Theses and Dissertations (Islamic Studies)
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Item Challenges Encountered by New Muslim Reverts in Guyana(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Mohamed, Bibi Rehana; Sahib, AnwarThis study investigates individuals who have recently adopted Islam in Guyana. It aims to establish the struggles they encounter in the initial stage of their journey. The research categorizes the challenges into four categories: psychological, social, cultural, and religious. Highlighting the hurdles that prevent new Muslims from obtaining a seamless transition from one lifestyle to another would assist fellow Muslims, leaders of masjids, and Islamic organizations to understand the challenges from reverts’ perspectives. Consequently, the tension and stress that new reverts experience after embracing Islam could be alleviated by helping to supply sufficient support systems for their integration. The methodology used for gathering data utilized a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. The quantitative procedure involved surveys, which collected information from 77 participants across Guyana, while interviews were conducted with 11 reverts as part of the qualitative process. This hybrid approach facilitated the analysis of measurable data and personal narratives, which highlighted individual and collective challenges. The findings revealed that while spiritual conviction among reverts remained strong, several reverts experienced physical and psychological difficulties caused by strained family relationships and cultural dissimilarity. Additionally, they encountered hurdles in learning Arabic and adhering to Islamic practices due to a lack of sufficient mentorship and communal support. Other challenging issues were identified as social marginalization, especially from non-Muslim relatives and acquaintances, along with the perception of being scrutinized for identifying as a Muslim. The significance of this study lies in its contribution to an under-researched demographic within the Caribbean context. By presenting the voices and concerns of new Muslims in Guyana, this research not only fills a critical gap in Islamic and sociocultural scholarship but also provides practical recommendations for developing inclusive and empathetic strategies to support reverts. The findings aim to encourage policymakers, religious institutions, and Muslim communities to be more responsive, understanding, and proactive in facilitating smoother transitions for new Muslims. DECLARATION I hereby declare that this research paper [Challenges Encountered by New Muslim Reverts in Guyana] comprises solely my original work and has been submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for a Master of Arts in the field of Islamic Studies at the International Open University. This paper has not been submitted previously for any academic or professional qualification. The work of others in this research is clearly acknowledged according to scholarly conventions. Signed: Bibi Rehana Mohamed Date: 1 July 2025Item Factors Behind the Success of ?al??udd?n Ayy?b? in Reconquering Jerusalem Compared to the Failure of the Contemporary Muslim World(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Bajwa, Moneeb Irshad; Tahhir, Ibrahim NuhuThis thesis investigates the remarkable success of ?al??udd?n Ayy?b? in liberating Jerusalem in 1187 CE, analyzing the spiritual, political, economic, military prowess, and technological foundations that enabled his victory. Drawing from both historical sources—such as The Rare and Excellent History of Saladin by Baha ad-Din Ibn Shadd?d—and contemporary scholarship, it explores the unique leadership model exemplified by ?al??udd?n and contrasts it with the current condition of the Muslim world. His unity-driven strategy, grounded in Islamic ethics and pragmatism, stands in sharp contrast to today’s political fragmentation, economic dependency, and declining spiritual focus across much of the Muslim ummah. ?al??udd?n’s governance model emphasized justice (‘adl), consultation (sh?r?), equitable taxation, anti-corruption reforms, and military efficiency—all underpinned by a revivalist Islamic ethos. His ability to forge alliances across sectarian divides, strategically defeat the Crusader states, and inspire enduring loyalty among Muslims and even respect from Christians serves as a model of ethical and effective leadership. The thesis shows how his victories were made possible not just by military might, but by deep moral conviction and religious unification. In contrast, the modern Muslim world struggles with disunity, authoritarian regimes, underinvestment in education and defense, and a waning commitment to Islamic principles. Using prophetic hadiths—particularly those warning of materialism, abandonment of jihad, and love for the world—as interpretive lenses, this study links past causes of decline (such as the Ottoman Empire's collapse) with current patterns. It contends that true revival will require a return to sincere religious practice, intellectual renewal, and collective strategic vision. Contemporary demographic trends offer new opportunities. Based on Pew Research Center projections, Muslims are set to become the second-largest religious group in both the United States and Europe, and could globally surpass Christianity by mid-century. This demographic growth, if paired with ideological clarity and political reform, has the potential to translate into lasting geopolitical influence. Finally, the thesis turns to the current situation in Palestine and Israel. The decline in Israeli unity, a shrinking population for the first time post-2023, growing international condemnation, and U.S. public disapproval—especially among younger generations—signal that the Zionist state may face increasing isolation. When viewed in the light of Islamic history and current trends, the thesis concludes with hope: that the Muslim world, like in ?al??udd?n’s time, may soon unite to liberate Masjid Al-Aqsa, end the occupation of Palestine, and restore justice.Item A critical analysis of Principilism through a Shari'ah-based medical ethics paradigm in a South African Context(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Salie, Yusha; Sahib, AnwarThis study addresses a gap in the literature on Islamic medical ethics in South Africa, where there is a significant Muslim minority population. While the classical framework of principlism (beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and autonomy) is widely used, the current approach to Islamic legal verdicts in South Africa is often reactive and lacks standardization. Using secondary data, this research critically analyzes the compatibility of principlism with Shari'ah-based medical ethics and evaluates whether the latter can serve as a viable alternative for Muslim healthcare professionals. The analysis reveals that although principlism and Shari'ah-based ethics share some concerns, they differ in their foundational sources and moral priorities. The study concludes that principlism is only partially compatible with Islamic ethics and requires contextual adaptation. It argues that a systematically articulated and institutionally supported Shari'ah-based ethical paradigm can be a coherent alternative for Muslim practitioners in South Africa. This approach would help them balance their professional commitments to secular bioethics with their need to maintain Islamic moral integrity, ultimately enriching ethical deliberation and fostering culturally and religiously competent care.Item Dynamics of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Between Reality and Prospects(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Tifloen, Imraan; Hussain, MujahidThe lofty aims and objectives embodied in the formation and charter of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was to safeguard and protect the Muslim Ummah, unite the Muslim world as a unified Ummah, to be the collective voice of the Muslim world and to promote international peace and harmony. Notwithstanding the successful achievements of the highly valued initiatives by the OIC and their member states in certain specific areas, supporting each other in their common interests and mutually beneficial interactions over the past 55 years, the key objectives of the attainment of stability in the Muslim world and the unification of the Ummah remains elusive. The analysis of the current trajectory the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is on vis-à -vis the reality of the state of things as they exist in the Muslim world opened several potential pathways to provide a solution for the unaccomplished initial objectives stated at the inauguration of the OIC. Moreover, the deliberations whether a redefined OIC with supranational powers and authority could raise the likelihood of an effective organization to safeguard and unite the Muslim Ummah presently and into the future gave rise to the abiding prospect of re-establishing the Caliphate in a more conceivable setting which already has 57 countries of which 48 are Muslim majority member countries in the intergovernmental organization of the OIC.Item Understanding and Addressing Racism Based Skin Color Among Muslims in the United States(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Eissa, Mohammed; Hussain, MujahidThis thesis presents an extensive examination of understanding and addressing Racism based on skin color among Muslims in the United States. The research employed Social Identity Theory as a theoretical framework to provide a detailed and nuanced comprehension of this matter. The key findings indicate that a significant majority of Muslims in the United States, 76%, acknowledge that Islam strictly forbids racism. This underscores the crucial role of such understanding in deterring any form of discriminatory conduct. Nevertheless, a notable 23% of participants hold the mistaken belief that Islam allows racism. Furthermore, 1% of participants expressed uncertainty about Islam's position on Racism among Muslims, highlighting the necessity for additional Islamic education and awareness among the Muslim community in the United States. The study additionally revealed that 47% of participants acknowledged the presence of racism among Muslim communities in the United States, 37% denied its existence among the Muslim communities, and 16% expressed uncertainty. The thesis highlights the psychological and emotional effects of racism, the influence of media portrayals in maintaining prejudices, and the significance of religious beliefs and personal strength as means of coping. This thesis also presents practical suggestions for advancing Islamic teachings among the Muslim communities in the United States.Item Determinants of Choice of Halal Food Among Indonesian Muslims in Hong Kong(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Dariasari, Ikda; Oyedapo, RaufuIndonesian helpers constitute a significant proportion of Hong Kong’s domestic workforce, with a predominantly Muslim background. This study investigates the socio-cultural and economic experiences of Indonesian Domestic helpers in Hong Kong, focusing on their halal dietary practices and the challenges they face in maintaining religious and cultural identity within a predominantly non-Muslim environment. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to examine factors influencing halal food purchasing behavior among Indonesian domestic helpers. Independent variables explored included alternative income sources, age, education, the ability to cook for themselves, family support, monthly salary, employer awareness, influence of friends, perception of the importance of halal consumption, and exposure to Islamic lectures. The results obtained from logistic regression analysis reveal that only three variables significantly affect the halal food purchasing intentions: age and the influence of friends have a negative impact, while salary exerts a positive effect. Domestic helpers face significant challenges in fulfilling their halal dietary requirements due to Hong Kong‘s live-in rule, which restricts helpers' autonomy in food shopping, making them dependent on the employer’s decisions regarding meal provision and grocery purchases. Findings also illustrate that when halal-certified food is unavailable or unaffordable, domestic helpers tend to choose to eat any food without halal certification as long as it does not contain pork and alcohol. This study underscores the centrality of food in sustaining cultural identity and religious faith among migrant workers navigating complex socio-economic and cultural landscapes.Item The Rhetorical Function of Iltifāt in the Qur'ān(International Open University (IOU), 2026) Afzal, Farrah Noreen; Salama, MuhammadThe Qur'ān is divine speech, at the pinnacle of eloquence and a true linguistic miracle. Its structure differs from ordinary Arabic because it is not bound by basic grammatical patterns. People who fail to grasp its depth sometimes claim that there are grammatical mistakes in the Qur'ān. In fact, many rhetorical devices are deliberately used in it as part of its linguistic eloquence as evidence of its miraculous nature. One of them is the rhetorical function of iltifāt, which is a sudden grammatical shift in speech from one linguistic form to another. Iltifāt has various types and is used in the context appropriate to it, to enhance linguistic eloquence and add depth to the message. This is not just a grammatical shift but a semantic transition that demands deep understanding and awareness. Scholars have shown profound interest in the study of various Qur'ānic sciences throughout history. But iltifāt is one of the unique rhetorical functions that has not received due attention, but instead appears only in scattered discussions across scholarly works. This study aims to fill this gap and to clarify how this rhetorical function is used in the Qur'ānic text and to reveal hidden secrets of this stylistic shift. This study focuses on the interpretation of selected instances of various types of iltifāt in the Qur'ān to highlight the intentional use of this rhetorical device and to explain its rhetorical purposes. After the introduction, literature review, and discussion of historical development, the next three chapters are devoted to a detailed analysis of the various types of iltifāt with the aim of revealing some of the wisdom and secrets behind its use. The findings of the study indicate that the rhetorical function of iltifāt has several layers and produce multiple effects after catching the audience’s attention. One should therefore understand its various aspects to fully grasp and appreciate this stylistic shift in the Qur'ānic verses.Item The impact of Islamophobia on Muslims in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T).(International Open University (IOU), 2026) Mohammed, Shaffick; Oyedapo, RaufuThis report examined Islamophobia in Trinidad and Tobago, focusing on its manifestations across political, economic, socio-cultural, legal, and religious contexts. The findings showed that Islamophobia was generally subtle and structural rather than overt, with Muslims experiencing underrepresentation in politics, workplace bias, and occasional social and media stereotyping. While legal and religious frameworks provided formal protection and access, gaps in enforcement and persistent biases were noted. The study highlighted the need for measures to promote political inclusion, economic equity, socio-cultural awareness, legal enforcement, and religious sensitivity to address systemic discrimination and foster social cohesion.Item Integrating the Three Qur’anic stages of Nafs into Islamic Integrated Cognitive Behavior Therapy (IICBT)(International Open University (IOU), 2026) J, Rina Fathima; Oyedapo, RaufuThis thesis examines the theoretical, empirical, and clinical integration of the Qur’anic concept of Nafs (self or soul) into Islamic Integrated Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (IICBT) as a holistic therapeutic model for Muslim mental health care. Drawing upon classical Islamic scholarship and contemporary psychological research, the study explores how the three Qur’anic stages of Nafs, Nafs al-Ammārah, Nafs al-Lawwāmah, and Nafs al-Muṭmaʾinnah can be systematically aligned with cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and spiritual interventions within IICBT. Using a qualitative-quantitative approach, the research synthesizes classical sources such as Imam al-Ghazali and Abu Zayd al-Balkhi alongside contemporary studies published between 2020 and 2025, including works by Ainina, Zuraida Ahmad Sabki, Kamarul Bahri, Haruna, Rizal, Zulkipli, Faheem Uddin and others. In addition, an original survey was conducted to assess awareness of nafs, attitudes toward faith-based therapy, and acceptance of IICBT among Muslim respondents. Findings indicate strong conceptual compatibility between the stage-based nafs framework and CBT mechanisms such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, emotional regulation, and self-monitoring. Empirical data further demonstrate high acceptance of spiritually integrated therapy, recognition of the link between spiritual well-being and mental health, and preference for culturally congruent therapeutic models. The study also identifies that integrating tazkiyat al-nafs within CBT enhances self-awareness, moral accountability, emotional resilience, and long-term psychological stability. The thesis concludes that IICBT provides a viable, ethical, and culturally responsive model of psychotherapy that bridges Islamic spirituality and modern psychological science. By operationalizing the stages of nafs within structured therapeutic practice, this research contributes to the advancement of Islamic psychology and offers practical implications for clinicians, educators, and policymakers in Muslim mental health contexts. This study concludes that integrating Islamic psychology into therapeutic practice bridges the gap between faith and science, by conceptualizing therapeutic change as progression across the Qur’anic stages of the nafs, from al-ammarah to al-mutma’inna.Item Resilience Through Revelation: The Qur'anic Model of Emotional Healing in Surah Yunus(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Kashif, Ayesha; Olanrewaju, MurainaIn an era where anxiety (khawf) and depression (hazan) are leading causes of global disability, secular psychological models often focus on symptom management while neglecting the existential dimensions of suffering. This study addresses this gap by investigating an indigenous Islamic framework for emotional resilience, termed "Resilience Through Revelation", grounded in Surah Yunus (10:62-63). The research posits that the Quranic state of Wilāyah (Divine Friendship), characterized by the negation of Fear and grief, is an attainable psychological reality for the believer. Employing a qualitative phenomenological design, the study integrates an exegetical analysis of classical Tafsir with semi-structured interviews of 10 Islamic Scholars and Academics specializing in Tafsir, Islamic Psychology, and Spiritual Counseling from the Punjab and Islamabad regions. The research explores how the core attributes of Īmān (Faith) and Taqwā (God-consciousness) function as protective factors against psychological distress, facilitating the soul’s evolution toward An-Nafs al-Muṭma’innah (the Contented Self). The findings reveal that the "No Fear, No Grief" promise in Surah Yunus is operationalized through cognitive-spiritual mechanisms, primarily Dhikr (Remembrance) and Fikr (Reflection). While identifying a conceptual convergence with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the results highlight the distinct advantage of the Islamic model in providing a transcendental "Secure Base." The study concludes that attaining Wilāyah fosters the development of the Contented Self, offering a faith-based solution to emotional instability. This research contributes to Islamic Psychology by translating theological concepts into practical therapeutic insights for counselors and educators. It is recommended that clinical pastoral education programs integrate these Quranic definitions of resilience to better serve Muslim populations.Item An Assessment of the Practical Application of Islamic Inheritance Laws in Pakistan(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Saeed, Fatimah; Petersen, Muhammad AshrafThis research investigates the practical application of Islamic inheritance laws (Faraid) in Pakistan and examines the discrepancy between divinely revealed injunctions and real-life practice. Although the Qur’an has precisely defined the shares of heirs in Surah al-Nisa (4:11–14) in many Muslim societies including Pakistan, these principles are only partially observed. The study argues that sociocultural traditions, patriarchal attitudes and administrative weaknesses hinder the implementation of inheritance justice envisaged by Shariah. By focusing on the lived experiences of heirs and the observations of legal practitioners, this thesis seeks to identify the specific points at which the divine mandate of Faraid is compromised by customary norms. Adopting a mixed-methods design the research combines qualitative analysis of case studies and expert perspectives with quantitative surveys among ordinary/general Muslim citizens. The final research sample consists of 21 lawyers and 179 general respondents providing a robust dataset of balanced expert and lay perspectives. The methodology involved the administration of structured questionnaires designed to measure levels of legal literacy, the prevalence of customary overrides and the effectiveness of existing statutory safeguards. Furthermore nine distinct case studies from various regions of Pakistan were analyzed to identify recurring judicial patterns and procedural bottlenecks in the inheritance mutation process. A unique qualitative dimension of the data collection involved approaching religious scholars and educators; notably the study encountered a significant trend where several religious authorities declined to comment on implementation, categorizing the practical enforcement of inheritance as a purely administrative or judicial matter rather than a theological one. The findings of this study reveal that while most participants acknowledge the Qur’anic obligation of inheritance as a divine decree (faridah), cultural norms, family pressure and legal complications often delay or deny women’s rightful shares. Empirical data indicates that over 50% of respondents identify family pressure to sign waivers (haq-bakhshwana) and the fear of social stigma as primary reasons why women do not receive their Sharia shares. Additionally the research highlights that administrative hurdles in the revenue department and the slow pace of court proceedings act as significant deterrents for rightful claimants. Lawyers surveyed consistently pointed toward the manipulation of lifetime gifts (hiba) and the lack of official documentation as major sources of inheritance disputes. By situating these observations within Islamic jurisprudence and Pakistan’s statutory framework, the study aims to recommend practical measures to close the gap between belief and practice. The research concludes that the perceived separation between religious theory and legal enforcement even among some religious scholars contributes to the persistence of inheritance deprivation. The implications of this work suggest that religious education must be paired with procedural reforms such as the mandatory verification of free consent in inheritance waivers and the digitization of land records to ensure that the justice and equity intended by the Qur’anic framework are realized in contemporary Pakistani society.Item The Role of Religion in Attaining Self-Purification and Self-control; A Comparative Study between Islam and Buddhism(International Open University (IOU), 2026) Sohaib, Hira; Hilal, HudaThis thesis undertakes a comparative study of Buddhist and Islamic approaches to self-purification, examining how each tradition conceptualizes purification, structures its practices, and promotes self-control and discipline. The study was conducted in response to a notable gap in comparative religious scholarship: while Buddhism and Islām are each extensively studied in isolation, direct and sustained comparisons between their respective purification frameworks remain limited, particularly with regard to their practical effectiveness in everyday human life. The central question guiding this research is whether one of these traditions offers a more effective, universal, and sustainable framework for self-purification and self-restraint. Methodologically, the thesis employs qualitative textual analysis of primary Buddhist and Islamic sources, including scriptural texts and classical commentaries, alongside interdisciplinary scholarship in religious studies, ethics, and psychology. The study is structured across three chapters: an examination of the doctrinal foundations of Buddhism and Islām, an analysis of their respective purification methodologies such as meditation, tazkiyat an-nafs, ethical discipline, cognitive vigilance, ritual acts, and moral accountability, and a comparative evaluation using four shared criteria: structure, practicality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness. The analysis reveals that Buddhism offers a highly refined and psychologically precise system of self-purification, centred on direct cognitive insight, disciplined mental training, and liberation from suffering through the deconstruction of self-identification. Islām, by contrast, situates purification within a theistic framework that emphasizes moral responsibility, divine accountability, and the integration of ethical refinement into social, legal, and communal life. While Buddhist methods excel in clarity and internal coherence, the Islamic framework demonstrates greater adaptability, inclusivity, and sustainability across diverse social contexts, suggesting a broader practical effectiveness for long-term self-purification and self-control. These findings matter because they challenge the assumption that highly individualized or ascetic models of purification are inherently more effective than socially embedded religious frameworks. By placing two rarely juxtaposed traditions into sustained dialogue, this thesis contributes to comparative religion and religious ethics, offering new insights into how moral discipline, psychological well-being, and spiritual growth are cultivated across differing conceptions of the self, society, and ultimate purpose.Item Exploring Emotional Resilience and Coping Mechanisms in the Quran: A Tafsir-Based Psychological Study(International Open University (IOU), 2026) Y, Tasneem M; Salama, MuhammadEmotional resilience and coping are essential topics in modern discourse on mental well-being and human adaptation to adversity. Although psychological literature provides valuable frameworks for comprehending resilience, such approaches frequently prioritize human cognition and emotional regulation, thereby neglecting moral, spiritual, and theological aspects. The Qur’an, within the Islamic faith, offers a profound and intricate exploration of human emotional experience, especially through its accounts of prophets and exemplary figures. Despite this, systematic academic analysis of emotional resilience and coping mechanisms grounded explicitly in Qur’anic narrative and classical tafsir remains limited. This thesis analyzes emotional resilience and coping strategies as presented in specific Qur’anic narratives, utilizing a tafsir-first epistemological framework supported by disciplined comparative analysis with psychological literature. Focusing on the narratives of Prophet Yusuf (AS), Prophet Ayyub (AS), Maryam (AS), Prophet Musa (AS), and Prophet Yunus (AS), the study explores how diverse forms of emotional adversity such as prolonged injustice, chronic suffering, acute fear, leadership difficulty, and emotional breakdown are portrayed and ethically navigated within the Qur’an. This study uses qualitative narrative analysis based on traditional tafsir to illustrate that the Qur'an does not portray emotional conflict as contrary to faith or moral integrity. Emotional resilience is a process rooted in ethical and theological principles, defined by moral restraint, relational trust in God, contextual responsiveness, and a willingness for restoration. Coping mechanisms in this perspective are seen not as mere strategies for emotional regulation, but as ethically driven responses influenced by accountability, humility, and faith in divine wisdom. Building on these findings, the thesis develops a Qur’anic Model of Emotional Resilience, which articulates key components of resilience derived exclusively from Qur’anic narrative rather than imposed through external theoretical frameworks. The research enhances Islamic studies by providing a systematic, narrative-driven exploration of emotional resilience rooted in tafsir, and contributes to interdisciplinary scholarship by illustrating a methodologically sound conversation between Islamic theology and psychology. The research confirms the Qur’an as a significant moral and emotional text that provides lasting insights on human resilience, vulnerability, and spiritual well-being.Item The Impact of Feminism on the Well-being of Muslim Women in the United States: A Comprehensive Study(International Open University (IOU), 2024) Tahsin, Rafia; Hussain, MujahidThe question of women’s roles has become one of the defining social issues of the modern era, with Muslim women frequently occupying a central position in global discussions due to their distinct religious commitments and limited visibility in certain public spheres. In Western societies, feminism has emerged as a dominant ideological framework, often functioning as a substitute for religion in shaping women’s identities, rights, and aspirations. As a result of Western cultural influence and historical colonial impacts, feminist frameworks have gradually been adopted by Muslim women across the world, including in the United States, where greater workforce involvement and career growth are increasingly supported. While contemporary feminist discourse often equates empowerment with public presence and professional success, Islamic teachings offer an alternative model grounded in spiritual purpose, moral balance, and holistic well-being. This study examines how feminist ideology affects the lives, identities, and well-being of Muslim women in America by analyzing interviews, survey data, and theoretical perspectives from Islamic ethics, feminist theory, cultural identity, and happiness studies. The findings suggest that adherence to Qur’anic and Prophetic teachings, grounded in the understanding of the early generations of Muslims, may provide a more stable foundation for well-being and identity preservation than reliance on external ideological frameworks.Item Displaced Commercial Risk in Islamic Banks Before and During Covid-19 Pandemic(International Open University (IOU), 2026) Ferianto, Ari; Yatoo, Nissar AhmadIslamic banks are exposed to several specific risks, including Displaced Commercial Risk (DCR). DCR typically occurs in a dual banking system or competitive environment within the banking industry, forcing Islamic banks to distribute a portion of profits to Investment Account Holders (IAHs) who deposit their funds in Islamic banks under profit & loss sharing (PLS) contracts. The purpose of this study is to identify the determinants of DCR in Islamic banks and to calculate and measure the influence of these determinants before and during the COVID-19 pandemic period. This study observed nine Islamic banks in three countries with dual banking systems: Indonesia, Malaysia, and Turkiye, from 2016Q1 to 2023Q2. The results indicate that DCR occurred in the Islamic banks observed during the study period. This study found that DCR was significantly influenced by the size of third-party funds from investors who deposited their funds in Islamic banks under PLS-based contracts (UPSIA) and the Rate of Return on Assets (RA). This study also found that several factors often suspected of significantly influencing DCR, namely the benchmark market interest rate and the size of third-party funds from customers with non-PLS-based contracts, did not significantly affect DCR. This study concludes that the Covid-19 pandemic did not have a significant impact on changes in DCR in Islamic banks, so that the DCR before and during the pandemic was relatively at the same level. This study recommends the importance of transparency regarding the profit and loss sharing calculation mechanism for Islamic bank depositors to maintain trust and fairness for Islamic bank stakeholders.Item The Relationship between Physical Education (PE) and Emotional Health and Well-Being (EHWB) from an Islamic perspective: A case study of Muslim Primary School (MPS), London.(International Open University (IOU), 2026) Abdulrahman, Fathia; Olanrewaju, MurainaThe research was titled the relationship between Physical Education (PE) and Emotional Health and Well-Being (EHWB) from an Islamic perspective: A case study of Muslim Primary School (MPS) in London, United Kingdom. The study explores the role of Islamic teachings in promoting physical health and well-being among Muslim school-aged children, an area that is understudied and often overlooked in contemporary education systems, particularly in the west. PE has been the topic of discussion for many years, but more significantly in the past 5 years since the pandemic, which research shows is due to the positive emotional development outcomes. The aims of this study are twofold. Firstly, to examine the relationship between PE and Emotional Health. Secondly, to examine the relationship between PE and Emotional well-being. The objectives of the study are three. They were; 1. To assess Muslim Primary School policy on PE and EHWB. 2. To investigate the impact of MPS’s PE curriculum overview. This will also involve looking at the PE scheme the school uses. 3. To make recommendations to improve the overall effectiveness of the policies in order to maximise opportunities for Muslim children, and their uptake of PE and Sports. The research explores a mixed-method, interpretivist approach combined with questionnaires, survey and group discussion to assess children’s understanding and experiences, and teachers understanding and experiences, of PE in Muslim Primary School in London. The findings suggest that the Islamic ethos and values of the school have positive influence on children’s outcomes particularly in terms of emotional health and emotional well-being. The study demonstrates that an Islamic environment, coupled by the integration of Islamic teachings on health and emotional development can enhance children’s participation and foster strong engagement which impacts on their EHWB. The findings also offer value insights for educational policy and practice with a strong recommendation for future studies on Muslim children in London.Item Challanges Faced by Newly Reverted Muslim Women in Seeking Marriage(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Qureshi, Sahar; Oyedapo, RaufuThis study focuses on the challenges faced by newly reverted Muslim women when seeking marriage within Muslim communities. Islam encourages marriage as a means of protection, companionship, and stability, yet many reverted women struggle to access this institution due to the absence of Muslim family support, limited community connections, and lack of guidance. Unlike women born into Muslim families, reverted women often do not have elders, relatives, or trusted intermediaries to assist with spouse selection, verification, and compatibility assessment. This research uses a mixed-methods approach, including survey responses and interviews with reverted Muslim women and members of the Muslim community, to understand these experiences in depth. The findings highlight issues such as social isolation, vulnerability to unsuitable proposals, emotional stress, and the limited role of mosques in providing structured marriage-related support. By examining these challenges through Islamic teachings on marriage, guardianship, and community responsibility, the study identifies a gap between Islamic principles and current community practices. The research proposes practical and faith-based solutions, including stronger mosque involvement, premarital counselling, and community-based support systems, with the aim of creating a safer, more supportive marriage process for reverted Muslim women.Item Broken Homes: Causes and Effects on Muslim Families in Ibadan South West Nigeria(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Shodolamu, Ibrahim Babatunde; Ikram, SobiaThis research investigates the factors leading to broken homes and their consequences for Muslim families in Ibadan, Nigeria, with particular attention to the socio-economic, psychological, and educational effects on those affected, especially children. Despite the strong emphasis Islam places on family cohesion, rising levels of divorce, separation, and abandonment continue to weaken the traditional family system in many Muslim communities. The study adopts a mixed-methods design, integrating quantitative questionnaire data with qualitative interviews involving Muslim parents, adolescents, religious leaders, and social workers from selected Local Government Areas within Ibadan. Findings reveal that the primary causes of broken homes includes financial hardship, infidelity, domestic violence, inadequate communication, and misinterpretation of religious roles within marriage. The impacts on children are pronounced, ranging from poor academic performance, low self-esteem, deviant behaviour, to emotional and psychological trauma. Additionally, the studies identify a lack of organized community support systems and counseling services, which further aggravate the problems. The research reveals the urgent need for culturally and religiously tailored interventions, including premarital counseling, marital education, and community-based support initiatives grounded in Islamic values. The study adds to the growing body of literature on family instability in Nigeria and offer recommendations for stakeholders to promote family resilience and youth well-being in Muslim communities.Item Cultural Influence on the Interpretation of Islam in Afghanistan(International Open University (IOU), 2026) Barra, Habib ur Rehman; Hussain, MujahidAll the praise and thanks be to the most merciful, the Lord of the worlds, who rewards the righteous and illuminates the path of good. Peace and blessings be upon the great Prophet of Islam, his pure family, and his faithful companions who, through faith and effort, spread the message of Islam and forged a bright path for all nations. Furthermore, the culture of Afghanistan took on a special hue through its conquests and teachings, and continued with the Sharia laws in a moral and educational framework. May the peace and mercy of Allah be upon all the followers of this luminous path until the Day of Resurrection. This research examines the role of Afghanistan's ancient and current culture and traditions in shaping and interpreting Islamic teachings. The importance of this topic lies in the fact that Islam, as the primary belief of the majority of Afghanistan's people, has always been understood alongside local cultures and has never been separate from this land's historical and social background. Afghanistan, with its thousands-year-old civilization, has preserved a set of customs, beliefs, and values that, over time, have become intertwined with Islam. The fundamental question of this research is how these ancient traditions and customs have influenced the understanding and practice of Islamic rulings, and which aspects of these influences are constructive and which require review and reform. The research method is primarily historical-analytical, and the second part presents direct views from scholars and the public on the topic. In the first step, Afghanistan's cultural background is examined from the pre-Islamic era through the early centuries of the Hijra to clarify the artistic structures of Afghan society before the adoption of Islam. Then, the interaction between social traditions and Islamic teachings necessitates assessing whether cultural aspects have been integrated into Islam, including its customs. This research examines historical and contemporary examples, including positive customs that were consistent with Islamic principles and strengthened society. It also points to misguided traditions such as forced and unlawful marriages, the deprivation of women's fundamental rights, and unsavory customs that have been practiced throughout history in the name of religion, despite having no religious basis. Another part of the research examines modern examples, such as the Taliban's policies on restricting girls' education and women's work. This study shows that such measures are not only incompatible with Islamic principles but also contradict the true history of Islam, as from its inception, Islam has considered learning, justice, and human dignity essential for all members of society. The research findings show that Afghan culture has always played two crucial roles: on one hand, positive cultural values have strengthened society, brought people closer together, and fostered a better understanding of religious teachings; and on the other hand, some incorrect traditions and misconceptions have presented an unrealistic image of the religion and have even caused intellectual and social stagnation. The significance of this research lies in its clarification that indigenous culture can both serve as a foundation for religious growth and pose an obstacle to the realization of authentic Islamic concepts. Therefore, for a better future for Afghan society, a critical re-reading of culture and its connection to religion is essential and unavoidable.Item Parenting Challenges for Muslims in Canada.(International Open University (IOU), 2025) Hussain, Uzma Nasir; Ikram, SobiaCanada is among those countries where immigrants’ population is growing at a rapid speed and its Muslim population are expected to reach 2.7 million in 2030. A large number of Muslim populations comprises youth, and it is imperative to study and analyse the unique challenges that the parents of these young children are facing, and to find possible solutions to them. The qualitative research method was adopted to collect data through semi-structured interviews with ten mothers of adolescent children. The research findings revealed that the primary challenge these mothers face is the incongruence between Canadian values and Islamic values. Most of these parents migrated to Canada to improve the quality of their lives that resulted in eight out of ten mothers working to meet their family’s financial needs, maintaining a healthy work-life balance was another issue as they could not spend quality time with their children. Additionally, Muslim mothers expressed their deep concerns for their future generation, as they struggle with identity crises, peer pressure, and spiritual disconnect. The research concluded that a better understanding of Islamic values and Canadian values could eliminate the misconceptions and foster better relationships between them. The Islamic education of the youth by adhering to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah is the key to success through good mentorship.