Islamic Theology and Philosophy

In order to understand Islam and the Arab world it is critical to have a clear grasp of the underlying theology and philosophy. This course provides the basis for understanding international Islamic terrorism and radical ideologies propagated by both rogue regimes and organizations.

This course explores the content and structure of Islamic belief as elaborated by both traditional and radical Islamic thinkers. This introduction explores the nature of Islamic theology, the pillars upon which Islam rests, the Quran and related literature, the Islamic calendar, holidays and the role of the mosque. We will also explain the Islamic creed Sharia law and its interpretation in Sunni and Shi'a societies, the goals of extreme organizations such as al-Qaeda and Hizballah and how each interprets the need for Islamic Republics. This introduction provides attendees with critical tools to understand the Islamic view of the world and its radical ideologues.

This two-hour course was designed by foreign policy experts that have spent significant time living, studying and working in the Arab/Islamic world. This course is a must for military personal deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan, government employees involved in foreign policy, financial institutions and companies doing business in the Middle East and/or emerging college leaders.

Who Should Attend
Military Personnel
Law Enforcement
Intelligence Analysts
Customs and Border Patrol
Financial Institutions
College Students
Non-profits

Prerequisites
None

Duration
1-2 Hours

Schedule
1. Introduction
2. The Five Pillars of Islam
3. The Qur'an and other Islamic Texts
4. The Mosque
5. Women in Islam
6. Islamic Fatwas
7. Sunni-Shi'a Ideologies and Ideologues
8. Jihad
9. Conceptions of Islamic Republics