The 49th chapter of the Quranic text, entitled al-Hujurat (The Apartments) is one of those that was revealed during the later Madinan period. In contrast to the earlier revelations that dealt with topics such as the nature of the unseen and belief in God, the main focus of the later revelations was related to how such belief should be made into a lived reality within a community with all the practical political, social and economic challenges that this raises.  

While many of the chapters revealed in Madinah inevitable reflect the state of continuing hostility to the message of Islam from outside the Muslim community from the Arab tribes, others suras look to rectify the internal social dynamics between members of faith themselves. From amongst these Al-Hujurat (The Apartments) stands apart as a particularly decisive agenda for social healing and reform. It sets down the social etiquette that are the prerequisite for a vibrant expression of communal faith. In doing so it can be seen as a blue print towards societal Ihsan. 

It does this by first establishing the reverence due to the Messenger (may God bless and grant him peace), and by extension those vested with religious authority. It goes on to deal with the important issue of how to address the all-pervasive issue of here-say and rumors. Lastly, it moves to establish the concept made reality of the brotherhood of believers and in a wider sense, that of all humanity. In doing so, it draws a contrast between outward observances and lip-service to the message with expressions of true faith and conviction. 

The course will provide students with a detailed pre-recorded study of the best classical and modern works from the tafsīr tradition, making use of the latest English translations of the Quranic text, supplemented with uniquely detailed resource notes. The final LIVE interactive session will grant students the chance to explore the practical ramifications of the chapter and how it grants Quranic Rules for Life.