MID E 4520 - Introduction to Shi'ism

Meets with MID E 6520. This course will examine the religious, social, and political contexts of Shi'i Islam, the second largest Islamic sect, from its early formation to its role today. The Shi'i population has been considered a minority community in the Muslim world. However, in today's modern era, Shi'i Muslims are playing an important role in both Muslims and world communities. Students will study the origin, development, formation, and role of Imamate within Shi'i Islam and the Shi'i sectarian branches, specifically the Twelver Shi'ism, as it is the most influential Shi'i legal school of thought. It will further explore the role of clergies, leadership succession, ritual and performance, theology and jurisprudence, and religion and politics and discuss how all of these factors play a significant social and political role in forming Shi'i community.