The Status of Faith-Oriented World-Building in Islamic ‎Civilization: An Aesthetic Explanation of the Relationship ‎between Faith and the World Based on the Theory of Existential Fitness

Document Type : The Quarterly Jornal

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Ethics, Institute for Islamic Philosophy and Theology, ‎Islamic Sciences and Culture Academy, Qom, Iran.‎

Abstract

To understand the defining characteristics of Islamic civilization, it is essential to examine the correct faith-based approach to the world. Regarding the relationship between faith and the world, two distinct perspectives can be proposed: 1- The Purely Instrumental and non-valuable approch: Based on this view, the world has no inherent value or authenticity. It is merely a tool for achieving eternal salvation. World-renunciation is embedded within this perspective. 2- The authentic value-based approach: According to this perspective, the various manifestations of the world are a fundamental part of the beauty of creation. The believer is tasked with fully harmonizing with the afterlife while utilizing their God-given talents and capacities to realize the beauty of the world. This approach rejects world-renunciation and affirms faith-oriented world-building. The theory of existential fitness provides the theoretical foundation for this value-based approach. This research employs a descriptive-analytical methodology, utilizing the theory of existential fitness and an analysis of religious texts. The theory of existential fitness is used to elucidate this perspective, and religious teachings are employed to support it. The study concludes that in Islamic civilization, there is no place for either a worldliness that shuns the afterlife or an otherworldly focus that renounces the world. The key characteristic of an Islamic civilized society is its engagement with the world with a faith-based and eschatological orientation.

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References

The Holy Quran
** Nahj al-Balagha
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