ISL411 Methodology of Islamic Law (Usul al-Fiqh) (8)

This subject addresses the methodology related to the principles of Islamic jurisprudence (usul al-fiqh). The development of Islamic law in the early history of Islam, the emergence of ijtihad (Islamic legal interpretation) together with the revealed and non-revealed sources of law and methodology of usul al-fiqh will also be addressed. In addition, the four primary sources of law as well as other supplementary sources of law used in the practice of ijtihad (independent legal deduction) will also be discussed.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
Online
United Theological College

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: ISL411. 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 (Articulate Set)

Assumed Knowledge

A foundational understanding of Islamic juriprudence.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the development of Islamic legal theory (usul al-fiqh).
  • be able to discuss critically the primary and supplementary sources of Islamic law.
  • be able to show an in-depth understanding of the methodology of Islamic law.
  • be able to analyse critically arguments and propositions used in Islamic legal rulings (fatwa).
  • be able to understand and apply critically the general principles of Islamic jurisprudence.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • History of Islamic law and emergence of legal schools
  • Ijtihad (independent legal deduction)
  • The first source of law - the Qur'an
  • The second source of law - Sunnah
  • The third source of law - qiyas (analogical reasoning)
  • The fourth source of law - ijma (consensus of the community)
  • Istihsan (equity in Islam)
  • Istislah (considerations of public interest)
  • Istishab (presumption of continuity)
  • Urf (customs)
  • Sadd al-dhara'i (blocking the means to harm)

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of ISL411 in Session 1 2019. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Engagement & participation
10
2
Online quizzes
20
3
Presentation
10
4
Essay
30
5
Final exam
30

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: October 2020. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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