History of Islamic Theology

Course Description

A historical survey of the development of Islamic theological schools from the early Companions through the classical period to modernity. Students study the emergence of the Mutazilah, Ashariyyah, Maturidiyyah, and Athariyyah schools, the debates that shaped them, and their lasting influence on Islamic intellectual tradition. Key primary texts are read in translation.

What You'll Learn

• Trace the historical emergence of the major Kalam schools and the theological debates that shaped them
• Analyse primary theological texts from classical scholars in their historical context
• Explain how political and social factors influenced theological development in Islamic history
• Compare the epistemological frameworks of Kalam theology and Athari methodology

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