Studies in Tradition

Embark on a transformative journey of faith and intellectual exploration with our 3-year "Studies in Tradition" programme. Designed for intermediate-level students, this immersive curriculum aims to deepen your understanding of the Islamic sacred sciences, ranging from Hadith methodology to Islamic jurisprudence, Quranic exegesis, and classical Arabic. Under the guidance of esteemed scholars, students will engage with seminal Islamic texts and their commentaries, including works like "Nukhbat al-Fikr," "Al-Mirqat," and many more. This programme culminates in the granting of a traditional Ijaza, certifying your proficiency and scholarly authority in the studied disciplines. Prepare to become not just a student, but a custodian of Islamic knowledge, with the s…
One lesson a week
4hr Lessons
3yr Programme

Distance Learning

All of our classes are live online sessions. This allows optimal engagement with all our online students.

3yr Programme

Over the span of three years, you'll work through our thoughtfully designed curriculum, aimed at offering a thorough educational experience without feeling rushed.

Traditional Ijāza

 This comprehensive journey will culminate in the granting of a traditional Ijaza, certifying your competence and authority in the disciplines studied.

Supplementary Lessons

Students will gain exclusive access to our specialized tutorial library, which includes detailed tutorials designed to deepen understanding and enhance mastery of the subject matter.

Subjects Overview

Islamic Law
الفقه الحنفي

Principles of Islamic Law
اصول الفقه

Hadith Studies مصطلح الحديث

Kalam Studies
علم الكلام

Logic
علم المنطق

Rhetoric
علم البلاغة

Grammar
علم النحو

Spirituality
تزكية النفس

SUBJECTS IN FOCUS

Studies in Tradition Syllabus 

Fiqh
Usul al-Fiqh
Hadith
Theology
Logic
Arabic Studies
Fiqh Readings
Application of legal Theory 1
Application of legal Theory 2

Multaqā of al-Halabī ملتقى الأبحر

Overview
Text
"Multaqa al-Abhur" is an intermediate-level "meta-primer" (matn) that brings together the core teachings of Hanafi jurisprudence (fiqh) from four foundational primers: Quduri’s "Mukhtasar," Mawsili’s "Mukhtar," Nasafi’s "Kanz," and the "Wiqaya." Additionally, the text incorporates key concepts from Marghinani’s "Hidaya" and Ibn al-Sa’ati’s "Majma` al-Bahrayn." The purpose of this work is to provide a comprehensive yet concise understanding of Hanafi jurisprudence.
The text is meticulously composed, presenting the most reliable viewpoints on issues where differences exist, and these are highlighted at the outset. The writing style is clear and accessible, making complex legal matters more understandable for learners. It goes beyond the scope of any individual primer within the Hanafi school, such as Quduri or the "Kanz," as it amalgamates teachings from all four principal primers. As a result, students encounter a broad spectrum of issues that pertain to their lives as well as the lives of others.

These include areas such as worship, marriage and divorce, financial transactions, halal and haram matters, and public law.

One of the prominent commentaries on "Multaqa al-Abhur" is "Majma` al-Anhur" by Shaykh Zada (d. 1078).

Family Law الاحوال الشخصية

Overview
Text
In Islamic jurisprudence, the term "الأحوال الشخصية" (Al-Ahwāl Al-Shakhsīyyah) refers to the laws governing the family.   The main topics usually covered include marriage (Nikah), divorce (Talaq), child custody (Hadanah), and inheritance (Mirath). 

This module will delve into these topics in detail, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of Hanafi family laws. Through a combination of theoretical discussions, case studies, and real-life applications, students will gain a nuanced understanding of how these laws are implemented and practiced in various cultural and social contexts.

By the end of this course, you should be able to critically assess and apply Hanafi rules in matters of family, appreciating the legal and ethical dimensions that this school of thought brings to these fundamental aspects.
The module will include a number of different texts, however, the central text that we will utilise is al-ahwāl al-Shakhsiyya fī al-sharī‘ah al-Islamiyya by the late great Azhari scholar, Shaykh Muhammad Muhyudin Abdul Hamid.

Ownership and Contracts الملكية و العقود

Overview
Text
This module on "Ownership and Contracts (الملكية و العقود)" within the Hanafi school of law aims to explore the intricate legal frameworks that govern the acquisition, utilisation, and transfer of ownership, as well as the formation and enforcement of contracts in various types of transactions. One of the most comprehensive and nuanced among Islamic jurisprudential schools, the Hanafi approach offers a rich array of legal principles and precedents in matters of ownership—ranging from the classification of assets to the rules surrounding joint ownership and leasing.

The objective of this module is to provide students with the requisite knowledge to understand the legal framework for these two important areas of law.  

This module also includes a detailed study of riba based on the major legal schools, along with a study of gharar (غرر) in Islamic Law.  We also cover a number of modern issues that include insurance contracts and mortgages.
The module will include a number of different texts including, al-milkiyya wa nadhariyya al-aqd by the late great Azhari jurist Shaykh Muhammad Abu Zahra, al-Madkhal al-Fiqhi al- Am of the late Syrian jurist Shaykh Mustafa Ahmad al-Zarqa and other selected works.
Principle of Islamic Law
Usūl readings
Consensus & Analogical Reasoning

Guiding Qawā‘id

Overview
Text
This module delves into the fundamental principles or "Qawaid" that guide Usul al-Fiqh, focusing primarily on the Hanafi madhab (school of thought). It aims to equip students with an in-depth understanding of the theoretical foundations and practical applications of these guiding principles within the Hanafi framework, while also exploring inter-madhab and intra-madhab differences. Given that Usul al-Fiqh serves as the methodology behind Islamic jurisprudence, understanding its principles is crucial for scholars, students, and practitioners alike.
The module will utilise a textbook designed by the Sacred Texts team. This specially curated text aims to provide a systematic layout of the key rules or 'Qawaid' within each chapter of Usul al-Fiqh. Created with the intention to facilitate ease of understanding, the text is a comprehensive guide that dives into each guiding principle, offering insights into its theoretical background and practical applications within the Hanafi school as well as its manifestation across other madhabs.

Usūl readings افاضة الانوار

Overview
Text
The text "Ifada al-Anwar" focuses on the principles (Usul) of Hanafi jurisprudence (Fiqh). The book serves as an extensive guide, divided into various chapters and topics that address the fundamental rules and discussions in Hanafi Usul al-Fiqh. It appears to be a comprehensive resource that delves into the methodology behind deriving Islamic law in the Hanafi school.
"Ifada al-Anwar" is a seminal text focused on elucidating the principles of Hanafi jurisprudence, otherwise known as Usul al-Fiqh. Designed to be a comprehensive guide, the book is organized into multiple chapters and topics, each delving into the specifics of Hanafi legal theory. It aims to present a detailed understanding of the fundamental rules that govern the derivation of Islamic law within the Hanafi school of thought. Given its focus on both theory and application, "Ifada al-Anwar" serves as a critical resource for anyone interested in the intellectual and practical aspects of Hanafi jurisprudence.

By employing this text, readers are expected to gain a rich, nuanced understanding of how Islamic law is formulated within the Hanafi madhab, thereby equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to engage deeply with Islamic legal texts and rulings.

Consensus & Analogical Reasoning الاجماع و القياس

Overview
Text
Module is designed to offer an in-depth exploration of the concepts of Ijma (consensus) and Qiyas (analogical reasoning) within the Hanafi madhab. These are two of the four primary sources of Islamic law, and understanding them is crucial for grasping the complexities of Islamic jurisprudence.
The module aims to equip students with the skills to analyze and apply these foundational concepts in a Hanafi context. This will not only allow students to understand Hanafi legal theory but also appreciate the richness and flexibility that these tools bring to Islamic jurisprudence
The focus of this module will be to study the subjects of Ijma (consensus) and Qiyas (analogical reasoning) through the lens of two seminal texts: "Al-Husami" from the Hanafi tradition and "Al-Mustasfa" from the Shafi'i school. Over a span of 12 weeks, students will have the unique opportunity to explore how these critical jurisprudential principles are interpreted and applied within these two major Islamic legal traditions.

Intended Learning Outcomes
Gain a nuanced understanding of the different approaches to Ijma and Qiyas within the Hanafi and Shafi'i schools, as represented by "Al-Husami" and "Al-Mustasfa."
Delve into the historical and theoretical context behind the concepts of Ijma and Qiyas in both madhabs, aided by insights from these classical texts.
Develop the ability to critically analyze and compare how Ijma and Qiyas have been employed within Hanafi and Shafi'i jurisprudence based on case studies from both texts.
Learn to identify and articulate the limitations and scope of Ijma and Qiyas in both the Hanafi and Shafi'i traditions, as guided by "Al-Husami" and "Al-Mustasfa."
Acquire the skills to apply the principles of Ijma and Qiyas to contemporary issues, with an awareness of the methodological nuances between the Hanafi and Shafi'i schools.
By the end of this module, students will have a broad yet detailed understanding of Ijma and Qiyas, not only within the Hanafi and Shafi'i madhabs but also in the wider context of Islamic jurisprudence. This comprehensive approach makes the module ideal for scholars, students of Islamic jurisprudence, and anyone interested in the comparative study of Islamic legal traditions.
Hadith Studies

Hadith Studies مصطلح الحديث

Overview
Text
This module aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the text "Nukhbat al-Fikr" by Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani, a seminal work on Islamic Hadith terminology and methodology. Written in the 15th century, the text is an essential primer for scholars and students aiming to study Hadith at a deeper level. Alongside the text, this module also explores Ibn Hajar's own commentary on it, known as "Nuzhat al-Nazr," which serves as an explanatory guide, providing deeper insights into the topics covered.

Author Background
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani (1372–1449) was a medieval Shafi'i Sunni scholar of Islam who represents a high point in the science of Hadith literature. He is most well-known for his work "Fath al-Bari," a commentary on Sahih al-Bukhari. Ibn Hajar synthesized and built upon the work of earlier scholars, solidifying the methodology and classification of Hadith and its narrators.
The text "Nukhbat al-Fikr" by Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani is a condensed yet comprehensive guide to the terminology and methodology related to the study of Hadith, the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad. It serves as a primer on Islamic Hadith sciences ("`Ilm al-Hadith"), outlining key terms and criteria for classifying Hadith.

The text delves into:
  • Basic terms related to Hadith studies like "Matn" (text), "Isnad" (chain of narrators), "Sahih" (authentic), "Da'if" (weak), "Hasan" (good), and so on.
  • Categories of Hadith based on the reliability and memory of the narrators.
  • Criteria for evaluating the trustworthiness and competence of Hadith narrators.
  • Differentiating between Hadiths that can be accepted as sources of Islamic law and those that cannot.

Ibn Hajar's commentary, "Nuzhat al-Nazr," elaborates on these points, providing more examples, additional layers of complexity, and clarification of any ambiguities in the original text. The commentary is often read in conjunction with "Nukhbat al-Fikr" to gain a deeper understanding of Hadith sciences.
Logic readings 1
Logic readings 2

Logic readings إيساغوجي في المنطق

Overview
Text
Penned by the eminent scholar Athīr al-Dīn al-Abharī, who passed away in 1265 CE (663 AH), "Isagoge" stands as a pivotal text in the field of Islamic logic. This succinct manual delineates fundamental principles of logic, covering areas such as the formulation of accurate definitions, the construction of valid syllogisms, and the identification of logical fallacies. Since its introduction in the 13th century, the text has remained a cornerstone of educational curricula, making it one of the most enduring works continuously used since its original publication.
The "Isagoge" serves as an introductory guide to Aristotle's categories, providing:
  • Exploration of the five "predicables": genus, species, difference, property, and accident.
  • Introduction to the concepts of universals and particulars.

Key Themes
  • The Nature of Being: Discussion of what constitutes the essence and accidents of a thing.
  • Classification: A breakdown of how concepts and entities are classified into broader and narrower categories.
  • Universality and Particularity: An introduction to the complex interplay between universal concepts and individual instances.

Logic readings المرقات

Overview
Text
Information forthcoming
Al-Mirqat of Allama Fadh al-Haqq al-Khayrabadi
Grammar readings
Rhetoric readings

Grammar Readings شرح قطر الندى

Overview
Text
This module is designed for students to further develop their foundation in Arabic grammar. The renowned text Sharḥ al-Qaṭr al-Nadā, written by one of the leading scholars in Arabic grammar, will introduce students to the intricacies of the Arabic language, including discussions on the disputes between the major schools of Arabic grammar; the school of Basra and the school of Kufa. Upon completion, students will have a developed knowledge of the key concepts and terminologies in Arabic grammar, and will be equipped to study advanced texts in the science. 
The text serves as a primer on Arabic grammar, outlining key terminology and discussions in the science of Arabic grammar. The text delves into:

• A detailed exposition into key grammatical concepts.
• Difference of opinions in grammatical approach of the early grammarians.
• An outline of the categorising of topics and discussions in Arabic grammar.

Ibn Hisham elaborates on the different aspects and concepts of Arabic grammar and provides examples from the Qur’an and classical Arabic poetry, offering students practical assistance in implementing what is learnt in the text.

Rhetoric readings تلخيص المفتاح

Overview
Text
This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the science of rhetoric (Balāgha) in the Arabic language. Rhetoric is integral for students to develop a holistic understanding of the Arabic language and is of central importance to approaching various other Islamic sciences, particularly the study of Qur’anic exegesis ('Ilm al-Tafsīr). The science of rhetoric concerns the most effective expression of communication in a given context and encompasses various linguistic and rhetorical devices to enhance the beauty, clarify and impact of speech. Students will benefit with a detailed understanding of the key ideas, concepts and terminology in Arabic rhetoric.
The text serves as a summarising handbook for the comprehensive work "Miftāḥ al-ʿUlūm." It addresses a range of disciplines related to Arabic language and rhetoric, encompassing areas like grammar ("Naḥw"), syntax ("Iʿrāb"), semantics, eloquence ("Balāgha"), and poetic meter ("ʿArūḍ").

Retaining the core ideas of the original work, "Talkhīs Miftāḥ al-ʿUlūm" organises the material in an accessible manner. It simplifies complex notions without compromising their essential aspects, thus functioning as an effective educational tool.
Epistemology
Heresiology
Kalam 1
Kalam 2

Heresiology الملل و النحل

Overview
Text
This module aims to provide an exposition into the work of Imam al-Shahrastani’s al-Milal al-Nihal. Widely considered one of the first work on the topic, the text serves to introduce students to the evolution of different religions – such as the Abrahamic faiths and oriental religions such as Zoroastrians, Hinduism, etc. – and theological schools – such as and including the heresies of the Mu’tazilite, Jabirite, Qadarite and Kharijites. Students will be provided with a comprehensive understanding of the differences between the various groups and schools. 
The text is a seminal work that delves into the diverse sects, religions, and philosophical movements. The text covers the differences between the various religions and sects outlined and is contextualised by the following discussions:
• God’s Unity and Attributes
• The concept of Pre-destination, Free-Will, etc.
• Promise and Warning
• Revelation, Reason, Apostleship, and Imamate

Upon completion, students will be able to contextualise the belief of the different religions and sects, in contrast to the beliefs of Sunni orthodoxy.

Epistemology المقدمات السنوسية

Overview
Text
The Sharḥ al-Muqaddimāt is al-Sanūsī's compendium introducing the preliminary discussions to creedal belief ('aqāʾid). The text serves as an introduction for the study of Imam al-Sanūsī's other works in Islamic creed (also covered in this course). As such, Imam al-Sanūsī covers and explicates the epistemic framework of the Ash’ari school of theology. The text will equip students with a strong grasp of key issues in the study of epistemology and will provide students with the tools required to critically engage with the works on Islamic theology (kalam) in this course and beyond.
With a particular focus on gathering the most important enquiries pertaining to God’s Ontological Uniqueness (tawḥīd), the text delves into the epistemic criteria formed to understand the essential tenets of Islamic belief. The text examines the following discussions:

• The different types of epistemic judgements – namely, legal, rational and empirical.
• The epistemology of modality and modal knowledge.
• The nature of human actions and the difference between the Ashāʿira and the heretical groups.
• On polytheism, disbelief and heresy.
• On existents and contingencies.
• On the faithfulness of the Prophets.

Kalam readings شرح السنوسية

Overview
Text
Sharh al-Sanūsīyya is one of Imam al-Sanusi’s widely accepted and famous works. This particular edition of the text by Shaykh Saeed Fodeh includes the commentary of Imam Ahmad bin Isa al-‘Ansari, and is detailed with footnotes from various commentaries, such as that of Imam al-Bājūrī, Imam al-Sāwī and so on. As such, students will be provided with a strong foundation in the creedal beliefs of Ash’ari orthodoxy, alongside deeper insights into the conceptual assumptions that form the reasoning of the Ash’ari school of theology. The module will thus provide students with a detailed overview of key concepts in kalam, particularly for students aiming to study the subject at a more advanced level. 
The text uncovers the classification of the Attributes (sifat) of God Almighty, according to the understanding of the Ash’ari school, alongside proof for His Existence. Additionally, the text offers an in-depth exposition of Prophethood according to the understanding of Sunni orthodoxy.

Kalam readings شرح العقائد النسفية

Overview
Text
The commentary on Imam al-Nasafi's "al-'Aqā'id" by Imam al-Taftāzanī stands as a cornerstone in the field of Islamic theology, commonly referred to as 'ilm al-kalām. Acclaimed for centuries by Islamic scholars, "Sharḥ al-'Aqā'id" is an intermediate to advanced text that has held a pivotal role in both pre-modern and contemporary Islamic educational systems. This module is designed to acquaint students with advanced theological concepts, with a special focus on foundational elements of ontology and epistemology. Upon completing the course, students will have a robust understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of the Ash'arī-Māturīdī theological traditions, as well as the necessary groundwork to engage with more complex texts in 'ilm al-kalām.
The principal aim of "Sharḥ al-'Aqā'id" is to offer an exhaustive commentary and clarification of the theological tenets presented in "al-'Aqā'id al-Nasafī." The text is written in a lucid and succinct manner, specifically designed to address latent objections and queries. Accordingly, the author engages in critical theological discussions that counter Sunni orthodoxy against heterodox schools, such as the Mu'tazilite.

The treatise encompasses, but is not confined to, dialogue on:
• Ontology – delving into the nature of existence and reality.
• Epistemology – examining the origins of knowledge and highlighting the nuanced differences between the Ash'arī, Māturīdī, and Taftāzanī's own categories.
• Cosmology – discussing the nature of the universe, its contingency, and providing commentary on the theory of atomism.
• God and His Attributes.

Instruction will make reference to the super-commentaries (ḥawāshī) authored by Imam Khayālī, Imam Kastalī, and Mullā Ramadān.