Engender an understanding of the many meanings of the term shari‘a and how this notion has evolved historically in Muslim societies in all its diverse manifestations and interpretations.
Introduce participants to Shi‘i approaches to law and the role of the Imam in the development of Shi‘i fiqh (jurisprudence).
Explore contemporary debates on shari‘a in the context of the call for its return, and Muslim responses to the challenges of modernity.
Show how ethical ideals have always underpinned shari‘a discourse.