Renewing the Science of Theology in the Indian Subcontinent: Shibli An-Nu'mani as a Model

Abstract

This study sheds light on the renewal of the science of theology in the Indian subcontinent, with Shibli An-Nu'mani as a model. The study begins by defining the science of theology and then explores the meaning of renewing the science of theology and its understanding and essence among Muslims. It further presents the emergence of the renewal of the science of theology and its manifestations in the Islamic world among Indians, Persians, Turks, and Arabs. The study also highlights the need for renewing the science of theology in modern times and how scientific developments, new discoveries, and modern materialistic philosophies have contributed to its renewal. Then the study presented Shibli An-Nu'mani’s views on renewing the science of theology. It started by discussing his perspective on modern sciences and their relation to religion. It then demonstrated how he approached traditional topics such as divinity, prophecy, reward, and punishment, employing new methods and a modern outlook that contributed to the renewal of the science of theology and its utilization in responding to modern doubts. The study also explored the modern subjects addressed by Shibli An-Nu'mani, such as human rights, women's rights, the issue of equality, progress, and development in Islam, and how he incorporated these topics into the new science of theology. The study has reached a set of results, the most important of which are: the idea of renewing the science of theology emerged among some scholars to dispel doubts about Islam, and Shibli An-Nu'mani was the first to use the term "renewal of the science of theology". He employed this renewal to strengthen the Muslims' beliefs, defend their religion, and respond to the doubts raised by atheists and opponents of Islam in a scientific manner, relying on scientific evidence.