REL 276 - Sunni, Shia, & Sufi Islam

Introduction to the Shi’ite tradition. Topics include: the origins of Shi’ism; Shi’ite theology; religious and ritual life, piety and spirituality; development of the tradition over time; major institutions; Shi’ite Messianism; major themes in polemics between Sunnis and Shi’ites; ecumenical efforts; mediatory role of Sufism; and political thought and political ramifications of the Sunni-Shi’ite divide. 

Satisfies the Philosophical and Religious Perspectives requirement. 
Satisfies Arab Studies major requirement.
Satisfies the cultural diversity requirement. 
Satisfies a requirement in the South Asian Studies interdisciplinary minor. 
Satisfies a requirement in the Middle Eastern Studies interdisciplinary minor.