ISL170 Ihsan (Spirituality) Essentials (8)

Abstract

This subject introduces students to the basic spiritual concepts found within Islamic spirituality, as well as the spiritual significance of the five pillars of Islam. The subject discusses the importance of self-development with a particular focus on spiritual development. Some of the key foundational concepts that will be addressed include ihsan (spiritual excellence) and ikhlas (sincerity), istiqama (straightforwardness) and taqwa (righteousness). The five pillars of Islam will be covered from a spiritual, mental and social perspective; what each practice signifies and how they assist in the development of the individual and the community. The importance of the Sunnah (practical teachings of the Prophet Muhammad) in the life of a Muslim will also be discussed.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
Distance*	United Theological College

*This subject offering contains a residential school. Please view following information for further details.

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: ISL170
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration	Grading System	School:
One session	HD/FL	Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to describe the three level s of self-development from an Islamic perspective
be able to understand key Islamic spiritual concepts
be able to explain the Islamic concept of ibadah (worship) with its sub-categories
be able to understand the role of the Sunnah (practical teachings of the Prophet Muhammad) in the life of a Muslim
be able to explain the spiritual significance of the five pillars of Islam
be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including research, writing and communication skills

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:

Human nature and its faculties
Ihsan (spiritual excellence) and the seven levels of nafs (egotistic-self)
Virtuous circle of development, ikhlas (sincerity) and istiqama (balance)
Three dimensions of worship, taqwa (righteousness) and Sunnah
Du'a (supplication) and zikr (remembrance)
Abstaining from sins and tawba (repentance)
Spiritual significance of shahada (testimony), tafakkur (reflection) and yaqin (certainty)
Spiritual significance of salat (daily prescribed prayers)
Spiritual significance of sawm (fasting) and shukr (thankfulness)
Spiritual significance of zakat (alms giving) and sadaqah (charity)
Spiritual significance of hajj (pilgrimage) and sabr (patience)
Khuluq (good nature) and the Prophet Muhammad

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