What is the ruling on teaching history in a foreign language at an Arab university?
There is no objection to teaching history or other subjects in a language other than Arabic if there is a valid purpose; otherwise, it should not be done. The Arabic language is a symbol of Islam, and languages are among the greatest symbols of nations. Many jurists disliked supplicating in a language other than Arabic during prayer and remembrance. Imam Ahmad also disliked addressing others in a language other than Arabic without need. The imams based their reasoning on Umar’s prohibition of "rattling the words of the non-Arabs" (speaking non-Arabic languages). Imam Shafi'i disliked for one who knows Arabic to speak in another language or to mix it with non-Arabic, because Allah chose Arabic as the language for His Book and His Prophet. Learning Arabic is incumbent upon those who are able to do so.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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