ʿIlmu ʾl-Akhlāq (علم الاخلاق‎) in Islamic Ethics

ʿIlmu ʾl-Akhlāq (علم الاخلاق‎)

Definition and Significance

ʿIlmu ʾl-Akhlāq (علم الاخلاق‎), often translated as “Science of Ethics” or “Morals,” constitutes a critical area of study in Islamic philosophy and theology. It focuses on the moral and ethical teachings within the Islamic tradition, guiding how individuals should behave and make decisions in alignment with Islamic principles.

Etymology

The term originates from the Arabic words:

• ʿIlm (علم) meaning “science” or “knowledge.”
• Akhlāq (اخلاق) meaning “ethics” or “morals.”

Combining these elements, ʿIlmu ʾl-Akhlāq directly translates to “science of ethics” or “knowledge of morals.”

Translation

• Arabic: علم الاخلاق
• Turkish: Ahlak bilimi

Notable Works

Islamic thought encompasses several eminent works on ethics:

1. Akhlāq-i-Jalālī (اخلاق جلالي)

   • Author: Faqīr Jānī Muḥammad
   • Year: 908 AH (1502 CE)
   • Details: This Persian work has been translated into English with references and notes by W. F. Thompson in 1839 (London).

2. Akhlāq-i-Naṣīrī (اخلاق ناصري)

   • Author: Naṣīru ʾd-dīn at̤-T̤ūsī
   • Year: 672 AH (1273 CE)
   • Details: This classical text lays the foundation for much of ethical thought in Muslim philosophy and has been extensively influential.

3. Akhlāq-i-Muḥsinī (اخلاق محسني)

   • Author: Maulawī Ḥusain al-Kāshifī (Ḥusain the commentator)
   • Year: 910 AH (1504 CE)
   • Details: A significant contribution to moral and ethical literature within the Islamic world.

Importance in Islamic Tradition

Islam emphasizes the importance of ethics and morality as fundamental components of one’s faith and actions. The study of ʿIlmu ʾl-Akhlāq aims to cultivate virtuous behavior, interpersonal harmony, and a well-functioning society in accordance with divine commandments.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. Islamic Ethics: Divine Command Theory in Arabo-Islamic Thought by Omar Farahat
2. Ethical Theories in Islam by Majid Fakhry
3. The History of Islamic Political Thought: From the Prophet to the Present by Antony Black

Takeaways and Conclusion

• ʿIlmu ʾl-Akhlāq is essential for understanding the moral and ethical framework of Islam.
• The field combines theological principles with practical ethics to guide Muslims in their daily lives.
• Influential works like Akhlāq-i-Jalālī, Akhlāq-i-Naṣīrī, and Akhlāq-i-Muḥsinī provide deep insights and continue to be studied and referenced.

In conclusion, ʿIlmu ʾl-Akhlāq is a rich and profound area of Islamic studies, deeply interwoven with the religious, cultural, and social fabric of the Muslim world. Its teachings continue to resonate, offering timeless wisdom for ethical conduct and moral integrity.