ISL430 Methodology of Qur'anic Exegesis (Usul al-Tafsir) (8)

This subject introduces students to the methodology of Qur'anic exegesis. The concept of revelation, the importance of occasions of revelation for exegesis, the concept of abrogation, and a set of tools used in textual analysis will be discussed. The history of the development of Qur'anic exegetical method and its evolution over time to produce a rich literature of exegetical works will also be addressed. In addition, modern exegetical issues concerning the Qur'an will be investigated together with a critical evaluation of how the modern history of the Muslim world influenced contemporary exegetical works.

Subject Outlines
Current CSU students can view Subject Outlines for recent sessions. Please note that Subject Outlines and assessment tasks are updated each session.

Availability

Session 3 (90)
Online
United Theological College

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: ISL430. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation

Enrolment Restrictions

Master of Islamic Studies

Assumed Knowledge

Foundational knowledge of the Qur'an and revelation.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the history of the development of Qur'anic exegesis.
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the Qur'an through a methodical approach to its interpretation.
  • be able to demonstrate a familiarity with the terminology used in Qur'anic exegesis.
  • be able to understand and apply critically the general principles of Qur'anic exegesis.
  • be able to apply critically exegetical methods to the interpretation of the Qur'an.
  • be able to recognise and evaluate critically different exegetical types.
  • be able to demonstrate independent research, organisation, written and oral communication skills through the presentation of a substantial work.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Introduction to the methodology of the Qur'anic exegesis
  • The notion of wahy (revelation)
  • Transmission of the Qur'anic revelation
  • Form, structure, coherence and the i'jaz (miraculousness) of the Qur'an
  • History of interpretation and interpreters of the Qur'an
  • Asbab al-nuzul (occasions of revelation) and Isra'iliyyat
  • Muhkam and mutashabih (clear and ambigious verses) and the notion of naskh (abrogation)
  • Qiraats and ahruf al-sab'ah (Qur'anic readings and seven letters)
  • Textual analysis and translation of the Qur'an
  • Qasas al-Qur'an (Qur'anic stories)
  • Mystical interpretaion of the Qur'an
  • Modern issues and western scholarship of the Qur'an

Contact

Current Students

For any enquiries about subject selection or course structure please contact Student Central or ask@csu.edu.au or phone on 1800 275 278.

Prospective Students

For further information about Charles Sturt University, or this course offering, please contact info.csu on 1800 275 278 (free call within Australia) or enquire online.

The information contained in the 2018 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: August 2018. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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