Understanding Scholarly Differences and Their Reasons

Presented by: Jamaal Diwan and Muslema Purmul

Level 2: Michigan A & B

Anyone familiar with Islamic studies knows that scholarly differences are plentiful. In this short course we will seek to come to a better understanding regarding the development of Fiqh and its impact on scholarly differences, reasons for difference of opinion amongst the scholars, and how to know when differences of opinion are not acceptable.

Part 1: Discussing the historical development of Islamic law in brief.
Looking at the science of derivation (Usul al-Fiqh) and discussing the concept of Ijithad.

Part 2: Understanding differences:

• Quran and interpretation
• Sunnah: evaluation of transmission, interpretation, and relation to the Quran
• Qiyas and illah
• Other sources, i.e. Custom and Masalih, Opinions of Companions.

Part 3: Finish 2. Etiquette of difference of opinion:
Etiquette of difference of opinion, including not rebuking in areas of Ijtihad, having humility, and being thorough in research.

Part 4: When is difference of opinion unacceptable?
Ten guidelines for knowing an outlier fatwa. Also, the necessity of knowing your source and making sure you follow something that is allowable to follow.

Day course in collaboration with Oak Tree Institute
From the Inside Out: The Importance of the Heart & Tools for Self-Purification

Presented by: Dr. Imad Bayoun

Level 2: Superior A & B

In this course attendees will develop a deep understanding of the role the heart plays in an individual relationship with Allah, the Most High, the Exalted. This key role is the spiritual relationship between a Muslim and the Creator. Developing this understand and learning practical methods to constantly overcome the challenges we face, attendants will grasp the tools required to have an uplifting relationship with Allah SWT.

Course attendees will:

• be introduced to basic belief (our purpose in life)
• learn how to maximize the benefits of acts of worship upon their spirituality
• learn how to overcome self challenges and temptations
• learn the importance of expecting the reward from Allah
• learn the importance of duaa and will be provided with a booklet of common “Ma’thurat Duaa”
• learn the importance of good company and how to acquire that company
• learn how to introduce contemplation into their own life and its importance
• acquire a skill to come up with their own spiritual enhancement plan