A long-standing tradition of the hawzah, mubahatha (literally meaning “discussion”) is a technique developed to encourage students to review and reflect on the material they have learnt in the classroom. Commonly conducted daily between 2-3 students, one of the students will typically take the role of a teacher and explain the lesson to the other students. This is followed by a group discussion to resolve any questions or lack of understanding. To fully benefit from the mubahatha, one is required to prepare in advance and refer to sources other than those presented in class so that it is not a mere repetition of the teacher’s lesson.
Mubahatha is considered among many scholars to be essential to a student’s progression in higher hawzah studies, and those who take part in it regularly show a better understanding of the lesson and greater retention of the material covered.
Depending on the program, one may find it difficult to conduct mubahatha for every subject. In this case, priority should be given to core subjects and/or topics of greater relevance. Guidance will be provided by the hawzah but one should also consult teachers and senior students for their advice.
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