Author: Obaidullah Nimruzi
The Biography of Abu Hamed Imam Mohammad al-Ghazali [MABH] (Part 15)
The Descending Course of Scientific and Religious Terms in the History of Islam
In one of the most important sections of Imam al-Ghazali’s (MABH) works, he examines the descending trajectory of scientific and religious terms in the history of Islam. He details how religious words and titles have changed over time and often no longer bear proportion to their original concepts. In these analyses, Imam al-Ghazali highlights the depth of the distortions that have occurred in Islamic history and the negative impacts that these changes have had on religious understanding.
He argues that the concepts and titles used in the early centuries of Islam have gradually been misused over time, influenced by changing social and political conditions. These distortions in the use of words and titles have altered the core concepts of the Islamic religion, leading not to advancements in religious and scientific understanding, but rather to new misunderstandings among Muslims.
Imam Ghazali, (MABH), clearly states in this section of his works that these distortions lead only to further misguidance in both the scientific and religious communities. They represent a misuse of the sacred titles of Islam. He carefully examines these changes and demonstrates how this process has resulted in a deviation from the truth and led science away from its proper path. His analyses and criticisms serve as warnings for caution in the use of scientific and religious terms, both in his era and for the future.
General Conclusion
Throughout Islamic history, especially in various periods following the era of Prophethood, scholars have played a prominent role in shaping and reforming society as preservers of both science and religion. Their contributions are significant not only in maintaining religious principles and foundations but also in promoting the moral, social, and intellectual dimensions of society.
In this regard, Imam Ghazali, MABH, stands out as one of the greatest philosophers and scholars of Islam. In his monumental work, Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), he addresses many of the scientific and religious challenges of his time, demonstrating how Islamic scholars can guide society away from various deviations and back to the path of truth.
Islamic Scholars: Preservers of Religious and Social Principles
Islamic scholars have long been recognized not just as religious experts but also as reformers of various aspects of social life. Beyond teaching jurisprudence, hadith, and the interpretation of the Quran, they have historically acted as advisors to rulers, social and moral reformers, and, at times, critics of social and political issues. This role has persisted for centuries, including in contemporary contexts.
In the early Islamic period, prominent scholars such as Imam Abu Hanifa (MABH), Imam Shafi’i (MABH), and Imam Ghazali (MABH) were able to respond to the intellectual and social needs of their communities while preserving the origination of their religious principles and teachings.
Imam al-Ghazali (MABH), regarded as one of the most notable representatives of this scientific and religious movement, critically examined the social and scientific issues of his time through his works, particularly in Ihya Olum ul-Din. He clearly articulated the consequences and harms caused by intellectual and scientific deviations. His critiques of the intellectual and scientific movements during the Caliphate, along with his analysis of the religious and philosophical distortions of his time, illustrate how changes in scientific attitudes and terminology could lead to societal division initially, and later lay the groundwork for moral and social decay.
Criticism of Scientific Debates and Controversies: Imam al-Ghazali’s Personal Experience
Imam al-Ghazali, MABH, accumulated vast experience throughout his life, particularly during his engagement in scientific and religious debates and controversies, which significantly shaped his views. He participated in various scientific competitions and debates for an extended period and addresses the spiritual and moral corruption that can arise from such contests in Ihya Olum ul-Din. Imam al-Ghazali offers insights drawn from his personal observations, emphasizing that if conducted improperly, scientific debates can hinder the pursuit of truth and foster pride, selfishness, and division among Muslims.
He notes that in these debates, the primary goal—searching for the truth—often becomes overshadowed by personal desires and unfair competition. Imam al-Ghazali concludes that his experiences have led him to recognize the moral and spiritual dangers inherent in such discussions. He stresses the adverse effects that these debates can have on personal and social relationships and warns Muslims to maintain their ethical and human principles to avoid falling into intellectual and social corruption. Through these reflections, Imam al-Ghazali serves as an objective witness, striving to protect Islamic society from the perils of these harmful practices.
The Effect of Scientific Words and Titles in Distorting Religious Concepts
Another critical aspect of Imam al-Ghazali’s critique is related to the impact of changes in scientific concepts and terminology over different eras. In Ihya Olum ul-Din, he discusses in detail how semantic and practical shifts in scientific terms and titles can distort religious concepts and distance them from their original meanings. Imam al-Ghazali contends that during his time, some scientific titles, which initially possessed clear and precise meanings, have transformed into vague and sometimes meaningless concepts due to semantic distortions.
He points out the alterations that occurred in the concepts of “jurisprudence” and “theology.” Jurisprudence, originally intended as a science for understanding religion and providing legal rulings, had, in certain periods, been reduced to obscure discussions and minute jurisprudential details. Imam al-Ghazali emphasizes that the improper use of these terms not only misguides individuals but also causes division among Muslims, distancing them from the true teachings of their faith. He warns that changes in the meanings of these terms must be approached with care and meticulousness, as they can easily threaten the foundations of both science and religion.
Islamic Scholars: Pioneers of Social and Religious Reform
Islamic scholars have consistently been recognized as pioneers of social and religious reform. They have historically safeguarded against worldly power struggles and social corruption, striving to guide society back to the true path by emphasizing moral and religious values. Imam al-Ghazali (MABH) sought to steer the Muslim community away from intellectual and social deviations and back to the original Islamic principles and concepts, critiquing misguided methods of scientific debate and the alterations in the application of scientific and religious terms.
Finally, the role of Islamic scholars in reforming society remains indispensable and vital in today’s world. Despite the myriad challenges and deviations present in contemporary times, Islamic scholars must confront intellectual and religious distortions while safeguarding society from divisions and deviations, just as they did historically. As Imam al-Ghazali (MABH) and other great Islamic scholars have demonstrated, science should serve religion, promote morality, and reveal truth, rather than be a tool for personal gain or for misleading others. Islamic scholars must continuously pursue societal reform with pure intentions and based on authentic scientific and religious principles, preventing any deviation or distortion of concepts, so that Islamic society can progress towards perfection and excellence.
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