1. Course Overview
Based on classical heresiographical literature (Kutub al-Firaq), this course examines the origins, key dogmas, sociological factors, and scriptural misinterpretations of historical schisms: Khawarij, Shi'ah, Mu'tazilah, Murji'ah, Jahmiyyah, and anthropomorphists, alongside their modern ideological descendants.
2. Who Is This Course For?
Advanced students, community leaders, and apologists defending orthodox tradition from factional extremism.
3. Learning Outcomes
By completing this structured course, you will achieve:
4. Syllabus & Curriculum Breakdown
Structured one-on-one progression overseen directly by your assigned instructor:
Module 1: The Fitnah & the Rise of Political Schisms
The martyrdom of Uthman and Ali, Battle of Siffin, arbitration, and the emergence of the Khawarij.
Module 2: The Early Theological Schisms
Detailed study of Shi'i sectarian evolution, the Ghulat, Murji'ah, and the Qadariyyah.
Module 3: The Mu'tazilah & the Inquisition (Mihnah)
The Five Principles of the Mu'tazilah, the created Quran crisis, and the stance of Imam Ahmad.
Module 4: Modern Revival of Classical Deviations
Takfiri violent extremism, modernist rationalism, and neo-sectarian disruptions in the Muslim world.
5. Classical Texts & Reference Works
Rooted in authentic classical scholarship, this course references the following authoritative sources:
- Al-Farq bayn al-Firaq (Abd al-Qahir al-Baghdadi)
- Al-Milal wan-Nihal (Al-Shahrastani)
6. Your Instructor
Molana Faizan Tahir
Alim from Jamia Imdadia Faisalabad, Post-Graduate Diploma (PDDU), and MPhil in Islamic Sciences from Riphah International University.
View Full Faculty Profile →7. Academic Details
Prerequisites
Intermediate knowledge of Islamic history and basic theology.
Certificate of Completion
Certificate in Islamic Heresiography & Ideological Counter-Analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sects & Deviant Ideologies (Al-Firaq al-Islamiyyah) is taught exclusively as live 1-on-1 online classes, not group sessions. Every lesson is a private video session with your teacher, so the pace, explanations and corrections are tailored to your level and goals.
Sects & Deviant Ideologies (Al-Firaq al-Islamiyyah) is taught by Molana Faizan Tahir, Scholar in Islamic Sciences & Academic Pedagogy at HF Nexus Academy. All our teachers are certified Islamic scholars trained in traditional institutions. When booking your free trial you can choose a male or female tutor preference, and our admissions team will confirm availability for this course.
Yes. Sects & Deviant Ideologies (Al-Firaq al-Islamiyyah) lessons are scheduled in your local time, whether you live in North America, the UK, Europe, Australia, or the Arabian Gulf. Classes can be arranged on weekdays or weekends, in the morning or evening, to fit around work, school and family commitments.
Sects & Deviant Ideologies (Al-Firaq al-Islamiyyah) typically takes 4 Months of consistent 1-on-1 study at the Advanced level. The curriculum is organized into 4 modules: The Fitnah & the Rise of Political Schisms; The Early Theological Schisms; The Mu'tazilah & the Inquisition (Mihnah); Modern Revival of Classical Deviations. Your teacher adjusts the pace to your weekly class frequency and progress.
Sects & Deviant Ideologies (Al-Firaq al-Islamiyyah) is recommended for: Advanced students, community leaders, and apologists defending orthodox tradition from factional extremism. Prerequisites: Intermediate knowledge of Islamic history and basic theology.
Yes. On completing Sects & Deviant Ideologies (Al-Firaq al-Islamiyyah), students are awarded: Certificate in Islamic Heresiography & Ideological Counter-Analysis. Awards are issued by HF Nexus Academy based on your teacher's assessment of your progress.
Yes. You can book a free 30-minute 1-on-1 trial class for Sects & Deviant Ideologies (Al-Firaq al-Islamiyyah) with no payment details required. During the trial your teacher assesses your current level and goals and recommends a study plan; after that, our admissions team confirms your regular schedule so you can begin lessons.
Curriculum Pathways & Related Courses
This course is part of our structured Aqeedah & Islamic Theology curriculum. You can also explore our step-by-step Curated Learning Paths or continue your studies with these related courses: