Online-Journal STAI Sadra (Sekolah Tinggi Filsafat Islam)
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EPISTEMOLOGICAL POLEMICS IN DIGITAL RELIGION: MAPPING APPROACHES IN THE DIGITAL SPHERE
Full text linkDigital religion is where religious beliefs meet digital media. Networked technologies have changed how people share, interpret, and practice their faith. These technologies shift authority away from traditional institutions, allowing ordinary people and even algorithms to help create sacred content. Objectives: This study maps and critically analyzes the main debates about religious knowledge online. It proposes frameworks to handle issues of authority, authenticity, and research methods in digital faith settings. Methods: We used a qualitative approach by reviewing scholarly studies, reports, news articles, and online material up to mid‑2025. We applied phenomenological and hermeneutic analyses to examine how digital media are changing the production and understanding of religious knowledge, using case studies from multiple faith traditions. Results: We identified important tensions in digital religion: sacred vs profane spaces; reason vs revelation; authority vs authenticity; insider vs outsider viewpoints; mystical vs empirical knowledge; pluralism vs normativity; and transcendence vs immanence. We also highlight issues such as algorithmic influence, digital inclusion, environmental sustainability, and research challenges. Additionally, we explore new debates on topics like colonialism, gender, and diaspora. We conclude that addressing digital religion requires better religious and digital literacy, inclusive dialogue, ethical technology design, and interdisciplinary research to build a strong, inclusive ecosystem of religious knowledge. By combining existing research with current examples, this article provides a broad overview of the changing knowledge landscape in digital religion
THE REFUTATION OF AL-GHAZĀLĪ AND THE DEFENCE OF IBN RUSHD AGAINST THE THREE METAPHYSICAL PROBLEMS OF THE PHILOSOPHERS
Full text linkAmid the many complex and radical philosophical debates, one of the most fascinating and widely discussed issues among scholars and philosophy enthusiasts is the intellectual confrontation between al-Ghazālī and Ibn Rushd. The most prominent philosophical dispute between the two revolves around three major metaphysical problems: the eternity of the world, God’s knowledge of particular events, and the denial of bodily resurrection. Both thinkers offer different interpretations of Qur’anic texts through a philosophical lens. Interestingly, although both belong to the same Islamic intellectual tradition, their opposing arguments have generated deep and enduring controversy. This study employs a descriptive research method, specifically a library-based approach, focusing on literature that discusses the philosophical thoughts of al-Ghazālī and Ibn Rushd. Within this method, processes of classification, data analysis, and conclusion drawing are carried out. Accordingly, the research also utilizes comparative, analytical, and synthetic methods to obtain a comprehensive understanding of their metaphysical perspectives. As a result, the debate between the two continues to be passed down and colors the study of Islamic philosophy, including having consequences in the context of philosophical themes
BETWEEN CONTEXTUALIZATION AND DISTORTION: INTERPRETATION OF QUR’ANIC VERSES ON NATIONALISM IN DETIK.COM AND NU ONLINE
Full text linkThe development of digital media has significantly transformed the patterns of Qur’anic interpretation, including on the issue of nationalism in Islam. This study analyzes how verses related to nationalism are interpreted by two online media platforms: Detik.com and NU Online. Using a qualitative method with content analysis and Critical Discourse Analysis approaches, Detik.com interprets Q.S. Al-Isrā’ [17]: 70 as a foundation for freedom and human dignity, although academic tafsir traditionally views this verse as referring to the general honor bestowed upon humankind. The platform also uses Q.S. Al-Mumtaḥanah [60]: 8 to equate love for the homeland with defending religion, despite the verse’s original context focusing more on social relations and tolerance. Meanwhile, NU Online references Q.S. Al-Qaṣaṣ [28]: 85 as theological legitimacy for love of one's homeland, although it primarily refers to Allah’s promise to the Prophet Muhammad regarding his return to Mecca. Likewise, Q.S. An-Nisā’ [4]: 66 is interpreted as evidence of the significance of one’s birthplace, even though the verse contextually concerns the command to emigrate as a test of faith. The findings reveal that while these interpretations aim to contextualize nationalism within Islam, there is a tendency toward distortion due to selective verse usage and deviations from established academic tafsir methodology. It is crucial to apply sound and objective interpretive methods that go beyond pragmatic interests and remain academically accountable. This ensures that interpretations of nationalism-related verses in Islam reflect the Qur’an’s teachings in a comprehensive, logical manner, avoiding narrow ideological biases that risk diminishing the depth of the sacred text
REORIENTATION OF ISLAMIC PHILOSOPHICAL TRADITION: AN EPISTEMOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE PERSPECTIVES OF ‘ĀBID AL-JĀBIRĪ AND ḤASAN ḤANAFĪ
Full text linkIslamic philosophy, which once experienced a golden age, now faces a crisis of innovation characterized by stagnation, repetition, and an inability to respond to contemporary human problems. This condition is often seen as a result of the decline of philosophy after Ibn Rushd, but in fact it is more related to the inappropriate method of reading tradition (turāth) with two main axes: traditionalism/Salafism and liberalism-modernism. This article examines the thoughts of two very important modern Arab figures, ‘Ābid al-Jābirī and Ḥasan Ḥanafī, who both attempted to offer new ways of reading turāth to revitalize Islamic philosophy. The aim is to reveal the relevance of their methods in addressing intellectual stagnation while pointing to a new direction for the Islamic philosophical tradition to remain relevant and productive. This study uses a qualitative method based on content analysis of the main works of ‘Ābid al-Jābirī and Ḥasan Ḥanafī on tradition and renewal. The results of the study show that al-Jābirī, through structural, historical, and ideological criticism, attempts to liberate tradition, especially philosophical texts, from analogical reading (qiyās) and encourages a rationality of tradition that is more in line with the guidance of modernity. Meanwhile, Ḥasan Ḥanafī, through phenomenological hermeneutics, views tradition as an ideological force that must be revived in order to support emancipation and social transformation. Although their points of emphasis differ, both assert that Islamic philosophy can only regain its vitality through a reorientation of tradition so that it remains relevant and capable of responding to the needs of the times
THE LIBERATION OF AL-QUDS BETWEEN DIVINE DECREE OR HUMAN EFFORT: A HERMENEUTICAL ANALYSIS OF Q.S. AL-MĀ’IDAH [5]: 20–26
Full text linkThis study is motivated by the urgency of defending al-Quds as a holy city that has a special position theologically, historically, and geopolitically, while also responding to the exclusive claim of Jewish Zionists that it is “The Promised Land,” which is considered to deviate from the moral requirements and justice of revelation. The purpose of this study is to examine the position of al-Quds from an Islamic perspective, trace its history of inclusive management, critique Zionist religious political claims, and offer a relevant strategic framework for liberation in the contemporary era. The research design includes normative qualitative-descriptive research, applying Hans-Georg Gadamer’s hermeneutics, which is relevant to the research topic. It serves to combine the freshness of meaning in the current context from all existing horizons, be it theological-historical narratives, hadith literature, classical-contemporary interpretations, or modern socio-political reasoning. The results of the study show that the sanctity of al-Quds stems from the principle of tawhid and universal Islamic values that prohibit oppression, discrimination, and monopoly of worship spaces, and that the history of the city’s management under Islamic rule is clear evidence of a fair and open governance model for all religious adherents. This study also found that protecting al-Quds relies on human efforts, not divine decree, which requires strategic efforts through diplomacy, civil resistance, international public support, and interfaith solidarity. The study concludes that the liberation of al-Quds must be positioned as a global humanitarian issue, not merely a religious conflict, and requires synergy between internal reform of the Muslim community and external support from the international community to restore its function as a city of peace and a symbol of universal justice
EXPLORING THE INTERSECTION OF SHARIA AND SUFISM IN IMĀM RABBĀNĪ AḤMAD SIRHINDĪ’S MAKTŪBĀT RABBĀNĪ: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Full text linkThis study critically examines the relationship between sufism (tasawwuf) and sharia, with a particular focus on the writings of Imām Rabbānī Aḥmad Sirhindī as articulated in Maktūbāt Rabbānī. While specific Islamic reformist movements posit a fundamental dichotomy between these two domains, Sirhindī contends that sufism and sharia are inseparable, with the former serving as an extension of the latter. This research seeks to analyze Sirhindī’s reconciliation of Islam’s mystical and legal dimensions, demonstrating that proper spiritual purification must occur within the framework of sharia rather than in opposition to it. Methodologically, this study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing textual analysis of Maktūbāt Rabbānī, particularly its first three volumes—to explore Sirhindī’s discourse on the necessity of legal adherence in the spiritual journey. The research also engages in comparative analysis with the works of Ibn al-‘Arabī, al-Ḥallāj, and al-Ghazālī to contextualize Sirhindī’s position within broader sufi thought. The findings reveal that Sirhindī’s model of tasawwuf is rooted in doctrinal orthodoxy, critiquing mystical deviations that detach spirituality from religious law. The study concludes that Sirhindī’s work offers a systematic framework for understanding sufism within Islamic jurisprudence, challenging perspectives that perceive a dichotomy between mystical practice and legal adherence. By addressing contemporary misconceptions, this research contributes to ongoing debates on the role of spirituality in Islamic law, reaffirming Maktūbāt Rabbānī as a seminal text in the discourse on the harmonious integration of sharia and tasawwuf
ISLAMIC EPISTEMOLOGY IN THE THOUGHT OF ḤASAN ḤANAFĪ AND FAZLUR RAHMAN ON THE GENEALOGY OF ḤADĪTH
Full text linkThis article examines the genealogical dimensions of ḥadīth within Islamic epistemology, with a focus on the comparative perspectives of Ḥasan Ḥanafī and Fazlur Rahman. The study recognizes that ḥadīth functions as a textual corpus and a dynamic epistemic source shaped by historical, ideological, and sociocultural forces. The primary objective is to explore how both thinkers conceptualize the genealogy and interpretation of ḥadīth as integral to the development of Islamic epistemology. Employing a qualitative library research method, this study applies genealogical analysis and comparative hermeneutics, grounded in the sociology of knowledge and testimonial epistemology theoretical frameworks. The findings reveal that Ḥanafī frames ḥadīth as a socio-political construct embedded within power relations and ideological structures, requiring critical deconstruction for emancipatory purposes. Conversely, Rahman situates ḥadīth within a moral-historical paradigm, emphasizing the role of ijtihād and the living Sunnah in extracting ethical values applicable to contemporary contexts. Both scholars reject the notion of a static, dogmatic ḥadīth tradition and instead propose interpretative methodologies that are historically conscious and socially responsive. The study concludes that integrating genealogical critique and epistemological reconstruction opens new avenues for revitalizing Islamic thought. It expands the discourse on ḥadīth beyond traditional jurisprudential confines, offering a dynamic framework for engaging with prophetic traditions in modern intellectual contexts
THE IMPACT OF KOREAN WAVE CULTURE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF GENERATION Z FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ISLAMIC ETHICS
Full text linkThis study analyses the influence of the Korean wave, or hallyu, on the potential erosion of local culture among Indonesia’s Gen Z, as well as how they can harmonize local values with the principles of Islamic philosophy. The Korean wave phenomenon is growing rapidly along with advances in technology and social media, which strengthens Gen Z’s interaction with foreign cultures. This phenomenon has not only affected many young generations in various countries, including Gen Z in Indonesia. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach to examine the influence of the Korean wave on Gen Z cultural values within the framework of Islamic philosophy. The data in this study were obtained through several data collection techniques, including structured interviews and direct observations conducted in various Korean wave fan communities to observe behavioral patterns, social interactions, and how the influence of Korean culture is reflected in the daily lives of Gen Z, and data analysis was conducted using an interpretative approach. This study shows the positive impacts of the Korean wave or hallyu, such as increased interest in learning foreign languages, enhanced creativity, and greater appreciation for the arts. However, there is a risk of diminishing local cultural identity. Therefore, Gen Z must balance the acceptance of foreign cultures with the preservation of local traditions through a lifestyle grounded in Islamic values. According to Ibn Miskawayh, the development of moral character and self-control is essential in filtering external cultural influences. This approach enables young people to remain open to globalization while maintaining their cultural and spiritual identity
ISLAMIC PSYCHOLOGY OF ABŪ ZAYD AL-BALKHĪ AS A FRAMEWORK FOR OVERCOMING DEPRESSION, STRESS, AND SOCIAL ISOLATION
Full text linkThe contemporary global mental health crisis—marked by rising rates of depression, chronic stress, and social disconnection—calls for approaches that integrate biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of human well-being. This study revisits the biopsychological framework of Abū Zayd al-Balkhī (850–934 CE), articulated in Maṣāliḥ al-Abdān wa al-Anfus, to assess its relevance for contemporary challenges. Drawing on a qualitative literature review and comparative analysis, the research highlights how al-Balkhī’s classifications of ḥuzn (sorrow/depression), waswasah (obsessive rumination), and faza‘ (panic) bear conceptual parallels to modern diagnostic categories, while his therapeutic strategies—including cognitive reflection, behavioral regulation, spiritual devotion, and social companionship—demonstrate an integrative orientation that resonates with, but is not reducible to, contemporary therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), positive psychology, and mindfulness. The paper also underscores the epistemological and clinical challenges of adapting al-Balkhī’s framework today. These include differences in ontology and methodology, terminological disparities with DSM/ICD systems, lack of empirical validation, and the risk of decontextualization if his thought is applied without critical adaptation. Nevertheless, the study argues that al-Balkhī’s synthesis of Qur’anic theology, Greco-Arabic medicine, and philosophical rationalism offers valuable resources for developing culturally resonant and ethically grounded models of care. His legacy can enrich mental health discourse in Muslim-majority contexts and pluralistic societies alike, provided it is engaged reflexively, critically, and in dialogue with contemporary clinical evidence
GOALS OF ISLAMIC EDUCATION REVISITED: A THEME OF UNITY AND DIVERSITY
Full text linkThis article critically examines the goal(s) of Islamic education, with a particular focus on the interpretations advanced by William Chittick. This examination occurs within the context of the unitary theistic objective intrinsic to Islamic education, contrasting it with the multiplicity of secular goals underpinning Western education. The critique is centred on Chittick’s assertion that modern Western education, dominated by the principle of takthīr—multiplicity—is fundamentally incompatible with the unifying vision of tawhīd—the unity of God—inherent in traditional Islamic education. At the heart of this inquiry lies the question: can the objective(s) of Islamic education, firmly rooted in the principle of tawhīd, as Chittick steadfastly asserts, coexist with the Western educational framework, which is grounded in takthīr? Drawing from classical Islamic thought with a particular focus on Sufism, the paper revisits the triadic structure of knowledge in Islamic intellectual tradition: transmitted, intellectual, and inspired knowledge, which aims to cultivate the soul’s spiritual transformation. While Chittick views tawhīd as the ultimate guiding principle. This paper, through a critical-analytical framework, contends that tawhīd and takthīr are inextricably compatible and interdependent through the lens of waḥda (unity-in-diversity and diversity-in-unity), compelling us to engage with the nuanced interplay between these seemingly opposing forces within the realm of education