Senarai: Journal of Islamic Heritage and Civilization
Senarai: Journal of Islamic Heritage and Civilization (ISSN: 3089-2864) is a peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal publishing original research and critical reviews in Islamic intellectual heritage and civilizational studies. The journal advances rigorous scholarship across ASEAN and the global academic community, reflecting its broad scope and international reach, by examining Islamic thought as a coherent epistemic tradition and dynamic civilizational system with enduring historical and contemporary relevance. All submissions undergo a strict double-blind peer-review process to ensure methodological rigor, theoretical depth, and academic integrity, and publication decisions are based solely on scholarly merit. Committed to equitable knowledge dissemination, Senarai provides immediate open access and fosters sustained intellectual collaboration among scholars in ASEAN and worldwide. The journal accepts manuscripts in Bahasa Indonesia, English, and Arabic. Its scope includes Islamic theology, philosophy, and ethics; Qur’anic and Hadith studies; Sufism and scholarly traditions; Islamic law, governance, and institutions; the history of Islamic civilization; intercivilizational relations; heritage and civilizational identity; and specialized areas such as Qur’anic hermeneutics and ulum al-Qur’an, kalam and post-classical theology, falsafah, usul al-fiqh and maqasid al-shari‘ah, manuscript studies, codicology, philology, historiography, intellectual genealogy, the transmission of Islamic sciences across transregional networks, Islamic arts, architecture, literature, education, material and urban culture, economic and maritime history, and contemporary civilizational dynamics, with particular emphasis on Southeast Asia and the Malay–Nusantara region as integral contributors to global Islamic civilization.
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REINTERPRETING ISLAMIC HERITAGE IN CONTEMPORARY CIVILIZATIONAL CONTEXTS
This editorial introduces Volume 2, Number 2 (2026) of Senarai: Journal of Islamic Heritage and Civilization, which brings together eight original research articles examining Islamic heritage as a dynamic and evolving civilizational process. Addressing a wide range of themes, from contemporary Qur’anic interpretation, family law and gender justice, Islamic legal ethics, and economic practices to historical encounters and vernacular architecture, this issue highlights the ongoing interaction between normative Islamic values and changing social realities. Rather than approaching Islamic heritage as a static legacy of the past, the contributions in this volume emphasize reinterpretation, dialogue, and contextual engagement as central to the vitality of Islamic civilization. Collectively, the articles demonstrate that Islamic civilization develops through critical reflection and openness to interdisciplinary perspectives. This volume affirms Senarai’s commitment to fostering reflective, inclusive, and ethically grounded scholarship that situates Islamic heritage within broader civilizational debates and contemporary global challenges.
Copyright (c) 2026 Miftahul Ilmi Fadhilaturrahman, S.Pt., M.Si. (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
THE SEMIOTICS OF DIVINITY AND RESILIENCE: DECIPHERING DISASTER MITIGATION WISDOM IN THE VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE OF GHUMAH BAGHI
Traditional vernacular architecture often embodies a sophisticated synthesis of spiritual values and environmental adaptation. This study examines the Ghumah Baghi, a traditional house of the Besemah people in South Sumatra, which has survived centuries of seismic activity. While previous studies focused on its physical structure, there is a lack of research integrating its theological symbolism with disaster mitigation functions. This research employs a qualitative method with a semiotic approach, utilizing Peirce’s triadic model to analyse the meanings behind the architectural ornaments and structural systems. The findings reveal that the divine symbols in Ghumah Baghi-such as the Tiang Duduk (floating foundation) and floral carving-represent a “theology of balance” between humans, nature, and the Creator. Critically, these spiritual symbols manifest that advanced indigenous engineering; the non-fixed foundation serves as a base-isolation system that provides seismic resilience. The study concludes that the theological philosophy of “yielding to divine nature” is the fundamental driver behind the building’s structural endurance. This research contributes to the discourse of ethno-architecture by proving that local wisdom and spiritual semiotics are essential components in developing sustainable and culturally-rooted disaster mitigation strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Reza Aprianti, Prof. Rafail Hasanov (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
DIALOGUE OF CIVILIZATIONS: THE INFLUENCE OF THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE ON MODERN EUROPE
This study examines the multidimensional influence of the Ottoman Empire (1299-1922) on European political, economic, intellectual, and cultural development through systematic analysis of historical documents and secondary literature. Challenging traditional historiography that portrays the Empire solely as Europe's antagonist, this research demonstrates that Ottoman-European relations constituted a productive dialogue that fundamentally shaped European modernity. The analysis reveals three primary mechanisms of influence: (1) Ottoman military power catalyzed European state centralization and the Military Revolution; (2) Ottoman control of Eastern trade routes stimulated the Age of Exploration and early capitalism; (3) Ottoman governance models, particularly regarding religious pluralism and merit-based administration, provided alternative frameworks that informed Enlightenment debates. Specific case studies document how Ottoman diplomatic and commercial support enabled the survival of France, England, and Holland against Habsburg dominance, while Ottoman scientific and medical knowledge—exemplified by smallpox inoculation practices—directly advanced European public health. The study concludes that understanding European modernity requires recognizing the Ottoman Empire not as peripheral adversary but as central interlocutor whose presence shaped the continent's institutional, economic, and intellectual architecture. The main research questions are: (1) In what ways did the Ottoman Empire shape the growth of modern Europe? (2) What was the nature of Ottoman-European interaction beyond the traditional conflict narrative? (3) How did the Ottoman Empire help European civilization change and adapt?
Copyright (c) 2026 Sarkawt Tawfeeq Sidiq (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
HIFZ AL-‘IRDH (PROTECTING OF DIGNITY) AS THE BASIS FOR OFFENSES IN DOMESTIC CONFLICT
Domestic conflict is often understood as a personal issue whose resolution is adequately placed within the realm of morality or family law. This view becomes problematic when conflict escalates into violence, coercion, or neglect that clearly violates the dignity and honor of family members, particularly in spousal relationships. This research aims to construct the principle of hifz al-'irdh within the framework of maqasid al-syari'ah as a normative and legal foundation for understanding domestic conflict and the conceptual justification for establishing family offenses, to analyze the relevance of maqasid al-syari'ah in responding to domestic violence practices, including sexual violence and forced abortion, and to bridge family law, criminal law, and Islamic law within an integrative framework oriented toward protecting human dignity and well-being. This research uses a normative legal research method with a conceptual approach to analyze legal doctrines and perspectives, a philosophical approach to explore fundamental values, and a comparison between Islamic law and Indonesian positive law. The main research sources include primary legal materials and secondary legal materials (legal literature, expert doctrine, scientific journals). Data collection techniques were carried out thru literature studies involving document searching and review. The data analysis techniques used were qualitative analysis to describe legal materials, interpretation using the hermeneutics method for an in-depth understanding of legal meaning, and comparative analysis to identify the alignment and differences in legal norms, as well as the implications of hifz al-'irdh for positive law. The research findings indicate that violations of dignity within the household (physical, psychological, sexual violence, reproductive coercion) are not only ethical or civil violations but also meet the criteria for serious violations of the objectives of Islamic law. The principle of hifz al-'irdh has a strategic function as a parameter for distinguishing domestic conflicts that are still in the private sphere from those that require criminal law intervention. This research concludes that integrating hifz al-'irdh into Indonesian family law and criminal law has the potential to strengthen the protection of human dignity, bridge Islamic law and national law, and promote legal reforms that are more oriented toward substantive justice and victim protection.
Copyright (c) 2026 R. Dzihni Jawahir Labib, Nurul Afifah, Syahrul Anwar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
GENDER-JUST ANALYSIS OF QUR’ANIC VERSES ON WOMEN–MEN HOUSEHOLD RELATIONS
This research stems from the reality of marital relations that have not yet fully reflected the values of compassion and justice as taught in Islam, thereby necessitating a reassessment of the understanding of the roles and positions of each party within the family. The purpose of this study is to analyze Qur’anic verses on marital relations through a gender-just exegetical approach in order to attain an equitable and humane understanding. The method employed is qualitative, using a literature-based analysis of classical exegesis (Al-Ṭabarī, Al-Qurṭubī, Ibn Kaṯīr, and Az-Zamakhsyarī) as well as feminist exegesis (Nur Rofiah and Kiai Husein Muhammad). The findings indicate that patriarchal interpretations tend to position women as passive subjects, whereas feminist interpretations emphasize reciprocity, consent, and respect for women’s bodies. In conclusion, the Qur’an affirms that sexual relations constitute a spiritual and emotional interaction grounded in justice, compassion, and equality between husband and wife. The main scholarly contribution of this article lies in synthesizing classical and feminist exegesis to formulate a gender-just interpretive model of Qur’anic verses on marital relations within the framework of contemporary tafsir.
Copyright (c) 2026 R. Muhammad Farhal Azkiya, Abdul Gofur, Eni Zulaiha (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN QUR’ANIC PERSPECTIVE: MAUDHUI STUDY OF TAFSIR AL-MUNIR
This article critically examines how disability is constructed through Qur’anic metaphors and mediated by contemporary Islamic interpretation, focusing on Wahbah az-Zuhaili’s Tafsir al-Munir. While Islamic discourse often emphasizes the Qur’an’s inclusivity toward persons with disabilities, such claims are frequently presented in normative and affirmative terms, leaving little room for critical engagement with the ethical implications of religious language. This study argues that the problem is not whether the Qur’an upholds human dignity, but how metaphorical uses of disability, such as blindness, deafness, and muteness, shape social perceptions and religious consciousness. Employing a thematic interpretation (tafsir maudhui) with a critical-analytical approach, this research analyzes key Qur’anic verses related to disability and examines how Tafsir al-Munir distinguishes between physical impairment and spiritual deficiency. The findings show that while az-Zuhaili consistently rejects theological stigmatization of physical disability, his interpretation largely reproduces classical metaphorical frameworks without sufficiently addressing their potential symbolic impact on contemporary disability ethics. This article contributes to Qur’anic studies by highlighting the ethical limits of moderate tafsir when confronting modern disability discourse. It proposes that Qur’anic inclusivity should not be understood merely as a moral assertion, but as an ongoing ethical project that requires critical evaluation of interpretive language and its social consequences.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ahmad Ajik Nur Fata Mubarok, Wildan Taufik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
THE PRINCIPLE OF PERMISSIBILITY AND NORMATIVE CONSTRAINTS IN CONTEMPORARY FIQH MUAMALAH
Contemporary fiqh muamalah represents a methodological extension of classical fiqh muamalah aimed at preserving the relevance of Islamic law in the face of modern social and economic transformations. Theoretically, contemporary fiqh muamalah functions as a normative system that integrates the primary sources of Islamic law namely the Qur’an, sunnah, ijmaʿ, and qiyas with evolving social, economic, and technological realities. This study seeks to examine the theoretical framework of contemporary fiqh muamalah, particularly the principle of permissibility and its normative constraints, in addressing modern transactional practices. Employing a qualitative approach through library research with descriptive-argumentative analysis, this study finds that the principle of permissibility (al-aṣl fī al-muʿāmalāt al-ibāḥah) constitutes the foundational maxim for assessing contemporary transactions, while remaining inherently bounded by axiomatic normative principles, including the prohibition of riba, gharar, tadlis, maysir, as well as unlawful products and invalid contracts. In relation to modern economic instruments such as cryptocurrency and venture capital, contemporary fiqh muamalah necessitates an evaluative and contextual approach rather than generalized legal judgments. Cryptocurrency must be assessed based on its function, mechanism, and intended use, whereas venture capital may be deemed compatible with Islamic legal principles when structured within equitable and transparent partnership-based contracts. This study recommends further research that incorporates empirical and interdisciplinary approaches to examine the practical application of contemporary fiqh muamalah principles in digital finance and modern investment models, thereby strengthening an adaptive and maslahah-oriented formulation of Islamic law.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammad Irfan, R. Edi Komarudin, Asep Ahmad Fathurrohman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
THE INTERPRETATIONS OF QURAN SURAH AN-NISA (4): 3 BY IBN JARIR AL-TABARI IN JAMI‘ AL-BAYAN FI TA’WIL AL-QUR’AN AND ABU LAYTH AL-SAMARQANDI IN BAHR AL-‘ULUM
Qur’anic interpretation is a continuous scholarly endeavor to elucidate divine guidance in response to evolving social contexts through both classical and contemporary approaches. This study examines the interpretations of Q.S. An-Nisāʾ (4):3 by two prominent exegetes, Ibn Jarīr al-Ṭabarī in Jāmiʿ al-Bayān fī Taʾwīl al-Qurʾān and Abū Layth al-Samarqandī in Baḥr al-ʿUlūm, employing a tafsīr muqāran (comparative exegesis) method to identify similarities, differences, and underlying methodological orientations. The findings demonstrate that Ibn Jarīr al-Ṭabarī adopts a strong riwāyah-based approach, presenting extensive narrations from the Companions and Successors and emphasizing justice as the fundamental condition for marrying more than one woman. In contrast, Abū Layth al-Samarqandī prioritizes a practical fiqh-oriented perspective, offering concise and accessible explanations intended for broader audiences. Despite these methodological differences, both exegetes concur that the verse underscores the imperative to avoid injustice toward orphan girls due to their vulnerability, while simultaneously warning against injustice toward other women in marriage. This study affirms the significance of comparative Qur’anic interpretation in enriching contemporary discussions on polygamy by reaffirming justice as the core ethical principle underlying Islamic law.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pendi Nurul Azmi, R. Edi Komarudin, Asep Ahmad Fathurahman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
THE POLEMIC OF HOUSEHOLD WORK BETWEEN WOMEN AND MEN IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF GENDER EQUALITY
This study discusses the issue of household work from the perspective of the Quran through a gender analysis. Socially, Muslim societies tend to regard domestic work as the responsibility of women, while men are positioned in the public sphere. Such perceptions are largely influenced by patriarchal cultural constructions that also shape interpretations of Quranic verses concerning marital relations. Through a feminist tafsir approach, this study seeks to re-examine verses such as Q.S. An-Nisā’ [4]: 34, Q.S. At-Taubah [9]: 71, Q.S. Al-Baqarah [2]: 187, and Q.S. Ar-Rūm [30]: 21 to explore how the Quran explains the concepts of justice and reciprocity within family life. The findings indicate that the Quran never explicitly assigns household work as the obligation of women. On the contrary, it emphasizes the principles of musyārakah (partnership), mawaddah wa raḥmah (affection and mercy), and mubādalah (mutuality) as the foundation of marital relationships. Therefore, domestic work should be understood as a shared responsibility grounded in the values of justice, love, and mutual respect as taught by the Quran. The study aims to reinterpret Quranic verses often associated with male dominance, emphasizing instead their moral message of partnership and mutual responsibility.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hasan Subhani, Pendi Nurul Azmi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Islamic-Based Spiritual Capability as a Core Individual Competency for Enhancing Social Functioning: Theoretical Framework and Implications
Social functioning is widely regarded as the central objective of social work practice, encompassing the ability of individuals, families, and communities to fulfill their social roles effectively within changing and complex environments. This article proposes a new theoretical construct called Islamic Spiritual Capability, which is presented as a foundational individual competency that provides an internal basis for achieving structured and sustainable social functioning. Through an integrative synthesis of Islamic behavioral theory, the concept of social functioning, and the capability approach, this study develops four dimensions of spiritual capability that can be operationalized within social work practice. These dimensions are further articulated into individual competency units that may serve as tools for assessment, professional training, and social intervention. Consequently, Islamic spiritual capability is positioned not only as an indicator of well-being but also as a learnable, measurable, and improvable core competency within a value-based and meaning-oriented framework for social development
Copyright (c) 2025 Farid Ghazi Alatas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
From Sin To Innovation: Ethical And Legal Reflections On Human Weakness In Islamic Perspective
Human imperfection has long been acknowledged in Islamic moral philosophy, yet its constructive potential in shaping legal-ethical innovation remains critically underexplored. This transformative process arises from the self-reflective nature of weakness itself, as the awareness of limitation compels intellectual introspection and moral creativity. Previous studies often treat moral deviation, conceptualized as ma‘ṣiyah (sin), solely as a theological failure rather than a generative moral energy. This study aims to reconceptualize human weakness not as a liability but as a catalyst for ethical and juridical creativity within the Islamic civilizational framework. This paper does not romanticize sin, but situates it within a theological framework of repentance and ethical renewal under divine guidance. Using a qualitative and integrative methodology that combines hermeneutic analysis of classical fiqh and akhlaq manuscripts with normative reflection on contemporary digital ethics, this research develops a multidimensional model bridging theology, ethics, and law, an analytical configuration rarely attempted in previous Islamic scholarship. The findings reveal a transformative dialectic: when moral failure is internalized through repentance (tawbah): when moral failure is internalized through repentance (tawbah) and an ethical form of critical reflection (ijtihād al-nafs), it produces renewed ethical consciousness and legal adaptability (tajdīd) responsive to social transformation. As articulated by al-Ghazālī in Kitāb al-Tawbah, repentance transforms error into a moral awakening that sustains intellectual and civilizational renewal. This paper contributes a new conceptual articulation of how Islamic ethical and legal systems transform human fallibility into a driver of intellectual vitality, digital ethics, and civilizational resilience, offering an alternative epistemological foundation for understanding innovation within Islamic heritage. In doing so, this study offers a dynamic and constructive re-evaluation of human weakness in the context of contemporary digital ethics.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ekawati, Andi Fika Widuri (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Integrating Islamic Values, Child Rights, and Policies in Caring for Neglected Children
The issue of caring for neglected children represents a civilizational challenge, as the quality of a nation is measured by how it treats children who have lost parental care. This requires a childcare system rooted in moral values, human rights, and sustainable social policies. The aim of this study is to examine the care of neglected children through three main perspectives: Islam, the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and national as well as regional policies. The study employs a literature review method with a descriptive-analytical qualitative approach, analyzing texts and official documents such as the Qur’an, Hadith, national legislation, international conventions, national regulations, and recent academic studies. The findings reveal a convergence among the three perspectives, namely the recognition of children’s dignity, the protection of rights, and the emphasis on the best interests of the child. However, challenges remain, including institutional limitations, adaptation to digital disruption, and cultural contextual differences. This article concludes that integrating Islamic values, CRC principles, and national-regional policies is essential to developing a holistic, sustainable, and contextual childcare system for neglected children. The practical implications highlight the need to strengthen Child Welfare Institutions (LKSA), empower communities based on religious values, and harmonize regulations with child rights principles to ensure more effective protection of neglected children.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ellya Susilowati (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Reading the Quran Through Semanalysis: Text, Significance, and Intertextual Relations
This study employs the theoretical framework of semanalysis to examine the interpretation of a Qur’anic verse concerning the phenomenon of rain. The research applies a methodological sequence that begins with the semanalytic approach, proceeds through an analysis of the concepts of genotext and phenotext, explores the distinction between signification and signification, and culminates in the investigation of intertextual relations within the text. The findings indicate that the meaning of rain in the Qur’an is dynamic and context-dependent, shaped by the interpreter’s engagement with its social, linguistic, and religious dimensions. Ultimately, rain is represented as both a manifestation of divine mercy and a symbolic admonition, urging humanity to contemplate the transcendence and omnipotence of Allah.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Irfan, Abdul Murad (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The Influence of al-Ghazali’s Theological Philosophy in the Malay Archipelago
The article analyses the influence of Imam al-Ghazali’s (450-505/1058-1111) religious ideals in the Malay Basin particularly through his works Ihyā’ ‘Ulūm al-Dīn, Mi‘rāj al-Sālikīn, Bidāyah al-Hidāyah, Ma‘ārij al-Quds fī Madārij Ma‘rifat al-Nafs, al-Mustasfa and al-Madnun bihi ‘ala Ghayr Ahlih. The highly charged and popularity of his works come from various forms of its translated versions in the hand of Malay theologians working on its elucidation such as Sayr al-Sālikīn and Hidāyah al-Sālikīn by ‘Abd al-Samad al-Falimbani (1704-1789) and concise translation of Minhāj al-‘Ābidīn by Shaykh Daud al-Fatani. The paper situates his works in the wider context of Sunni-Islam held by the Malays and its burgeoning cultural and intellectual tradition, far-reaching intensity of activism and da‘wah and idealism widely disseminated in the regions. The study is based on qualitative method in the form of library and literature survey using inductive and deductive method. Data and materials were derived from selected primary and secondary sources and analysed by way of descriptive, analytical, empirical, hermeneutical and historical approaches. The finding reveals that the nuances of al-Ghazali’s corpus were well articulated in the Malay world developed through compelling theological and philosophical works that defend its significance values, norms, legality, ethics, metaphysics, logic and virtues and its classic synthesis of shariah and tasawuf and its spiritual illumination and articulation in the mozaic of contemporary Malay worldview and tradition.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmad Nabil Amir, Tasnim Abdul Rahman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Arabic Grammar, Epistemology, and Civilizational Thought: A Philosophical Inquiry into Islamic Heritage
This paper examines the philosophical, epistemological, and civilizational dimensions of Arabic grammar and its central role in shaping Islamic intellectual heritage. Moving beyond a purely technical study of syntax and morphology, it situates Arabic linguistic thought within a comprehensive civilizational framework, illustrating how grammar functions as an instrument of knowledge production, critical reasoning, and ethical reflection. Drawing on classical sources such as Sibawayh, al-Farabi, al-Jurjani, and Ibn Jinni, alongside modern scholarship on Orientalism and linguistics, the study highlights the intricate relationship between language, intellect, and revelation. Arabic grammar emerges not merely as a tool for correct speech but as a philosophical discipline reflecting epistemological rigor, logical coherence, and the resilience of Islamic civilization in the face of external critique. The analysis further demonstrates that mastery of grammar facilitates critical thinking, preserves textual integrity, and ensures the continuity of knowledge across generations. Overall, the findings suggest that the study of Arabic grammar is inseparable from the broader pursuit of intellectual, ethical, and cultural understanding within Islam.
Copyright (c) 2025 Solehah Yaacob (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Challenging Epistemic Hegemony: Islam, Memory, and the Struggle over Southeast Asian History
The historical discourse on Southeast Asia often centers on the introduction, dissemination, and impact of Islam within the Malay-Indonesian Archipelago. Scholars continue to debate whether Islam first entered the region in the 13th century or at an earlier time; whether its origins were rooted in India or came directly from Arabia; and whether its spread was primarily driven by merchants, wandering Sufi mystics, or organized missionaries. Another key question is whether conversion to Islam merely overlaid the existing cultural fabric while leaving traditional practices largely intact, or whether it fundamentally reshaped society’s structures and worldview. This article aims to “decolonize” the historiography of Islam’s arrival and influence in the Malay world by re-examining the claims of European Orientalists alongside those of so-called “Revisionist” historians. The latter have introduced new evidence and reinterpretations that seek to challenge established narratives, distinguish historical fact from constructed myth, and reframe the debate on Islam’s role in shaping the region.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Islamic Heritage and Civilization https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Civilising Mission or Colonial Experiment? Unmasking the Dutch Ethical Policy in Indonesia
Debates in colonial and postcolonial scholarship continue to grapple with the question of whether colonial rule laid the foundations for the subsequent development of formerly colonised nations. Although many postcolonial critics have dismissed this notion, the Dutch colonial experience in Indonesia, particularly in Aceh, has not been sufficiently integrated into this wider debate. Scholarly consensus suggests that the Dutch Ethical Policy was not a purely humanitarian project but rather a response to chronic administrative inefficiency, influenced heavily by the Dutch military and political occupation of Aceh between 1873 and 1942. Since Aceh served as the testing ground for this policy, the present study examines its efficiency, role, and broader implications for Acehnese society. Building upon ethnological studies and the political advice of Christiaan Snouck Hurgronje (1857–1936), the Ethical Policy is best understood as a hybrid of conciliation and coercion, an authoritarian strategy intended to reinforce colonial dominance. Findings indicate that Acehnese elites who aligned themselves with Dutch authority were co-opted into promoting the so-called enlightenment mission, while those who resisted faced systematic surveillance, repression, and military violence. Moreover, the educational and infrastructural reforms initiated under this policy produced new social stratifications, where access to privilege and networks was increasingly unequal. Employing a qualitative methodology, this study analyses colonial newspapers, government reports, and official correspondence to illuminate the contested legacy of the Ethical Policy. It is anticipated that these findings will contribute a nuanced perspective to the study of modern civilization in both Aceh and Indonesia.
The History of Islamic Trading Civilization in the Pre-Prophetic Period (570–610 CE): Foundations of Economic and Ethical Practice
The history of Islamic Trading Civilization during the Pre-Prophecy period (570-610 M) is critical to study. The condition of the pre-prophetic Arab people had progress in the economic field, especially in agriculture and trade. In the progress of Arab trade at that time, due to advanced agriculture, this progress was marked by the export and import activities they carried out. This paper aims to understand three things: first, the concrete form of trade; Second, the factors that affect trade. These three impli- cations affect trade. The method used is library research. The literature study uses articles as the primary data source and journals selected according to the title’s rele- vance. The most important findings in research on the history of Islamic civilization in the Pre-Prophetic Period include three. First, trading in Islam during the pre-prophetic period can provide best practices through the example of the Prophet Muhammad. Sec- ond, internal factors, the principles of siddiq (honest attitude), amanah (trustworthy), fathanah (intelligent) and tabligh (argumentative and communicative) were applied in trading during the pre-prophetic period. External factors intertwined tribes into pol- itics with local and regional trade agreements between the rulers of the Hijaz on the one hand and the rulers of Sham, Persia and Ethiopia on the other. Third, the economic condition of the Arab nation which is growing rapidly due to its strategic geographical location, especially the Yemen and Hijaz areas
Critiquing Modernist Approaches to the Qur’an: A Case Study of Mohammed Arkoun’s Hermeneutics
The birth of modern thought in Islam, especially in the study of the Qur'an, was a critique of interpretation in the classical and middle ages, the interpretation at that time, according to him, was only coloured by the use of repeated history, political interests, etc., so that it was unable to produce the meaning of the text according to the needs of the times. Departing from this background, contemporary interpreters provide alternatives to reading the Qur'an that is scientific with the hermeneutic method, one of which is Mohammed Arkoun. This paper will describe Arkoun's thoughts on the hermeneutics of the Qur'an, which has attracted much controversy among Muslims and criticizes his thoughts. This type of qualitative research (library research) uses a descriptive-analytic approach. The study results show that Arkoun's hermeneutics has many shortcomings and aspects that must be abandoned. On a practical level, Arkoun's hermeneutics can only be used at the mahaulal Qur'an level, not at the ma fi Qur'an.
Post-Arab Spring Tunisia: Socio-Political Dynamics and Institutional Reform in a Post-Revolution Era
This article explores Tunisia’s transformation a decade after the Arab Spring in the social, political, legal, and educational fields. The methods used include qualitative descriptive analysis and social history. Data was collected through heuristic methods, utilizing online sources about Tunisia, such as scientific articles, journalistic reports, dissertations, and reports from international institutions. This article demonstrates that the transformation in Tunisia’s socio-political, legal, and educational sectors is not only dynamic, reflecting the principles of a modern and democratic state, but also indicates a tendency to strengthen the stability of both the government and the state. Tunisia implemented new constitutional reforms in 2022 and transformed the education sector by improving both the quality and infrastructure of education. Based on these find- ings, the article concludes that a country’s transformation, including that of Tunisia, is determined by the dynamics of its socio-cultural, political, legal, and educational structures.
Malay Intellectual Traditions in Islamic Political Ethics: Raja Ali Haji and the Moral Boundaries of Authority
This study explores the values of Islamic constitutionalism as reflected in three significant texts: al-Muqaddimah fi Intizam Waza’if al-Malik, Tsamarat al-Muhimmah Diyafah Li al- Umara wa al-Kubara' Ahl Hakim, and Gurindam Dua Belas by Raja Ali Haji. These works, originating from diverse socio-cultural contexts, represent a continuum of Islamic political thought that emphasizes justice (‘adl), consultation (shūrā), accountability (mas’ūliyyah), and the ethical limitations of political authority. The study aims to examine how these texts articulate principles of governance consistent with Islamic constitutional ideals and how such principles remain relevant to contemporary constitutional discourse. Using a qualitative- descriptive method, this research analyzes the textual content of each work through the lens of Islamic political ethics and compares their constitutional implications. Findings show that each text, despite its distinct genre and historical setting, upholds a model of leadership that is morally bound, consultative, and justice-oriented. al-Muqaddimah offers a structured political theory rooted in classical Islamic governance, Tsamarat al-Muhimmah emphasizes the moral character and restraint of leaders, while Gurindam Dua Belas integrates Islamic and Malay ethical-political teachings through literary expression. The study concludes that these texts provide a foundational framework for understanding Islamic constitutionalism beyond legal formalism, focusing on the moral obligations of rulers and the collective rights of society. This research contributes to the discourse on Islamic constitutional theory by highlighting the ethical and cultural dimensions of Islamic governance embedded in classical and local intellectual traditions.
Makna Simbolik Ulul Albab dalam Al-Qur’an: Kajian Semiotika Roland Barthes
This study aims to analyze the meaning of the term Ulul Albab in the Qur'an using Roland Barthes’ semiotic approach. The concept of Ulul Albab frequently appears in various verses to refer to a group of people endowed with profound intellectual and spiritual depth. According to Barthes’ theory, every sign possesses two levels of meaning: denotative (literal meaning) and connotative (symbolic/cultural meaning). Through this framework, the study explores the lexical meaning of Ulul Albab and maps the symbolic meanings embedded within it in the context of Islamic culture, ethics, and spirituality. The findings indicate that Ulul Albab refers not only to rational intelligence but also carries deep symbolism of transcendental awareness. This research is expected to contribute to the interdisciplinary approach in Qur’anic exegesis, particularly in the study of meaning and the philosophy of signs.
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Tinjauan Linguistik atas Istifhām dan Tasybīh sebagai Strategi Retoris dalam Al-Qur’an
Al-Qur’an sebagai kitab suci umat Islam tidak hanya memuat petunjuk kehidupan, tetapi juga menyimpan kekayaan gaya bahasa yang tinggi. Dua di antara perangkat balāghah yang banyak ditemukan dalam al-Qur’an adalah istifhām (interogasi) dan tasybīh (perumpamaan). Kajian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis penggunaan istifhām dan tasybīh dalam al-Qur’an dari sudut pandang ilmu balāghah, serta menyingkap keindahan makna dan efek retoris yang ditimbulkannya. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif-deskriptif dengan metode analisis isi terhadap ayat-ayat yang mengandung istifhām dan tasybīh. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahwa istifhām dalam al-Qur’an tidak selalu bermakna pertanyaan, tetapi seringkali digunakan untuk pengingkaran, penegasan, pengajaran, dan pengalihan perhatian, sesuai konteks ayat. Sementara tasybīh digunakan untuk mengkonkretkan makna abstrak, memperkuat pesan moral, dan membentuk imajinasi estetis yang kuat dalam benak pembaca. Penelitian ini menegaskan bahwa pemahaman mendalam terhadap perangkat balāghah seperti istifhām dan tasybīh sangat penting untuk menangkap makna dan pesan ilahi yang lebih utuh dalam al-Qur’an.
Reconstructing 'True Convivencia': The Roles of Muwalladun Mozarab and Jews in Coexistence in Al-Andalus During the Golden Age of Umayyad and First Taifa Periods
This article investigates the unique interaction between three social groups; Muwalladun, Mozarabs and Jews, that lived together during Muslim Spain's era (732 CE-1492 CE) with the focus on unravelling the socio-cultural mechanism behind this interaction which led to the culmination of an interesting period known as "la Convivencia”. Viewing this topic through socio-cultural lenses, this article considers this approach the best method to understand Muwalladun, Mozarabs and Jews' interaction by assessing them as undergoing the process of acculturation and assimilation. This article aims to address the scholarly gap which, due to the lack of socio-cultural perspective of La Convivencia, led to some scholars denying the existence of this period. The presence of diverse communities in al-Andalus created multiple variables that pushed for coexistence like the emergence of new social groups, Muwalladun, which were affected by the influence of dominant Arabic culture and increased their rapid conversion to Islam due to equal opportunities for social mobility as Muslims. In addition, a similar role was exercised by Mozarabs, who built a connection with the brothers in faith in northern Iberia, spreading their tolerant attitude and knowledge gained in the south through trade and immigration. As for Jews, they benefited tremendously from this interaction; with the Muslims as the model and benchmark, their society prospered and flourished to the point of creating the Jewish Golden Age.
Balaghah-Informed Examination of Dilalah Jumlah Ismiyyah and Filiyyah for Holistic Quranic Understanding
This article explores the critical role of Dilalah Jumlah Ismiyyah (implications of nominal quantity) and Dilalah Jumlah Fi'liyyah (implications of verbal quantity) in the profound interpretation of the Holy Qur'an. As the foundational text of Islam, the Qur'an necessitates a comprehensive linguistic and rhetorical understanding to fully grasp its spiritual and practical guidance. We argue that analyzing the quantitative nuances within nominal (ism) and verbal (fi'il) structures is indispensable for unveiling the divine messages. The study delves into how the singular or plural usage of nouns and verbs influences meaning, conveying concepts ranging from God's absolute oneness to the collective responsibilities of humanity. Furthermore, it highlights the intricate relationship between Ismiyyah and Fi'liyyah, demonstrating how they mutually reinforce semantic depth and rhetorical impact within Qur'anic discourse. By integrating Balaghah (Arabic rhetoric) and considering the broader historical, cultural, and spiritual contexts of revelation, this research proposes a refined approach to Qur'anic exegesis. Ultimately, a meticulous examination of quantitative dilalah enriches our comprehension of the Qur'an's multifaceted meanings and its timeless ethical and moral teachings.
Semiotics of Sexual Harassment Representation in Photocopier: A John Fiske Semiotic Theory of Reality Representation and Ideology
Sexual harassment is an interesting issue in a nation that was once safe and peaceful, Indonesia. Sexual harassment seizures that get less attention, both from the authorities and the authorities or even have to choose silence when dealing with the more powerful parties often occur. This creates a negative stigma and causes sexual abuse traffickers to be afraid to complain about the crimes that occur to themselves and the absence of a deterrent effect on the perpetrator makes the perpetrators act freely because they feel themselves safe. This phenomenon was made into a Light Confiscation Film Photocopier. The purpose of the researchers in raising this discussion is to describe and represent the case of sexual harassment raised in the film Photocopier. Researchers used analytical techniques using qualitative methods and took John Fiske's semiotic examination methods to pass codes and profound importance on to films. The outcomes showed that the portrayal of sexual brutality in this film there are three phases as per John Fiske covering the degree of the real world, the degree of portrayal and the degree of philosophy inferred from the depiction of sexual violence carried out and concluded that in this film use patriarchal ideology and social class.
A Methodological Exploration of Reason and Mysticism in Defining Divine Revelation: The Perspectives of Ibn Sīnā and Al-Ghazālī
This article delves into the contrasting conceptions of divine revelation as articulated by two significant figures in Islamic thought, Ibn Sīnā and Al-Ghazālī, within the framework of metaphysical and epistemological processes. Ibn Sīnā views divine revelation as a metaphysical process situated at the apex of intellect. He posits it as an abstract reflection of divine knowledge conveyed to the prophet's imaginative faculty through the Active Intellect, a process philosophically grounded in the maturation of human intellectual capacity. Conversely, Al-Ghazālī understands divine revelation as a mystical experience, a divine encounter that surpasses the boundaries of human reason. For Al-Ghazālī, divine revelation manifests as an expression of God's speech, occurring solely through divine volition and inherently resistant to full rational comprehension. His Sufi-oriented perspective considers divine revelation integral to spiritual development. Through a comparative analysis of these two thinkers' understandings of divine revelation and metaphysics examining the points of convergence and divergence between Ibn Sīnā's rational approach and Al-Ghazālī's intuitive and inspirational Sufi approach this study offers an in-depth exploration of the evolution of the concept of divine revelation within Islamic theology and philosophy, underscoring the distinct contributions of each thinker to this intellectual tradition.
Religious Pluralism and Social Boundaries: A Qualitative Study of Sunni-Alevi Interaction in Eastern Anatolia's Bayburt Province
Alevism is often perceived as a homogeneous belief system; however, research reveals significant internal diversity shaped by its dispersion across various regions and cities. Understanding the cultural and religious expressions of Alevis in different local contexts is essential to grasp the authenticity and lived experience of the faith. Despite the predominance of the Sunni-Hanafi population in Bayburt, a small Alevi community exists within the province. To date, this community has received little to no scholarly attention. This study aims to explore the cultural and social connections of Alevis residing in eight villages within Bayburt Province to the broader Alevi faith. It also examines their interactions with the surrounding Sunni population and investigates the challenges associated with the intergenerational transmission of their religious and cultural heritage. Employing a qualitative research design, data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted during field visits to these villages. The interviews provided insights into how Alevi individuals perceive their identity, construct their social world, and assign meaning to their religious practices. Findings indicate that Alevism in Bayburt is increasingly limited to symbolic practices performed at visitation centers, is largely disconnected from its ritual and ethical dimensions, and is facing serious challenges in terms of cultural continuity. The study concludes that Alevism in this region is at risk of cultural erosion and potential extinction if these patterns persist.
Classical Islamic Malay Writing: The Contribution of Malay Ulama in the 17th Century
This article discusses the involvement of Malay ulama in the production of religious books or also known as kitab kuning, especially fiqh books in the 17th century. This century, as stated by some local historians, is the beginning of the development of classical Malay books in various fields including religion. The discussion in this article is focused on two things namely the development of writing religious books, focused on fiqh books in the 17th century, while the second case reviews two sample books that have been written in the 17th century namely (1) the Sirat al-Mustaqim and (2) the Mir’ah al-Tullab fi Tashil Ma’rifah Ahkam al-Shari’ah li Mulk al-Wahhab. From the discussion of the above, it can be concluded that the activity of writing classical Malay religious works developed along with the activity of writing in other fields including the fields of Malay literature, Sufism, Malay and Islamic history, Quran and Islamic medicine
Symbolization of Waqf and Ibtida in The Manuscript of The Mushaf al-Quran in The 19 Century: a Study of The Manuscript of Sayyid Ibrahim bin Abdullah al-Jufri
This article examines one of the manuscripts of the al-Qur'an manuscripts stored in the Great Mosque of the Surakarta Palace, namely the copy of Sayyid Ibrahim bin 'Abdullah al-Jufri. The manuscript has many eccentric aspects that are interesting to study further. This article examines the waqf and ibtidā’ symbols that differ from the mushafs that are circulating and read by people in Indonesia. This research employs qualitative with a library research method, namely conducting a literature review by reading, reviewing and analysing various sources. The data collection methods are observation, documentation, interviews and digitalisation. Meanwhile, the data analysis used is a descriptive-analytical method, namely describing data related to the object of study, the results are then analysed critically. Apart from that, this research also uses a philological method, namely the single manuscript edition method. The primary source for this research is Tuan Sayyid Ibrāhīm al- Jufri's manuscript of the Qur'an, while secondary sources are taken from relevant research literature. The study results show that the manuscript of Sayyid Ibrahim al-Jufri's manuscript of the Qur'an applies the symbolisation of waqf and ibtidā’ with five models, namely " تــــ" (waqf tām), " ک" (kāfīy), "ح" (hasan), "الزم" (lazim), and "نبوي " (Nabawiy).