- Course overview, objectives, and methodology
- Importance of studying Islamic culture and civilization today
- Key concepts and historical timeline
- Essence and definition of culture
- Lexical and terminological definitions in the West and Iran
- Preferred definition of culture
- System of knowledge and beliefs
- System of values and inclinations
- System of behaviors and actions
- Definitions and characteristics of civilization
- Systematic nature, dynamism, globality, and cohesion
- Relationship between culture and civilization (Four major viewpoints)
- Human factor, culture, religion, and material-natural factors
- Role of religion in civilizational development
- Islamic Culture vs. Culture of Muslims
- Unique features of Islamic culture and civilization
- Internal and external factors in its emergence and flourishing
- Content, simplicity, comprehensiveness, and eternity of Islamic teachings
- The Translation Movement (Nahḍat al-Tarjuma)
- Contributions of Imam Ali and the Ahl al-Bayt
- Development of Quranic exegesis (major Tafsirs)
- Hadith studies in Shia and Sunni traditions
- Major philosophers (Al-Kindī, Fārābī, Avicenna, Averroes, Suhrawardī, Rāzī)
- Key theologians and development of Kalām
- Shia and Sunni schools of Fiqh
- Major historians and development of historical writing in Islam
- Contributions in medicine, mathematics, astronomy, and chemistry
- Major scientific-cultural centers (Bayt al-Hikmah, Al-Azhar, Nizamiyyah, Hawza of Najaf, Mosques, Libraries)
- Political, administrative, economic, and judicial systems
- Caliphate vs. Monarchy
- Islamic architecture and poetry
- Channels of transmission (Translation, Crusades, trade)
- Impact on Western philosophy, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, and architecture
- Internal factors (deviation from teachings, sectarianism, luxury, political changes)
- External factors (Crusades, Mongol invasion, cultural & economic aggression)
- Concept of civilizational revival
- Cultural and intellectual revival (Ijtihad, knowledge production, dialogue, religious tolerance)
- Human, political, and economic dimensions of revival
- The role of Imam Khomeini as a contemporary reviver
- Final reflections and future prospects
About this course
**History of Islamic Culture and Civilization**
Discover the rich, dynamic, and transformative legacy of Islamic culture and civilization in this comprehensive 16-session online course. From its foundational principles to its golden age achievements and contemporary relevance, this course offers a deep, structured exploration of how Islamic thought shaped human civilization and continues to influence the modern world.
Throughout 16 engaging sessions, participants will journey through the core concepts of culture and civilization, examining their definitions, components, and intricate relationship. The course delves into the unique characteristics of Islamic culture and civilization, highlighting the pivotal role of religious teachings, the contributions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Imam Ali, and the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as the remarkable Translation Movement that bridged ancient knowledge with Islamic scholarship.
Students will study the flourishing of Islamic sciences, including Quranic exegesis (Tafsir), Hadith studies, Philosophy, Theology (Kalām), Jurisprudence (Fiqh), and Historiography. The curriculum also covers major scientific advancements in medicine, mathematics, astronomy, and chemistry, alongside key institutions such as Bayt al-Hikmah, Al-Azhar, the Nizamiyyah schools, and the Hawza of Najaf. Special attention is given to Islamic art, architecture, political and economic systems, and the profound impact of Islamic civilization on the European Renaissance through translation, the Crusades, and cross-cultural exchanges.
Later sessions critically analyze the internal and external factors that led to the decline of Islamic civilization, including deviation from core teachings, sectarianism, luxury, and foreign invasions. The course concludes with an inspiring look at the revival of Islamic civilization, exploring modern Islamic awakening, the role of Ijtihad, knowledge production, interfaith dialogue, and the visionary contributions of Imam Khomeini as a contemporary reviver.
**What You Will Gain:**
- A clear understanding of the essence and dynamics of Islamic culture and civilization
- In-depth knowledge of major scholars, scientific contributions, and institutions
- Critical thinking about historical rise, decline, and renewal
- Appreciation of Islam’s enduring global influence on Western thought and science
This course is ideal for university students, researchers, educators, Muslim professionals, and anyone interested in history, cultural studies, or Islamic thought. No prior background is required — only curiosity and enthusiasm.
Join us on this enlightening journey to understand one of humanity’s most influential civilizations and its continued significance in today’s world.
** Please note: The sessions times and days can be modified according to the convenience of the applicant.**
