealed for reflection,

imbibing its message and acting upon its contents. In this course we shall explore the meanings

of the eternal text with the purpose of relating them to our daily lives in order to enhance our

understanding and practice of Islam.

The Best of Stories - A Thematic Study of Sūrah Yūsuf

The Qur'an is the enduring miracle of Islam. Through its verses and narratives, it seeks to

inculcate in the faithful consciousness of Oneness of God, submission to His supreme will, and

implant a sense of moral rectitude and building of character. S

Surah Yusuf, described as the best of tales, tells the story of a single prophet in such a way that

it presents before us the perennial issues facing humanity in all times and places: struggle

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between good and evil and ultimate triumph of good. The entire narrative revolves around a

central theme of a dream and its fulfillment. The Sūrah parallels the events in the mission and

struggle of the Prophet and ends in the triumph of good over evil; forgiveness and expiation;

union and reconciliation.

In this course, we hope to study the Sūrah while reflecting on its lessons which is the sole

purpose of the divine revelation.

The Prophets in the Qur'an

"Indeed, there are lessons in their stories (i.e. stories of prophets) for people of understanding. This (the story of Yusuf) is not a fictional account, but a confirmation of (the message that came) before it. It is a detailed account of all things and a guide and mercy to a believing nation." (Qur'an: 12:111) Thus, the Qur’an invites us to reflect upon the stories of prophets in the Qur'an. They serve as the basis for sound moral education, inspiration and spiritual edification. Join us as we explore and explain the stories of the great prophets (from Adam to Muhammad)

as told in the Qur'an. Be prepared to be enriched in your understanding of the Qur'anic

message and to be moved by it.

Tafsīr (Exegesis) of the Qur'an

The Tafseer session is a flagship program of IIT held two Saturdays of the month. These sessions

are meant to systematically explain the verses of the Holy Qur'an from the earliest sources,

covering the reasons and context of revelation with supporting evidence from the ahadith, as

well as deducing the laws and their implementation in contemporary society.

Hadīth & Related Sciences

Forty Hadīth of Imām Nawawi

This intensive course will cover the famous collection of Imām an Nawawi. Students will be

introduced to the life of Imam-an Nawawi and the value of his collection of forty hadith. They

will be required to memorize the text in Arabic and to study the meaning and lessons derived

from the text. Finally, students will understand the broad spectrum of subjects covered in the

collection and their relevance for living as Muslims in today's society.

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Forty Hadīth Qudsī (Sacred Traditions)

Hadith Qudsi are the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him) as revealed to him by the Almighty Allah. Hadīth Qudsī (or Sacred Hadīth) are so named because, unlike the majority of Hadīth which are Prophetic Hadīth, their authority (Sanad) is traced back not to the Prophet but to the Almighty. Among the many definitions given by the early scholars to Sacred Hadith is that of as-Sayyid ash-Sharif al-Jurjani (died in 816 A.H.) in his lexicon At-Tarifat where he says: "A Sacred Hadith is, as to the meaning, from Allah the Almighty; as to the wording, it is from the messenger of Allah (PBUH). It is that which Allah the Almighty has communicated to His Prophet through revelation or in dream, and he, peace be upon him, has communicated it in his own words. Thus Qur'an is superior to it because, besides being revealed, it is His wording." In this course we will embark on a study of the forty Hadith Qudsi, selected and translated by Ezzedin Ibrahim and Denys Johnson-Davies as a companion text to Imam An-Nawawi’s Forty Hadith. These ahadith succinctly explain some of the Qualities of Allah, His Divine Orders, the Inner

meanings of Faith and Worship and Achieving Spiritual nearness to Him.

Readings inSahīh Muslim

This continues the series of in-depth study of hadith. This course is intended to expose students to the great work of Imam Muslim, which has been uniquely characterized as more user- friendly and better organized than Imam Bukhari's sahih. While focusing mainly on the famous commentary of Imam Nawawi, when necessary, we will also be drawing on other well-known commentaries of Sahīh Muslim.

Life, Works and Selected Readings of Imām Tirmidhī

Few Muslims know of the life and work of Imām Tirmidhī, one of the great traditionists and

scholars of Hadith (peace be upon him). This course is intended to cater to fill this vacuum.

Imam Tirmidhi was one of the brilliant stars at the dawn of Islamic civilization who devoted

himself to the acquisition, study, compilation and teaching of the Hadīth of the beloved

Messenger, peace be upon him. He made an astounding contribution of Islamic scholarship to

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the Hadith science at a time when the Ummah was facing the challenges of the rationalists

under the influence of Greek philosophy. His celebrated work is one of the most authentic

works of Hadith in Islam, and is considered as one of the most indispensable sources of Islam.

In this course, we will study the contribution of the great Imam and explore his works through

selected readings.

Introduction to the Sciences of Hadīth

This course will provide a detailed introduction to the various sciences associated with the study of Hadīth. Among the topics to be covered are the following: history of Hadīth, compilation, documentation and methods for ascertaining their accuracy, the principles of Hadīth criticism and classification. It is expected that at the end of the course, students will be equipped with a fairly good understanding of this important area of Islamic studies. This course will be based on the following Arabic works: Abd al-Rahman Itr’s Ma’ālim al-ssunna al-nabawiyya (Jordan, 1986); Abu Shahba’s -

ulūm wa mustalah al-hadīth (Jeddah, 1983); Ulūm al-hadīth wa mustalahuhu (Beirut, 1966)

Students are required to have a copy of Dr. Hashim Kamali’s A Textbook of Hadith Studies (Islamic Foundation, UK, 2005)

Sīrah & Shamā’il (The Prophet’s life and Character Traits)

The Sīrah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him)

In this course students will study the life example of the final Prophet and Messenger,

Muhammad ibn Abd’Allah, peace be on him, and discuss its role in developing the Islamic

personality.

Fiqh al-sīrah (A Reflective Reading of the Prophet's Life)

This course aims to study the sīrah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) with a view of

deciphering its lessons and universal values.

With this purpose, we will embark on a re reading of the story of the Prophetic mission as it

unfolded by asking specific questions. We will attempt to discern how the Prophet (peace be

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upon him) singularly unified an entire nation by instilling in his followers a deep sense of

purpose, thus enabling them to play effective roles in bringing about one of the most

momentous transformations in human history.

At the completion of this course, it is hoped that students will have a firm grasp of the issues

while gaining a greater appreciation for the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his great

leadership qualities. It will be an educational experience that will both inspire and enhance our

love for the Messenger of Allah as a conduit of divine mercy.

The Shamai’l of Rasulullah: Excellent Qualities of Allah’s Messenger

For over fifteen centuries, Muslims have emulated the Messenger of Allah, as he was the perfect human being and the most excellent example for mankind. Muslims have awakened as the Prophet did, washed as he did, ate as he did and lived their entire lives striving to follow his Sunnah. Yet, apart from his physical actions such as sleeping and eating, little is known of the excellent characteristics of the Noble Messenger. How did he interact with his family? What was the manner of his speech, and how did he show his displeasure? How did he greet others, and how did he respond to humorous situations? Was he always serious, and frowned a lot, or was he always smiling and pleasant? This course is not a narrative of the Sīrah in chronological order. It is rather a foray into the life of Allah’s messenger as recalled by his loving companions, the love he showed to them and their willingness to sacrifice for him, some of his physical descriptions and the excellent manners which he displayed at all times. Based on the classic masterpiece, Ash-Shifaa by Qaadi Iyaad and the Shamaail of Imam al-Tirmidhi, this course will establish the prominence of Allah’s messenger in our lives and ignite a love for him that is an integral part of our Faith.

Nearing The End: The Last Days of The Blessed Prophet (Peace be upon

him)

These five sessions will detail the last period of the Prophet's life, from the Treaty of Hudaibiya

to the death of the Messenger of Allah.

The course will focus not only on a chronological account of the period, but will examine the

events that led to the historic treaty, the Prophet's willingness to compromise on non-essential

matters for the greater good, the period of calm after the Treaty and its immense benefit to the

nascent Muslim community, the victory (Fath-al-Makkah) and amazing leniency of the Prophet

to his enemies, and his sense of satisfaction for having completed his mission before his

eventual demise. Students will be encouraged to reflect on the challenges, opportunities and

decisions that shaped the Muslim Community and provided a framework for the future Islamic

Civilization.

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Islamic History

Al-Khulafā’ al-Rāshidūn (The Pious Caliphs)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever lives long enough will see many differences. So hold firmly to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly-guided Khalifahs after me". This course will provide an insight into the personal lives and noble characteristics of these

illustrious companions, as well as their deep understanding of Islam as a way of life, the reality

of this life, and in particular, their understanding of leadership in Islam, its responsibilities, and

how to relate with people. At the end of the course, students will understand how and why the

Khulafā’ were able to achieve the status they achieved, which should serve as an inspiration to

all Muslims.

Deeper Roots - An overview of Islamic History

"Deeper Roots" is an exciting course that challenges the foundations of Euro-Centric History by

showing the amazing achievements of the Golden Age of Islam (7-15th Century); revealing the

evidences for Pre-Columbus voyages made by Muslim explorers; showing the actual places and

traces of Muslim presence in the early Americas and following the footsteps of these Muslims

throughout Central and North America. It then goes on to show Muslim presence in the Slavery

period by giving a detailed exposition of historical proofs and ends up with a look at Muslims

who struggled through the Indentured Labour period of the 19th century and developed the

basis of Muslim communities in the Caribbean and Latin America today. It is a must for lovers of

History and those interested in a more objective look at early North and South America and the

Caribbean."

Great Lives- Parts (Five Parts)

Islam is a vision of God, man and the world which throughout centuries has been a great source

of impetus and inspiration for men/women of diverse caliber and talents to attain spiritual,

moral and intellectual excellence in their lives. In this course we hope to study the lives,

thoughts and achievements of some of these great personalities; such a study is at once

fascinating and richly rewarding both spiritually and intellectually.

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Giants of Islamic Civilization

This is a course (in five parts) on the luminaries of Islamic Civilization. It is intended to study the life transforming power of Islam and its capacity to move, inspire and empower minds and souls. We will show how the Qur'anic world view liberated the human spirit from all shackles and enabled them to realize their divine endowments, thus giving birth to a new civilization.

The series will begin the study with the Prophet Muhammad, the seal of prophets. In five sessions, we will study his life, his mission, his character, personal traits, and leadership qualities. The Prophet's story is truly miraculous as he lifted an entire nation out of illiteracy and backwardness and mentored them to serve as leaders, and teachers thus opening a new chapter in human history.

The series will continue to explore the great minds of Islamic civilization down through the centuries until the modern times. Be prepared to be moved and inspired by the stories of the great Muslims.

Islam in The Contemporary World

Islamic Revivalism- Tajdīd

This course studies Islamic revival and reassertion, and examines major trends aimed at

restructuring Muslim society on the basis of Islamic principles and values. Topics include: the

origin of the Islah and Tajdid movements in the past and contemporary times, continuity and

change in objectives and methods, similarities and variations in vision and action.

Exploring Contemporary Issues Facing Muslims in Canada

Ontario is one of the most multicultural places on earth. People with varying religious and ethnic backgrounds co-exist peacefully on the basis of mutual respect, the rule of law and a sense of civic obligation. As Muslims, we need to strengthen our commitment to these principles without compromising our allegiance to Allah and the basic tenets of this Deen. In fact, we need to broaden our outreach to find creative ways of solving some of the contemporary stresses that threaten to undermine the very foundation that makes Ontario one of the best places to live, work and raise a family. This course will provide an opportunity for students to explore the many prevailing challenges and offer a perspective that is rooted in the belief in Allah and the practice of His Noble Messenger. The course will offer practical solutions, within the context of the Canadian societal

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norms. The course will explore the following:

Gender Issues in Muslim Families and Communities Domestic Violence and Practical Ways of Combating it Managing Finances Leadership within the Muslim Community Identity and Citizenship Harmony in Marriage Dealing with Stress and Anxiety Parenting in the 21st Century

Family Matters

Parenting: An Islamic Perspective

Perhaps there is no greater challenge for Muslims today in North America than learning

responsible Islamic parenting; in this course we will review step by step the necessary lessons

to apply in parenting: creating rapport with your children; imparting Islamic ethics and morals

in practical ways; Islamic socialization; dealing with peer pressure, rebellion; building self-

esteem; creating rapport with your children, and numerous other challenges of parenting.

Family Therapy - Workshop

"Family therapy is a separate and distinct discipline practiced very often outside the formal

fields of psychiatry and psychology by social workers, family therapists, counselors, chaplains,

and others. Family therapy is not just a new way of working with couples and families but

rather an entirely different way of understanding human behavior and relationships."

This workshop is designed for mental health and health professionals, community workers,

spiritual and religious care leaders, and community members who wish to acquire practical and

theoretical training in family therapy.

Handling Tough Times in Family

“A family that cannot play together cannot stay together.”

One of the main reasons for the above is the type of communication, or lack thereof, within the

family. The quality of communication always reflects the level of self-esteem that each

individual brings to the family. It is about spontaneity, creativity, self-disclosure, and risk-taking.

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When we are not congruent in our communication, then problems of self-esteem, anger and

self control and problems concerning unfinished business from childhood become obstacles in

building the positive communication in family life.

The workshop is designed for families who are seeking to improve everyday communication

among family members. The goal of the workshop is to teach communication techniques to

improve the relationships in the family and to nurture in family members the capacity to

engage in mindful communication with each other.

We will focus on family connections which start with enhanced self-esteem and how to help

individuals to connect to their strengths and internal resources. We will also explore the five

types of marriage and show how stable marriages have matched interaction styles and unstable

marriages have mismatched interaction styles.

Professional Development

Introduction to Canadian Government

Offered by the Center for Professional Development This course will introduce students to the political system in Canada. It will provide a brief

history of the federation, including the linguistic and regional nuances. Students will be

introduced to the political institutions in Canada and the processes that make Canada one of

the most successful federal systems in the world. The division of power between the federal

and provincial governments will be highlighted. The course will conclude with a discussion of

the major public policy and finance issues.

Introduction to Government and Public Policy

This course is an introduction to Canadian Government. It will provide students with an understanding of the basic structure of the federal, provincial and municipal governments; the political institutions that support governments – the House of Commons, the Senate, etc. The course will examine the evolving roles and responsibilities of the different levels of government, including the recent changes at the provincial and municipal levels in Ontario. Some of the tensions in the federation will be examined, including regionalism and the Quebec question. The course will assist students in understanding the policy development process and some of the contemporary issues in Canadian politics.

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Innovation without Fear - Creative and Practical Ways to Build an

Integrated Curriculum in Islamic Schools

This four-hour workshop will focus on practical ways to integrate the curriculum while meeting

the requirements for standard Ontario subject areas. In this interactive workshop, teachers of

various grade levels will work in grade-level and/or subject area clusters to problem-solve on

issues of curriculum mastery and integration.

Based on these needs, we will discuss several models for curriculum integration and with

particular emphasis on character development, positive classroom interaction, and love of

learning. Practical methods for integrating the curriculum include effective and efficient but

creative lesson planning, which can include inter-disciplinary planning and team teaching.

Administrators who supervise schools and serve on boards are also invited to participate in the

workshop to get a better sense of what goes into such lesson planning. Teachers will then work

together using various teaching materials appropriate to their subjects/grade levels to

construct model curriculum nodes from which integrated planning can flow.

Health Education

While there is a myriad of health information at our fingertips nowadays, navigating through

everything we read and see can be quite a challenge. In this course, under the direction of a

registered nurse, participants will be guided to determine strategies to prevent or minimize

personal health challenges. Taking an Islamic approach to health education, the instructor, Sr.

Johanne Gariepy, RN, will provide students with an overview of current health concerns such as

diabetes and stress-related illnesses, nutrition and dietary guidance and lifestyle coaching.

Islamic ASL

This unique class will cover the basics of communicating with the hearing-impaired. Course fee

covers the cost of books and learning materials. First class Orientation to ASL & deaf culture.

ISLAMIC INSTITUTE OF TORONTO

1630 NEILSON RD., TORONTO, on M1X 1S3 TEL: 416-335-9173 FAX: 416-335-9208

E-MAIL IIT@ISLAM.CA WEB: WWW.ISLAM.CA | WWW.ISLAMICINSTITUTE.CA