Introduction: Islamisation of Knowledge (IoK)

Mohd Israil, Khaliq Ahmad (2026) Introduction: Islamisation of Knowledge (IoK). In: Islamisation of human knowledge and civilisational development: theories, application and practice. International Institute of Islamic Thought, Kuala Lumpur, pp. 1-16. ISBN 979-8-89193-469-0

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Abstract

The contemporary world faces a profound civilizational crisis marked by social decadence, environmental degradation, and increasing human suffering. Rapid industrialization, urbanization, and commercialization—particularly since the latter half of the twentieth century—have intensified materialistic modes of development driven largely by global capitalism. The emergence of large industrial complexes and multinational corporations has accelerated mass production and resource extraction, resulting in the excessive use of fossil fuels and the uncontrolled exploitation of natural resources. These developments have generated serious environmental challenges and social inequalities while contributing to the erosion of humanistic values and the marginalization of noble ethical principles emphasized in Islam. In this context, knowledge has increasingly been oriented toward profit generation, and material gain rather than moral and spiritual values. In contrast, Islam emphasizes the centrality of knowledge as a guiding force for human development and ethical conduct. The Prophet Muhammadصلى الله عليه وسلم consistently highlighted the importance of knowledge, as reflected in the Qur’anic supplication: “My Lord, increase me in knowledge” (Qur’an 20:114). Indeed, all aspects of Islamic practice—including ṣalāh, ṣawm, ḥajj, and ʿumrah—are grounded in knowledge and understanding. Although the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم is described as ummī—one who did not read or write—Islam nevertheless emerged as a civilization deeply rooted in the pursuit and cultivation of knowledge. This study therefore explores the relevance of a Tawḥīdic epistemological framework and the Islamisation/Integration of Knowledge as pathways toward intellectual renewal, ethical governance, and sustainable civilizational development. There are a few Muslim scholars who have exerted great effort and discussion on the sources of knowledge as derived from the fundamental texts of Islam. Epistemology addresses

Item Type:	Book Chapter
Uncontrolled Keywords:	IoK, Islamization of Knowledge, Islamic Epistimology, Civilization
Subjects:	BPL Islamic education
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC)
Depositing User:	Professor Khaliq Ahmad
Date Deposited:	21 Jul 2026 09:50
Last Update:	21 Jul 2026 09:50
Queue Number:	2026-07-Q3964
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/129545

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