We have written a short research paper on Islamic pedagogy and the University of al-Qarawiyyin. This is intended to be the first of a series of reflections on Islamic pedagogy and embodiment.
Please click on the tab 'Academic Writing' or the image below.
This is one of the first hand written Quran's in Penang (Malaysia). It is exhibited Syed Alatas house (Museum) in the UNESCO area of Georgetown.
Three scholars from early times of a North Malaysian Madrasah.
A fascinating early picture of al-Madrasah Idrisiyyah located in Bukit Chandan , Kuala Kangsar, Perak, Malaysia. It was founded in 1917 and began operations in 1922 (1340 AH). It is named for the founder of the Sultan Idris Shah.
In April 1922 the opening of the madrasah was a significant contribution to Islamic education in the state of Perak. Idris eldest son served as a teacher. 23 orphan children were the first students to receive free education and support services. Today the madrasah cover education from childhood to adult Islamic education. By the 1960's the number students reached 250 and they came from all around Malaysia.They eventually became the clergy and Umara.
Ubudiah Mosque is in north Malaysia in Kuala Kangsar. Open architecture with a cool breeze from the many doors. Study circles are common with small groups of students. Built in 1917 during the reign of the 28th Sultan of Perak, Sultan Idris Murshidul'adzam Shah, the Masjid Ubudiah is located beside the Royal Mausoleum on Bukit Chandan. It was commissioned by the Sultan, who vowed that he would build a mosque of great beauty as gratitude for recovery from an illness.
Here is another study circle finishing for Asr
You could be fooled by what seems from a western perspective to be an informal style. It is important to remember Al-Karaouine has challenging entry requirements and attracts very dedicated students.
I was at Al-Karaouine for Maghrib and I was there early and the University classes were near to finishing. Very interesting to see the flexible style that was also formal in other ways. Here you get a feel for the student-teacher relationship.
