Afkar: Jurnal Akidah & Pemikiran Islam

Exploring Opportunities and Risks of Artificial Intelligence Research for Islamic Ethical Guidelines

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is expanding exponentially. AI has continuously transformed the human lifestyle from chatbots, driverless vehicles, robots, autonomous weapons constructions, etc. The transformation has driven the development of guidelines from various fields to govern AI research and development but is limited from Islamic perspectives. Hence, this study aims to fill the gap by reviewing contemporary perspectives on AI opportunities and risks. A qualitative exploration using content design analysis on related literature was conducted to ascertain the extent of AI utilisations by applying used, overused, or misused. The findings were coded in juxtapositions that led to the discussion on the need for an Islamic frame of reference in ethically guiding AI-related research. Maqasid al-Shari‘ah is recommended as the parameter and to be integrated with other disciplines to tackle the wide-ranging ethical issues in AI to protect human rights and interests, particularly in the global Muslim community. The absence calls for developing a credible and robust framework to serve as an Islamic ethical guideline for AI research.

Divine Names as the Standard of Ethics: A Translation of Ibn al-‘Arabī’s Concise Explanation of al-Asmā’ al-Ḥusnā

Mohd Sani Badron — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

The article submits that one of the most interesting notions in Islām is that the Names and Attributes of Allāh, also function as the standard of ethical manners and praiseworthy deeds. In order to clarify this notion—wherein there is an inevitable continuity of theology, worship and ethics—this article presents a translation of Ibn al-ʿArabī’s (560/1165—638/1240) concise explanation of the Divine Names (al-asmāʾul-ḥusnā). Given the fact that by his own claim, Ibn al-ʿArabī is ‘the seal of Muḥammadan sainthood’ (Khātim al-Awliyāʾ al-Muḥammadiyyah), and by his followers’ estimation ‘the supreme preceptor’ (al-Shaykh al-Akbar), the annotated translation’s contribution to present-day knowledge includes his notion of the oneness of the Divinity, list of some of the Divine Names, and understanding of their realities and meanings. At that ontological plane of the Divine Oneness, the Essence describes Himself according to His Beautiful Names and Sublime Attributes, all of which require recognition and acknowledgement by His servants for their own well-being in relation to takhallaqū bi-akhlāqillāh.

A Comparative Study on the Notion of Dialogue in Islam and Buddhism

Ahmad Faizuddin Ramli, Mohamed Ashath, Ahmad Moghri — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Interfaith dialogue is a vital tool for promoting understanding and cooperation between different religious communities. This article presents a comparative study of the Islamic and Buddhist perspectives on interfaith dialogue. Drawing on primary sources from both religions, this study explores the theological foundations of interfaith dialogue and the practical strategies employed by Muslims and Buddhists in promoting interfaith understanding. The similarities and differences between the two religions’ approaches to interfaith dialogue are analysed, examining how their respective beliefs, practices, and histories shape their attitudes toward religious diversity. The research design is qualitative using library research by emphasizing content analysis on Islam and Buddhism scripture. The results show that the Islamic paradigm of interreligious dialogue is da‘wah (propagation, invitation or introducing Islam) which is rooted in Tawhid, in contrast, Buddhism promotes liberation from human suffering which is rooted in Bhavana and mindfulness. The study contributes to the principle of interfaith dialogue and provides insights into the potential of interfaith relations for sustaining harmony, peace, and mutual respect in diverse societies. Studies suggest the understanding of each fundamental to encourage Muslim and Buddhist scholars to produce comprehensive interreligious dialogue, theologically and philosophically.

Malay-European Interfaith Discourse in Historical Perspective

Muhammad Mustaqim Mohd Zarif — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

As a multiracial country, Malaysia faces pressing trans-religious issues that could lead to tensions and conflicts if not properly managed. While acknowledging the importance of interfaith discourse and interreligious relations, current initiatives taken are yet to achieve its intended aims due to resistance from certain segments of the Muslims that viewed those initiatives as a direct threat to the supremacy of Islam in the country. At the same time, it is found that not much consideration is given to the social and historical experiences of the local populace in this matter, especially in the periods prior to the 20th century. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the nature of historical and social encounters between the Malay-Muslims and European Christians in terms of their perception and attitude towards other religions; identify cases of interfaith discourse and analyse its socio-political settings; and asses the role of the rulers and ulama in influencing the direction of interfaith discourse among the Malays. It is hoped that this historical reconstruction will help enrich our understanding of the nature, issues, and challenges faced today and charting the future direction of the interfaith dialogue in the country.

Revisiting Social Justice: Exploring the Qur’anic Paradigm in Addressing Contemporary Challenges

Juliyana Junaidi, Latifah Abdul Majid, Mohd Arif Nazri — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Freedom, equality, and fraternity serve as fundamental pillars within discussions on social justice, yet in the contemporary era, these principles have been greatly undermined, leading to increased social injustice within the realms of social, politics and economics. One contributing factor to this phenomenon is the predominant reliance on secular approaches to address social justice issues, neglecting the potential role of divine guidance found in the Qur’an. Despite being a comprehensive reference encompassing principle of social justice, the Qur’an has been largely overlooked as a source for solutions in the modern era. Therefore, this article aims to examine the Qur’anic paradigm of social justice that hold the potential to address the social justice challenges prevalent in the modern generation. This qualitative study employs content analysis as a primary methodology, supplemented by descriptive and thematic analysis to present the gathered data. Initially, social justice issues are identified, followed by an analysis of relevant Qur’anic verses using Qur’anic commentary books and related sources. The findings highlight fifteen Qur’anic verses that are intricately linked to the principles of social justice within the Qur’an, including the dignified ranking of humanity, freedom of humanity, equitable distribution of wealth and opportunities, and the respect for human rights.

Illumination of Divine Love: Rediscovering the Hikmats of Sufi Ahmad Yasawi

Zuhriddin Juraev, Young-Jin Ahn — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Divine love, rooted in religious and spiritual traditions, remains relevant today as it represents unconditional, selfless love and fosters empathy, compassion, and understanding among individuals. Embracing the principles of divine love can promote unity, tolerance, and interdependence, fostering global harmony and peace. This study uses a philosophical framework to examine the complex concept of divine love, specifically looking at the historical development and subtle meanings of love-related terms in Islamic Sufi literature. Special attention is given to Sufi poetry, specifically the works of the renowned mystic Shaykh Ahmad Yasawi and his 12th-century collection, Devon-i Hikmat or Hikmats, which are highly respected in Turkish culture. The research explores the stages of love and offers philosophical interpretations to understand the complex implications and profound nature of this concept. This study enhances our understanding of Sufi literature’s perspective on divine love by emphasizing its enduring significance as a universal and timeless facet of human experience that transcends temporal and cultural boundaries. Consequently, it fosters a profound understanding and appreciation for the enduring themes and cultural heritage found in Turkic Sufi poetry. The research highlights the lasting significance of divine love and the cultivation of deep respect for the timeless themes and rich cultural heritage found in Turkic Sufi poetry.

The Relevance of Contemporary Epistemology on Existing Knowledge: A Critical Analysis of Western Scientific Worldview according to al-Attas Perspective

Jarman Arroisi, Hamid Fahmy Zarkasyi, Winda Roini — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

The progress of modern science and technology is considered very significant and provides convenience in every aspect. However, science has become the biggest challenge because it requires relevance to religion. The disparity between science and religion creates a dilemma, resulting in the secularization of science. This study aims to critically analyze the epistemology of Western science from the perspective of Al-Attas, which is specifically considered problematic by him. The method used in this research was content analysis, while the approach used was a critical approach. The results of this study prove that the paradigm of science is closely related to worldview. This proves that modern science and technology are not neutral and devoid of values, including religion. This has an impact on changing the way humans view and think about science and life, resulting in the deconsecration of value, desacralization, and disenchantment of nature. To map out the epistemological and Western worldview problems, al-Attas offers the Islamization of contemporary science and the epistemology of Islamic science to answer the problem of the existence of contemporary science epistemology.

Quantum Integration Model for Religion and Science

Achmad Khudori Soleh — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

The integration of religion and science has not been fully developed. Several models of integrating religion and science seem to contain fundamental weaknesses. This article aims to discuss an alternative integration called quantum integration. This research is a literature review using content analysis based on primary sources. The research results show that quantum integration consists of three structures: the principle of the unity of religion and science, an open attitude between scientists and religious leaders, and theistic values. This integration structure encapsulates three fundamental principles and three philosophical constructs. The three fundamental principles in question are the principle of non-contradictory between religion and science, equality, and mutual need. The three philosophical constructs consist of an un-materialistic worldview, a unified source of knowledge, openness, and theistic values. Based on its principles, philosophical construction, and structure, quantum integration can create a solid and balanced integration of religion and science that contains divine values. Quantum integration can fill in the gaps in previous models of integration of religion and science.

Analisa Perumusan Konsep Ketuhanan Menurut Perspektif Thomas Beighton (1790-1844) Dalam Karya Inilah Kunci Pengempar (1841)

Siti Nor Aisyah Ngadiran, Tatiana A. Denisova — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Writing and printing are among the fields pioneered by the London Missionary Society (LMS) missionaries since their arrival in the Straits Settlements at the beginning of the 19^th century AD. Thomas Beighton (1790-1844) was involved in this role, particularly within the Malay Muslim community of Penang. This required from Beighton, a mastery of the Malay language and Jawi script, which enabled him to produce a large number of works in that language. Therefore, this study which uses textual content analysis will concentrate on one of Beighton’s works dealing with the concept of divinity entitled, Inilah Kunci Pengempar (This is the Centrifugal’s Key), published in Penang in 1841. Through this work, Beighton has used a metaphysical approach in his writing to spread Christianity in the country. As a result, Beighton was discovered attempting to apply the concept of divinity based on the concept of trinity, which refers to God: the Father (Allah), Son of God (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit in all descriptions. This shows the efforts of the Christian missionaries at that time, who were enthusiastic about spreading the religion, including learning Arabic and comprehending certain concepts in both divine matters and Islamic law (the Shari‘ah).

Pemikiran Ulama Muta’akhkhirin Berhubung Pengamalan Konsep Talfiq Dalam Penyelesaian Hukum Syarak

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Talfiq is one of the methodologies to create the resolution of hukm based on the treasure of fiqh introduced by classical Islamic scholars. Despite that, the use of this methodology is still debatable and remains as mahal al-khilaf by scholars. The mut’akhkhirin scholars are most of the numerous groups that are against this concept. This contradicts the modern scholars who tend to adopt this concept to arrive at an opinion that is suitable with modern and current issues. Therefore, this article will analyse several views from the muta’akhkhirin scholars regarding the use of talfiq. This study was conducted with the qualitative method, collecting data from turath literature (classical textbooks) written by the muta’akhkhirin scholars, and it will end with analyse with the thematic methods. The result of the study found that the stick of view by the muta’akhkhirin scholars against the practice of talfiq has their own basis. The study found three main bases against the practice of talfiq; 1. The use of talfiq will lead to arriving at an opinion that is rejected by the majority of the scholars; 2. The use of the talfiq will lead to the practice of tatabbu‘ al-rukhas; and 3. The use of talfiq will lead to harm to religion.

Hoax from the Perspective of Islamic Legal Thought: Reactivating Qat‘i-Zanni in the Post-Truth Era

Hijrian Angga Prihantoro, Fuad Mustafid — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

The widespread dissemination of news in the Post-Truth era, relying on content and the speed of sharing without critically questioning its source or the transmitter, has an impact on subjective claims of truth that are prone to causing conflicts. This article discusses the issue of the spread of hoaxes in the Post-Truth era from an Islamic legal perspective. This study investigates the criteria by which news (al-khabar) is deemed true or false based on its source and transmitter. It highlights the importance of using qat‘i-zanni (definitive-presumptive) reasoning to assess the credibility of news sources and the quality of their transmitters as a procedure for analyzing the truthfulness of reported information. Through a combination of qualitative methods from Islamic legal literature and modern philosophy, the research finds that qat‘i-zanni reasoning can be used critically to determine the validity of information in the digital age. The conclusion suggests that all information shared in the Post-Truth era should be treated as presumptive, not definitive.

Reaffirming the Concept of Plurality in the Qur’an and its Practice in the Sunnah

Wang Yongbao — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

The main purpose of this article is to explore as well as analyse the concept of plurality in the Qur’an around four specific issues through the inductive methodology of analyzing literature. First, how does the Islamic civilization as founded on special beliefs, which differ from those that often force the ruled people to follow the beliefs of the ruling class to the greatest extent possible? Second, under the social pluralistic system of Islam, can all people, regardless of their religious background, ethnic identity, and racial color, be fully respected and protected? Third, can citizens live in Islamic countries freely survive, possess wealth, and actively contribute to society? Fourth, what is the ideology that has driven this pluralistic social governance system to continue for more than one thousand and four hundred years in Islamic countries? By discussing these issues, the conclusion drawn in this article is that the pluralistic ideology of Islamic society has been upheld and kept by the Islamic Worldview and Shari‘ah, which may lead and enable readers to gain a new understanding of Islam itself and its current situation as whole and the Muslim countries are the best in the world to practice plurality from the history up to now.

Exploring the Beauty of Islamic Values Through Metaphorical Expressions in Literary Work

Ferdinal Ferdinal, Oktavianus Oktavianus, Indirawati Zahid — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Islamic values are strongly tied to Muslims’ ability to live in this world and the Hereafter. As a result, continuous research on Islamic ideals is required. These ideals can serve as a guideline for Muslims in their daily lives. In this regard, this research investigates Islamic principles reflected through metaphorical expressions in a literary work. This research employs a qualitative approach, an in-depth examination of a phenomenon. This study’s data was derived from metaphorical language containing Islamic ideals. The source of the data is Hamka’s novel Di Bawah Lindungan Ka’bah. The Qur’an and Hadith are utilized to analyze Islamic principles, while metaphor theory is employed to study metaphorical terms. The study’s findings indicate that this novel has the core values for hablun min Allah and hablun min al-nas. The value of hablun min Allah is firm faith (‘aqidah) in Allah. Hablun min al-nas’s main principles include the pursuit of trustworthiness, togetherness, affection, kindness, carefulness, and politeness, all leading to prosperity. In expressing and preaching Islamic ideals, metaphorical terms serve as a medium to describe a situation, underline a message, deliver values politely, and create aesthetic and artistic effects.

Post-Ghazali Islamic Philosophy in the Sunni and Shi‘ite Traditions

Khalif Muammar A. Haris, Rizky Febrian — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

This study refutes the unfounded yet prevalent view among Western scholars and some contemporary Muslim scholars that Islamic philosophy has declined after al-Ghazālī due to his vehement critique of the philosophers. This study supports the previous studies by George Saliba and Frank Griffel who criticised the decline narrative and argued that Islamic philosophy and science continue to thrive after al-Ghazālī. Moreover, this study gives a general overview of the development of intellectual sciences which include works on metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics and politics both in the Sunni and Shiʻite traditions, and especially in the Malay world. Contrary to the decline narrative, the study shows that the Sunni epistemic framework which was crystalized in al-Ghazālī’s work contributed positively to the development of Islamic philosophy. His critique of Aristotelianism should be considered part of the Islamisation of Greek philosophy, and his works laid down a robust foundation for the development of intellectual sciences in the Islamic world.

Politik Islam dalam Konteks Tunisia Pasca Revolusi Jasmine: Analisis Pemikiran Rashid Ghannoushi

M.Zaidi A. Rahman, Makmor Tumin, Azmil Zainal Abidin — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0800

Tunisia has a unique experience as the first Arab country to spark the Arab Spring. This uprising was filled with a series of anti-government protests called the Jasmine Revolution. In that situation, Rashid Ghannoushi, the head of the Islamic Movement in Tunisia (Al-Nahdah) was also involved in the situation by putting his perspective based on the party’s Islamic agenda. So, the objective of this article is to trace the political thought of Rashid Ghannoushi in achieving political goals through the framework of Islamic politics. This is because the results of his thought on political Islam show a significant difference with other Islamic movements especially in the context of managing power sharing. The results of the study found that his political views take into account local factors such as autocratic leadership and the secular doctrine of laicite, that inspired him to consider between the ideal of Islamic doctrine and the realistic of the atmosphere and situation in Tunisia.