Journal of Al-Tamaddun

Roberto Tottoli (2023). Studies in Islamic Traditions and Literature. London: Routledge. 284 Pages. ISBN 978-0-367-53166-9 (hbk)

Fina Aunul Kafi — 2025-12-24

In modern Islamic studies, insights into the early foundations of Islam and beliefs derived from Islamic traditions (ḥadīth) and historical accounts have become increasingly significant. In the era of globalization and the development of information technology, Islamic traditions are often reinterpreted in various contexts, both academic and non-academic, along with the potential to give rise to distortions of the main reference of Islam. So with the increase in academic studies of Islam in various parts of the world, there is a need to review how Islamic tenets develop through Islamic traditions and historical reports that shape Muslims' perception of religious values and norms. In the midst of an ever-changing Islamic narrative, accurate insights into Islamic traditions and historical data can be a fortress against bias, simplification, and doctrinal influence.

Elemen Seni Bina dan Unsur Reka Bentuk Bangunan dalam Perkembangan Institusi Pendidikan Islam

Siti Khadijah Hashim — 2025-12-24

This paper is focusing on identifying and understanding the attributes of Islamic educational values by delving into the definition and essence of their philosophy. The objective of this study is to portray that the philosophy of Islamic educational values has the potential to be identified through architectural elements and building design aspects, which in this study will be concentrating on Islamic educational institutions. The scope of the study will be centering on the value of syumul (comprehensive), kamil (ideal), adil (equitability) and sejagat (universality) where these attributes complement with one another. Furthermore, the identified values have been evaluated in showing significant potential to be referred as architectural design framework in designing Islamic educational building institutions as it is not only upholding the teachings of Al-Quran and Sunnah, but also moves in line with the philosophy of architecture in producing design of built environment that are friendly to the environment and people. Besides that, this study adapts a qualitative method by analyzing, explaining and examining scholars' and academics’ paper to find out the relationship between the philospohy of Islamic educational values with the architectural elements and building design aspects under the interpretivisme paradigm with the explanation-building strategy and socio-semiotic theory. Subsequently, the analysed findings lead towards structured and informative discussiong based on the discipline of the hermeneutic cycle. Last but not least, this paper will project a conclusion on architectural design framework of Islamic educational institutions not only act as a symbol of Islamic educational values, but also plays vital components to be a guideline in amplifying the philosophy of Islamic architecture, thus strengthening the identity that highlights the essence of Islamic educational values through architectural elements and design aspects of Islamic educational buildings.

Crafting Civilization from the Mihrab: The Vital Role of Palopo’s Historic Jami’ Tua Mosque

Abbas Langaji — 2025-12-24

When the Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina, the mosque not only functioned as a place of worship but also as a multifunctional center that included social, educational, economic, and political aspects. Inspired by this spirit, this study reviews the development of Islamic civilization in Palopo City, the capital of the Kingdom of Luwu, in the 17^th century through the optimization of the function and role of the mosque. Particularly, it explored the factors that influenced it and the steps of fostering Islamic civilization, whose traces are still visible today. The study employed a qualitative approach with a historical research design. Data were obtained from various sources and analyzed by paying close attention to aspects of text, context, and history. This study found that the Jami’ Tua Mosque was the first building erected in 1604 when the capital of the Kingdom of Luwu was moved from Malangke to Ware in the early 17^th century. The mosque was the first permanent building in the new capital city, confirming the Kingdom’s Islamic foundation of its civilization because a spiritual and social foundation was centered on the mosque. From this mosque, the kingdom’s governmental structure was reshaped, making Islam the main source of inspiration for government institutions. One of the significant changes was the addition of syara’ (Islamic law) to the four government institutions that previously consisted of ade’, wari, rapang, and bicara, making it five institutions. Based on these findings, this study recommends the Jami’ Tua Mosque of Palopo be preserved and used as an ideal example of building human civilization in the future, considering its role as the main symbol of mosque-based civilization building.

The West-East Interreligious Discourse: Reading from Said Nursi’s Risale-i Nur

Ustadi Hamsah — 2025-12-24

This article takes a unique approach in exploring the foundational epistemological and philosophical structure underlying interreligious relations, a crucial aspect that has been largely unexplored in previous studies. This investigation is of utmost importance, as it forms the basis for understanding the increasingly polarized nature of interreligious relations between the Western and Eastern spheres. The study seeks to elucidate the fundamental epistemological framework that underpins the paradigmatic contestation in interreligious discourse. The research methodology entails a comprehensive philosophical analysis of Said Nursi’s seminal work, Risale-i Nur. The findings identify three pivotal factors driving this contestation: first, distinct thought structures rooted in specific regional contexts; second, a dichotomous interpretation of human relations; and third, a predominantly rational rather than ethical approach to understanding reality. The study concludes that ideologizing paradigms within interreligious discourse has engendered contentious relationships. This ideologization is subsequently challenged by ideological critique, leading to dialectical interactions. As a result, this paradigmatic dialectic perpetuates a cycle of superior-inferior dynamics in interreligious discourse.

The Art of Storytelling in Tablighi Jamaat: Emotional Engagement as a Strategy for Societal Transformation in the Islamic Revivalist Movement

Kausar Ali — 2025-12-24

This research article seeks to explore the emotional impact of storytelling within the Islamic revivalist movement known as the Tablighi Jamaat. The Tablighi Jamaat is a contemporary Islamic revivalist movement focused on spreading Islam and encouraging Muslims worldwide to adopt a more devout practice of their faith. This article explores how the storytelling approach of Tablighi Jamaat taps into human emotions through the sharing of personal experiences. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research method, this research article demonstrates how Tablighi campaigners use these powerful stories to motivate individual Muslims to become more devoted and practicing followers of their religion. The article further argues that human emotions play a crucial role in individual mobilization, identity formation, and socio-religious unity by creating emotional ties to Islamic beliefs, practices, and other religious rituals. The article also suggests that these compelling stories stir a blend of positive and negative human emotions in ordinary Muslims, encouraging them to embrace the dawat and Islamization efforts of the Tablighi Movement.

The Impact of Governance and Social Reform on the Welfare of the People during the Reign of Caliph Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz (99-101 AH): A Historical and Cultural Study

Salih Maddah Aljedani — 2025-12-24

This research investigates the issue of financial waste and its social effects during the reign of Caliph Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz (99-101 AH), a pivotal period in the history of the Umayyad state. Within just thirty months, Caliph Umar successfully implemented reforms to eliminate financial waste, resulting in significant positive changes in the social and economic fabric of the state. Despite thorough searches in historical, cultural studies, and modern databases, no prior research has specifically addressed the topic of financial waste and its social impacts during Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz’s rule, highlighting the unique contribution of this study to the Arab and Islamic scholarly literature. The study explores how Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz effectively reduced financial mismanagement, focusing on the extent of waste before his reforms and the improvements that followed. The research further examines the methods used by Umar to eliminate waste, the challenges he faced, and the long-term benefits of his actions for the subjects of the Umayyad state. Employing a descriptive, analytical, and critical methodology, this research synthesizes classic and contemporary historical sources, offering a comprehensive analysis that enriches existing knowledge on the financial practices and social reforms during the Umayyad period.

Religious Conversion and Conflict: The Struggles of Chinese Muslim Converts in Indonesia’s Harmonious Society

Rusydi Sulaiman — 2025-12-24

The conversion of Chinese individuals to Islam reveals a range of rejections that are normalized through acceptance statements from both Chinese and Muslim communities. These acceptance statements create the impression of a harmonious interfaith relationship within a strong cultural community. This study aims to reassess the notion of harmony in the religious life of Bangka Island through the examination of various actions that fall into the category of conflict. This research employs a qualitative method utilizing a conflict formation theory analysis model, which positions the reality of conflict as a natural part of social action. The study finds that the emergence of violence accompanying the phenomenon of religious conversion through marriage, adoption, and awareness is perceived by the Chinese converts as a metric for defining conflict. The violence that is mitigated through negotiation among families and the surrounding community to foster harmony does not eliminate stigma or resolve various contradictions. Instead, it perpetuates perceptions of suspicion, discomfort, and distrust among community members, which further strains familial relationships and excludes individuals from various societal traditions. The Chinese converts become subjects of these actions, positioning them in a liminal space that limits their connections to both their Chinese families and the indigenous Muslim community. The existing relationships create an impression of seemingly harmonious interactions that could potentially erupt into new forms of violence.

Pela and Gandong in Maluku, Indonesia: Fostering Interfaith Dialogue and Community Cohesion between Diverse Religious Communities

Sabara — 2025-12-24

Pela and Gandong serve as cultural foundations that facilitate cohesion between Islamic and Christian communities in Maluku, which occupy distinct geographical regions. This article intends to elucidate the bond of brotherhood engendered by the Pela, or customary agreements, established between Islamic and Christian villages in Maluku. Additionally, it will examine the manifestations of interreligious harmony reflected in the construction of mosques and churches. This research employs a case study methodology with a bounded system approach, focusing on the Pela relationship between Hitu Lama village (Islam) and Galala village (Christianity). This relationship serves as a representative example in illustrating the mechanisms of Pela in the context of mosque and church construction. Established in 1959, the Pela relationship between Hitu Lama and Galala villages reinforces brotherhood through shared traditions and historical narratives that transcend religious divides. A notable example of this collaboration is the joint construction of a mosque and church, which both communities regard as shared properties. This research aims to contribute to strategies that bolster Maluku’s reputation as a laboratory for harmony through the practice of establishing places of worship rooted in the Pela relationship. The construction of mosques and churches represents a culmination of harmonious events and stands as a model of the positive relations between Muslims and Christians in these two villages.

The Development of Islamic Civilization in the World: Knowledge, Integration and Innovation (750-1258 CE)

Ajid Thohir — 2025-12-24

The rise of Islamic civilization marked a significant transformation in global history, replacing the dominance of the Persian and Roman Empires with an extensive rule spanning half of Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe in a remarkably short period. This study employs historical research methods structured through four critical steps: heuristics, criticism, interpretation, and historiography. It aims to explore the interconnected processes of conquest, cultural assimilation, and the flourishing of knowledge by analysing the key mechanisms and sociopolitical factors that facilitated these developments. Unlike previous studies, this research highlights the direct impact of cultural assimilation on scientific, technological, and economic advancements in Islamic civilization. Specifically, it investigates how the integration of local traditions with Islamic principles contributed to the development of algebra, medicine, optics, engineering, and economic models, many of which laid the foundation for modern disciplines. Additionally, this study highlights the pivotal role of Islamic history as a catalyst for innovation, demonstrating how early Islamic societies developed sophisticated trade networks, advanced industrial production methods, and innovative financial institutions that significantly influenced global economic structures. By providing new insights into the mechanisms through which Islamic civilization absorbed and enhanced existing knowledge systems, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of its enduring legacy in shaping modern scientific and economic thought.

Islam in Bangladesh: The Legacy of Hazrat Shah Jalal and the Spread of Islam in Bengal

Mahmudulhassan — 2025-12-24

This study examines the influential role of Hazrat Shah Jalal, a renowned Sufi saint, in the spread of Islam in Bengal, particularly in present-day Bangladesh. By applying the diffusion of religious ideas theory, this research explores how his missionary approach rooted in cultural adaptation, moral integrity, and spiritual guidance, facilitated the peaceful propagation of Islam. Utilising historical analysis, the study critically examines archival records, including manuscripts, inscriptions, historical chronicles, and colonial documents, to assess Shah Jalal’s contributions. The findings reveal that his teachings significantly shaped Bengal’s religious and cultural landscape by influencing local customs, integrating Islamic traditions, and fostering educational advancements. His disciples played a pivotal role in continuing his mission, establishing Islamic centres, and promoting Islamic scholarship, which contributed to Bengal’s emergence as a centre for Islamic learning. The study underscores the lasting sociopolitical impact of Shah Jalal’s teachings, which helped shape the region’s Islamic identity. By addressing gaps in existing scholarship, this research enhances understanding of the historical roots of Islam in Bengal and provides valuable insights into religious diffusion, cultural integration, and historical sociology.

The Issues of Palestine and Algeria on the Delay of NATO’s Formation, 1948–1949: A Study on British International Negotiations

Norasmahani Hussain — 2025-12-24

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) is a military pact founded on 4 April 1949 in Washington D.C. Initially, it was comprised of 12 members committed to containing Soviet encroachment during the Cold War. Since its formation, NATO has expanded to include 32 members. The original members included seven founding countries, namely, Britain, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, the United States (U.S.), and Canada, and five invited countries, which were Italy, Norway, Portugal, Iceland, and Denmark. The drafting of this Atlantic military pact involved over a year of negotiations, from March 1948 to March 1949. Previous studies indicate that the process was lengthy primarily due to the issue of Italian membership, which caused delays and rescheduling of the signing ceremony from 1 February 1949 to the first week of April 1949. In addition to the Italian membership issue, this study argues that Palestine and Algeria, though peripheral to the NATO negotiations, contributed to the delay in NATO’s formation. By analysing British Foreign Office Papers (FO 371) and the Foreign Relations of the United States (FRUS), this study reveals the disagreement between Britain and the U.S. over these ‘stray-stone’ countries during the NATO negotiation period. This study is significant because it highlights how seemingly unrelated geopolitical situations can substantially impact major international developments. It demonstrates how the resulting delay was resolved, offering a valuable case study of the unpredictable nature of international negotiations from the perspective of Britain.

Taliban Strategies and Gains in Post-American Reality in Afghanistan

Md Shafiqur Rahaman — 2025-12-24

This paper aims to explore the re-establishment of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan in the frame of the emerging bipolar world order, addressing the post-American realism. We address two significant perspectives: First, the Taliban’s re-emergence as a dominant political and military force in Afghanistan, despite two decades of U.S. military intervention, infrastructural devastation, and extensive state-building efforts, reflects a combination of organizational resilience, strategic adaptability, and the mobilization of deeply rooted socio-religious narratives. The Taliban capitalized on widespread disillusionment with the U.S.-backed Afghan government, which was often perceived as corrupt, externally dependent, and disconnected from rural constituencies. Their ability to sustain a decentralized yet cohesive insurgency, embed themselves within local communities, and frame their struggle as both a nationalist resistance and a religious obligation allowed them to gradually undermine the legitimacy of the foreign-supported order and reclaim political relevance. Second, following the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 2021, the Taliban successfully positioned themselves as the central political authority in Afghanistan, despite the non-recognition of their regime by the United States and its Western allies. Their consolidation of power was facilitated by their military dominance, the collapse of the U.S.-backed Afghan government, and their ability to negotiate local allegiances. Moreover, the Taliban leveraged Afghanistan’s political vacuum to establish a de facto government, asserting internal legitimacy and seeking to navigate the complexities of international isolation through pragmatic diplomatic engagements, particularly with China and regional actors. This study employed a qualitative content analysis approach, utilizing semi-structured, in-depth face-to-face interviews as the primary method of data collection. Interviews were conducted with Afghan graduate and postgraduate students residing in Russia, as well as with four local residents from various cities in Afghanistan, including Kabul, Kandahar, Mazar-i-Sharif and Herat. For the interviews with local residents, an online platform was utilized to facilitate communication. Both direct and indirect questions were posed to the participants during the interviews to explore and substantiate the research hypotheses. The insights derived from these interviews provided a nuanced understanding of contemporary realities, particularly in relation to the political dynamics of the Taliban and the broader context of Afghanistan. In addition to primary data, secondary sources such as internet-based materials and media reports were analyzed to further examine the post-American reality in Afghanistan. Furthermore, theoretical perspectives from contemporary scholars addressing the post-American world order were incorporated to support and legitimize the study’s arguments.

Reconciling Mosques: Antagonistic Tolerance and Conflict Management among Religious Groups in East Indonesia

Suprapto Suprapto — 2025-12-24

The use of mosques as public spaces is not immune to contestation and conflict. Various Islamic denominations vie for control over God's house and seek to impose their religious practices. This article draws from field research conducted in Lombok, Indonesia, which has over a thousand mosques. The study focuses on the factors, processes, and management of conflicts within mosques. In-depth interviews with mosque superintendents, religious leaders, societal leaders, and congregants shed light on the issue. The research suggests that some mosque-based conflicts can be resolved through accommodation, tolerance, and compromise. Mosque superintendents can promote peace-building in their communities daily by utilizing win-win solutions. However, conflicts involving Puritan transnational Islamic groups and groups perceived as deviant are particularly challenging and can lead to social segregation. These minority groups are often viewed as less tolerant and a threat to the majority's long-standing religious traditions. On the other hand, collaboration and solidarity between superintendents and congregants of a mosque can help protect it from occupation by transnational Islamic groups and foster a sense of community among the majority Islamic group. The relationship between majority and minority Islamic denominations is often marked by antagonistic tolerance and communal tolerance.

The Revival of al-Farabi’s Ethical Idea: Virtue and the Spiritual Foundations of Turkic-Islamic Civilization

Samet Baizhuma — 2025-12-24

This article examines Abu Nasr al-Farabi’s ethical and political philosophy as a foundational framework for the formation of virtuous personality and leadership within Turkic-Islamic intellectual history. Rather than treating virtue as an abstract moral ideal, al-Farabi conceptualizes faḍīla as a structured synthesis of rational knowledge, moral habituation, and spiritual discipline oriented toward saʿāda (human happiness). The study focuses on al-Farabi’s doctrine of the virtuous person and the virtuous ruler as articulated primarily in The Virtuous City and traces its reception and transformation in the works of later Turkic thinkers, including Yusuf Balasaguni, Khoja Ahmad Yasawi, Mahmud Kashgari, and Ahmad Yugnaki. It shows that al-Farabi’s doctrine of the virtuous person and ruler can be understood as a civilizational model in which personal moral growth and the welfare of society are indivisibly united. Employing analytical-historical and comparative philosophical methods, the article examines how al-Farabi’s model of ethical leadership was reinterpreted within different intellectual and socio-spiritual contexts, particularly through juridical, pedagogical, and Sufi frameworks. This approach enables the identification of the ethical, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions of al-Farabi’s system and their transformation within later Turkic-Islamic thought. The analysis demonstrates that, despite variations in form and emphasis, these thinkers preserve a shared conception of leadership grounded in moral self-perfection, justice, and responsibility toward the community. The findings indicate that Turkic-Islamic ethical thought not only inherited al-Farabi’s ideas but also adapted them into a durable civilizational paradigm linking personal moral development with social order. By situating al-Farabi within this intellectual continuum, the article clarifies his enduring significance for Islamic moral philosophy and provides a historically grounded perspective on virtue-based leadership and ethical education.

Digitalizing Malay Medical Manuscripts: A Database-Driven Approach to Preservation, Knowledge Management and Intellectual Property

Nurulwahidah Fauzi — 2025-12-24

This study explores the digitalization and structured knowledge management of 18th to mid-19th century Malay medical manuscripts, integrating digital humanities and intellectual property considerations. The primary objective is to ensure the preservation, accessibility, and systematic organization of traditional Malay medical knowledge through the development of a structured digital database. To achieve this, the study is structured around three core objectives. First, extraction of Malay medical knowledge focuses on identifying and digitizing traditional medicinal treatments, herbal remedies, and compound formulations recorded in selected Malay medical manuscripts. Second, categorization and ontology development aim to systematically classify the extracted data based on herbal taxonomy, medicinal compounds, and therapeutic applications, using an ontology-based approach to enhance data searchability and knowledge representation. Third, database design and development involve creating an interactive and accessible digital repository using Protégé (ontology editor tool) and XAMPP. The findings indicate that the ontology-based classification has significantly improved the organization and retrieval of information from the manuscripts, offering a new avenue for research in traditional medicine and historical pharmacology. By preserving and structuring this knowledge digitally, the study enhances accessibility for researchers, medical historians, and practitioners, bridging the gap between traditional healing practices and modern medical research. Furthermore, by addressing legal and ethical considerations, this research contributes to the ongoing discussions on intellectual property protection and responsible knowledge sharing in the digital era. This study highlights the critical role of digitalization in safeguarding cultural heritage and ensuring the continued relevance of traditional Malay medical knowledge. By developing a structured digital repository, this research provides a sustainable framework for integrating historical medical wisdom into contemporary knowledge systems, ensuring its long-term preservation and accessibility.

The Development of Muslim Military Thought to the Liberation of Jerusalem in 1187 AD

Muhammad Husni Mohd Amin — 2025-12-24

This study examines the development of Muslim military thought from the early military encounters to the liberation of Jerusalem in 1187 A.D. Through historical and textual analysis, comparative conceptual mapping, and close reading of five key texts, Mukhtaṣar fī Siyāsat al-Ḥurūb, al-Aḥkām al-Sulṭāniyyah, Nahj al-Maslūk fī Siyāsat al-Mulūk, Tabṣirat Arbāb al-Albāb, and al-Tadhkirah al-Ḥarawiyyah fī al-Ḥiyal al-Ḥarbiyyah, the research traces how military ethics, governance, logistics, and strategy evolved in response to Byzantine, Crusader, and internal challenges. Drawing on manuscript sources and critical editions, the study highlights the integration of religious legitimacy, administrative order, and tactical adaptation in figures like Nūr al-Dīn Zangī and Ṣalāḥ al-Dīn al-Ayyūbī. Key findings include the role of the Sunnī revival in renewing strategic coherence and the layered interaction between legal theory, statecraft, and technical expertise. Limitations include uneven textual preservation and gaps in commentary, but the analysis affirms the strategic depth of Islamic military tradition during the aforementioned periods.

Heroism or Capitulation? A Reassessment of Salah al-Din, the Battle of Arsuf (1191 CE) and the al-Ramla Treaty (1192 CE)

Maher Y. Abu-Munshar — 2025-12-24

The Treaty of al-Ramla, signed on 2 September 1192, formally brought the Third Crusade (1189-1192) to a close. Spearheaded by prominent European monarchs -most notably Richard I of England- the Crusade was waged against Sultan Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi (1137-1193), the preeminent Muslim ruler and strategic commander of the era. While the swords of both figures illuminated during the years of that Crusade, the treaty itself was executed not by their own pens, but through their appointed representatives. This accord represents a pivotal juncture in the annals of Crusading history, distinguished not only by its terms but also by the protracted diplomatic engagements between Crusader and Muslim envoys that preceded it. Despite Salah al-Din’s considerable military and political exertions -especially his pivotal liberation of Jerusalem in 1187 and the campaigns that followed until the al-Ramla treaty- a recent polemical opinion by Egyptian writer Dr Yusuf Zaidan casts the Sultan as “one of the most despicable figures in human history.” Zaidan’s opinion starkly contrasts with prevailing historical narratives. He attributes al-Ramla treaty to Salah al-Din’s alleged weakness and negligence claiming it was just the climax of his setbacks and a clear indication of his weakness in front of King Richard. He contends that, notwithstanding the retaining of sovereignty over Jerusalem, the concessions made to the Crusaders across other regions of Palestine and Bilad al-Sham epitomise a capitulation rather than a strategic triumph. This study undertakes a comprehensive examination of the al-Ramla Peace Treaty, interrogating the underlying strategic rationales which compelled both parties to deem peace the only tenable option at that juncture. It further scrutinises the implications of the Battle of Arsuf (1191) alongside internal Crusader discord, to evaluate whether the treaty constitutes the pinnacle of Salah al-Din’s victories or, conversely, as Zaidan claims, the end of his setbacks.

Constructing Religious Moderation through Language: A Comparative Study of Verses on Tawasut

Helmi Kamal — 2025-12-24

This study examines the linguistic construction of tawasut (religious moderation) in Qur’anic interpretation, focusing on how language shapes meaning in response to social realities. By comparing Tafsir al-Azhar and Tafsir al-Misbah, this research highlights how linguistic choices reflect differing understandings of moderation within Indonesian socio-religious contexts. The study addresses three key questions: (a) What are the objective representations of religious moderation in the tawasut verses within both tafsir works? (b) How is the meaning of tawasuth constructed in each text? and (c) What linguistic and contextual factors underlie the interpretive differences between them? Using qualitative linguistic analysis, the study investigates grammatical structures, semantic fields, and pragmatic interpretations of selected verses. Sixteen verses from twelve chapters were identified as central to the theme of tawasut, either textually through the root و-س-ط and its derivations or contextually, using related concepts such as al-ʿadl (justice), al-ḥasanah (virtue), and ṣirāṭ al-mustaqīm (the straight path). The findings categorise religious moderation into three domains: (1) balance and harmony, (2) justice and fairness, and (3) the middle-way as an alternative solution. Each domain reflects the socio-cultural and exegetical orientation of the commentators. This study demonstrates that linguistic interpretation not only reflects textual tradition but also responds to evolving societal needs. Language thus serves as a bridge between Qur’anic ideals and lived realities, offering a holistic and transformative understanding of moderation in a pluralistic society.

Sejarah Penempatan dan Perubahan Sosial Muslim Hui di Xi'an, China

Ahmad Sunawari Long — 2025-12-24

This article explores the historical development and social transformation of the Hui Muslim community in Xi’an, China, one of the earliest and most significant Muslim settlements along Silk Road, China. Drawing upon historical sources, field research, and recent academic studies, the paper highlights the arrival of Islam through diplomatic and military missions from the 7th century onward, particularly through the efforts of Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas and later Islamic troops aiding Chinese dynasties. It examines the evolution of the Hui identity, emphasizing their integration with Han Chinese culture while maintaining Islamic faith and practices. The research traces key phases: the foundation of the Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie), the development of religious schools and sects (e.g., Gedimu, Yihewani, and Salafi), and the impact of critical events like the Dungan Rebellion. Xi’an emerges as both a strategic and symbolic center for Islam in China, featuring architectural, linguistic, and cultural syncretism. The article concludes that despite historical marginalization and socio-political upheavals, the Hui of Xi’an have sustained their religious identity and communal resilience, contributing richly to Chinese Islamic heritage.

Tradisi Intelektual dalam Tamadun Islam Alam Melayu: Analisis Kitab Melayu Klasik Abad ke-17 hingga ke-19

Mohd Pua'ad Abdul Malik — 2025-12-24

This study examines the typology of classical Malay fiqh writings produced in the Malay World from the seventeenth to the nineteenth centuries. Accordingly, the study aims to identify and categorise these works based on two principal approaches: chronological analysis and analysis of writing methodology. Employing a comprehensive content analysis method, the study maps the patterns and evolution of fiqh writing. The findings successfully identify distinct patterns within the writing tradition, revealing significant developments in terms of methodology and the diversity of subjects addressed. These findings demonstrate the intellectual dynamism that shaped the Islamic scholarly heritage of the region. In summary, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of Islamic intellectual history in the Malay World. It not only provides new insights into the evolution of fiqh but also highlights the intellectual contributions of Malay scholars in shaping a progressive form of Islamic legal thought that is responsive to local contexts.

Caravanserai as a Tourism Destination: Case Study in Iran and Türkiye

Aina Zafirah Samsudin — 2025-12-24

Caravanserais were constructed as rest stops and shelters, developed by the government free of charge for merchants, travellers, and pilgrims to rest before continuing their journeys. In addition to serving as stopovers, caravanserais were seen as potential tourism destinations that provided opportunities to explore their history and culture more closely. This study was conducted to examine caravanserais that became tourism destinations in Türkiye and Iran, and to identify the factors that formed significant links between caravanserais and tourism. The study adopted a qualitative research design using descriptive methods. Research topics and aspects were identified through literature review, research objectives, findings, and scope of discussion. Article sampling was carried out in two stages: first, by searching for articles using keywords such as “caravanserai,” “caravanserai and tourism,” and “UNESCO recognition”; second, by reviewing the reference lists at the end of the initially selected articles. Data analysis was conducted in stages, beginning with explicit content analysis followed by implicit content analysis. The findings showed that caravanserais gradually evolved into tourism destinations, linked to two main factors: the facilities provided, which attracted tourists, and UNESCO World Heritage recognition.

Historical Development of Islamization in the Nusantara: Trends and Scholarly Contributions

Muhammad Choirin — 2025-12-24

This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the historical trajectory of Islamization in the Nusantara, with a focus on tracing key scholarly contributions and academic trends over time. By applying advanced bibliometric methods, this research systematically examines a broad array of academic literature, identifying seminal works, prominent authors, and influential periods that have shaped the discourse surrounding Islamic propagation and its integration into the cultural fabric of the region. The findings highlight significant trends in the evolution of da’wah strategies, the roles of diverse actors in the dissemination of Islam, and the socio-political dynamics that have influenced these processes. Furthermore, the study offers a critical assessment of the implications of these academic patterns for contemporary da’wah efforts, suggesting that an understanding of historical scholarly contributions can enhance the relevance and effectiveness of modern da’wah initiatives. This bibliometric approach not only enriches the academic landscape of da’wah and Islamization studies but also provides a nuanced framework for future research, contributing to a more profound understanding of the Islamic historical and intellectual legacy in the Nusantara.

The Rambang Manuscript in Javanese Tradition: Sufism, Sectarian Negotiation, and the Making of Tolerant Islam in Indonesia

Muhammad Abdullah — 2025-12-24

The Rambang manuscript, a mid-nineteenth-century Javanese text written in Javanese and Arabic Pegon script, represents a significant work of Kejawen (Javanism) Islamic literature. This study investigates the manuscript's articulation of Sunni Sufi thought, influenced by al-Ghazālī, through discussions of divinity, cosmos, and humanity. This study employs textual analysis to examine the Rambang manuscript, focusing on its intellectual content, cultural context, and historical significance. Identifying these values was possible because the Rambang Manuscript has been translated from Javanese and Arabic Pegon into Latin script and simultaneously into Indonesian. Results show that the Rambang Manuscript demonstrates intellectual negotiation between orthodox and heterodox Sufi traditions in Indonesia, particularly Java. It attempts to address sectarian conflicts during the Islamization of Java in the 15th and 16th centuries. The text showcases the adaptation of universal Sufi doctrines to local cultural idioms, reflecting indigenous intellectual sophistication. The Rambang Manuscript provides significant contribution to the making of tolerant Islam in Java, offering an intellectual foundation for moderation, reconciliation, and social harmony. These findings contribute to the broader debates on Southeast Asian Islam, highlighting the historical roots of moderation and tolerance in contemporary Javanese Muslim life.

An Analysis of Takwim Hijriah Khairiah in the Context of Historical Development of the Malaysian Hijri Calendar

Raihana Abdul Wahab — 2025-12-24

The evolving use of various criteria in the Malaysian Hijri calendar reflects its historical development and dynamism. A prominent local Islamic astronomer, Md Khair Md Taib has contributed significantly to this development, particularly through his seminal work, Takwim Hijriah Khairiah (THK). This study analyses his contributions by evaluating the methodologies employed in THK, focusing on Hijri-Gregorian date synchronization, and examining his approach in balancing traditional Islamic astronomical practices with contemporary precision standards. A comparative analysis assessed the accuracy of Md Khair Md Taib’s methods against modern computation using Accurate Time software. The findings highlight key contributions, such as the creation of user-friendly astronomical tables and the adaptation of the Istilahi method, which bridges traditional Islamic astronomy with practical applications for the Muslim community. The study also emphasizes the ongoing relevance of THK as a technical resource and a cultural milestone in the historical development of the Malaysian Hijri calendar. By integrating traditional and modern practices, Md Khair Md Taib’s work remains an invaluable reference for researchers, policymakers, and the broader Muslim community. This review underscores the importance of revisiting foundational texts like THK to preserve and advance the intellectual heritage of Islamic astronomy in Malaysia and beyond.

Naratif Sejarah Pembangunan Nizam-i Cedid dalam Pembaharuan Ketenteraan Uthmaniyyah Era Mahmud II, 1808-1839

Ezad Azraai Jamsari — 2025-12-24

The Ottoman military reforms during the reign of Mahmud II (1808-1839) were not merely a reaction to the decline of influence and power of the Janissary corps, but rather a manifestation of the revival of Ottoman political rationality and governance vision that sought to integrate centralized power, technology, and modern discipline grounded in the principles of modernization. In confronting the geopolitical pressures posed by Russia and Europe, Mahmud II employed the military reform agenda as a vehicle to restructure Ottoman political authority, reinforce the sultan’s power, and curb the influence of the old oligarchy. This article aims to retrospectively examine the continuity of this reformist vision by tracing the historical legacy of the Nizam-i Cedid movement, which was revived in a new form through the establishment of the Segban-i Cedid and Asakir-i Mansure-i Muhammadiye, while also laying the foundation for political and military governance transformation in the nineteenth century. The study adopts a qualitative approach through the application of historical research design and content analysis. Data were collected using the documentation method, focusing on several reliable and authoritative sources. For data analysis, the study employed a descriptive approach through internal and external critique of relevant historical documents and texts. The findings argue that Mahmud II successfully revitalized and channelled the spirit of Nizam-i Cedid as the core of Ottoman military governance reform in the nineteenth century. Through the establishment of the Asakir-i Mansure-i Muhammadiye and the abolition of the Janissaries in 1826, Mahmud II restructured the social hierarchy of the military, strengthened fiscal control, and created a new form of governance that reoriented societal loyalty around the ideal of reconciling Islamic traditions with modern needs and aspirations of the time. Therefore, Mahmud II’s reform efforts should be understood not merely as a modernization of the military sphere, but as a broader political and administrative reform that transformed the Ottomans from a monarchical legacy into a sovereign modern gobernment, thus offering a deeper understanding of the dynamics of Ottoman military evolution across different eras.

Muhammad Abduh’s Reformist Thoughts and Their Reception in Indonesian and Malaysian Islamic Reform Movements

Mohammad Syifa Amin Widigdo — 2025-12-24

This study investigates how Islamic reform and renewal ideas introduced by Muhammad Abduh (1849-1905) in Egypt have been transmitted, received, and appropriated in Indonesia and Malaysia. Although some previous studies have been conducted on the transmission of Muhammad Abduh in Southeast Asia, they are mainly historical and lack epistemological analysis. Muhammad Abduh’s ideas and works, which had epistemological roots driving Indonesian and Malaysian reformists to implement reform ideas, were discussed trivially. By closely reading the Theology of Unity (Risālat al-Tauhid) of Muhammad Abduh and examining how his ideas are adopted, appropriated, and impacting reform movements in Indonesia and Malaysia, this study shows that the concept of unity of God, the importance of independent reasoning (ijtihād), and positive outlook toward worldly affairs through good deeds have impacted Islamic reform in Indonesia and Malaysia differently. In Indonesia, reform ideas are taken by civil society organizations (CSOs) that continuously promote reform and renewal through civil society-based activities, means, and institutions. In contrast, in Malaysia, they are handled by religious scholars, political figures, and state officials who employ religious institutions, political means, and state apparatus to implement reform.

Revisiting the Failure of Turkiye’s European Union (EU) Accession Process: Islamophobia and Civilizational Discourse in Europe

Muhammad Khalis Ibrahim — 2025-12-24

Since being declared eligible for European Union (EU) membership in 1999, Turkiye has undertaken numerous reforms toward accession. Despite meeting several criteria, its accession negotiation has stalled. Existing analyses typically adopt an institutional lens, arguing that the country fails to meet EU benchmarks. Rather than focusing on institutional explanations, this article aims to revisit the failure of Turkiye’s EU accession process through the lens of civilizational discourse in Europe. Methodologically, it employs Critical Discourse Analysis approach by examining statements from several key European political elites and religious leaders, as well as official EU reports. It examines how cultural and religious narratives were shaped in the context of the rejection of Turkiye’s EU membership. This article argues that civilizational discourse has been a prominent lens through which Turkiye has been perceived in the sense of EU accession and European public opinion as a whole. Europeans’ rejection of Turkiye is grounded in the perception of “non-Europeanness” and its incompatibility with Europe’s cultural and religious traditions. While Turkiye’s institutional backsliding has contributed to the accession process being stalled, identity factors remain a persistent barrier. Overall, this study revisits Turkiye’s failed bid to join the EU from a civilizational perspective; the often-overlooked dimension in examining the failure of the accession process. It highlights the need to recognize civilizational Islamophobia as a critical, yet under-analyzed, determinant in the context of EU enlargement policy and broader relations between Europe and Muslims.

Narratives of Crisis in the Final Reign of Uthman bin ‘Affan: An Evaluation

Asyiqin Ab Halim — 2025-12-24

The reign of Uthman bin ‘Affan can broadly be divided into two distinct phases. The first phase was marked by peace, harmony, prosperity, and significant progress among the Muslim community. In contract, the second phase witnessed increasing turmoil, unrest, disputes, and dissension, culminating in serious discord among Muslims. Historians and scholars have offered varying interpretations regarding the issues that emerged during this period, their underlying causes, and Uthman’s responses to them. This study aims to examine the major problems that arose during Uthman’s reign, including the accusations directed against him, the contributing factors behind these challenges, and the measures he employed to addressed them, particularly his approach to the rebellion and those he faced. This qualitative research based primarily on primary and secondary sources for data collection and analysis. The findings indicate that the accusations against Uthman were largely unfounded, as he possessed legitimate justifications for his actions. Nonetheless, a combination of internal and external factors escalated tension beyond control, ultimately leading to the assassination of the Caliph.