Journal of Al-Tamaddun (JAT) is an international refereed academic journal published by the Department of Islamic History, Civilization and Education, Academy of Islamic Studies, Universiti Malaya. The journal was initially published annually, and later adopted a biannual publication schedule from 2012 to 2025. Beginning in 2026, the journal will be published triannually (in March, July, and November). One of the journal’s aims is to serve as a platform for academics to contribute and share their research and scholarly writings on Islamic history and civilization. In addition, the journal seeks to promote high-quality research, particularly in this field. JAT is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal that publishes articles and book reviews on Islamic history and civilization, focusing on political, intellectual, social, religious, and cultural dimensions of Islamic civilization, including interactions between Islam and other civilizations, historiography, and methodological approaches to the study of the Islamic past. JAT is indexed in the Emerging Sources Citation Index (WoS-ESCI), Scopus, Index Islamicus, EBSCOhost, UlrichsWeb, Open J-Gate, Malaysian Citation Index (MyCITE), and Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ).
Department of Islamic History And Civilization, Academy of Islamic Studies, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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GAGASAN PAN-ISLAMISME SAYYID MUḤAMMAD RASHĪD RIḌĀ DALAM TAFSĪR AL-MANĀR: SATU HURAIAN
Pan-Islamism was a great idea pioneered and promoted by Sayyid Jamāl al-Dīn al-Afghānī. Later, it was developed and propagated by other reformists such as Sayyid Muḥammad ʿAbduh and Sayyid Muḥammad Rashīd Riḍā in their works. Therefore, the article in one hand will elucidate the main ideas of Sayyid Muḥammad Rashīd Riḍā in his Tafsīr al-Manār with regard to Pan-Islamism. The discussion will emphasize the unity of the ummah, religion, law, language, and equality. On the other hand, this article will also present the difficulties faced by Sayyid Muḥammad Rashīd Riḍā in order to make his idea of Pan-Islamism a reality and a success.
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Reassessing the Role and Status of the Diwan al-Sadarat within the Mughal State under Aurangzeb (1658-1707)
The effectiveness of the Mughal Empire’s governance in India was supported by the role played by each department or diwan. One of the important diwan was the Diwan al-Sadarat, which played a significant role in matters pertaining to religion and development. Although the Diwan al-Sadarat had experienced a period of decline especially during the reign of Akbar, the situation has been changed after Aurangzeb assumed leadership of Mughal Empire in 1658 as well as he had initiated efforts to consolidate this institution during his reign. Hence, this study aimed to examine the Diwan al-Sadarat’s role and position in the Mughal Empire’s governance during Aurangzeb’s reign (1658–1707). This qualitative study adopted the historical study approach and content analysis method for collecting and analysing data from primary and secondary sources. Findings indicate that before Aurangzeb’s reign, Diwan al-Sadarat’s role was not considered significant due to several factors, including the Mughal rulers’ policies that did not support the Diwan al-Sadarat’s function, and the limited involvement of religious scholars (ulama) in the Mughal government. In addition, this study also found that the Diwan al-Sadarat’s role and position improved significantly after Aurangzeb took steps to empower the institution. The Diwan al-Sadarat played a key role in advancing education and religious affairs through various initiatives during his reign, such as overseeing the development of India’s education sector, providing grants for educational institutions, appointing religious officials and managing the distribution of madad al-ma‘ash (endowments or stipends for religious scholars). This article offers a novel perspective by examining how Aurangzeb sought to sustain his authority through the institutional empowerment of the Diwan within his governance structure.
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The Revival of al-Farabi’s Ethical Idea: Virtue and the Spiritual Foundations of Turkic-Islamic Civilization
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.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Al-Tamaddun https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Narratives of Crisis in the Final Reign of Uthman bin ‘Affan: An Evaluation
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.
Revisiting the Failure of Turkiye’s European Union (EU) Accession Process: Islamophobia and Civilizational Discourse in Europe
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.
Naratif Sejarah Pembangunan Nizam-i Cedid dalam Pembaharuan Ketenteraan Uthmaniyyah Era Mahmud II, 1808-1839
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.
Tradisi Intelektual dalam Tamadun Islam Alam Melayu: Analisis Kitab Melayu Klasik Abad ke-17 hingga ke-19
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.
Sejarah Penempatan dan Perubahan Sosial Muslim Hui di Xi'an, China
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.
Stress Management in The Context of Heritage and Islamic Civilization: An Overview of Prayer as a Coping Strategy
This study examines the Islamic concept of prayer as a coping strategy and its role in alleviating stress and anxiety during periods of crisis among Muslims. It highlights how prayer and related religious practices support the psychological well-being of Muslim employees, particularly in demanding work environments. The research analyses a range of religious coping strategies commonly adopted by Muslims to manage stress and emotional distress. In addition, it reviews existing literature on religiosity and well-being within the Muslim context, emphasizing the spiritual, psychological, and social dimensions of these practices. The study also draws attention to the growing Muslim population in contemporary societies, suggesting an increasing need for culturally and religiously sensitive approaches to employee well-being and mental health support.
Civilizational Elements of Islamic Services (Khidmah al-Islām): A Historical Analysis of Its Role in the Development of Malaysian Society
This article examines the core civilizational elements of Islamic services; conceptually defined as Khidmah al-Islām and their critical role in the development of Malaysian society. In this context, Islamic services are positioned not merely as a transactional industry, but as a communal obligation (farḍ kifāyah) executed by public agencies, the private sector, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). While these entities have successfully institutionalised religious obligations, there is a growing concern that an overemphasis on corporate governance may overshadow the fundamental spiritual ethos of khidmah al-Islām. Adopting a qualitative historical analysis, this study traces the evolutionary trajectory of these services. Findings reveal that the civilizational impact of Khidmah al-Islām follows a distinct path: commencing with the strengthening of faith (ʿaqīdah) as a social driving force in the early Islamic era, advancing through sharīʿah and knowledge integration during the medieval period, and culminating in the application of high ethical values in modern administration. This article concludes that to sustain holistic civilizational development in Malaysia, all service providers must reintegrate these foundational historical elements. This reintegration ensures khidmah al-Islām functions as a balanced mechanism, upholding professional efficiency while fulfilling the spiritual mandate of serving the ummah.
The Rambang Manuscript in Javanese Tradition: Sufism, Sectarian Negotiation, and the Making of Tolerant Islam in Indonesia
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.
From Immunology to ʿIlm al-Manāʿah: Toward an Integrated Framework of Science for Islamic Studies
This article advocates for the integration of Immunology, which is conceived here as ʿIlm al-Manāʿah, into Islamic Studies. We examine how the fragmentation of knowledge introduced by secularisation has relegated natural sciences, including Immunology, to positivist paradigms, neglecting metaphysical dimensions. In contrast, the Islamic intellectual tradition is embedded in a Tawḥīdic epistemology, which affirms the unity of scientific and theological domains. By tracing the historical interplay between Islamic medicine and theology,ʿIlm al-Manāʿah can enrich the intellectual and psychological dimensions already addressed in contemporary Islamic Studies. We propose that Immunology, with its focus on the body’s defence mechanisms, is critical for exploring the often-overlooked biological aspect of the self. We outline a methodological and conceptual framework for integrating Immunology into Islamic Studies. By situating Immunology within a transdisciplinary educational model, ʿIlm al-Manāʿah offers a pathway to reintegrate scientific inquiry into the civilisational aspirations of Islamic intellectual tradition. Ultimately, this integration may train a new generation of Muslim scholars equipped to address contemporary challenges with both scientific rigour and theological depth. In doing so, it reaffirms an enduring Islamic educational legacy that views all knowledge as a means to better comprehend creation and the Creator.
Constructing Religious Moderation through Language: A Comparative Study of Verses on Tawasut
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.
Heroism or Capitulation? A Reassessment of Salah al-Din, the Battle of Arsuf (1191 CE) and the al-Ramla Treaty (1192 CE)
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.
Contemplating Media Globalisation on World’s Issues: A Case of Malaysian Responses to the Tufan al-Aqsa’s Gaza Crisis
This paper aims to discuss how the role of media globalisation shapes Malaysian consumers to show their Muslim identity while the international class of regional crisis happens or even reaches Malaysia. One of the events which have always been in the radar is the conflict between Israel and Palestine. It has been a focus worldwide on Gaza after the Tufan al-Aqsa started on 7 October 2023. The media has exposed the issue from different perspectives, including those who support or accuse Hamas in this recent conflict. However, Hamas is still being labelled as a terror organisation by the West. This article will choose McDonald’s and HP as examples to discuss why the boycott campaign against McDonald’s but not HP products, gain support from the people soon after the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in 2023. This is especially how media globalisation accelerated the fast-growing boycott campaign in Malaysia.
Sheikhdom among Muslims: A Historical Study of its Religious and Scientific Concepts during the Centuries (6-10 AH / 12-16 AD)
In modern Islamic society, “Sheikh” generally refers to an elder, righteous, or knowledgeable person, with its meaning being self-explanatory. Historically, however, the meaning, especially in the context of the administrative structure of Islamic society in general during the Zengid, Ayyubid, and Mamluk reigns, varies widely from its modern context. Historically, “Sheikh” was used to designate administrative employees in society, especially in their capacity in the Islamic state, signifying their professional status within society’s administrative organization. In a modern context, this study aims at analyzing the nature and scope of their professional roles, specifically sheikhs, describing their job descriptions, importance, major scholars designated with such a status, as well as the Islamic families from which these scholars hailed within the general Islamic society. One major inference to be realized from such an analysis is that the sheikhdom comprised multiple professionals in society, especially those in science, due to its importance to Islamic society. Many Islamic families aimed to acquire such a status, with the inevitable goal of maintaining it in subsequent generations, for which they sought to provide their progeny with comprehensive Islamic studies, a necessary foundation to lead as sheikhs in society.
Models of Positive Historical Islamic-Western Cultural Interaction: The Challenges of Practice in the Contemporary Context
This article delves into the history of Islamic-Western cultural interaction and the challenges undermining such interaction in the contemporary context. The research reveals that history stands as a witness for a positive empirical legacy of interactions between the Islamic and Western cultures through translation, mutual scholarships and linguistic exchange, providing a unique model of cultural engagement. However, bias and the absence of a fair perspective remain major obstacles to Islamic-Western cultural interaction, hindering an objective understanding of reality. Similarly, the influence of the “ethnic civilisation” theory and the disregard for diverse spatio-temporal contexts present another challenge to a meaningful cultural exchange. The article emphasizes the significance of considering successful historical positive models of Islamic-Western cultural interaction that have embraced diverse cultural environments, fostering a meaningful strategy for addressing the contemporary challenges of cultural exchange.
Religious Rooting of Sacralization Phenomena in Human Thought: An Islamic Civilizational Perspective
This article examines how sacralisation arises within human thought and practice, focusing on the Islamic tradition. It explores how core Islamic beliefs and principles (such as tawḥīd and intentionality in worship) imbue places, times, actions, and social norms with sacred significance. Drawing on Islamic scripture, prophetic traditions, and historical accounts, the study analyses the manifestations of the sacred in Muslim communities through space, time, ritual practice, and moral action. In Islam, external practices are inextricably linked to internal intentions (niyyah) and ethical values, forming a holistic system whereby spiritual ideals are expressed through daily conduct. While this sacralisation of life offers communal identity and moral guidance, the article critically examines how misinterpretations of “sacred” mandates have fuelled extremism. The article concludes that an Islamic perspective on sacralisation provides rich insights into the human quest for meaning, illustrating the dynamic interplay between faith, practice, and sacred experience within increasingly pluralistic societies.
Sonia Lotfy Abdulrahman Desouky Alhelbawy
Understanding the Rarity of Conversions Within the Bā ‘Alawī Community in Singapore (1980-2020s)
Bā ‘Alawī Arabs have been credited for bringing Islam to the Malay world through its Ṣūfi brotherhood, the ‘Ṭarīqa ‘Alawīyya. Recent studies highlighted their role in conversions to Twelver Shī’a Islam in the region, specifically in Indonesia and Malaysia. Yet, Twelver Shī’a Islam in Singapore has taken a different trajectory, with conversions mainly within the Malay community. This paper seeks to explain the dearth of Singaporean Bā ‘Alawī conversions to Twelver Shī’a Islam. It was found that although there was a large pool of Bā ‘Alawī Shī’a converts in Indonesia and Malaysia, only two Singaporean Bā ‘Alawī individuals identified as Shī’ī. This study was inspired by Pickvance’s argument for the importance of seeking causal reasons to explain differences in comparable phenomena. It was done through in depth, unstructured interviews with eight contemporary Singaporean Bā ‘Alawī and non- Bā ‘Alawī scholars and individuals involved in disseminating Islamic knowledge in Singapore. Oral history interviews of three prominent Bā ‘Alawī religious scholars living in the 1980s and 1990s together with biographies of Bā ‘Alawī religious scholars were also analysed in this research. This paper puts forth five main factors that curb Singaporean Bā ‘Alawī conversion to Shī’a Islam: a strong network of Bā ‘Alawī scholars who monopolised Singaporean Islamic institutions in the 1980s and 1990s, their involvement in the creation of a unified Islamic curriculum in Singapore madrasah, their creation of home-based Islamic educational classes, the Singapore modernisation and secularisation agenda, and a desire to preserve their cultural identity through the Bā ‘Alawī Sufi order, ’Ṭarīqa Alawiyya. This paper argues against ignoring studies that have lack of numbers as they may offer insights into a nuanced understanding of the Muslim minority experience.
Roberto Tottoli (2023). Studies in Islamic Traditions and Literature. London: Routledge. 284 Pages. ISBN 978-0-367-53166-9 (hbk)
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.
Taliban Strategies and Gains in Post-American Reality in Afghanistan
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.
Bridging Islamic Technological Heritage with Modern Innovations: Ethical and Practical Perspectives
This study aims to analyse the role of technology in the Muslim society, particularly in the fields of education, health and banking. The study employs a secondary qualitative research technique where the literature is reviewed to establish the prospects and issues surrounding the adoption of modern technology in the Islamic context. As a result, themes are identified, for instance, the ethical issues of artificial intelligence, biotechnology and fintech in Islamic law. The study also underscores the important role played by scholars and Islamic institutions by explaining how growing technological advancements can be controlled to conform to Shariah. Analysing the historical contributions made during the Islamic Golden Age, the study compares the past achievements with the modern-day technological problems. It shows the way to integrate Islamic principles into technological advancement. The study is meant to offer a detailed account of how Muslims can embrace the use of technologies to enhance their lives while maintaining and upholding their belief system. Finally, the study ensures that the technology is incorporated in a manner that will be appropriate to the Islamic ethical standards while at the same time improving the society.
Islam in Bangladesh: The Legacy of Hazrat Shah Jalal and the Spread of Islam in Bengal
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.
Historical Development of Islamization in the Nusantara: Trends and Scholarly Contributions
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.
Elemen Seni Bina dan Unsur Reka Bentuk Bangunan dalam Perkembangan Institusi Pendidikan Islam
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.
The Art of Storytelling in Tablighi Jamaat: Emotional Engagement as a Strategy for Societal Transformation in the Islamic Revivalist Movement
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 Issues of Palestine and Algeria on the Delay of NATO’s Formation, 1948–1949: A Study on British International Negotiations
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.
The Role of Women in Islamic History: A Perspective on Family, Society, and Modern Challenges
This study examines the social role of women in the family and society from a Qur’anic perspective, considering the challenges they face in reconciling professional pursuits with traditional maternal responsibilities, as well as the influence of modern feminist movements on the Islamic concept of the family. The research emphasizes that humans are created as God’s vicegerents on Earth, and this role establishes equality and responsibility for both men and women within the family and society, grounded in the normative principles derived from the Qur’an and the Sunnah. The study combines a textual analysis of Qur’anic teachings with an empirical survey conducted among Muslim women in Kosovo to assess perceptions of feminism and its impact on family roles. Findings indicate a cautious and conditional attitude toward modern feminist principles, highlighting tensions between traditional family expectations and evolving gender dynamics influenced by education, employment, and social engagement of women. The results underscore the need for structured scholarly dialogue, educational initiatives, and contextually grounded approaches to integrate selected feminist principles without compromising the ethical and normative foundations of Islamic teachings.
The Manuscript of Imam Al-Baydawi in the Kosovo Archives: An Analytical Study
It is a well-known historical fact that the Ottoman Empire was present in the Balkans for more than five centuries. This connection left a deep mark on the soul and life of the people of this region and in particular, on the people of the Republic of Kosovo. Such traces are found in written documents, architecture, art, culture, folklore, and tradition. Part of this cultural heritage, which has been preserved up to the present time, consists of the Islamic-Oriental manuscripts, which are kept in certain scientific and cultural institutions of Kosovo. A rich collection of this kind, which is of great value, is preserved in the Archives of the Republic of Kosovo in Pristina. Among the manuscripts that are part of this collection is a very precious Tafsīr (a commentary on the Qur'an) by Imam al-Bayḍāwī, which was copied by Haji Mehmet Begzade-Prishtina in 1697. Manuscripts of this type show the level of commitment of the early generations to Islamic teachings, and at the same time, they serve as evidence of the early civilization in our lands, as well as of the style and meticulousness of writing for something considered precious. The aim of the research, as can be seen from the time period in which the manuscript was written, is to shed light on the values it carries. The manuscript is considered highly important and represents first-hand research material for Islamic theologians, historians, orientalists, experts in Arabic paleography, Arabic calligraphy, and as well as for literary and cultural scholars in general. Therefore, it paves the way for other researchers to study it from different perspectives. The research method used for the realization of this paper will be mainly library research, which includes an in-depth analysis of the manuscript itself and the literature published by well-known authors related to the field of archiving and manuscripts, and particularly to the manuscript and its author.
RETRACTED: An Analytical Study on the Political and Intellectual Legacies of Necmettin Erbakan and Atilla İlhan
This study analyses the political and intellectual legacies of Necmettin Erbakan and Atilla İlhan, two influential figures in modern Turkish history whose ideologies have significantly shaped Türkiye’s political landscape. The main research question guiding this study is: How did the political and intellectual contributions of Erbakan and İlhan influence the development of Türkiye’s nation? The data collection method involved a documentation of primary sources, including speeches, political writings, and literary works of both figures. This was supplemented by secondary sources analysing their influence in Turkish political and intellectual circles. The analysis employed a thematic and comparative approach. The findings reveal that while Erbakan’s legacy has contributed to the rise of the AKP and political Islam, İlhan’s intellectual work has provided a strong secular and anti-Western critique that has influenced Türkiye’s intellectual left and ongoing debates about Türkiye’s place in the West. Despite their contrasting ideologies, both figures significantly contributed to the shaping of Türkiye’s national identity and its complex relationship with secularism and Islamism. The study suggests that contemporary political movements in Türkiye, particularly those related to Islamist policies and secular-nationalist discourse, are deeply informed by the legacies of both Erbakan and İlhan. In conclusion, the paper underscores the continuing relevance of their ideas in understanding the dynamics of Türkiye’s political identity, offering insights for future research into the influence of political ideologies on Türkiye’s evolving relationship with its past and future trajectory in the globalized world.