Journal of Islamic Thought and Civilization

Scientific Discourse amongst the Scholars of the Oxford Journal of Islamic Studies: Bibliometric Study, and Geopolitical Analysis and Insights

Syed Nazim Ali — 2025-04-25

This paper examines the state of scholarly communication within the field of Islamic Studies as reflected by the Oxford Journal of Islamic Studies (OJIS). The field of Islamic studies has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with a surge in publications covering a wide range of subfields. The paper highlights challenges in scholarly communication, particularly in introducing a peer-review culture and fostering voluntary peer-review in Islamic studies. The study also explores the impact of the emphasis on research and publications in universities in the Arab Gulf countries, potentially shifting the focus from teaching to research. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of OJIS publications, encompassing articles, books, and book reviews from 1990 to 2021. Through bibliometric analysis, it assesses the academic prominence of Islamic Studies, investigates publication patterns, scrutinizes book selection criteria, compares articles, books, and reviews, contextualizes publications within their geopolitical milieu, and offers recommendations for future research. The study reveals shifts in publication patterns influenced by global events, while also highlighting highly cited articles and influential authors. Furthermore, it provides insights into the thematic evolution of research trends, demonstrating the multi-disciplinarity of OJIS publications. The paper concludes with a geographical analysis, showcasing the countries with the most significant contributions to OJIS publications. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of Islamic Studies scholarship and its global impact.

Islamophobia and the Spoils of Violent Fatwas

Mourad Haji — 2025-04-25

The current research aimed to examine the key manifestations of violent fatwas, particularly those that incite bloodshed, within the context of Arab-Islamic culture. These fatwas are categorized into two types. The first type comprises institutional fatwas, issued by official religious institutions or individuals who represent states in their capacity as political leaders or as figures combining political and religious authority. These two types of fatwas take two directions: they target individuals abroad or at home, including their own countries and leaders, or foreign countries. The research highlighted how fatwas advocating bloodshed in both categories are often co-opted by those who fear Islam to fuel Islamophobia, portraying all Muslims as violent and terrorists without acknowledging that Muslims are not a monolithic group. Among Muslims are those who condemn such fatwas, as well as those who fall victim to them. The study demonstrated that these generalizations obscure the diversity within Islamic culture and serve as tools for anti-Muslim propaganda. Furthermore, the study aimed to establish that fatwas contributing to the stigmatization of Islam and Muslims as violent both serve as spoils and create a predicament. They provoke angry and accusatory reactions towards Muslims, causing their concerns to be consistently framed by rulings that diminish their significance. Fatwas sanctioning the taking of life are presented as evidence of hatred and violence, fuelling mobilization against these matters—even when they are merely issues.

Social Networks as a Tool for Islamic Preaching

Shamshadin Kerim — 2025-04-25

In Kazakhstan, social media platforms play a significant role in the dissemination of Islamic teachings. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore the utilization, integration, and significance of these social networks in helping advance the Islamic values within the context of Kazakhstan. The study sought to analyse the evolution and modernization of traditional religious messages, key development pathways, content characteristics, unique traits, presentation formats, and the engagement of prominent figures during the digital age. Preaching Islam through social media is rapidly growing, with evolving topics and shifting content, reflecting ongoing refinement of strategies. To broaden their reach and captivate audiences, preachers hone diverse techniques and increasingly incorporate psychological support, guidance, goal-setting, and motivational themes into their discussions. Social media platforms foster individual religious figures to enhance their visibility and expand their follower base, spurring competition and encouraging the rise of religious influencers. The online prominence of these preachers often serves charitable causes as well as commercial interests. The burgeoning role of social networks in promoting Islam in Kazakhstan is noteworthy. This is because it possesses significant potential to shape religious socialization and influence the development of Islamic beliefs and perspectives.

Measuring the Impact of Understanding Precaution and Trust (Tawakkul) in the Face of Natural Disasters on the Consciousness of Responsibility: The Case of Türkiye

Hüseyin Okur — 2025-04-25

This study aims to explore how the concepts of precaution, reliance on Allah (tawakkul), and a sense of responsibility, as understood in Islamic belief, are reflected in individuals’ lives when faced with natural disasters. The study, conducted using a scale with individuals from various regions of Türkiye who have experienced earthquakes, seeks to determine the impact of these concepts on their sense of responsibility. A quantitative method was used to assess how precaution and tawakkul influence the sense of responsibility during natural disasters. Data were collected from 405 participants using the Responsibility Sense and Behavior Scale, Disaster Preparedness Scale and Reliance on Allah (Tawakkul) Scale, which included 53 questions. Participants were also asked about their experiences with natural disasters to analyze their attitudes toward precaution, tawakkul, and responsibility. The results show that while individuals in Türkiye demonstrate high levels of tawakkul—entrusting outcomes to Allah after fulfilling their responsibilities—their disaster preparedness and precautionary measures remain low, regardless of personal experience with disasters. This study is one of the first to empirically examine the intersection of Islamic concepts and disaster preparedness. It contributes to the literature by evaluating whether reliance on Allah enhances or hinders disaster readiness. The findings highlight the need for educational initiatives that align religious teachings with risk mitigation strategies.

Rethinking ‘Interest’ in Islamic Finance: A Critique of the Method of Fatwâ MUI and Its Legitimacy in Indonesia

Jamal Abdul Aziz — 2025-04-25

This article explores the concept of 'interest' as a fundamental issue in Islamic financial practice in Indonesia, with a particular focus on the fatwa issued by the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) No. 1/2004, which formalized the prohibition of interest in Islamic financial institutions as harâm activity. The fatwa has sparked criticism and debate among academics and scholars questioning its legitimacy. Also, the method of deriving laws is weak and less affirmative in addressing the socio-economic conditions of the Indonesian people who are used to conventional banks and have not recently intersected with Islamic banks, through a qualitative-normative approach and the collection of primary data from various academic sources that discuss the fatwâ. It was found that the MUI fatwâ relied heavily on normative postulates and used qiyâs, an analogical reasoning method based on legal 'illat (adequate cause), as its primary ijtihâd approach. However, the MUI's methods overlook the socio-economic context. Critical political indications specific to Indonesia can inform a more comprehensive and contextually relevant basis for expressing interest as harâm in financial institutions. The recommendation in this study is the need to review and reassess the arguments underlying the fatwa to align it more closely with the reality of the profit-taking system in financial institutions that is common to the national and global community.

The Essence of the Concept of Wahdat Al-Wujud in Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi's Sufism: An Analysis Based on the “Risalat Al-Wujudiyya”

Bakhtiyor Mirzarakhimov — 2025-04-25

This article provides a scholarly analysis of the concept of Wahdat al-Wujud (Oneness of Existence) in the Sufi philosophy of Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi, focusing on its theological, metaphysical, and epistemological dimensions. The study aims to explore the essence of Divine Oneness (wahdaniyat), Singularity (fardaniyat), and Self-Subsistence of the Truth (Qayyumiyat al-Haq), as well as the process of spiritual annihilation (fana). Using a qualitative research methodology based on textual analysis, the article examines primary source such Risalat Al-Wujudiyya (Existential Message, رسالة الوجودية) alongside secondary academic interpretations. The research investigates Ibn Arabi’s ontological framework, particularly his distinction between existence (wujud) and non-existence (adam), emphasizing that all creation is a manifestation of Divine reality. It argues that in his teachings, self-awareness is central to understanding existence, as human consciousness serves as a mirror reflecting Divine presence. Furthermore, the study explores how Ibn Arabi’s concept of Haq (The Truth) oscillates between transcendence and immanence, sometimes described as entirely beyond creation and at other times manifesting through it. The findings highlight the paradoxical nature of Ibn Arabi’s metaphysics, where the perception of unity depends on an individual’s level of spiritual realization. The research contributes to the broader discourse on Islamic mysticism by clarifying the epistemological implications of Wahdat al-Wujud and its impact on Sufi thought.

Shiʿi Clerical Authority and Its Role in Iran's Political Landscape (1941–2024)

Kiki Mikail — 2025-04-25

This study explores the transformation of Shi’a clerical authority in Iran, examining how clerics have evolved from religious leaders to prominent political figures with enduring influence. By tracing the historical development of clerical authority from the occultation of the last Imam to the present, the research highlights the financial mechanisms that sustain the marjaʿ (leading cleric) in contrast to state-backed Sunni religious structures. Through qualitative analysis, such as historical context and case studies like the 2009 Iranian election and the Green Movement, the study reveals how clerics navigate political pressures, sometimes in tension with the regime. The findings indicate that while the Islamic Republic officially endorses clerical authority, the clerical elite—particularly in Qom—operates with considerable independence, bolstered by financial autonomy and skilled political communication. This research contributes to understanding the nuance between the Republic of Islam and the clerical establishment, suggesting that the economic and strategic positioning of Shi’a clerics ensures their lasting influence in Iranian religious and political spheres.

Eco-sufism in Ammatoa Community: Harmonizing Islamic Values and Local Traditions for Environmental Conservation in Kajang Bulukumba

Gustia Tahir — 2025-04-25

This study investigates the concept of eco-sufism, which combines Islamic Sufism with local wisdom in the Ammatoa community of Kajang-Bulukumba, Indonesia. It focuses on the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, as outlined in the teachings of Pasang ri Kajang. The study argues that Pasang ri Kajang’s life philosophy integrates ‘Sufi’ values from Islam, highlighting the significance of environmental conservation as an aspect of human worship and the responsibility to promote it. Utilizing a qualitative approach, data were gathered through multiple instruments: in-depth interviews, observations, and literature reviews. The findings reveal that eco-sufism plays a crucial role in the Ammatoa community, guiding them to preserve forests, land, and water, which are considered inseparable from their spiritual life. The Islamic Sufi principles in Pasang ri Kajang reinforce the belief that harming nature is a transgression against divine laws, motivating the community to protect the environment consistently. Despite the pressures of modernization, the Ammatoa community continues to uphold these traditional values, that align with Islamic Sufism. Academically, this research contributes significantly to environmental studies by incorporating local wisdom and religious principles, proposing an alternative model for sustainable environmental policies in Indonesia. The integration of Sufism and local traditions is expected to offer a comprehensive solution to the global environmental crisis.

Islamic Inheritance Rights for Women in Pakistan: Exploring Legal Safeguards and Social Challenges

Amina Nisar — 2025-04-25

Women's right to inheritance is often denied outright, despite the protective provisions enshrined in both Pakistan’s Constitution and Shari‘ah law across Punjab. This study examines Islamic inheritance rights for women within the framework of family law by exploring the legal and social barriers they face in Pakistan. It investigates the underlying reasons why women forgo their inheritance rights, as well as the challenges they encounter when attempting to assert them. The study also explores the available options for women and the obstacles that hinder them from exercising autonomy in pursuing these choices. A qualitative research approach was adopted, with data collected through in-depth interviews. Using purposive sampling, the study selected nineteen women, six men, and three legal experts from the Punjab province as participants. Thematic analysis was employed to interpret the data. Findings reveal that women face significant challenges in accessing their legal inheritance under Islamic Shari‘ah inheritance laws, primarily due to limited awareness of their rights, familial pressure, and cultural norms that discourage women from claiming their rightful share. This research reinforces existing literature on women’s Islamic inheritance rights and underscores the urgent need for policy interventions. It calls upon the Pakistani government to enhance the enforcement of inheritance laws and implement public awareness campaigns that empower women to claim their entitlements.

The Role of Religious Spirituality in the Social Development of Public Consciousness: An Approach to Interpersonal Relationships in Kazakhstan

Zharkynbek Abikenov — 2025-04-25

From the Islamic point of view, preserving spiritual integrity and moral values is crucial for the welfare of society, which makes the study of this degradation particularly urgent. This study looks at important reasons for the decline of Kazakh culture. It highlights the loss of moral values and cultural traditions, as well as the impact of outside social and technological forces. The research employs a mixed approach, including a structured online survey of 597 respondents from seven large cities in Kazakhstan. The data is analyzed using statistical and thematic methods to identify key themes of spiritual degradation, cultural identity, and the role of Islamic values. The results show that 47% of respondents link cultural degradation primarily with blurring moral and ethical norms, and 20% consider the loss of cultural traditions as the key factor. Other contributing factors include urbanization, economic inequality, technological influences, and dependent mentality. Traditional Islamic values are highlighted as potential guiding principles for combating these trends. The study finds that the spiritual decline in Kazakhstan is a complex issue that needs a wide range of solutions. These solutions should include Islamic principles, protection of culture, and efforts to reduce the economic differences that lead to moral issues. Effective state programs, combined with a cultural shift toward ethical responsibility, are needed to counter these trends and form a more spiritually and morally sound society.

Occidentalism: Between Concept and Application

Israa Bassim Mohammed Abbas — 2025-04-25

The current study is concerned with one of the most important matters that the Western world ought to examine scientifically and objectively. It is a counterpart to Orientalism in terms of importance. Its origins go back to the early Islamic eras, represented by the efforts of Muslim travelers and historians. The study adopts a historical, analytical, and descriptive approach which is based on a group of geographical and historical sources and references. It is believed that Occidentalism is an independent science that is concerned with studying the West objectively and is not merely a reaction to Orientalism. The confusion between Occidentalism and Westernization has led to a misunderstanding of this field, which requires correcting the terminology and re-distinguishing between the two concepts. The roots of Occidentalism go back to the early Islamic eras, and its motives are diverse. The study concludes that Occidentalism is a stand-alone science that deserves more careful studies to understand its origins, developments, and goals, away from confusion with Westernization. It also represents an effective means of confronting the Western distortion of Islamic culture and history, by studying it in an objective and precise scientific manner. The study recommends the need to strengthen academic studies on Occidentalism and open new horizons to explore its developments and effects on Islamic and global thought.

Role of Qawā’id Fiqhiyyah in Promoting Green Investment within Islamic Economics: Theoretical and Practical Frameworks

Ismail Jalili — 2025-04-25

The current study aimed to evaluate the contribution of Qawā’id Fiqhiyyah (Islamic Legal Maxims) in developing facts and theoretical arguments for green investment practices. The background of this study was based on the principles of Islamic economics that aim to balance economic activities and environment. Furthermore, the study attempted to enrich the conventional Islamic law and modern sustainable finance practices. The new developments in this area are analyzed using a systematic literature review of the existing green financing models in Islamic finance, their limitations, and prospects to apply Qawā’id Fiqhiyyah. A case assessment was also adopted where qualitative content analysis was employed to explore how Qawā’id Fiqhiyyah informs green investment in Islamic finance. Legal texts of Islam and modern literature were used to draw examples on concepts, such as Lā Ḍarar wa lā Ḍirār (no harm) and Maṣlaḥah (Public interest), where content was coded into variables, for instance harm reduction and sustainability. To operationalize these results, case studies of Islamic banks that have adopted environmentally friendly measures, such as the issuance of Green Sukuk Bonds, were discussed. Reviewing texts, literature, and case studies involves triangulation, which avoids bias, while thematic analysis identifies key principles that embed Islamic teachings in sustainable investment. The findings regarding Islamic finance explained above illustrate that these principles enhance the ethical basis of green investors and enable them to implement green investments practically. The data was also supported by examples of the implementation of these principles by Islamic financial institutions and their effective use in financing environmentally friendly investments.

Digital Anti-riba Campaign: Netnographic Study from Xbank Indonesia Digital Community

Azhar Alam — 2025-04-25

As technological advancements continue, the forms and practices of riba have evolved since the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), presenting new challenges for Muslims. The current study evaluated the effectiveness of digital anti-riba campaigns. Furthermore, it also assessed audience engagement with the content offered by the “xbank.Indonesia” digital community on Instagram. The study used netnographic methods and the data was collected from 128 Instagram posts over six months and filtered to 68 relevant posts. The analysis employed WordArt.com for word cloud visualization and Hypeauditor.com for engagement metrics, revealing an average of 4,265 likes and 217 comments per themed post. However, the engagement rate was relatively low at 0.66%, indicating limited interaction between xbank.Indonesia and its audience. The study highlighted the importance to leverage digital platforms in order to educate on Islamic financial principles, particularly to address issues, such as riba. Despite the campaign's success to raise awareness about riba and promote halal income sources, the low engagement rate suggests improvement. It is crucial to increase audience interaction and provide more easily understandable content. The current study contributed valuable insights into the role of digital communities to promote Islamic financial education through social media. By exploring the potential of social media to disseminate knowledge about riba and its implications, this study underscored the need for more interactive and engaging content strategies to maximize the impact of such campaigns. Overall, the findings offered practical recommendations to improve digital anti-riba campaigns and enhance their educational impact.

Islamic Historiography and Modernity: A Systematic Literature Review on the Evolution of Muslim Societies in the Postcolonial Era

Hussein Raja Al-Shuqairat — 2025-04-25

This study examines the evolution of Islamic historiography in response to modernity, analyzing the impact of colonial legacies, socio-political shifts, and epistemological debates. By systematically reviewing 33 peer-reviewed studies, this paper explores historiographical transformations that incorporate indigenous methodologies, decolonial paradigms, and interdisciplinary approaches. The findings emphasize how Islamic historiography engages with contemporary intellectual debates, particularly in the context of inter-imperiality, decolonial theory, and global historiographical discourse. Furthermore, this study highlights the interaction between Islamic historiography and historiographical traditions from other religious and postcolonial perspectives, offering comparative insights into its uniqueness and universality. This research also integrates modern historiographical theories, particularly Hayden White’s narrativism and Reinhart Koselleck’s concept of historical time, to provide a meta-historiographical perspective. Moreover, it underscores the need to expand the scope of Islamic historiography by incorporating quantitative statistical representations, such as frequency analysis of key themes and co-citation networks, thus bridging qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Addressing these dimensions contributes to the academic construction of Islamic historiography, offering practical implications for education, policy-making, and cultural discourse. Additionally, this study emphasizes the role of historiographical synthesis in understanding the evolution of Islamic thought, illustrating how methodological pluralism enhances the field’s analytical depth. By engaging with diverse historiographical frameworks, this systematic review highlights the necessity of integrating historical narratives with contemporary scholarly advancements, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the study of Islamic historiography in modern academia.

Harmony in Diversity: Exploring Religiosity Cohesion Among Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist Communities in North Lombok, Indonesia

Suparman Jayadi — 2025-04-25

This research explores social cohesion among Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu communities in Pemenang Timur Village in Lombok, East Indonesia. This village stands out because its people peacefully coexist in close proximity among three religious groups. This is in contrast to discrimination and violence that often occur in interfaith relations in other regions in Indonesia. This research employs a qualitative method with an ethnographic approach to analyze social practices and to reveal meaningful insights. It involves in-depth interviews with religious leaders (Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist), traditional leaders, Pemangku, and local community members. The findings show that social cohesion manifests in three forms: hereditary values characterized by blood relation through interfaith marriage, local wisdom in The Ngejot tradition held by sharing food during religious ceremonies, and religious cohesion represented by concepts such as Tasamuh concept in the Islam, Tri Hita Karana in Hinduism and the Vihara Brahma in Buddhism. Through these religious cohesion values, the social heritage and local traditions are preserved to maintain harmony between religious communities and foster mutual respect as part of civic culture, and to improve social solidarity between religious communities. They play a vital role in cultivating unity and integrity among different religions and ethnicities. The findings of this research emphasize the importance of social cohesion in building harmony between religious communities in other regions of Indonesia, contributing to more peaceful, and harmonious nations with respect for diverse religious beliefs, ethnicities, cultures, tribes, and languages.

From Outsider to Engagement: The Transformation of a Puritanical Islamic Organization through Government-Led Religious Moderation Initiatives

Beni Ahmad Saebani — 2025-04-25

This article explores the complex dynamics between state-led moderation efforts and the lived experiences of adherents of strict religious doctrines, examining opportunities for dialogue and potential challenges that arise in navigating this complex landscape. By focusing on the specific case of the Islamic organization of Persis (Persatuan Islam or Islamic Unity) in Indonesia, this research aims to explain the process of enhancing social cohesion, identity formation, and transformative change in responding to state policies. Through a combination of ethnographic observations, interviews with key stakeholders, and archival analysis, this article seeks to understand how the leaders of the organization maintained strict adherence to Islamic principles while engaging with diverse populations and addressing contemporary challenges. Questions about the intersection between religious practice and state policy, organizational resilience, and adaptive governance models guide this inquiry. Ultimately, this investigation contributes to a richer understanding of how Islamic organizations develop over time, balancing continuity with innovation in achieving their missions and, in the process, perhaps adopting state policies.

From Labour- to Human-Oriented Views: Shifting Paradigm of Unemployment in al-Muqaddimah by Ibn Khaldun (1332-1405 AD)

Ali Murtadho — 2025-04-25

The progressive view of Ibn Khaldun (1332-1405 AD) is manifested in his work al-Muqaddimah, which offers an alternative view of unemployment. This article redefines unemployment by referring to Ibn Khaldun's thoughts on economics, shifting from the current concepts offered by the modern economic systems. The main source of this study is Kitab al-Muqaddimah by Ibn Khaldun. The relevant themes emanating from the comprehensive ideas of Ibn Khaldun are analysed textually and contextually. The study shows that the starting point for evaluating unemployment lies in its definition. It is viewed as a loss of work motivation (entrepreneur-oriented) in various business fields. Meanwhile, Ibn Khaldun in al-Muqaddimah views unemployment as a problem of civilisation in a broader sense, not just a nominally qualifiable labour-oriented problem. This view is different from that of the modern economists asserting that unemployment is a forced choice (involuntary unemployment) due to job unavailability. This reconceptualisation enriches the Islamic economics literature, which is still limited regarding the concept of unemployment. For policymakers, this reconceptualisation can be considered for establishing effective and comprehensive strategies to overcome unemployment problems.

Insan Kamil in the Architecture of the Grand Mosque of Buton: The Symbolism of the Seven Grades of Existence and the Twenty Divine Attributes

Muhammad Zakaria Umar — 2025-04-25

Studying the symbols and meanings of The Grand Mosque of the Sultanate of Buton (TGMotSoB) may pave the way to explore other buildings in Indonesia that embody symbols and meanings related to local belief systems. It may also lay the foundation how spiritual and cultural values are translated into architectural forms. The current studyaimed to explore the symbols and meanings of TGMotSoB regarding the principles of Islamic Sufi teachings of the Seven Grades of Existence (Tsgoe) and the Twenty Divine Attributes (Ttda). The following methods were used: Husserl's transcendental phenomenological paradigm, an inductive approach, a single qualitative methodological choice, and Husserl's transcendental phenomenological method. Data was collected using in-depth interviews, self-reflection, direct observation, and document study. Data analysis techniques comprised grouping data, reducing data, eliminating data, giving themes to data, identifying data, constructing textural descriptions of research subjects, creating structural descriptions, synthesizing data, and answering problems. Data validation techniques were carried out by reflecting on meanings and rational analysis. The study concluded that the symbols and meanings of TGMotSoB represent the concept of the perfect human. The novelty of this research lies in the integration of local Sufi principles with architecture, the revelation of the concept of The Insan Kamil (the perfect human) in visual form, and the approach of using human body symbolism to understand mosque architecture as a spiritual medium.

Integrating Islam with Humanity and Indonesian Identity: Perspectives of Nurcholish Madjid and Ahmad Syafii Maarif

Zaprulkhan — 2025-04-25

Since the beginning of the third millennium, the phenomenon of Indonesian society's religious diversity has been emerged which is characterized by exclusive Islamism. A part of society wants to separate Islamic elements from Indonesian elements and between the virtues that exist in Islam and humanity. Whereas according to NurcholishMadjid and Ahmad Syafii Maarif, Islam is a religion that promotes mercy for all creatures (rahmatanlil 'alamin), and is universal for all mankind. Islam is an inseparable part of indonesianity and it also carries a universal mission of virtue for all mankind. The two mentioned Muslim scholars seek to integrate Islam, humanity and Indonesian identity in a harmonious way so that the virtues of Islam can be accessed in a global-international context as well as in a national-Indonesian context. Both figures have undertaken a comprehensive integration of Islam with humanity and indonesianity. Therefore, this article will explore the discourse on the integration of Islam with humanity and indonesianity in the perspective of Nurcholish Madjid and Ahmad Syafii Maarif by rolling out the following epistemological questions: How is the construction of integration of Islam with humanity and Indonesianity according to Nurcholish Madjid and Ahmad Syafii Maarif? What is the relevance of the construction of the integration of Islam with humanity, and the indonesianity of the two scholars for the Indonesian people? The study of these two figures uses historical, comparative and synthetic approaches.

Harmonizing the Qur’ān and Modern Science: A Critical Study in the Context of the Indian Subcontinent

Zain Razzaq — 2025-04-25

This study aims to examine the various approaches taken by Muslim scholars of the Indian Subcontinent in response to modern science, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, when colonial epistemology profoundly influenced Muslim thought in the region. These approaches seek to address a common problem: resolving the perceived incompatibility between Islam and modern science. However, they offer distinct solutions in this regard. The first section provides a comprehensive overview of the methods adopted by proponents of these approaches, highlighting the strategies used to harmonize the Qur’ān with modern science, the epistemological problems they identify and the theological solutions they offer. The second part presents a critical analysis of the attempts to harmonize the Qur’ān and modern science from the perspective of those who completely reject both the modern and Islamic versions of science. This paper adopts a qualitative approach, employing historical and analytical research methods to trace the development of these debates. Primary sources have been given priority to capture the authentic voices of the scholars involved, while secondary sources, including contemporary academic research, have also been used where necessary to provide contextual and comparative analysis. The paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the modern intellectual history of the Muslim world in response to modern science and to highlight the ongoing relevance of these debates in contemporary Islamic thought.

Interreligious Engagement: Learning from the Medieval Muslim Intellectual Legacy

Fadlil Yani Ainusyamsi — 2025-04-25

The current study aimed to analyse the concept of interreligious engagement (IE) or interfaith dialogue (ID) for the medieval period (MP), considering a global, pluralistic, and interdependent society that transcends contemporary society. The study investigated the philosophical inheritance of medieval Muslims on the issue of IE and ID. The thematic approach was used in this study. The interactions of Muslim intellectuals were taken into consideration, such as Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Al-Ghazali, Al-Biruni, Ibn Arabi, Al-Shatibi, Ibn Rushd, and Al-Razi with various theological and philosophical traditions, especially Judaism and Christianity. This study showed that although the term IE is unknown in the medieval Muslim intellectual tradition, nevertheless, it offers some insights. This is because this attitude maintained the notion that truth could be derived from various sources, such as from the traditions of other religions and therefore, true knowledge is, by nature, inclusive. They founded a tradition of discourse that blends rationality and revelation. They asserted that human reason and religious revelation do not oppose, however, could illuminate each other. To be sure, science and spirituality may converse and inspire each other. Interfaith discourse, such as medieval Muslim scholarship, is a movement beyond passive tolerance. It pursues common ground, respects divergent positions, and, when possible, seeks partnership in advancing mutual interests.

Interfaith Marriage in the Perspective of the Qur’ān: An Analysis of Social Interpretation of a Pluralistic Society in Indonesia

Muhammad Sa'i — 2025-04-25

Interfaith marriage is not in harmony with state laws and religious laws. Law Number 1 of 1974 is the legal basis for marriage in Indonesia, saying that marriage is valid only if it is carried out according to each person’s religious law and beliefs. The question of this paper is how the interpretation of the Qur’ān views interfaith marriage and how social interpretation views interfaith marriage in formulating a pluralistic society in Indonesia. The view of the Qur’ānic interpretation is that interfaith marriage is still prohibited because marriage is considered not only a personal relationship but also has broad theological and social implications. However, there are exceptions in the Qur’ān regarding marriage between a Muslim man and a woman in the Qur’ān; Jews and Christians. It is based on Al-Ma’idah verse 5, which states that it is permissible for a Muslim man to marry a woman of the Ahlul Kitab. Meanwhile, social interpretation tries to see the issue of interfaith marriage by considering social, political, and cultural realities from Axel Honneth’s perspective. Where Axel Honneth, in the context of interfaith marriage, must provide recognition, the principles of recognition are love, law, and solidarity. These three are ways to overcome the problem of interfaith marriage by seeing the others as me who thus opens up the view of the human need to live together.

The Historical Evolution of Christianity in Pakistan: Missionary Influence, Caste Dynamics, and the Challenge of Theological Contextualization

Farman Ali — 2025-04-25

This study explores the historical development, socio-economic struggles, and identity challenges of Pakistani Christians from the pre-colonial period to the present day. It examines the role of missionary expansion, particularly the chūhrā mass movement (1868–1931), which shaped the demographic and social structure of the Christian community. The study highlights the impact of caste-based discrimination, economic marginalization, and denominational fragmentation, which have reinforced internal divisions and hindered social mobility. Following Partition, issues such as land dispossession and limited employment opportunities further entrenched Christians in sanitation work, reinforcing societal stereotypes. Additionally, the study addresses the complexity of Christian identity, which is shaped by religion, ethnicity, and nationality, yet remains unresolved due to social exclusion and Western influences. The research underscores the need for theological contextualization, social integration, and economic empowerment to foster a more unified and resilient Christian community in Pakistan.

Dejihadization Through Hadīth Reinterpretation and the Experience of Former Radical-Terrorism Prisoners

Rahman — 2025-04-25

The study of dejihadization has received increasing attention due to the emergence of acts of violence in the name of jihad, which are essentially a distortion of the correct understanding. Acts of terrorism that are often based on erroneous interpretations of the Prophet's Hadīth about jihad against infidels have raised concerns about the spread of radical ideologies and threats to social stability and national security. This study aims to explore the roots of these misunderstandings and offer an understanding of jihad that is more in line with Muhammad's prophetic mission, which emphasises peace and non-violence. Using a descriptive-exploratory phenomenological approach and desk study method, this research analyses muktabar Hadīths as well as media reports to reveal how radical groups interpret jihad. The results show that acts of violence and terrorism by certain groups cannot be categorised as jihad, as they contradict the principles of the Prophet's teachings. Jihad in its authentic meaning is in line with the prophetic mission of mercy and compassion, rejecting violence as a means to an end. This study emphasises the importance of the concept of dejihadization to trace the origins, networks and movements that spread the false interpretation of jihad. As such, this study contributes to the discourse of de-radicalisation and counter-terrorism in Hadīth studies and helps to dispel the negative stigma of jihad that is often misused in radical ideologies.

Dimensions of Basic Educational Character in the Qur’ān: A Hermeneutic Analysis of Tafsīr Al-Jawahir by Sheikh Tantawi Jauhari on Surah Nuh

A Umar — 2025-04-25

This research aims to explore the dimensions of basic education character in the scientific interpretation of Surah Nuh, verses 13–14, as presented in Al-Jawahir Fi Tafsīr Al-Qur’ān Al-Karim. Using a library research approach, data was collected by identifying and analyzing verses related to character education. Verification was conducted by comparing the interpretation of these verses from Syeikh Tantawi’s perspective with the views of other interpreters. The findings indicate that Syeikh Tantawi’s interpretation in Al-Jawahir has significantly inspired Muslims to implement character education for elementary school students. This pattern is evident in the interpretation of Surah Nuh, verses 13–14, which describes the process of human formation in the womb. Tantawi’s explanation serves as an inspiration for internalizing fundamental values that shape a child's positive character. The dimensions of character education identified include diligence, appreciation for life, continuous learning, gratitude, recognition of God, and empathy for others' development. This study contributes to the development of a character education curriculum based on Qur’ānic verses, particularly Surah Nuh, verses 13–14, which contain essential values that can be integrated into the learning process to foster positive character at the basic education level.