Islamization of human knowledge : an overview on the concept, scope and method

Abstract

The idea of Islamization of Human Knowledge (IOHK) is one of the most promising intellectual agendas of Islamic resurgence and a controversial issue that has caught significant attention of both Muslim and non-Muslim thinkers of the Modern era. The pioneers of IOHK have struggled rigorously to conceptualise the idea of IOHK as an epistemological and methodological solution for the plight of Muslim Ummah. In spite of sincere devotion and committed efforts of scholars, this seminal project has been surrounded by various misconceptions. The sceptical attitude has caused some basic misunderstandings about the scope, objectives and methodology of IOHK. Realising that, this study aims to analyse the concept of IOHK based on various definitions presented by scholars. Using analytical and critical approaches, the study examines these definitions and highlights the extended scope, objectives and methodology of IOHK. It also evaluates the works of its proponents and opponents on the different perspectives. In addition, this study attempts to analyze the possible use of the term ‘relevantization’ for Islamic sciences which are named Islamic Revealed Knowledge Disciplines (IRKDs) in IIUM. This study notices that despite numerous hindrances and critics, the project of IOHK has gone through gradual progress in terms of its framework, scope, objectives and methodology since its inception. Its scope and objectives are extended to the production of textbooks and Islamization of disciplines to the development of Islamic thought and its methodology. This study also reveals that some disciplines like economics and Islamic banking have captured ample attention of scholars and practical efforts have been made, whereas other sciences lack serious interest in order to implement IOHK into a reality. The programme of IOHK has offered a lot in the form of a discourse and clarified its concepts which need practical implementation. However, this uphill task requires more concentrated and collective efforts holistically to achieve its goals. This study highlights the obstacles which need to be addressed by scholars.