MODERN ISLAM

I learned a lot about how to construct my view about Islam, and understanding how to view religions

- I learned about how the interpretation of Islam and Sharia law have changed over time -this class has made me more open minded and aware of the atrocities the US are apart of

I have learned alot about the tradition and history of Islam in this class. It was an amazing class and I can truly say that I have learned a ton of information regarding what it means to be Muslim and what Islam looks like in a modern context. Specifically, I learned about the contradictory tradition of Islam, I have learned about the historical patriarchal influence on Islamic interpretations, and I have learned about liberal Islam.

I learned how to deeply read text to understand religious texts, interpretations, and practices within a holistic scope that's in conversation with prior and current voices. I learned how to analyze already-existing scholarship and integrate it with other interpretations to form my own arguments and critiques. I learned how to write in an argumentative way that allows for negotiation and discussion rather than just arguing for argument's sake.

Dr. Safi's Modern Islam course has deepened and enriched my understanding of Islam. From historical contextualization to Sufi influence, I have developed a new lens through which I can better engage with modern interpretations and grapple with critical issues such as the position of women, sexual diversity, and tensions between individual rights and Islamic jurisprudence.