Sayyed Ismail Shihabuddin and Hamka’s Discourse on Religions other than Islam and System of Belief: An Analysis

Abstract

This study seeks to analyze the discourse of two contemporary exegetes on religions other than Islam with special focus on Judaism and Christianity in the work of Sayyed Ismail Shihabuddin (1936-2010) and Haji Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah, HAMKA (1908-1981) entitled Ala H?mish Al-Taf?s?r and Tafs?r Al-Azh?r respectively. Although they both lived in two different parts of the world, India and Indonesia, they shared a similar objective in educating the Muslim society in accordance with the teachings of the Al-Qur’?n. As a result of colonization activities, these two nations lived in a pluralistic society that witnessed constant interactions between the local communities with Jewish and Christian adherents from various backgrounds such as immigrants, colonialists, and preachers. In deriving such discussions, the study employs qualitative research that utilizes primary and secondary sources. It also includes comparative and textual analysis as the main methods in analyzing the collected data throughout the study. The study found that Al-Qur’?n mentioned several verses reflecting the criterion of Judaism and Christianity. Both scholars attempted to provide extensive interpretations insofar as the readers could relate it to the contemporary context, which addresses the problem of interreligious issues. The discourse discussed in the study was established on selected fundamental doctrines and beliefs of Judaism and Christianity revolving on the concept of God, doctrine of crucifixion, rejection of prophethood of Muhammad P.B.U.H. and distortion within the religious scriptures. Throughout the discourse, Sayyed Ismail and HAMKA presented their arguments and justifications by adopting to various approaches and styles. Based on the analysis, both scholars concluded advising Muslims to be cautious in dealing with the adherents of other religions. By doing so, greater tolerance and harmony could be achieved within the multi-religious country, which is relevant to the current context of Malaysia in addressing the issues on racism and challenges of interreligious dialogue.