Definition and Meaning
Humanism, in its essence, centers around human values and concerns, placing significant emphasis on the potential for human goodness and the importance of human welfare. In conventional Western discourse, humanism often elevates human reason and ethics above divine or supernatural sources.
Islamic Perspective on Humanism
From an Islamic vantage point, the central tenet is that God (Allah) is the ultimate source of all moral values. Muslim scholars generally do not subscribe to the idea that humans alone are the measure of all things. According to Islamic teachings, which are deeply rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith, God’s commands are the basis for ethical and moral conduct.
Compatibility with Humanistic Values
However, many contemporary Muslim scholars emphasize that the intrinsic values of humanism—such as the sanctity of human life, individual liberties, social justice, and communal welfare—are not foreign to Islamic teachings. These scholars argue that while Islam does not share the secular underpinnings of humanist philosophy, it does embrace a quest for a just and compassionate society grounded in divine guidance.
Key Areas of Overlap and Agreement:
- Human Dignity: The Qur’an advocates for the dignity of human beings, declaring, “And indeed, We have honored the children of Adam” (Qur’an 17:70).
- Social Justice: Islam places significant emphasis on social justice, as evidenced through the concept of Zakat (obligatory charity) and the principles of equality before God.
- Rational Inquiry: Islam encourages the pursuit of knowledge and rational thinking, with numerous prophetic traditions highlighting the value of learning and understanding.
- Individual Rights: Shariah (Islamic law) aims to protect fundamental rights, including life, religion, intellect, lineage, and property.
Etymology and Background
Etymology
The term “humanism” originates from the Latin word “humanitas,” which means humanity, kindness, or culture. It emerged during the Renaissance, marking a return to classical learning and human-centric philosophies.
Background
Humanism started primarily as a cultural and intellectual movement during the Renaissance, a period that sought to transform European thought by reverting to ancient Greek and Roman ideas. This shift pivoted towards focusing on human potential and achievement outside ecclesiastical oversight.
Historical Development
In contrast, Islamic scholarly tradition developed from the 7th century onward in the Arabian Peninsula, deeply intertwined with the revelation of the Qur’an. The early Muslim scholars synthesized Greek philosophical concepts with Islamic thought without compromising the supremacy of divine revelation.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 7th Century CE: The rise of Islam with the Prophet Muhammad receiving and disseminating the Qur’an.
- 9th-12th Centuries CE: The Islamic Golden Age, marked by extensive scholarly activity in various domains, including philosophy, science, and humanities.
- 14th Century & Onwards: The Renaissance begins in Europe, laying down the roots of humanism.
Cultural Differences and Synonyms
Islamic humanism aligns moral development with spiritual growth, emphasizing dependence on divine revelation for guidance (which secular humanism does not). Within various cultural contexts:
- Turkic Languages: “İnsancı İslam” (Humanistic Islam)
- Urdu: انسانیت پسند اسلام (Insaniyat Pasand Islam)
- Indonesian: “Humanisme Islam”
Synonyms
- Ethical Monotheism
- Islamic Ethical Philosophy
Antonyms
- Secular Humanism
- Nihilism
- Moral Relativism
Related Terms
- Iman (Faith): In Islam, belief in God and following His guidance.
- Adalah (Justice): An essential Islamic principle, meaning fairness and justice.
- Rahmah (Compassion): Highlights the importance of compassion in human interaction.
Exciting Facts
- Qur’anic Verses on Justice: Multiple verses in the Qur’an stress justice, such as “Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah…” (Qur’an 4:135).
- Muslim Contributions to Ethics and Humanism: During the Islamic Golden Age, scholars like Al-Farabi and Avicenna contributed significantly to humanistic philosophy by integrating Greek thought with Islamic teachings.
Quotations
- Al-Farabi: “Man attains perfection in knowledge, virtues, and wisdom, leading to a serene, balanced soul.”
- The Qur’an: “Whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of humanity.” (Qur’an 5:32)
Suggested Literature for Further Studies
- “The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam” by Muhammad Iqbal
- “Ethical Theories in Islam” by Majid Fakhry
- “Islam and the Secular State” by Abdullahi Ahmed An-Naim
Farewell Thought
“In the fusion of reason and revelation, human spirit finds its higher purpose in justice, compassion, and collective well-being—all guided by divine wisdom.”
