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2015/16 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

LLLC1354 Sufism: Introduction to the Mystic Tradition in Islam

10 creditsClass Size: 30

Module manager: Samar Al-Afandi
Email: s.al-afandi@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2015/16

This module is approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module will give you an introductory insight into the inner dimensions of Islamic spirituality as it is reflected in Sufism. You will learn of the many different Sufi traditions, practices and leading figures such as Rumi, Ibn Arabi and al-Ghazali and their rich intellectual legacies. You will explore the role of Sufism in popular Islam and the challenges it faces in the modern world and how it is viewed by Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Objectives

On completion of this module, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the major themes of Sufism;
- outline the prevalent practices, beliefs and perspectives of Sufism;
- identify and critically evaluate the features of Sufism, prominent figures and personalities within the traditions and the influences on other disciplines.

Learning outcomes
By the end of this module, students will:
- become familiar with the basic concepts within Islamic spirituality;
- gain an understanding of the major themes and terminology of Sufism;
- explore some ideas from leading figures in the Sufi tradition;
- examine certain Sufi practices and the controversies and reforms taking place within the tradition;
- develop an awareness of the Sufi tradition in its various manifestations.

Skills outcomes
- Making effective use of relevant resources such as the library and internet
- Developing effective reading skills and critically looking at some primary sources, with the ability to evaluate the different views surrounding this tradition
- Drawing conclusions from a critical and analytical survey of literature
- Academic writing and study skills


Syllabus

This module offers an introduction to the study of Sufism and will focus on the following:
- The nature and definition of 'Sufism'
- The historical development and origin of Sufism
- Insight into the thoughts of Ibn Arabi, al-Rúmi, al-Ghazáli and others
- Sufi perspectives on the spirit, heart, self and intellect
- Sufi states and experiences
- Sufi orders, the Sheikh and the pledge, and Sufi practices
- Sufi folklore
- Sufi metaphysics
- Sufi escapades and controversies: Ibn Taymiyyah's critique on the cult of saints [the question of reform]
- Sufi chivalry and role of Sufism in the modern world and how it is viewed by Muslims and non-Muslims alike

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Seminar111.0011.00
Private study hours89.00
Total Contact hours11.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)100.00

Private study

Research and writing the Q & A book - 18 hours.
Research, planning and writing of essays 71 hours.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Students' progress will be monitored by their class contribution, ie attendance, discussions etc, and also through the workbook.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Essay2,000 words80.00
Written Work1,500 word question book20.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 28/09/2015

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