ALI 704: Foundations of Islamic Epistemology

This is an 8 session online course on How we know what we know. The course will explore the foundations of Islamic epistemology, laying the groundwork for a deeper, more thoughtful understanding of Islamic beliefs.

Through guided discussions, we will explore key questions such as:

  • What are the sources of knowledge in Islam?
  • How can we trust reason, senses, or revelation?
  • How do we recognize logical fallacies?

This is the first course in a planned series on Islamic theology (ʿAqāʾid), inspired by the content of the contemporary Farsi works “Bee-Nehāyat” and “Ṭarḥ-e Wilāyat.” While rooted in profound philosophical and mystical insights, the course is designed to be fully accessible—no prior knowledge of philosophy or mysticism is required.

Schedule: Eight Wednesday evenings from Sep 10 to October 29, 2025
Timings: 9 pm NY/Toronto; 6 pm LA/Vancouver times
Instructor: Sh. Muhammad Mahdi Kassamali

Fees: CAD $50.00

Registration: www.academyofislam.com/registration

Course Overview and Notes

Part of the Islamic Beliefs Series

Course Description:
 This course introduces students to the foundations of epistemology (the study of knowledge) from an Islamic perspective. Over eight sessions, students will explore the meaning of knowledge, the ways reality can be recognized, and the common pitfalls in reasoning that can prevent clear understanding. By the end, students will have the tools to approach questions of belief with clarity, depth, and critical awareness.

  • Definition of epistemology within Islamic thought
  • Why knowledge of belief (‘aqā’id) is essential
  • What is knowledge?
  • Different types of knowledge (e.g., conceptual, experiential)
  • The role of self-evident truths in reasoning
  • Methods of proving conceptual knowledge
  • Certain knowledge vs. probable knowledge
  • The structure and role of syllogisms
  • The validity and conditions of accepting knowledge from others
  • Knowledge through spiritual unveiling (kashf)
  • Can we trust our perceptions?
  • Limits of human understanding
  • Partial vs. complete grasp of realities
  • What are fallacies and why do they matter?
  • The fallacy of equivocation (one word, multiple meanings)
  • Fallacy of ambiguity or vagueness
  • Fallacy of overgeneralization and exaggeration
  • Fallacy of confusing essence with attribute
  • Fallacy of false cause
  • The fallacy of ignoring relevant aspects (ḥaythiyyāt)
  • Review and discussion: why learning fallacies strengthens faith

By the end of this course, students will:

  • Understand the nature and value of knowledge in Islam
  • Differentiate between self-evident truths, rational proofs, and transmitted knowledge
  • Recognize common logical fallacies and avoid them in discussions of belief
  • Build a more confident and reasoned foundation for their faith
IntroductionDownload
Principles of BeliefsDownload