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SPRING 2026

The Vision of Islam

Atif Khalil

Join the live class
April 1, 2026 7:00 PM
(Local Timezone)
ONLINE COURSE
8-WEEK
TBA
LECTURES
WEDNESDAYS, 7:00 PM–8:30 PM EST
TBA
FIRST CLASS
APRIL 1, 2026
TBA

Description

This course will provide an overview of the Islamic tradition, articulated from its own point of view, through the lens of the Hadith of Gabriel, with special attention to the concepts of islam (“surrender” or “submission”), iman (“faith” or “belief”) and ihsan (“doing the beautiful”). The aim is to present an integral perspective which reflects the tradition’s understanding of the role and place of the body, soul, and spirit in one’s relationship with God and how to use them to realize the teleological end of human life. In the process, we shall go over the place of law, theology, philosophy, ethics, and mysticism in the economy of Islam. 

Text

Chittick and Murata, The Vision of Islam

Description and Texts

Prerequisite

  • This course has no prerequisites. It presupposes no prior knowledge of the Islamic intellectual tradition. 
  • It is open to both traditional and non-traditional learners (those who do not fit the standard profile of young, full-time students who enroll directly from high school). Anyone may enroll in this course provided they are deeply interested in the topic.

Structure of Class

  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Format: Lecture and Q&A
    • Lecture: 50–60 minutes
    • Q&A: 25–30 minutes
  • Some classes will include student activities.

Q&A Structure

  • Students may interact with the instructor directly by using the Zoom “Raise Hand” feature.
  • Students may also type their questions in the chat box.
  • Depending on the flow of the class, the instructor will decide whether to take questions during the lecture or at the end.

Follow-Up

  • Students are welcome to follow up with the instructor regarding any aspects of the class.
  • The instructor will respond either by email or during the next class session.

Readings

  • Students will be assigned readings before each class.
  • They are expected to complete the readings in advance to maximize their participation in class.

Outcome

  • In line with our educational philosophy, the Tokat courses “embrace an anthropocosmic perspective wherein one comes to actualize an awareness that integrates the rational, ethical, and spiritual dimensions of one’s being.” 
  • In general, these courses are meant to provide students with intellectual and spiritual resources to understand and explore the intellectual dimension of Islam. Such resources are indispensable in an age marked by misinformation and shallowness, when the pursuit of authentic knowledge has become increasingly elusive.

Schedule of Meetings & Readings

April 1

Topics: Method and Theory in the Study of Islam The Hadith of Gabriel

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

April 8

Topics: The Four Meanings of Islam Islam and Nature

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

April 15

Topic: Islam: Law

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

April 22

Topic: Islam: Rituals and Rites 1

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

April 29

Topic: Islam: Rituals and Rites 2

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

May 6

Topic: Iman: The Divine Names

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

May 13

Topic: Iman: Prophecy, Death, and the Return

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

May 20

Topic: Ihsan: Beauty, Virtue, and Spirituality

Readings: Vision of Islam, pp. to be announced

Instructor Bio
Atif Khalil