ISLAMIC PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION

Islamic Philosophy of Education

What is the Islamic Philosophy of Education?

Islamic educational philosophy dates back to Adam's first steps (Hazrat Adam; the very first Muslim prophet) and Eve (Bibi Hawa; the earthly wife of Hazrat Adam AS). However, if we look at Islamic philosophy and the glorious book (Qur'an), it is abundantly clear that humans should be provided with sufficient knowledge to make them aware of their creation, responsibility, living, equality, fraternity, peace, and justice, freedom, self reliability, and honesty as well as how they should handle their duty as caliphs of Allah.

Humans require religious guidance to identify their purpose in life including pondering over what is in the universe (Surah Al-Imran, 190-191). The process of Islamic education is the effort to become better people with perfect characteristics. Islamic philosophy of education revolves around two main characteristics. One is the current life (temporary life) and the other one is life hereafter (eternal life).

Additionally, from an Islamic perspective seeking education has been made obligatory for every single Muslim man and woman. In Islam, education's primary goal is to help people realize their own potential. Every human being already possesses the ability to empower knowledge and truth from the perspective of intellect. Humans are able to build strength and resistance from a physical perspective. As a result, humankind will be able to improve their civilization and attain a sense of perfection through education.

Basis of Islamic Philosophy in Education

The Qur'an, which declares that Islam is the religion of truth, serves as the sole foundation for Islamic philosophy in education. It is the exemplification of the code of life that Allah, the only Creator, Sustainer, and Ruler of the universe, has uncovered for the direction of humanity. Man needs two things for his life to develop properly:

The resources needed to live and meet the material needs of the individual as well as society; and
Knowledge of the principles of individual and social behavior so that man can live up to his potential and preserve peace, justice, and order in human existence.

Both of these have been completely met by the universe's Lord. He has utilized all of nature's resources to satisfy man's material needs. Allah (God) has raised His prophets from among men and revealed to them the code of life that can direct man's steps in the right direction in order to meet his spiritual, social, and cultural requirements. Islam is the religion that all of Allah's prophets preached, and it is the complete code of conduct for Muslims across the globe.

Allah the Almighty has stated in the Qur'an for His followers to believe and say that,

"We believe in Allah and the Revelation was given to us, as well as to Abraham (Ibrahim), Isaac (Isahaque), Jacob (Yaqoob), and the Tribes," declare "O Muhammad! "We believe that Moses (Moosa), Jesus (Eisa), and all other Prophets received the Revelation from their Lord. We submit to Him, making no distinction between them." (3:83;2:136)

In another Surah, Allah has told us that "He has revealed to you, O Muhammad, the scripture with truth, confirming what was revealed before it," just as He had previously revealed the Torah (revealed upon Moses) and the Gospel (revealed upon Jesus) as a guide for mankind and the criterion for determining right and wrong. (3:3–4)

They all urged humanity to follow the Lord's path, which is to submit their will to Allah and obey all his Commandments. They all carried the same message and stood up for the same cause which we call Islam (religion from Allah).

When did the Islamic Philosophy of Education Flourish?

well, as far as the flourishing and touching the highest peak of Islamic philosophy in education is concerned, it was the medieval age when Islamic philosophy in education left its everlasting impact on the world. The medieval Islamic world witnessed the phenomenal contributions of Muslim scientists and intellectuals who contributed significantly to science and civilization in the Islamic Golden Age in the field of education and science.

Similarly, those were the Muslim scientists and intellectuals who led the world in all walks of life and education including astronomy, astrology, physiology, sociology, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, economics, geography, philosophy, engineering, medicine, music, poetry, literature, history, and political science.

When the Europe was passing through the dark age period, Islamic world was touching the new horizons of intellect and wisdom. Therefore, we can say that the Islamic philosophy of education remained dominant in all walks of life.

When & Why did the Islamic Philosophy of Education Decline?

The downfall of the Islamic philosophy of education and the flourishing of the Western philosophy of education started in the 18th century. Similarly, the beginning of the 19th century marked the beginning of the Islamic philosophy of education due to incompetent, corrupt, and cruel Muslim rulers. Adding to it, most of the Muslim rulers were less educated and hence were unable to manage the affairs efficiently and effectively.

On the other hand, Muslim scholars and intellectuals were treated brutally instead of giving them due respect. Such behavior is still continued including in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, Iraq, and Syria. Whereas, in the Western world we see that intellectuals and scientists are highly regarded and respected. So we can conclude that the cause of the decline of the Islamic philosophy in education is incompetent rulers and harsh behavior towards scientists and intellectuals including not giving them due respect.

Main Sources of the Islamic Philosophy of Education?

There are multiple sources of the Islamic philosophy of education. However, the following three are the main sources of the Islamic philosophy of education.

Qur'an (Primary Source of the Islamic Philosophy in Education)
Sunnah (Secondary Source of the Islamic Philosophy in Education)
Hadith (Tertiary Source of the Islamic Philosophy in Education)

Glorious Qur'an; the Primary Source of the Islamic Philosophy in Education)

With over 800 references to the word "knowledge" (ILM in Arabic) and its derivations, the Holy Qur'an encourages people to think, ponder, and reflect on the significance of acquiring knowledge. In the Holy Qur'an, Allah the Almighty tells both men and women to learn more, and those who don't are punished. The word "read" appears at the beginning of the first revelation to Prophet Mohammed, which reads as follows;

“Read. Read in the name of thy Lord who created; [He] created the human being from a blood clot. Read in the name of thy Lord who taught by the pen: [He] taught the human being what he did not know.” (96: 1-5)

Additionally, according to the Qur'an, all Muslims need to be well-informed and educated in order to fulfill their responsibilities to Allah the Almighty and humanity. As a result, it is evident that Islam places a high value on knowledge and equal access to education for all members of society.

"As We have sent a messenger among you to teach you the Book and Wisdom, recite to you Our revelations, purify you, and teach you what you do not know,"(2:151).

As stated above, in some of the other verses of the Qur'an, Allah gives high regard, status, and special place to Muslims who seek knowledge and ponder over the creation of the universe throughout their lives.

Sunnah (Secondary Source of the Islamic Philosophy in Education)

Sunnah means the practice and actions of the Prophets of Islam including Abraham (Ibrahim), Moses, and Jesus. Similarly, the Qur'an instructs Muslims to "obey Allah and obey the His Messenger" (Qur'an 8:1) and to "take what the Messenger has ordained for you and desist from what he has prohibited," (Qur'an 59:7). This is why the Sunna (secondary source of the Islamic philosophy in Education) is considered an authoritative source of Islamic law and philosophy in education.

Hadith (Tertiary Source of the Islamic Philosophy in Education)

Hadith, in Arabic language means ("News" or "Story"), the collection of the sayings or proverbs of the Prophet Muhammad, worshipped by Muslims as a significant wellspring of strict regulation and moral direction. It contains numerous authentic reports of varying lengths. As far as the Islamic philosophy of education is concerned, one of the Hadiths states that;

Education and upbringing are the best things a father can give his child. An idle does not acquire knowledge. The scent of paradise will not be experienced by anyone who acquires knowledge of things that Allah finds pleasing for the purpose of gaining some worldly advantage.

Similarly, another Hadith states that "Allah will direct anyone who travels in search of knowledge to travel on one of the roads of paradise. When someone seeks knowledge, the angels will take great pleasure in lowering their wings, and the heavens, the earth, and the fish in the deep waters will ask for the learned man's forgiveness. Similar to how the moon is superior to the rest of the stars when it is full, the educated man is superior to the devout. The Prophets do not leave behind any material wealth; rather, they only leave behind knowledge, of which the learned to inherit an abundance".

There are so many other famous Hadiths that stress education and its importance in human life. Similarly, the last prophet of Islam spent His last 23 years imparting education.

Comparison and Contrast of the Islamic Philosophy with that of the Western Philosophy of Education

Islamic philosophy of education emphasizes the integration of religious teachings with various branches of knowledge, aiming to develop individuals who embody both faith and intellect. In contrast, Western philosophy often separates religious and secular education, focusing on a more secular approach with an emphasis on critical thinking, individualism, and diverse perspectives.

Islamic philosophy of education mainly revolves around the balance of power, equality, justice, moral and spiritual values, honesty, mutual respect, as well as human service. In contrast, western philosophy of education revolves around worldly affairs, unlimited wealth and power gain, capitalism, dominancy, as well as unequal socio-economic system.

Islamic philosophy of education emphasizes on the life hereafter (immortality) and hence resists materialism and love for this temporary and mortal world. However, Western philosophy of education doesn't believe in eternal life and hence condemns the idea of life hereafter.

While Islamic education seeks moral and spiritual development alongside intellectual growth, Western education typically prioritizes individual autonomy, creativity, and a broader understanding of various worldviews. Both systems, however, to some extent share common goals of fostering well-rounded individuals capable of contributing positively to society.

Conclusion

Islamic philosophy of education is primarily rooted in the Qur'an, Sunnah of the Prophets of Islam, and Hadith, emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge as a sacred duty. It promotes a holistic approach, integrating religious, intellectual, and moral development. The Ma'arif or wisdom is highly valued, encouraging critical thinking and reflection. The traditional system, exemplified by madrasas, emphasizes memorization and understanding of the Qur'an, alongside various sciences. Contemporary Islamic education seeks to blend traditional teachings with modern subjects, aiming to create well-rounded individuals committed to ethical principles and societal welfare.