Sufism (354-0-20)
Instructors
Usman Hamid
Meeting Info
Kresge Centennial Hall 2-420: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM
Overview of class
This course introduces Sufism, the ‘mystical' tradition of Islam. After critically examining the concept of ‘mysticism' within Religious Studies, we will examine the historical origins of Sufism, its emergence from and relationship to foundational discourses within Islam, its engagement with the Qur'an, and the figure of the Prophet Muhammad in Sufi devotions. We will then investigate notions of ‘sainthood' in Islam, the roles of Sufism in popular Muslim piety, the centrality of the body and bodily disciplines in Sufi practice, and the writings produced by Sufis, their supporters, and critics. Particular attention will be paid to the study of Sufi literature both in prose and poetry. The course will offer a broad introduction to the historical and geographic range of Sufism in Islam, but will give special attention to Sufi traditions in the Indian subcontinent and the broader Persianate world.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course students will develop (1) familiarity with major concepts in the Sufi tradition (2) understanding of how Sufism has interacted with broader political, social, and cultural forces (3) skills in close reading of pre-modern literary traditions.
Teaching Method
Class Materials (Required)
Course Pack. Other required materials will be posted at a later time.
Class Attributes
Ethical and Evaluative Thinking Foundational Disci
Ethics & Values Distro Area