Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali, the 'Reviver' of the fifth Muslim century, is considered the most influential thinker of medieval Islam. This course delves into his timeless teachings on the struggle against gluttony and lust — two desires that, if left unchecked, will distance a believer from Allah Most High. Through the wisdom of his seminal work Ihya Ulum al-Din, we explore how overindulgence weakens the soul, while moderation leads to purification, clarity, and nearness to the Divine.


Beyond self-restraint, this course highlights Ghazali’s framework for refining character and achieving inner balance. True transformation requires more than outward acts of worship — it demands an internal struggle (riyadat al-nafs) to discipline the ego. Students will learn how to identify their weaknesses and implement practical steps to break free from the grip of worldly temptations. 

At its core, this course presents a holistic approach to living a life rooted in Islamic ethics. By balancing external actions with internal purification, every believer can cultivate a heart that is free from excess and devoted to Allah Most High. 


Course Curriculum

    1. Imam Ghazali: Life, Works & Influence on Islamic Spirituality

    2. Lesson 1 Quiz

    1. Beyond Rituals: Unlocking the Heart of Islam Through Character & Purification

    2. Lesson 2 Quiz

    1. Taming Desires: Gluttony & Lust

    2. Lesson 3 Quiz

    1. SPY244 Quiz

    2. Feedback Form

About this course

  • 3 hours of video content
  • Elective Course
  • Rayyan Courses' Subscription

What will you learn in this course?

This course aims to provide the student with the following outcomes:

  • Explore the life, works, and impact of Imam Ghazali on Islamic thought, particularly his contributions to making Sufism more accessible and mainstream.

  • Understand Ghazali's teachings on gluttony and lust, examining how these desires affect one’s relationship with Allah and overall spiritual well-being.

  • Learn practical methods for controlling desires, including fasting, mindful eating, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle that aligns with Islamic principles.

  • Gain insights into refining character by addressing internal states that drive actions, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and personal growth.

  • Cultivate the ability to balance worldly pleasures with spiritual pursuits, leading to a more fulfilling life

  • Acquire tools and knowledge that can be applied beyond the course, promoting ongoing personal development and resilience against temptations

Instructor

Dr. Mufti Abdur-Rahman Mangera

Dean, Course Instructor

Dr. Mufti Abdur-Rahman ibn Yusuf Mangera is a British Muslim scholar educated in both the Islamic and Western traditions. He memorised the Qur’an by heart and graduated from the Darul Uloom seminary Bury, UK, and later earned a specialised licence to issue fatwa (legal responses) at Mazahir ‘Ulum Saharanpur, India. He earned his BA from the University of Johannesburg and completed his MA and PhD in Islamic Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. He holds an honorary fellowship at The Royal Aal al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought, Amman, Jordan. Shaykh Abdur-Rahman has the unique experience of serving as an imam in Muslim communities on both sides of the Atlantic, eight years in Southern California and over five in the great city of London—and his continued work as an international speaker and lecturer enables him to address and offer pertinent advice on current challenges that face Muslims in the West. He is the founder of Whitethread Institute, a post-graduate insititute for Islamic scholars. He is an avid traveller and continues to teach hadith and work on scholarly publications through White Thread Press. Many of his lectures are available on Zamzam Academy and his courses through Rayyan Courses.

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