Exploring Islam & Muslim

Drawing on life across many countries, this course presents Islam through Arabic study, translation of classical scholars, and culturally sensitive classroom insights for students and teachers.

Islam means surrender to God and submission to his will, aiming for inner peace through God's command. The lecture emphasizes purification and personal growth beyond external worship.

Explore how Islam guides a diverse global community of Muslims from many languages and cultures. Distinguish religious practices from cultural customs amid varied traditions.

Explore ethnic and geographic diversity, integration and immigration challenges, and how shared Islamic beliefs unify diverse communities in a melting pot that enriches society.

Explore how language, culture, and tradition shape barriers for Muslims from different regions when learning Arabic. Recognize that not everyone masters Arabic, so translations and commentaries help extract meaning.

debunk the idea that Muslims are Arabs by showing their global spread across Indonesia, the United States, and beyond, with diverse languages, foods, and cultural practices.

Explore misconceptions about Islam, including that all Muslims are Arab, and learn that Muslims worship one God and that the birth of Jesus was sacred, divine, and planned by God.

Explore how women access mosques and why practices vary by country, challenging misconceptions and distinguishing cultural norms from Islamic teachings.

Violence is a global phenomenon not tied to any faith, tradition, or nationality. Explore its varied causes—political unrest, education, economics, injustice, intolerance—and the importance of dialogue and suspending prejudice.

Reflect on the course's exploration of interracial and cultural diversity, racism, discrimination, prejudice, and misconceptions. Commit to open dialogue, face uncomfortable truths, and share constructive feedback to improve future courses.