Cleansing Islamic Culture Courses from Inauthentic Traditions and Clarifying the Problematic Ones

Abstract

Objectives: This study emphasises the significance of cleansing Islamic Culture courses from certain unreliable or questionable traditions and clarifying elements that may be difficult for students to understand. It also seeks to propose general rules and guidelines in criticism and comprehension, stressing the necessity of offering Islamic Culture courses free from flaws. Methodology: This study employs an inductive approach by examining selected Islamic Culture textbooks prescribed in some Arab universities. It then briefly assesses their value according to the critical methodology of hadith scholars. The study followed an authentic approach rooted in professional methods of criticism and comprehension through inductive analysis of traditions, identifying essential rules and guidelines in dealing with them. Results: This study emphasises the importance of properly selecting the material used in Islamic Culture courses, which necessitates careful and critical scrutiny of the traditions that these courses rely on. Moreover, it identifies the major factors in textual criticism, such as the combined analysis of chains of transmission and the traditions they authenticate and adherence to the requirements for strengthening traditions through corroborative evidence, following the rules set by hadith scholars. Some Islamic Culture courses turned out not to strictly adhere to these standards. Additionally, this study highlights the importance of forming specialised academic committees from various Islamic disciplines and involving scholars in psychology, sociology, media and the Arabic language in developing and reviewing Islamic Culture courses. Collaboration through reputable academic institutions is also encouraged. Authenticity: The authenticity of this research lies in its relevance for Islamic Culture courses, significantly enhancing cognitive awareness, shaping students' behaviour, refining concepts and terminology, correcting misconceptions, ideas, and behaviours, and solidifying a culture of moderation and centrism. This requires reliance on the most reliable Islamic sources, primarily the Prophetic Sunna, and a sound interpretation of whatever has been said about the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).