The image of Imam al-Sādiq (a) as a pious teacher is etched into the hearts of Muslims, especially with the Shī’ah. But are we to believe that the Imam (a) sufficed himself with teaching and was indifferent to the oppressive rulers of his time? While the descendants of the Prophet (s) lived in abject poverty, … Read more
The concept of ‘alam al-dharr often raises more questions than answers. What is the relationship between this world and our current state in this world? Was there a world preceding this world, and why do we have no recollection of it? Muslim scholars and commentators have proposed multiple interpretations to the reality of the primal … Read more
In the wake of postmodern emptiness, loneliness, and loss of identity, many are turning to secular forms of spirituality, mindfulness, and wellbeing. There is a perception that spirituality can be divorced from religion, and that religious prescriptions are insufficient in addressing our spiritual needs. In this webinar, we will critically examine some of the practical … Read more
Bibi Fatima (a) embodied a spiritual personality, showing believers how females can attain cultivate spirituality in their lives and attain higher levels of transcendent reality. This course will focus on the teachings and examples of this great lady. Instructor: Sr Tahera Kassamali Dates: 2 Tuesdays, Jan 12 and 19, 2021 Timings: 8-9 am Vancouver, 11 am-12 … Read more
Having referred to Quran translations in English, we would like to do an in-depth study of the contents of the Quran to appreciate the Divine Message and implement it in our lives. This course will introduce available Quran tafāsīr in English which can be of use to those who follow the path of the Ahlul … Read more
The term spirituality has become very vogue in the modern world. Whilst some may move away from organized religion, they still yearn and speak of spirituality. Increasingly the term spirituality is being defined in a subjective manner, with no clear definition and no clear path. The Qur’an lays a clear definition of man’s purpose in … Read more
Divine guides were sent to lead human beings back to the realm that they originated from. The Prophet Muhammad (s) showed believers how to be in touch with inner realities, thereby building character and purity of the soul. This course will look at specific teachings and examples of the Prophet (s) in this regard. Instructor: Sr Tahera Kassamali … Read more
The Holy Quran has been translated into English over one hundred times since the mid-seventeenth century. In this brief course, we will look at how the English translations of the Quran by Muslims and non-Muslims have evolved over time. We will look at a few passages to show that ideological and political leanings have influenced … Read more
The course will introduce the students to the concept of ‘ilm al-ghayb (knowledge of the unseen) in the Qur’an. Students will study whether knowledge of the ghayb is limited to Allah (S) or possible for Prophets and other human beings. We will analyze the extent of the Prophet’s (s) and the Imam’s (a) knowledge of … Read more
In the year 41 AH Imam al-Hasan (a) signed his famous peace treaty with Mu’awiyah. Thus ended the five-year period of infallible rule. Was this peace treaty a reversal of ways? A capitulation in the face of a ruthless enemy? The reality could not be further from this. By analyzing the social-political situation, the details … Read more