Characteristics of Traditional Arabic Grammar Texts in the Curriculum of Pallidars Education in Malabar

Abstract

Investigating the regional peculiarities in the curriculum of traditional Islamic education fulfils the preservation of the rich heritage of traditional Muslim communities and facilitation of the exchange of knowledge among them in contemporary contexts. This study “How does the Pallidars curriculum for the Arabic grammar education in Malabar integrate traditional Islamic texts with local adaptations to effectively teach Arabic grammar and linguistic structures?”, with three objectives, identifying the peculiarities of the textbooks by analyzing their content and methodology, evaluating the effectiveness of these textbooks in facilitating Arabic grammar learning and exploring concise biographies of the textbook authors. The research methodology involved a comprehensive analysis of textbooks, including their structure, content, and pedagogical approaches. Interviews with teachers and students who have used these textbooks conducted to gather insights on their effectiveness and practical application. Key findings highlights that the curriculum demonstrates a systematic progression from basic verb conjugation to complex linguistic structures, using key texts at different levels. The curriculum incorporates a strong focus on memorization, especially at advanced levels, to internalize grammatical rules. It integrates commentaries and works by local scholars alongside classical Arabic texts. The study provides valuable insights for educators, students, and researchers in traditional religious education of Pallidars.