German-funded Islamic studies contested by some Muslim groups | Germany

The usual debate between the fundamentalists, who want literal interpretations, and theological teaching more in line with the Western tradition of inquiry (Center for Islamic Studies in Münster).

After all, we don’t need another fundamentalist centre; we need centres that have a more open perspective, not just a mechanical what “is allowed and forbidden in Islam”. And that is critical to allowing participation in various consultative fora and play an active role:

The curriculum is only just being developed, but the attitude in which Islam will be taught is already visible when talking with the professors at the Center for Islamic Theology. Above all else, Mouhanad Khorchide says one must use intellect to understand religion. “The task of theology is to justify religion rationally and to take responsibility,” he said, adding that it’s not about an unquestioning acceptance along the lines of, “I live my religion because it’s there.” And with that statement, he also gives his critics a very clear answer.

German-funded Islamic studies contested by some Muslim groups | Germany | DW.DE | 02.12.2013.