The Inner Knowledge (‘Ilm Al-Batinah) of good deeds according to Iman Al-Ghazali

Abstract

This article analyses al-Ghazali’s theory of the Inner Knowledge (‘Ilm al-Batinah) of good deeds or devotional acts (‘ibadah). This article is theoretical in nature, and it involves bibliographic research, employing descriptive and analytic methods. The article argues that al-Ghazali formulates unique and profound ways of understanding good deeds, which, if analysed accordingly alongside his theory of Inner Actions (al-A‘mal al-Batinah), can be developed into a spiritual model of good deeds. The article found that al-Ghazali places great emphasis on the need to understand inner knowledge of good deeds which requires one to understand their Inner Meanings (al-Ma‘ani al-Batinah), real purposes, as well as their different grades and significance. His analysis of these elements is unique and profound, filled with spiritual insight. Al-Ghazali’s insight of this spiritual dimension of good deeds can increase one’s consciousness, and help one to be more attentive or present in performing good deeds or worship.