ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām (عـلـم الكلام‎)

ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām (عـلـم الكلام‎)

Introduction

ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām (عـلـم الكلام‎), often translated as scholastic theology, is a critical field of study in Islamic thought. It systematically discusses, defends, and explicates Islamic beliefs using rational arguments and intellectual discourse. This discipline is also referred to as ʿIlmu ʾl-ʿAqāʾid, the “science of the articles of belief.” The primary goal of ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām is to present and defend the tenets of Islamic faith.

Etymology

The term ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām is derived from Arabic:

• ʿIlm (علم): Knowledge or science.
• Kalām (كلام): Speech or discourse.

Therefore, ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām can be translated as “the science of discourse,” referring to rational discussions concerning Islamic doctrine.

Arabic and Turkish Translations

• Arabic: عـلـم الكلام‎ (ʿIlm al-Kalām)
• Turkish: Kelam İlmi

Scope and Topics

ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām encompasses the following major areas of belief, commonly referred to as the six articles of the Muslim Creed:

1. The Unity of God (Tawḥīd)
2. The Angels (Malāʾika)
3. The Books (Kutub)
4. The Prophets (Nubuwwa)
5. The Day of Judgment (Yawm al-Qiyāmah)
6. The Decrees of God (Qadar)

These topics distinguish ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām from al-Fiqh, which is concerned with the five foundational practices of Islam:

1. Recital of the Creed (Shahāda)
2. Prayer (Ṣalāh)
3. Fasting (Ṣawm)
4. Almsgiving (Zakāt)
5. Pilgrimage (Ḥajj)

Notable Works

Several seminal texts have been authored on the subject of ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām:

• Sharḥu ʾl-ʿAqāʾid by Maulawai Masʿūd Saʿdu ʾd-dīn At-Taftāzānī (d. 1390 CE / A.H. 792): This text elaborates upon the articles of Islamic creed.
• Sharḥu ʾl-Muwāqif by Saiyid Sharīf Jurjāni: A comprehensive work addressing various theological issues within Islam.

Further Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām, the following books are recommended:

1. “Islamic Theology and Philosophy: Studies in Honor of George F. Hourani” edited by Michael E. Marmura.
2. “Islamic Philosophy, Science, Culture, and Religion: Studies in Honor of Dimitri Gutas” edited by Felicitas Opwis and David Reisman.
3. “Al-Ghazali’s Philosophical Theology” by Frank Griffel.

Key Takeaways

• ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām is essential to understanding Islamic theological discourse.
• It is a rational, systematic defense and explanation of Islamic beliefs.
• The subject matter includes, but is not limited to, discussions on the nature of God, prophethood, and eschatology.
• Distinguished from al-Fiqh, which deals more with practical aspects of Islamic practice.
• Several key texts have been seminal in the development of this field.

Conclusion

ʿIlmu ʾl-Kalām occupies a pivotal role within Islamic intellectual traditions, providing a robust framework for the rational inquiry and defense of the faith’s core beliefs. By engaging with this discipline, one gains a deeper appreciation and understanding of the theological foundations upon which Islam is built.