Afkar: Jurnal Akidah dan Pemikiran Islam
AFKAR: Jurnal Akidah & Pemikiran Islam (ISSN: 1511-8819, E-ISSN: 2550-1755) adalah jurnal dwi tahunan (Jun & Disember) antarabangsa yang dinilai, diterbitkan oleh Jabatan Usuluddin & Dakwah, Akademi Pengajian Islam, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. Ia menerbitkan makalah dan kajian ilmiah berkaitan Akidah dan Pemikiran Islam merangkumi bidang kalam, falsafah, tasawwuf, perbandingan agama, mantik dan pemikiran Islam dalam Bahasa Melayu, Inggeris dan Arab. Jurnal ini diindeks di pengkalan data Scopus, Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI-WoS), American Theological Library Association (Atla) Religion Database, Asean Citation Index (ACI) dan MyCite. AFKAR: Journal of 'Aqidah & Islamic Thought is an international peer reviewed journal published twice a year (June & December) by the Department of `Usuluddin & Da'wah, Academy of Islamic Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. It publishes articles and research papers concerning `aqidah and Islamic thought, particularly Kalam, philosophy, Sufism, comparative religions, logic and Islamic thought in Malay, English and Arabic. The journal is being indexed and abstracted by Elsevier's Scopus, Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI-WoS), American Theological Library Association (Atla) Religion Database, Asean Citation Index (ACI) and MyCite. أفكار: مجلة علمية، دولية، محكمة، يصدرها قسم أصول الدين والدعوة، أكاديمية الدراسات الإسلامية بجامعة مالايا، كوالالمبور، مرتين في العام (يونيو وديسمبر). وتنشر المجلة مقالاتٍ وأوراقًا بحثية تتعلق بالعقيدة والفكر الإسلامي، خاصة في مجالات علم الكلام، والفلسفة، والتصوف، ومقارنة الأديان، والمنطق، والفكر الإسلامي، باللغات الثلاث: الإنجليزية، والملايوية، والعربية. والمجلة مرخصة، ومسجلة، ومفهرسة من قبل قاعدة البيانات سكوبس (Elsevier)، وفهرس الاقتباس للمصادر الناشئة (ESCI-WoS)، وقاعدة بيانات دينية معتمدة في جمعيات المكتبات اللاهوتية الأمريكية (Atla)، وفهرس الاقتباس لدول الآسيان (ACI)، وماي سيت (MyCite).
Religious Coping Among Muslim University Students: Psychometric Evaluation of The Brief RCOPE-Malay
Religious coping is an important dimension of psychological adjustment, particularly in Muslim populations where faith is central to managing stress. The Brief Religious Coping Scale (Brief RCOPE) is widely used to assess positive (PRC) and negative (NRC) religious coping; however, a validated Malay-language version has not been available. The study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Malay Brief RCOPE (Brief RCOPE-M) among Muslim students in a Foundation in Islamic Studies program at a Malaysian public university. A total of 144 Malay Muslim students (mean age = 18.56±0.50, 72.9% female) participated. The Brief RCOPE underwent forward–backward translation and cultural review. Exploratory factor analysis (principal axis factoring, oblimin rotation) examined factor structure. Reliability was assessed with Cronbach’s alpha, and convergent validity was evaluated through correlations with the Malay versions of the Duke University Religion Index (DUREL-M), Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI-M), and Brief Resilience Scale (BRS-M). Findings supported a two-factor solution consistent with PRC and NRC, with eigenvalues > 1, explaining 61% of the variance. Internal consistency was high (PRC α = 0.93; NRC α = 0.82). PRC was positively correlated to religiosity and resilience, while NRC was positively correlated to burnout and negatively to resilience, supporting convergent and concurrent validity. PRC and NRC were weakly correlated (r = – 0.12), suggesting relative independence. No gender differences between male and female students for PRC and NRC. Overall, the Brief RCOPE-M demonstrated sound psychometric properties and provides a reliable and valid instrument for assessing religious coping among Malay-speaking Muslim populations in Malaysia. Future studies should apply confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and cultural validation to ensure a robust and contextually appropriate instrument.
Copyright (c) 2025 Afkar: Jurnal Akidah dan Pemikiran Islam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A Theological Comparative Exploration of Tolerance in Islam and Buddhism
Religious tolerance is a fundamental ethical principle in both Islam and Buddhism, shaping interfaith relations, governance models, and societal harmony. While both traditions emphasize compassion, patience, and mutual respect, their doctrinal foundations of tolerance differ significantly. Islamic tolerance (tasāmuḥ) is rooted in Islamic monotheism (tawḥīd), divine law (sharīʿah) and prophetic teachings (ḥadīth), where interfaith coexistence is structured within legal and ethical frameworks. The Qur’an (2:256) affirms that “there is no compulsion in religion,” and historical precedents such as the Constitution of Medina institutionalized protections for religious minorities. Conversely, Buddhist tolerance (kṣānti) arises from a nontheistic spiritual path in which moral conduct is governed by karma rather than by divine commandments. Buddhism fosters patience and forbearance as essential virtues in the Bodhisattva ideal and meditative disciplines, emphasizing inner transformation rather than legal enforcement. By analyzing both primary religious texts and contemporary sources, this study highlights common values between Islam and Buddhism, advocating for deeper interfaith dialogue and academic research on universal principles of tolerance. Understanding Islamic and Buddhist tolerance offers valuable frameworks for fostering religious harmony and coexistence in a diverse world.
Digital Doubt and Gendered Moral Policing: Social Media’s Role in Malay Atheist Identity Formation and Its Theological Implications
The perception of atheism as a Western concept faces new challenges as it emerges more visibly in Malaysia’s Malay Muslim-majority society, creating notable socio-cultural impacts. This research examines how online platforms catalyse deconversion, shape atheist worldviews, and reconfigure theological discourse. Using a qualitative case-study design, the researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with six self-identified Malay atheist millennials recruited through purposive snowball sampling, complemented by document analysis and digital ethnography of social media discourse; pseudonyms, encrypted storage and informed consent were used to safeguard anonymity Participants frequently linked their religious disengagement to family dynamics, social pressures, negative experiences with religious institutions, gendered enforcement and digitally mediated exposure to sceptical communities and content. Participants articulated their views in ways that demonstrate rational scepticism and support intellectual freedom. In contrast, participants perceive state and religious institutions as focusing on containment rather than engagement, thereby failing to address root causes. Overall, the research offers a novelty in linking Malay-Muslim socio-legal constraints with digital-mediated atheist identity formation and in specifying the ʿaqidah-level implications of “digital doubt” for how certainty, doubt and religious knowledge are justified in contemporary Malaysia.
An Overview of 'Abd al-Wahhab al-Sha'rani’s Biography and Theological Thought
This study explores the intellectual and theological contributions of ʿAbd al-Wahhāb al-Shaʿrānī (d. 973/1565), a towering figure in post-Mamluk Egypt who bridged the realms of Sufism, Sunni orthodoxy, and legal scholarship. Moving beyond conventional portrayals of al-Shaʿrānī as merely a Sufi or jurist, the research highlights his role as a serious theologian. Through a critical analysis of his key works, al-Yawāqīt wa al-Jawāhir fī Bayān ʿAqāʾid al-Akābir and al-Qawāʿid al-Kashfiyyah al-Muwaḍḍiḥah li Maʿānī al-Ṣifāt al-Ilāhiyyah, the article demonstrates al-Shaʿrānī’s innovative synthesis of Ashʿarī-Māturīdī theology with spiritual insight. His theology articulates a delicate balance between tanzīh (divine transcendence) and tafwīḍ (textual fidelity), addressing complex issues such as the ambiguous Qurʾanic verses, anthropomorphism, divine attributes, and concepts like ḥulūl, ittiḥād, and waḥdat al-wujūd. The study argues that al-Shaʿrānī’s theological architecture not only reaffirmed Sunni orthodoxy but offered a compassionate intellectual framework capable of engaging both elite and popular religiosity. By situating al-Shaʿrānī within the broader canon of Sunni thought, this work calls for renewed scholarly attention to his contributions, particularly regarding the integration of theology, law, and mysticism in early modern Islam.
The Question of Intelligence in the Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence
For more than seven decades, the question of whether it is possible to create intelligent machines has become the central debate in the philosophy of Artificial Intelligence. Many AI researchers, such as Simon and Newell (1958), McCarthy (1978), believe that it is possible to create thinking machines. This view apparently is the mainstream in today’s discourse of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). This study extends the criticisms put forward by Dreyfus (1965), Searle (1980) and Chomsky (2012), who rejected the possibility of creating thinking and conscious machines. The main questions about the definition of intelligence and intellect are expounded especially from the perspective of Islamic tradition. The limitations of modern Western knowledge on the intellect and the reductionist tendency of Western scientists who limit the human mind to physical neurons have brought about confusion on the possibility of modern technology to create machines that are smarter than the smartest human being. To deliberate on this matter, the author refers to the works of scholars in the fields of philosophy and religion who have dealt with the question of human intelligence, culminating in an in-depth account by Muslim philosophers such as al-Ghazali (1058-1111) and al-Attas (born 1931) regarding the nature of human intellect and of knowledge.
Developing An Islamic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) Model to Enhance the Psychological Well-Being of Huffaz Students
©The authors (2025). This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY NC) (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits non-commercial reuse, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. The study examines the relationship between Islamic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), oriented practices and psychological well-being among huffaz students at Maahad Integrasi Tahfiz Istana Bandar, Selangor. Employing a mixed-methods research design, quantitative data were collected using a Psychological Well-being Scale, while qualitative insights were obtained through semi-structured interviews. The quantitative findings indicate varying levels of psychological well-being among the students: 21.13% were classified as having very high well-being, 14.08% as high, 28.17% as moderate, 19.72% as low and 16.90% as very low. Qualitative analysis, however, reveals that huffaz students generally demonstrate positive psychological attributes, particularly self-acceptance, positive interpersonal relationships, autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose in life, and personal growth. These dimensions of well-being appear to be shaped by cultural context, religiosity, social support, and personality traits embedded within the Islamic boarding school environment. The students’ engagement in the Qur’anic memorisation practices, such as talaqqi, tasmi‘ and muraja‘ah, functions as an integrated model of I-CBT by reinforcing cognitive discipline, emotional regulation, and purposeful behavior. The findings suggest that while levels of psychological well-being among huffaz students are not uniformly high, structured religious–cognitive practices within the tahfiz system contribute positively to their overall psychological development. The study highlights the potential of integrating Islamic cognitive-behavioral principles into educational and psychotherapeutic frameworks to support student well-being.
Digitally Connected, Spiritually Rooted: Mubadalah and The Ethics of Communication In Contemporary Muslim Family in Indonesia
Amid the rapid digitalization of everyday life, urban Muslim families in selected Indonesian cities are experiencing a paradox in their communication practices. Digital technologies create new avenues for connection, yet they simultaneously risk weakening affective intimacy and reinforcing patriarchal authority within households. This study examines how digital family communication reflects and challenges traditional power relations through Islamic ethical perspectives, particularly Islamic communication ethics and gender-equitable theology, using the mubadalah approach, which emphasizes mutuality, justice, and compassion in familial relations. Employing a qualitative field research design, the study collected data from 18 informants representing eight Muslim families across Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Cirebon, Bandung, and Makasar through semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis reveals four interrelated dynamics: the shift from physical to digital interaction; the reassertion of patriarchal control through digital devices; the emergence of shared decision-making practices such as shura; and persistent ethical tensions between traditional norms and the transformative possibilities of digital media. The study argues that digital communication in Muslim families is never ethically neutral; it is shaped by spiritual, cultural, and gendered norms. When internalized and practiced in daily interactions, mubadalah values offer a powerful framework for cultivating just, spiritually grounded, and emotionally resilient family relationships in the digital age. These findings highlight the urgency of integrating mubadalah-based ethics into family education programs and gender-sensitive communication pedagogy.
المقاربة الإبستيمولوجية لموضوع علم الاستغراب
This study examines the epistemological foundations and methodological conditions for establishing Occidentalism as a systematic scientific discipline, with the West as its primary subject of research. Focusing on contemporary Islamic thought, it addresses how the Islamic mind can critically engage with Orientalist discourse and construct knowledge about the West. Using analytical, inductive, and critical methods, the study identifies the need to move Occidentalism from mere accumulation of knowledge to a structured science guided by a clear epistemological vision. Key recommendations include distinguishing between the study of the West and the science of Occidentalism, defining its subject and scope, overcoming epistemological obstacles, and integrating insights from both Western and Islamic scholarship to organize and classify its topics systematically.
Integrating Emotional and Spiritual Quotient (ESQ) with Prophetic Values in Human Resource Development
This study aims to analyse the application of prophetic values in human resource development based on Emotional and Spiritual Quotient (ESQ), with the goal of fostering a culture of integrity within Indonesian Islamic educational institutions. Employing an interpretive paradigm and a qualitative case study approach, the research was conducted purposively at a madrasah ‘āliyah (Islamic senior high school). Data were collected through in-depth interviews to explore the conceptualisation and implementation of prophetic values in the context of human resource development. The findings reveal four key processes: (1) understanding and internalising the ethical principles of educators; (2) human resource development through the assessment of social needs, structured coaching programs, expert-led workshops, ESQ evaluation, and performance enhancement of team members; (3) cultivating a culture of commitment, values, and integrity to support a productive and value-based work environment; and (4) conducting training and coaching to enhance competencies, transform paradigms, and promote a worship-oriented (mu‘āmalah) approach to professional duties, aimed at building resilient educational institutions capable of responding to global challenges. This study contributes to the development of prophetic-based human resource strategies by emphasising innovation in coaching practices grounded in fairness, transparency, faith, and accountability.
Analisis Perbandingan Konsep Kebangkitan Roh dan Kebahagiaan Akhirat Dalam Pemikiran Ibn Sina dan Al-Ghazali Menurut Perspektif Psikospiritual Islam
The discourse on the soul is an important topic in Islamic psychology, particularly in the works of al-Kindi, al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, al-Ghazali, and Fakhr al-Din al-Razi. This theme raises two major issues: the concept of soul resuscitation and happiness in the hereafter. Understanding these principles is important for forming an individual's thought, judgment, and behavior habits. Materialistic inclinations in modern civilization have resulted in a variety of moral issues, including selfishness, dishonesty, envy, and a hedonistic culture that prioritizes worldly wealth and pleasure over moral and spiritual ideals. Thus, this article highlights these two issues as defined by two influential Muslim psychologists, Ibn Sina and al-Ghazali, using a qualitative method based on content analysis of their works to assess the continuity of their perspectives on the subject. The study discovers a significant difference between the two thinkers about the resurrection of the soul in the afterlife: Ibn Sina believes that only the soul is resurrected, whereas al-Ghazali believes in the resurrection of both the soul and the body. Nonetheless, both concur that the utmost felicity of the soul in the afterlife is gained through intellectual or spiritual delight, which occurs when the intellect's potential is utilized to acquire real knowledge, resulting in piety and cultivation of noble character. This aligns with the Islamic psychospiritual framework, which emphasises faith in God Almighty and the Hereafter as the basis for spiritual purification; worship as a means of strengthening one’s relationship with God and guiding the intellect toward its proper use; and character (akhlaq) as the manifestation of spiritual intelligence derived from knowledge that leads to piety.
From Controversy to Cohesion: Managing Religious Tension in Malaysia through Socioreligious Harmony Frameworks
In 1938, Samuel P. Huntington notoriously argued that “the great divisions among humankind and the dominating source of conflict will be cultural,” a thesis that has since fuelled misconceptions about the inherent incompatibility of civilizations based on religious, ethnic, and racial differences. This perspective has particularly negatively impacted views of Islam when he added that “the crescent-shaped Islamic bloc, from the bulge of Africa to central Asia, has bloody borders.” Using a qualitative, library-based research approach, this article explores the contemporary challenges of religious tensions in Malaysia. It investigates whether meaningful interreligious coexistence is viable in a multi-religious country. These challenges, including prejudice and stereotyping, can be addressed through a comprehensive understanding of socio-religious harmony in Islamic perspectives that can be formulated by engaging with the commonalities perspective of religion, the principle of human brotherhood, the value of mutual tolerance (tasamuh), the role of dialogue and peaceful coexistence (fiqh al-ta‘ayush). Practical methods for implementing these values include interfaith education, community engagement, inclusive policymaking, and dialogue platforms that resonate with local cultural contexts. Together, these elements contribute to an integrated framework of harmonious socio-religious relations.
Reviewing Religious Pluralism Through A Qur’anic Approach: The Relevance of Hamka’s Tafsir Al-Azhar in Indonesia and Malaysia
This research examines the Qur’anic approach to interreligious relations through an in-depth analysis of Hamka’s Tafsir al-Azhar. The relevance of this study becomes evident considering that religious diversity often triggers conflict and intolerance, as seen in Indonesia and Malaysia. On the other hand, Western approaches, such as religious pluralism, frequently spark controversy and rejection among religious adherents because they are perceived to blur theological boundaries between religions and contradict religious doctrines. Therefore, an approach grounded in religion is more relevant for fostering constructive interreligious relations. The research methodology is qualitative, involving a literature review of Tafsir al-Azhar and related writings, along with content analysis. The results of this investigation imply that religious pluralism is unsuitable as an approach for building interreligious relations in Indonesia and Malaysia, given the doctrinal conflicts it poses with the beliefs of various religions. In contrast, a religiously grounded approach, particularly as reflected in the Holy Qur’an through Hamka's Tafsir al-Azhar, is more relevant for creating harmonious interreligious relationships. This approach incorporates key Qur'anic concepts, such as tasāmuḥ/samāḥah (tolerance), ḥuriyyah (freedom), salām (peace), ‘adālah (justice), iḥsān (benevolence), and wasatiyah (moderation).
The Qur’anic Concept of Mīthāq in the Critique of Modernity: A Comparative Study of Al-Attas and Taha Abdurrahman
Modernity is a fundamental issue in contemporary Islamic thought, particularly due to its secular and rationalist nature that stands in contrast to the metaphysical foundations of Islam. Originating from Western post-Renaissance civilisation, modernity introduces a worldview that marginalises transcendent values and promotes the separation between religion and public life. This article aims to comparatively analyse the critical responses of two prominent Muslim thinkers, Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas and Taha Abdurrahman, to Western modernity, with particular emphasis on the concept of mīthāq (primordial covenant) as an ontological and ethical foundation for Islamic civilisation. Employing a qualitative method and discourse analysis of their primary texts, this study finds that although both scholars agree on the metaphysical disorientation of modernity and its consequences for moral and epistemological crises, they differ in their approaches. Abdurrahman proposes an ethical paradigm rooted in qalb, while al-Attas advocates for the Islamisation of knowledge based on revelation. Both thinkers ground their critiques in the awareness of mīthāq as a spiritual bond between human beings and God, which forms the basis for ethics, knowledge, and social order in Islam. Thus, their critiques of modernity are not merely socio-political but constitute a metaphysical reconstruction that reorients human responsibility toward the divine order.
أهمية العامل الروحي ودوره في المشروع الحضاري للمفكر مالك بن نبي
The Islamic thinker Malek Bennabi (1905–1973) proposed a comprehensive civilizational project for the Islamic Ummah, aiming to halt its decline, revive its vitality, and elevate it from its setbacks, ultimately paving the way for its renaissance and reestablishing its position among advanced nations. A key pillar of this project was the concept of the effective civilizational individual, with Bennabi emphasising education, self-reform, and moral development as essential paths to cultivating such individuals. To complete his vision, Bennabi underscored the importance of the spiritual factor in both the genesis and sustainability of civilisations, considering it a foundational element alongside the intellectual factor. He observed that the spiritual factor had unified the desert Arabs and forged the cohesion of the Islamic Ummah. In contrast, the decline of this spiritual dimension was, in his view, a significant cause of the Ummah’s stagnation and regression. However, despite his strong emphasis on the spiritual factor within the collective civilizational framework, Bennabi did not devote equal attention to the spiritual development of the individual. Accordingly, this study seeks to illuminate the role of the spiritual factor in Bennabi’s civilizational thought, investigate the reasons for his limited focus on the individual’s spiritual reformation, and explore the foundational concepts and methodologies for addressing this dimension.
Pensabitan Makna dalam Perbahasan Epistemologi Ahli Sunah Waljamaah
The first principle of the creed of Ahli Sunnah wa al-Jama‘ah is affirmation of the meaning of reality and knowledge. This affirmation of the meaning of reality and knowledge is discussed at the beginning of Usul al-Din by Abu Mansur al-Baghdadi, who represents the Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama‘ah tradition, stating that the meaning of reality and knowledge of things can be firmly established. However, Muslim liberal thinkers such as Abou El Fadl, Ebrahim Moosa, Abdul Karim Soroush, and Zainah Anwar present differing conceptions towards affirmation of meaning. Their views are influenced by postmodernist thought that upholds epistemic doubt (scepticism), truth as limited by individual perspective (subjectivism), and the rejection of absolute truth (relativism). This study demonstrates that the affirmation of meaning is indispensable within Islamic epistemology. The absence of such affirmation would fail the cognition of the knower, thereby preventing it from constituting valid knowledge.
Reinterpreting the Islamic Sufi Calendar: The Science of Letters in the Hijri Calendar between Ṭarīqah Qādiriyah and Ṭarīqah Qādiriyah Naqshbandiyah
There are twelve names of the months in the Islamic Hijrī Calendar, i.e., Muḥarram, Ṣafar, Rabī‘ al-Awwal, Rabī‘ al-Ākhir, Jumād al-Ūlā, Jumād al-Ākhir, Rajab, Sha‘bān, Ramaḍān, Syawwāl, Dhū al-Qai’dah, and Dhū al-Ḥijjah. Although this is an exhaustively discussed topic, it is quite rare to analyze it using the perspective of the Science of Letters (‘Ilm al-Ḥurūfī). Two reputable Sufi ṭarīqah that interpreted the meanings in Sufism of every letter composing the names of the Hijrī months are Ṭarīqah Qādiriyah (TQ) and Ṭarīqah Qādiriyah Naqshbandiyah (TQN), respectively represented by Shaykh ‘Abd al-Qādir al-Jīlānī (Jīlānī) and Muḥammad ‘Abd al-Gaos Sayfullāh Maslūl (Gaos). In light of this, the current paper discusses the comparison between TQ and TQN by exploring Jīlānī and Gaos’ thoughts on the Science of Letters in the Hijrī Calendar. This article employed a qualitative approach and utilised original data sources from the treatises of Jīlānī, titled al-Ghunyah, and from Gaos, titled Faḍā’il al-Shuhūr. This study is distinctive as four methods were used in its analyses, i.e., comparison, the Science of Letters (‘Ilm al-Ḥurūfī), mystical trio relations (Allāh-Muḥammad-Mu’min/Rajab-Sha‘bān-Ramaḍān), and triangulation of experts in Sufi thoughts. This article proposes an Islamic Sufi Calendar based on the Science of Letters in the Hijrī Calendar. The findings of this study have implications for a deeper understanding of the Sufi meanings behind the names of Hijrī months.
Historical and Spiritual Manifestations of Mawlud Celebrations in The Republic of Kosovo
The spiritual heritage and ethno-cultural richness of Kosovo are both deep and diverse, manifested through various layers of tradition and practice. Among these is the long-standing tradition of celebrating Mawlud, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This practice, which has been present in the region for generations, is distinguished by unique characteristics and cultural expressions that hold significant value for the spiritual life of the Muslim community in Kosovo. The historical development, features, and specific forms of Mawlud celebrations, such as the recitation of poetry and singing about the life of the Prophet (PBUH), have played a vital role in preserving Islamic identity and transmitting religious teachings, particularly during the communist period when religious expression was restricted. This article analyses how Mawlud has been organised and celebrated, highlighting its importance in sustaining Islamic culture and community life. The research methodology is primarily based on empirical fieldwork and library research. Interviews were conducted with imams and elder community members who have witnessed or participated in Mawlud traditions. In addition to oral sources, the study draws upon published literature by reputable scholars and examines original vakifnames (or waqfiyyahs), some of the oldest surviving manuscript documents from the 16th century.
The Ihsan Hadith as The Spiritual Foundation of Muraqabah: A Comparative Study with Contemporary Mindfulness
This study investigates muraqabah as an Islamic form of mindfulness by analyzing the Hadith of Ihsan (Hadith of Jibril) as recorded in Sahih Muslim. Employing a qualitative methodology grounded in a subjective hermeneutic approach, the study interprets ihsan as a theocentric mode of consciousness defined by continuous awareness of divine presence and oversight, articulated in the prophetic statement: “To worship Allah as though you see Him; and if you do not see Him, then know that He sees you.” The findings demonstrate that while muraqabah shares functional similarities with contemporary mindfulness, such as enhancing inner tranquillity, emotional regulation, and attentiveness, it is fundamentally distinct in its transcendental orientation toward Allah. Rather than self-referential awareness, Islamic mindfulness is rooted in divine awareness (muraqabah), sincerity (ikhlas), and spiritual intensity, positioning consciousness within a relational and ethical framework. Core religious practices, including prayer (salah), Qur’anic recitation, remembrance (dhikr), and self-accountability (muhasabah), function as practical mechanisms for cultivating mindfulness within the paradigm of ihsan, deepening devotion and moral sensitivity. Unlike secular mindfulness approaches, which primarily prioritise psychological well-being and stress reduction, muraqabah integrates spiritual, ethical, and psychological dimensions within a holistic Islamic worldview. The study further highlights the relevance of Ihsan-based mindfulness for contemporary Islamic psychospiritual and therapeutic contexts, particularly in addressing anxiety and fostering emotional balance. Ultimately, this research affirms that the Hadith of Ihsan constitutes the foundational framework for muraqabah, offering comprehensive guidance for both the spiritual cultivation and social conduct of Muslims in modern life.
Pengaplikasian Maqasid al-Tasdiq Ilmu Mantik dalam Penghujahan (Burhan) Sifat Nafsiyyah: Analisis Kitab Risalah al-Tawhid
This paper discusses the sifat nafsiyyah (essential attributes), one of the attributes that must be affirmed for Allah SWT, and the evidence applied based on the demonstrative principles of logic (burhan). This qualitative study employs a textual analysis method focusing on Risalah al-Tawhid by Abdul Ghani Yahya and Umar Yusuf, as well as classical works on mantiq, such as Idah al-Mubham and Hashiyah al-Bayjuri ʿala al-Sullam al-Murawnaq. The discussion focuses on a detailed explanation (tafsil) of the sifat nafsiyyah according to scholars of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jamaʿah. Logical elements, particularly maqasid al-tasdiq, are applied in elaborating the burhan (demonstration) of the sifat nafsiyyah. In conclusion, the detailed evidential exposition of the sifat nafsiyyah in Risalah al-Tawhid includes elements of qiyas al-iqtirani and qiyas al-istithnaʿi or qiyas al-sharti in proving the creativeness of the universe, substances (jirm), and accidents (ʿarad).
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Reassessing The Translation of Anthropomorphic Verses in The Quran by N. J. Dawood: A Critical and Comparative Analysis
This study critically examines the translation of anthropomorphic verses in the Quran by N. J. Dawood, a Jewish Orientalist whose widely distributed English version, The Koran, has attracted attention for its theological implications. Grounded in the Islamic doctrine of tanzīh, which emphasises the absolute transcendence and incomparability of God, the study analyses 31 Quranic verses that contain anthropomorphic expressions. Through comparative textual analysis, Dawood’s interpretations are evaluated against those of two Muslim translators, namely, The Noble Quran by Muhammad Taqi al-Din al-Hilali and Muhsin Khan, representing the Salaf tradition, and The Quran: A New Translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem, which aligns with Ashʿarite theology. The findings reveal that Dawood’s renderings often lack theological consistency, with lexical substitutions, inconsistent capitalisation of divine references, and interpretive choices that introduce anthropomorphic imagery. In several instances, his translations are further influenced by Judeo-Christian narrative parallels, leading to doctrinal misrepresentations. The study argues that Dawood’s omission of classical Islamic sources such as tafsīr and ḥadīth literature results in theological distortions. It concludes that translations of Quranic verses involving divine attributes must be grounded in traditional Islamic hermeneutics to ensure linguistic integrity and preserve the foundational tenets of Islamic theology.
The Essence of The Ummah Principle: Islam and The Foundation of Inclusive Social Systems
This article explores the essence of the ummah principle in the geopolitical dissemination of Islam during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is achieved through an analysis of Qur’anic verses related to human nature and worldview, alongside examining the resulting international social pattern of “Unity + Plurality” as reflected in the Sunnah, utilizing both inductive and deductive methodologies. The research yields three key conclusions: 1. The Qur’anic principle of “no compulsion in religion” is a fundamental policy guideline for Islamic countries and governments throughout history, fostering harmonious coexistence among diverse communities. 2. Islam provides a successful model of “human rights + social standards” through the dualism of “metaphysics + physics,” integrating the spiritual and material dimensions of its teachings organically. 3. Islam constructs an inclusive social system rooted in justice, ensuring its functionality through the principles of “de-sectarianism,” “de-clanalism,” and “de-racism.”.
Copyright (c) 2024 Afkar: Jurnal Akidah dan Pemikiran Islam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Penerapan Nilai dan Adab dalam Manuskrip Melayu-Islam: Suatu Analisis Terhadap MSS 4291(A) Tahdhir Al-Walad
During the era of manuscript writing in the Malay Archipelago from the 16th to the 19th century, various texts were produced by Malay scholars. This is evidenced by the discovery of various Malay manuscripts in all aspects of knowledge. Among the unique features of the works produced, particularly the manuscripts in sastera kitab genre, the writings that are based on values and aim to instil good manners (adab) to the readers. The production of works like this is extensive, not only in prose form but also in other forms, such as poetry, syair (traditional Malay poetry), and nazam (a type of poetic recitation). Therefore, this article will discuss the implementation of values and manners in one of the Malay-Islamic manuscripts from the National Library of Malaysia's collection, MSS 4291(A), entitled Taḥdhīr al-Walad. This manuscript is written in the form of poetry that contains explanations about the core values and manners that should be instilled in students and society. It is written using the Arabic language and accompanied by interlinear translations to facilitate understanding for new students and readers. This article applied manuscript studies methods, including codicological analysis to examine the physical aspects and historical background of the manuscript, as well as philological analysis to transliterate the text from Arabic and Jawi script to Roman script. Content analysis is then used to explore the key values and the application of manners in the poetic text of Taḥdhīr al-Walad. Through the study of the manuscript and textual analysis, the aim is to highlight the values and manners embodied in Malay-Islamic manuscripts, specifically in the form of poetry and syair, and to make these values accessible and applicable to contemporary society.
Panduan Kunjungan ke Rumah Ibadat Bukan Islam oleh Masyarakat Muslim di Malaysia: Tinjauan Perspektif Akidah-Perbandingan Agama, Fiqh dan Undang-Undang
This paper examines the issue of Muslim visits to non-Muslim places of worship within the context of Malaysia’s pluralistic society. While the academic discipline of Comparative Religion plays a significant role in promoting interfaith understanding, the implementation of such visits must be carefully scrutinized from various angles, including Islamic creed (ʿaqīdah), religious study, jurisprudence (fiqh), legal considerations and local cultural sensitivities. The paper underscores the importance of applying the principle of sadd al-dharā’iʿ (blocking the means to potential harm) to avoid doctrinal confusion and the risk of tashabbuh (imitation of non-Islamic religious rituals), especially when the visits involve members of the public or students who may lack adequate guidance. In this regard, the presence of qualified experts in ʿaqīdah, fiqh, and Comparative Religion is essential to ensure that Islamic legal boundaries are respected and that the intended message of harmony is conveyed accurately. Furthermore, the paper proposes clear guidelines for visits to churches, Hindu temples, Buddhist and Taoist temples and gurdwaras, as a preliminary step towards more cautious and structured implementation. It concludes by urging state religious authorities to take proactive measures by initiating dialogues with relevant stakeholders to develop a comprehensive framework that preserves the integrity of Islamic belief while fostering interfaith understanding and coexistence in Malaysia.
Reassesing Women’s Humanity: A Comparative Study of Islamic Teaching and Societal Perceptions
The societal perspective on women encompasses a wide array of beliefs, attitudes, and practices that influence their roles and status within various cultures. These issues highlight the gap between Islamic teachings and societal practices, underscoring the need for a deeper understanding of Islamic principles regarding women’s rights and the importance of addressing cultural biases that hinder women’s progress. Hence, this article explores the concept of women’s humanity within the context of Islam and society. It addresses the historical and contemporary treatment of women, highlighting the frequent justification of various forms of oppression and subjugation in the name of religion. The aim is to clarify the Islamic view of women and compare it with societal perceptions, examining the reasons behind these views and offering a critique. Through critically examining relevant issues, the study reveals the apparent differences between the Islamic perspective and societal views on women. It emphasizes the need to reassess women’s roles through the overarching objectives of Shari‘ah (maqasid al-shari‘ah), asserting that recognizing women’s humanity is essential for the renewal of Islamic thought and the reform of societal realities. Therefore, women’s issues in Islamic sciences (shari’ah) must be re-examined using a framework based on core Islamic sources, namely the Qur’an and Sunnah.
The Dichotomy of Juz’i and Kulli in the Subject of Islamic Theology: A Preliminary Proposal
This article examines the inclusion of kulli (universal) and juz’i (particular) aspects in kalam (Islamic theology). Many theologians after al-Ghazali have emphasized the universality of kalam within the Islamic sciences. Kalam aims to offer rational justifications for the existence and unity of Allah SWT, the mission of the Prophet (PBUH), and the divine origin of the Qur’an. Other fields in Islamic studies require evidence from kalam to support their arguments, while kalam is considered a kulli source of legitimacy. However, some kalam issues derive solely from textual sources, similar to other Islamic sciences. This article presents these topics as a juz’i aspect of kalam. Studying past and present theologians' practices exposes methodological distinctions between kulli and juz’i issues. Given that ahad sources is utilized in specific subjects, it can be posited that the mutakallimun’s comprehension of ‘knowledge’ pertains to the kulli subjects of kalam. This differentiation may also contribute to distinguishing between kalam and ‘aqa’id.
Investigating the Phenomenological Scientific Methodology in the Comparative Study of Religion: An Islamic Perspective
This paper aims to investigate the phenomenological scientific methodology in the study of religion, to ascertain its origin, development, and application from an Islamic perspective. Its goal is to identify the methods used in the study of religion by phenomenologists and then analyse them in the light of Islam, its sources, and the writings of selected Muslim scholars. The study employs both descriptive and analytical methods. The focus of discussion is on (1) the phenomenology of religion, its genesis and meaning; (2) the key characteristics of phenomenological scientific methodology in the study of religion; and (3) analyzing its two key concepts, i.e., the epoché and the eidetic vision from the Islamic point of view. It is argued that studying phenomenological techniques from an Islamic perspective enables researchers to recognise both the negative and positive aspects of the methodology and to understand this area of study more effectively when conducting religious studies. This paper concludes that, although there are strong refutations against the phenomenological scientific methodology of comparative religious studies from an Islamic perspective, it also has an acceptable level.
Development of Palliative Care Holistic Manual Guidelines Based on Islamic Psychospirituality
Palliative care is an approach that aims to improve the quality of life for patients and their families facing problems related to life-threatening illnesses. This article aims to study the expert consensus on the necessary elements that should form part of the manual guideline of care for palliative patients from an Islamic perspective. A discussion is outlined on the application of Islamic psychospiritual knowledge in building patient resilience to improve their quality of life. The methodology applied in this research was a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches, utilising the design and development research (DDR) approach by Richey and Klein. Literature study was used to develop the Islamic Psychospiritual manual for holistic care. The research began with the first phase, known as need analysis, which involved administering a questionnaire to assess the need for this manual among patients and caregivers. The second phase involved manual development through expert discussion, and a set of questionnaires was subsequently administered to experts to test the usability of the manual for the third phase of DDR. The results of the study were analysed using the Fuzzy Delphi Method. The findings demonstrate that all items listed as elements of healthcare needs-namely, physical, psychological, spiritual, emotional, social, and logistical-are accepted and essential for improving patient endurance. The results of this study provide relevant information and guidelines in the manual for health service providers and parties involved in caregiving, aiming to optimise aspects of care for patients. In addition, the results of this study can provide information to non-governmental organisations in the provision of social volunteer services to help patients deal with the difficulties of health challenges. This study highlights the importance of holistic care in enhancing the quality of life for patients. The manual guidelines that have been developed can be used by all categories of caregivers to improve the quality of life. This manual was included with the guidelines highlighted by Islam regarding faith, worship, and akhlaq during times of pain and struggle to achieve well-being in life.
Origin of Tasawwuf (Sufism) and Critiquing The Thesis of Transition from Zuhd
The origins of tasawwuf have long been a subject of debate in scholarly circles, with prevailing views suggesting that it emerged as a later development influenced by the concept of zuhd. This article challenges this commonly held view, arguing that such assertions are rooted in a superficial reading of Islamic sources and the earlier literature on tasawwuf. By probing deeper into the original sources and the accounts of classical Sufi masters, this article seeks to demonstrate that tasawwuf cannot simply be regarded as a transitional stage from zuhd, influenced by various internal and/or external factors. Instead, it is an integral part of the religion of Islam, embodied in the notion of ihsan, which is the spiritual ideal of Islamic faith and practice. In its discussion, the article will briefly touch upon what the author believes to be the factors that have led to the misreading and misrepresentation of the history of tasawwuf in both Western and many Muslim writings. Departures from unchecked preconceived notions, and the use of Western concepts and categorizations—belonging to a different cultural context—in studying tasawwuf are identified as some of these factors. By relying on original sources and employing a historical-critical method, this paper aims to clarify that tasawwuf is, in essence, the art of realizing ihsan in theory and practice. As such, it originated with Islam, though its nomenclature and organizational structures may have developed later.
التصوف الإسلامي المعاصر برؤية الطريقة الكسنزانية
Sufism has become a focal point for researchers seeking its invaluable benefits, as it offers solutions to numerous societal problems. This study explores modern Sufism, particularly amidst the intellectual turmoil and conflicts prevalent in contemporary societies. Emphasizing modern Sufism’s ability to nurture hearts and cultivate good values and morals is crucial in such contexts. While many Sufi groups worldwide focus inwardly on the soul and heart, al-Tariqah al-Kasanzaniyyah offers a modern Sufism perspective and method capable of addressing contemporary challenges. This study aims to present the concepts adopted by al-Tariqah al-Kasanzaniyyah in treating hearts and reforming societies through its integrated Sufism approach, serving as a model for other Sufi tariqats. The researcher employed an interview as a research method to collect authentic information, including personal interviews with the Shaykh of the tariqah and its students. In addition, the descriptive-analysis method is used to analyze the writings about Tariqah al-Kasanzaniyyah and the teachings of the shaykh. The study concludes that Sufism, according to Shaykh Muhammad al-Muhammad al-Kasanzan, aims to fulfill the objectives of the Muhammadiyah message at all life levels, from individuals to society, thereby achieving the essence of the Islamic message and spreading goodness, mercy, and love for all humanity.
ضرورة الفكر المقاصدي المعاصر في ترسيخ مبادئ الحضارة الإنسانية: دراسة تحليلية في ضوء التجربة الماليزية
Contemporary purposive thought is characterized by deep understanding and analysis of matters in a logical way that corresponds to reality. It offers solutions that align with the priorities of human civilization. This research aims to elucidate contemporary purposive thought in its modern directions, highlighting its most important fields, namely: the domains of purposive thought in beliefs, ethics, legal politics, and financial transactions. It also examines the Malaysian experience in light of these fields, showcasing the endeavors of Malaysians, both people and government, in adopting the approach of purposive thought to comprehend and articulate reality, as well as to devise solutions for it. The Malaysian civilization was constructed, its people’s renaissance occurred, and its successful experience was showcased to the world. The research demonstrates the aspects through which the construction of society and human civilization is assessed, utilizing a deductive analytical approach. Contemporary purposive thought was deduced from contemporary scholars of maqasid (purposes) and analyzed in light of the Malaysian experience. The research concludes by suggesting solutions for nation-building through the unique Malaysian experience, which, if implemented in reality, would yield individual and societal development. This can be accomplished by adhering to the principles of contemporary purposive thought, which empowers humans as active participants and beneficiaries within the universe, as everything in this universe exists to serve humanity.