Maryam Institute

Midterm Exams, 2020 – 2021

Islamic Scholarly Traditions exam

Total marks: 100

Time allowed: 4 hours

Instructions: Please attempt all of the following questions.

Please write short, reflective essays for all of the following questions:

1. What is the difference between sunnah and hadith? What were the four functions of the
Prophet (saw)? What is the authority of the Sunnah? Can we leave an action because it is
“just Sunnah”? (20)
2. What is the basis of interpreting the Quran? Can one interpret the Quran on the basis of
their personal opinion? (20)
3. What is the meaning of Khushu? How can one attain Khushu in their Salah? (20)
4. Please describe the importance and role of both sacred knowledge (‘Ilm) and intellect
(‘Aql). What is the difference between true Knowledge and Ideology? In light of the
challenges facing the Islamic intellectual tradition, what do you think is the need of the
time? (30)
5. Which topic or session covered this term inspired you the most and why? (10)