Theology in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance

Theology in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance

Etymology and Translation

• Arabic: al-ʿIlmu ʾl-Ilāhī (العلم الإلهى)
• Translation: The Science of God
• Turkish: İlahi Bilimi

Introduction

In Islamic tradition, theology—referred to as al-ʿIlmu ʾl-Ilāhī in Arabic—literally translates to “The Science of God.” This field encompasses a comprehensive study of the divine and religious matters within Islam. The term ʿIlm (علم‎), meaning “knowledge,” is particularly applied to understanding the Qurʾān and the Traditions (Hadith) of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم).

Key Subdivisions of Islamic Theology

Islamic theology can be categorized into several essential branches, each focusing on a specific aspect of religious scholarship:

1. ʿIlmu ʾt-Tafsīr (علم التفسير):

   • Translation: Knowledge of Exegesis
   • Focus: Detailed study and commentary on the Qurʾān including its interpretation.

2. ʿIlmu ʾl-Hadīs̤ (علم الحديث):

   • Translation: Knowledge of Hadith
   • Focus: Study of the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad.

3. ʿIlmu ʾl-Uṣūl (علم الأصول):

   • Translation: Knowledge of Roots
   • Focus: Foundational principles of Islamic law encompassing exegesis, traditions, consensus (Ijma), and analogy (Qiyas).

4. ʿIlmu ʾl-Fiqh (علم الفقه):

   • Translation: Knowledge of Jurisprudence
   • Focus: Islamic legal science, addressing moral, civil, and ceremonial aspects of life.

5. ʿIlmu ʾl-ʿAqāʾid (علم العقائد):

   • Translation: Knowledge of Doctrines
   • Focus: Scholastic theology based on six articles of faith: Unity of God, Angels, Holy Books, Prophets, Resurrection, and Predestination.

Etymology and Historical Context

The term al-ʿIlmu ʾl-Ilāhī has been fundamental in the intellectual history of Islam, marking the convergence of theology, law, and mysticism. It underscores the pivotal Islamic teaching that true knowledge stems from divine revelation and is centered around the Qurʾān and Hadith (الحديث).

Books for Further Studies

To deeper understand Islamic theology, consider the following resources:

1. “The Study Quran” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr et al.
2. “Hadith: Muhammad’s Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World” by Jonathan A.C. Brown
3. “Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
4. “The Cambridge Companion to Classical Islamic Theology” edited by Tim Winter
5. “Islamic Theology and Philosophy” by Michael E. Marmura

Takeaways and Conclusion

Islamic theology, or al-ʿIlmu ʾl-Ilāhī, comprises a robust and intricate framework that integrates knowledge of the Qur’an, Hadith, jurisprudence, and doctrinal beliefs. By studying these subdivisions, one gains a more profound comprehension of Islamic teachings, contributing to both personal faith and scholarly discourse. For Muslims and scholars alike, delving into these core aspects offers a pathway to spiritual and intellectual enrichment.

Understanding Islamic theology is not merely about academic pursuit but engaging deeply with the foundational elements of Islam that shape everyday life and practice for Muslims worldwide.

This entry provides a structured overview of Islamic theology, linking to key terms and works that allow for further inquiry into this rich field of study.