Alhamdulillah, today we had our first class: Muslim
Life Through Fatwa: Ancient And Modern at 9am. The professor seems to be very well organized
with his lesson plans and slides. Together with other ten course mates, he expects
class participation throughout the two weeks (60%), a ten page academic paper (20%)
and an individual presentation on fatwa analysis at the end of the course (20%).
I had gained bountiful of knowledge from just this first day. He managed
to capture my attention when he highlighted that we have lost so many keys to the
door of knowledge. What was once the kind of thinking process and knowledge that
our past scholars holds, has not been transmitted to us today. For example, the
knowledge of magic, numerology, the number 786 that Muslims appreciate, all these holds a deep meaning but none was mentioned in today’s educational system.
Another thing that strikes me was when he explained the meaning of Sharia.
The class attempted to define Sharia suited for non-Muslims, to remove
their misconception that it is only about cutting hands and lashes. But it was not
an easy task. I thought of highlighting that Janayat (crimes and
punishments) are just a small component of Sharia. It is in fact, a way of life
that includes Ibadat (worships), Muamalat (transactions), Munakahat
(Marriages) and others. But these are very technical approach that may not
be able to convince the others.
He then shared his approach, to re-look the true meaning of Sharia
itself and those that are related to it. Amazing, how Islam emphasizes on moving
towards the right path: (need to read his book on Ibn Taimiyah to understand
further)
·
Sharia: the path (45:18, 5:48)
·
Fiqh: understanding of the way
·
Ummah: community (on a track)
·
Imam: first person in a caravan
·
Sunnah: clear path/way (lead camel)
·
Mazhab: an alley
Despite that we have gone through years of learning, there are still so
much more that we have not acquired. Looking back at our situation in
Singapore, having that required 10 hours of training for Asatizah Recognition Scheme (ARS) per year are probably a good decision. I look forward to the additional
and advance trainings which they are currently preparing, hoping that we will all grow spiritually
and intellectually before guiding our community to the straight path.
InsyaAllah. Amin.
