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ISL532 Usul al Hadith: Methodology in Prophetic Narrations (8)

Abstract

This subject addresses the place of hadith in Islamic scholarship and the methodology of evaluating critically the authenticity of hadith narrations, as well as their classification in canonical texts. The Prophet Muhammad’s sayings, actions and his approvals as reported by his companions have been collected separately as multi-volume hadith books. Collection of hadith books, their classification and authentication has been an integral part of Islamic scholarship. This subject will also cover the history of development of the science of hadith critique from the time of the Prophet Muhammad (7th century) to the 10th century of Islamic scholarship.

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Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: ISL532
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Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLCentre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation

Enrolment restrictions

Related subject(s)
ISL232 Paired Subject

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to articulate critically the difference between hadith and Sunnah
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the different phases in the collating of hadith literature in the first three centuries of Islam
  • be able to critically discuss the methods used to classify hadith
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding and skill in the appreciation of methods for critical analysis of hadith
  • be able to differentiate critically the level of authenticity between hadith narrations

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • Distinction between hadith and Sunnah
  • Ulum al Hadith - The Science of Hadith Studies
  • Identification phase of hadith
  • Collection phase of hadith
  • Classification phase of hadith
  • Six canonical hadith collections
  • Refinement phase of hadith
  • Definitions of hadith classifications
  • Content analysis of hadith
  • Critical analysis of chains of transmission (sanad)
  • Methods in transmission of Hadith from master to student
  • Criteria for hadith critique
  • Qualification criteria for hadith narrators

Residential School

This subject contains a optional 2 day residential school. The purpose of the optional residential school is to provide an opportunity for exploration of the overall coursework covered. In addition to content review, this part of the course aims to facilitate an interactive session between the teaching academics and students. Students will be involved in small group discussion, lectures, visual presentations and one-on-one sessions with the subject coordinator and lecturers to address any issues that may arise. Material and summary content covered in this session will be a valuable contribution towards the major assessment tasks.

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The information contained in the 2016 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 06 September 2016. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.