Faculty of Theology, Aligarh Muslim University

The Faculty of Theology is a part of Aligarh Muslim University.

History

The Faculty of Theology is one of the oldest faculties of Aligarh Muslim University. Maulana Abdullah Ansari, son-in-law of Maulana Qasim Nanotvi, the founder of Darul Uloom Deoband, was appointed first Nazime-e-Deeniyat. This developed into the Department of Shia and Sunni Theology and finally became the Teaching Faculty in 1960.

The faculty is not only the oldest but is also unique in many ways. This is the only faculty in Indian universities where Sunni and Shia theology is taught, and graduate, post- graduate and doctorate degrees are awarded. These two departments not only provide teaching and research facilities but also manage the religious life of the campus. The two symbolise Sunni-Shia unity and are a living manifestation of Sir Syed's vision of Muslim unity and brotherhood.

The Faculty of Theology has a rich history. It has had outstanding and world-famous scholars like Maulana Abdul Lateef Rahmani, Maulana Sulaiman Ashraf, Prof. Saeed Ahmad Akbarabadi, Allama Ali Naqi Naqvi, Mufti Hafeezullah, Prof. Taqi Amini, Allama Mujtaba Hasan Kamoonpuri, Professor Fazlur Rahman Ginnori and Professor Maulana Kalbe Abid, who had hundreds of books published in various languages. Even now there are faculty members who have numerous scholarly research and books published in different languages in many countries. Some have participated in religious and inter-faith conferences in different countries and delivered invited lectures at overseas institutions.

Departments

The faculty has two departments.

• Department of Theology (Shia)
• Department of Theology (Sunni)

Courses offered

• Master of Arts (Theology) Shia & Sunni
• Bachelor of Arts (Theology) Shia & Sunni

References