This course will clarify the significance of sunna (tradition) and bid‘a (innovation), in both beliefs and practices. It is meant for all students who wish to better understand the meaning of these terms.


The course has no textbook; instead, the series of lectures are based upon a number of important modern and classical works on the topic. By the end of the course, students will possess a broader understanding of how these terms have been understood by Muslim scholars across the centuries and will be able to appreciate the differences between novelties that are praiseworthy and those that are blameworthy, and why.


This course empowers students to understand when a claim that something is a bid‘a is, in fact, consistent with the scholarly tradition, or when the person is misusing the term. It will help Muslims appreciate the relevance and clarity of the tradition (sunna) of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

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Skill Level: Beginner
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Who is this course for:

  • This course is for adults.
  • It is particularly beneficial for all Muslims.
  • It is a General Level course. There are no prerequisites required to successfully complete this course.
  • This course can also be taken by anyone who is interested in understanding the breadth, clarity, and relevance of the Prophet’s tradition (sunna).

Learning outcomes:

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Acquire a broader understanding of how the terms “sunna” and “bid‘a” have been understood across the centuries.
  • Appreciate the differences between novelties that are praiseworthy and those that are blameworthy.
  • Understand why a particular practice is being categorized as praiseworthy or blameworthy.