• 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.