Islam: Sources of wisdom and authority

This topic explores the foundational sources of authority in Islam: the Qur'an (revealed to Prophet Muhammad) and the Sunnah (the Prophet's words, actions, and approvals). Students examine how these sources provide guidance on belief, law, and daily life, and how they are interpreted by different Islamic traditions (Sunni and Shi'a). The Qur'an is considered the literal word of God (Allah), while the Sunnah, recorded in Hadith collections, clarifies and expands upon Qur'anic teachings. Understanding the hierarchy of these sources and their roles in Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) is essential for grasping how Muslims derive ethical and legal rulings.

The topic also covers the development of Islamic scholarship, including the compilation of the Qur'an under Caliph Uthman and the authentication of Hadith through chains of transmission (isnad). Students explore concepts like abrogation (naskh), where later verses supersede earlier ones, and the distinction between Meccan and Medinan revelations. This knowledge is crucial for evaluating how authority is established and contested within Islam, particularly in debates over interpretation and the role of reason (ijtihad) versus tradition (taqlid).

Mastering this topic enables students to analyse how Muslims today engage with scripture, from literalist approaches to contextual interpretations. It also connects to broader themes in Religious Studies, such as the relationship between revelation and reason, the formation of religious identity, and the impact of historical context on sacred texts. For AQA A-Level, this topic frequently appears in essay questions requiring evaluation of the relative authority of different sources or the significance of the Qur'an as a source of moral guidance.