Divine Revelation Research Articles

The Concept of Divine Revelation According to Ibn Sînâ and Al-Ghazālī: A Comparative Analysis

The Concept of Divine Revelation According to Ibn Sînâ and Al-Ghazālī: A Comparative Analysis

Human dignity and the pursuit of knowledge in Islamic thought: Insights from the Quran

This research examines the interplay between human dignity and the pursuit of knowledge within Islamic thought, using insights from the Quran. It explores how Islamic epistemology emphasizes the harmonious integration of divine revelation and human reason, underscoring the importance of knowledge as a key factor in both intellectual and spiritual development. By analyzing the contributions of classical Islamic scholars, such as Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, and Al-Ghazali, alongside Western epistemological traditions, the study highlights complementary and contrasting approaches to understanding knowledge and its role in shaping ethics and governance. Furthermore, the research draws on contemporary case studies, such as the Marrakesh Declaration and Masdar City, to illustrate how Quranic principles of cooperation, justice, and environmental stewardship can inform modern societal frameworks. Ultimately, the study argues for the continued relevance of Islamic thought in addressing contemporary global challenges, emphasizing that the pursuit of knowledge not only advances scientific discovery but also promotes human dignity, justice, and societal well-being.

ALKITAB DALAM PERSPEKTIF HOMILETIKA YANG BERTEOLOGI

A sermon serves as the platform through which a preacher conveys divine messages to the congregation. Thorough preparation and effective delivery constitute essential components of a sermon. The use of illustrations, testimonials, and the selection of Bible passages play a pivotal role in crafting a sermon. A preacher should strive to communicate a message that aligns with the will of God, rather than catering to the desires of the congregation or personal preferences. This research aims to explore the concept of the Bible from a theological homiletical perspective. The Bible is regarded as a divine revelation in which God manifests Himself. The Bible serves as the core source in sermon development. Unfortunately, not all preachers base their sermons on the Bible; at times, they rely more on personal thoughts or subjective experiences. This poses potential risks for the congregation since their faith should not be founded on the preacher's personal experiences. It is crucial for a preacher to comprehend the fundamental role of the Bible as a theological foundation in crafting sermons. The research methodology employed in this study is qualitative, with a focus on relevant literature and resources. The research findings affirm that sermons with theological depth should be anchored in the Bible. Such an approach is known as expository preaching. It can be concluded that as a preacher, the primary duty is to communicate God's message, not personal opinions. This is intended to build the congregation on the foundation of biblical truth and encourage transformation towards Christ.

Divine traditions and the governance of the city-state of Medina

Divine revelations in Islam are not restricted to the spiritual well-being of its followers but aim to guide them towards the realisation of a socio-political organisation, a polity, wherein they can achieve spiritual as well as socio-political excellence. Because of the immense significance of socio-political organisation in Islam, the governance of socio-political organisation is one of the key topics in Islam. The principles of the governance of socio-political organisation in Islam are based on certain divine traditions. This article focusses on five major Islamic divine traditions outlined in Islamic revelatory culture: firstly, the divine tradition of guidance and misguidance; secondly, the divine tradition of Ni’mat [Blessings] and their reversal; thirdly, the divine tradition of the triumph of Haqq’ [Truth] over Báṭil [Falsehood]; fourthly, the divine tradition of the destruction of the oppressors and fifthly, the divine tradition of trial. This article attempts to show that these five Islamic divine traditions form the foundation for the structure and function of the governance system of the first Muslim polity, the city-state of Medina.Contribution: This article highlights the role of Islamic divine traditions in the structure and function of the governance system of the first Muslim polity, the city-state of Medina.

Theological Science in the Thought of Thomas F. Torrance: The Integration of Natural and Revealed Theology and Its Implications for Kataphysical Knowledge

In this article, the notion of “theological science” is examined in the thinking of Thomas F. Torrance (1913–2007), with particular attention paid to his synthesis of revealed and natural theology and its consequences for kataphysical knowledge—the comprehension of God via divine self-disclosure. Torrance redefines natural theology as the logical intra-structure that is crucial to theological reasoning, not as a separate field of study. Natural theology creates a full framework for comprehending divine revelation when combined with revealed theology. This research shows how Torrance’s technique reconciles human reason with God’s self-revelation, resulting in a coherent theological methodology. It analyses his reconstruction of natural theology within its proper intellectual and philosophical settings. The paper also discusses Torrance’s theological model’s applicability to Indian Christian contexts, contending that his integrated method provides an essential means of fostering a more profound theological comprehension in modern Indian churches. It becomes clear that pursuing kataphysical knowledge in the way that Torrance does is essential to promoting theological discourse and participation, especially in contexts that are pluralistic and diversified. As a result, this essay presents Torrance’s ideas as a vital addition to the current theological conversation and as a template for addressing the difficulties of faith and knowledge in a multicultural environment.

Critical Reflection on the Philosophical Understanding of Human Nature in Christian Religious Educational Ministry

This study aims to offer a more profound comprehension of the origins, nature, and makeup, as well as the embodiment of humankind in relation to ontology, epistemology, and the axiom that encompasses us as humans within a philosophical and educational context. In this context, the paper explored the overall root, nature, and make-up, and the overall embodiment of humans within a philosophical framework and discussed how it is embodied in the teaching of the theology of knowledge. The paper also discussed the importance of a relational reflective style of knowing that is shaped by the faith stories of the Christians of old and the vision that those stories lead to in Christian religious education. The study concluded that the quest for understanding is not merely an academic exercise but a profound spiritual exploration. The philosophical underpinnings of human nature, as articulated by thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine and Calvin, underscore a dynamic interplay between rationality and divine revelation. There is a need for all to embrace the challenge of educating for virtuous action, grounded in a deep and abiding knowledge of oneself, one’s world, and the God who invites humanity into an ever-deepening relationship of love and understanding. Keywords: Human, Ontology, Education, Epistemology, Knowledge, Ministry, Philosophy, Christian, Experience.

Did the Prophet practice Ijtihad? An Inquiry into the Prophet's Personal Opinion-Based Juridical and Judicial Ruling

This research paper delves into the intriguing question of whether the Prophet Muhammad practiced Ijtihad, issuing personal opinion-based juridical or judicial rulings without explicit divine revelation. It explores the varying perspectives of jurists and Muslim scholars on this matter, with some permitting the Prophet's reliance on his intellect and understanding for issues related to worldly affairs, such as politics, war, agriculture, and judicial cases but not religious matters. The distinction between purely religious and public affairs is supported by numerous texts and narrations. The paper discusses the controversy arising from conflicting interpretations of Quranic and Hadith texts regarding the Prophet's reliance on divine revelation versus his judgment. While some argue that all the Prophet's statements are revelations from God, others point to instances where his opinions were not based on revelation but on Ijtihad. Furthermore, this study underscores the narrower application of Ijtihad in strictly religious matters compared to its broader use in non-theological affairs, adapting to changing situations and times. This controversy prompts a reevaluation of the rigid adherence to the Prophet's tradition in all aspects of Muslim life. It raises questions about the adaptability of these traditions to contemporary situations influenced by politics, technology, culture, and social values. The paper concludes by advocating for a thoughtful categorization of the Prophet's traditions, such as Fatwahs, judicial, theology, politics, personal matters, social, and cultural issues, to determine their relevance and obligatory status for the Muslim community. This categorization, the paper argues, would provide a solid framework for applying the Prophet's tradition, taking into account the dynamic nature of public affairs.

“And the Earth Spoke to Him”

Abstract This article explores the relationships between the various locations in which divine revelation takes place in the Cologne Mani Codex, employing insights from spatial theory and ecocriticism. It argues that the text emphasizes the possibility of revelation from multiple sources, both worldly and otherworldly, and that the accounts of revelation throughout the text can be understood within ongoing apocalyptic discourses in antiquity about natural revelation, raptures, otherworldly journeys, and worldly missions.

Ulil Albab: An Ancient Methodology for Building Corporate Spiritual Responsibility (CSpR)

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) aims to balance economic, social, and environmental impacts, but often lacks spiritual and ethical depth. This research introduces Corporate Spiritual Responsibility (CSpR) using the Ulil Albab methodology, rooted in Islamic tradition. The Ulil Albab method integrates intellectual and spiritual faculties through Zikir (remembrance), Do’a (prayer), Tafakur (reflection), and Tahanuts (seclusion), known collectively as ZDTT. By grounding CSR in spiritual awareness, this approach fosters more authentic and impactful social responsibility. The methodology combines sensory perception, rational thought, heart intuition, and divine revelation, offering a holistic approach to knowledge. Implementing CSpR aligns corporate actions with spiritual principles, ensuring ethical integrity and sustainability. The study explores how CSpR can transform CSR practices, its practical implications, and its role in creating a more ethical corporate culture. CSpR enhances businesses' moral fabric, helping them navigate ethical dilemmas and build stakeholder trust.

“Israel Wilderness School” – Pattern for Discipleship in the Old Testament (God's continual Revelation of Himself to Man, for Pedagogical and Restorative Purposes)

The study explores the concept of discipleship in the Old Testament, highlighting how divine revelation continues to be a pedagogical and therapeutic process. At the centre of this process is the relationship between God and man, beginning with Adam and continuing with the patriarchs, prophets, and the people of Israel, culminating in the Christ disciple’s model. It is emphasised that the whole of revelation provides a complete model for discipleship, to guide humanity towards divine communion. The study also analyses the educational structures in Jewish society, in which the family, the royal court and scribal schools play essential roles. It discusses the biblical terminology specific to discipleship and the relationship between learning and the divine will, concluding that true religious education is about accumulating knowledge and living by God's will so that man can re-enter into a relationship with the supreme Teacher.

Context-Attentive Theology: On the Rearticulation of Experience in Theological Inquiry

Abstract This article argues that theology (systematic or otherwise) is ultimately grounded in (religious) experience. To that end, I methodologically demonstrate that theological inquiry cannot coherently be pursued without attention to people’s experience of the divine/sacred. Thus, this article stands as a methodological development and defense of a family of theological viewpoints that I call context-attentive theologies. In order to do so, I examine the writings of three authors whose different approaches to the problem of divine revelation will help me to clarify the meaning of context-attentive theology: Jean-Luc Marion, H. Richard Niebuhr, and Gustavo Gutiérrez. I proceed in four steps. First, I provide an account of context-attentive theology through an examination of the task of theology. Second, I focus on Marion’s phenomenology of revelation to ascertain to what extent it incorporates contextual analysis. Third, I turn to Niebuhr’s account of revelation, which I construe as a context-attentive theology shaped by the “historical turn.” Fourth, I turn to Gutiérrez’s liberation theology to show how Niebuhr’s “radical reconstruction” within the context of the historical turn is further radicalized by liberation theology, which I take as a prime example of context-attentive theology.

Unveiling Bishop Teodomiro of Iria Flavia? An attempt to identify the discoverer of St James's tomb through osteological and biomolecular analyses (Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain)

After St James the Apostle, Bishop Teodomiro of Iria-Flavia is the most important figure associated with the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. He supposedly discovered the apostolic tomb after a divine revelation between AD 820 and 830 yet, until the discovery, in 1955, of a tombstone inscribed with his name, his very existence was a matter of some debate. Here, the authors employ a multi-stranded analytical approach, combining osteoarchaeology, radiocarbon dating, stable isotope and ancient DNA analyses to demonstrate that human bones associated with the tombstone, in all likelihood, represent the earthly remains of Bishop Teodomiro.

Method of Allama Abul Fazl Al Borqaee (d 1413 H) in his Tafseer "Tabeshe az Quran"

The Quran, the cornerstone of Islam, underpins the faith, society, and civilization of the Muslim world. As the final divine revelation bestowed upon Prophet Muhammad (SAW), it was his duty to memorize and convey its teachings to his companions. This responsibility extends to the entire Muslim community, especially the ulamas (Islamic scholars), as the Prophet (SAW) emphasized the importance of learning and teaching the Quran. Through the dedicated efforts of ulamas, the Quran has been preserved from any alterations, fulfilling Allah's promise of protection. This research focuses on the translation methodology of Allama Burqaee, a distinguished Persian translator of the Quran. The significance of this study lies in recognizing Allama Burqaee's outstanding contributions to Islamic scholarship. He authored over a hundred works, including translations of the Quran and Hadith, and conducted extensive research on various religions and conflicting beliefs. His tafseer (exegesis) is particularly valuable for students of Islamic studies due to its comprehensive integration of Sunni and Shia scholarly perspectives and ease of access to primary sources. The choice of this topic is motivated by several reasons: (1) To acknowledge Allama Burqaee's efforts in opposing religious innovations (bida'). (2) To understand Allama Burqaee's approach to the Quran, Sunnah, and other Islamic sciences. (3) To highlight his inclusion of diverse scholarly opinions and contemporary ijtihad (intellectual striving). (4) To elucidate his emphasis on the importance of aqeeda (belief), a foundational aspect of Islam. (5) To discuss his call for Muslim unity based on the Quran and Sunnah. The research methodology involves following Allama Burqaee's approach without alterations, providing explanations and critical commentary when necessary. The steps include examining Quranic verses with references, analyzing Hadith and athar (traditions) from primary sources, considering scholarly consensus, and offering concise definitions and examples. This study aims to present a thorough understanding of Allama Burqaee's translation methods and their implications for Islamic scholarship.

Critical Analysis of Donald G. Bloesch’s Theological Method and its Implication to Doctrinal Formulation

Abstract Donald G. Bloesch, an evangelical scholar introduces a methodology that employs divine revelation as the primary source for theological investigation in which believing precedes understanding. This method raises three questions: 1) How does Bloesch view scriptural authority in theological investigation? 2) what hermeneutical principle does Bloesch apply to his divine revelation method? 3) how does Bloesch’s method of divine revelation affect doctrinal formation? In response to these questions, this paper aimed to critically analyze Bloesch’s theological method and its implication to doctrinal formulation. The paper followed descriptive and critical analysis methodologies in four sections: Theological background of Donald Bloesch; analysis of Bloesch’s theological method; critical evaluation of Bloesch’s theological method, views of Scriptures, and hermeneutical principle; and implications of Bloesch’s theological method to doctrinal formulation. In response to the questions, this study unveils that Bloesch does not allow Scriptures to communicate God’s message, but he uses Scriptures to confirm conceptualized belief. Based on this belief, he formulated historical-pneumatic hermeneutics, a principle that solely depends on divine revelation. Based on Bloesch’s methodology, doctrinal formulation is affected because it does not rely exclusively on scriptural authority but rather on conceptualized faith.

Engaging Karl Barth's Theology with Nurcholis Madjid and Ibn Taymiyya

This study presents a pioneering dialogue between Karl Barth’s Christian theology and Islamic theological perspectives in the Indonesian context, focusing specifically on the concept of universal salvation. The primary interlocutors are Nurcholish Madjid, interpreting Ibn Taymiyya, and Karl Barth’s theology. Barth’s universalism envisions an inclusive future for humanity, elaborated in Barth’s exposition of the theme “Jesus is Victor,” suggesting a universal reprieve from divine eschatological judgment. Correspondingly, Madjid’s interpretation of Islamic theology proposes a universally hopeful future, recognizing the broad spectrum of divine revelation across various religious traditions, thereby fostering a sense of shared hope among diverse religious followers. Ibn Taymiyya, often misconceived as a figurehead for radical elements, is depicted in this essay as advocating a form of universalism where divine mercy ultimately triumphs over retribution. This article contends that this mutual anticipation of universal salvation can pave the way for meaningful Christian-Islamic interactions in the Indonesian milieu, contributing significantly to interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Религия, милосердие и следование разуму, куда бы он ни вел: переосмысление концепции Фомы Аквинского

Scholars of Aquinas have usually focused on the intellectual aspect of the Christian faith, i.e., on the view that faith is a propositional belief. In this view, faith can be subjected to rational scrutiny, and at least in principle rejected, if this is required by contrary evidence. In this article, I intend to show that for Aquinas, faith is not only a propositional belief. Consequently, it cannot be limited to the intellectual dimension. A moral and a religious one should be included, since faith is also a matter of good choice and relationship with God. Because of this relationship – which is the religious dimension of faith – faith is caused by charity, which makes the faithful firmly believe the fundamental tenets of divine revelation, however convincing contrary evidence may appear to be. Furthermore, when it comes to the relationship between faith and rational arguments, such a firm faith leads the believer to promote intellectual virtues, among which, open-mindedness stands out. The believer is led to follow reason wherever it leads, which means that he is put in the optimum condition to conduct research and debates.

Zeus-Amun from the Perspective of the Concept of Divine Revelation and Manifestations of Political and Religious Propaganda in the Siwa Oasis "Applied Study on A group of Unpublished Greco- Roman Coins

Zeus-Amun from the Perspective of the Concept of Divine Revelation and Manifestations of Political and Religious Propaganda in the Siwa Oasis "Applied Study on A group of Unpublished Greco- Roman Coins

Authenticity and Historicity of The Quran from The Perspective Of H. Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah (Buya Hamka)

The Quran holds a central position in the lives of Muslims, particularly as a source of worship through recitation, memorization, and understanding of its teachings. However, studies on the historicity and authenticity of the Quran have received limited attention from the Muslim community at large.However, this issue cannot be overlooked, as Orientalists, through their research, attempt to obscure and even distort facts about the Quran's historicity and authenticity.Therefore, this research aims to present perspectives on the historicity and authenticity of the Quran based on factual evidence from the Quran and the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), from the perspective of Buya Hamka. This study employs a qualitative approach, drawing from relevant books or journals on the theme, which are then summarized and analyzed to provide new insights that complement existing research. Based on the gathered data, the history of the Quran, both in terms of its revelation and its textual preservation, confirms that the Quran is the divine revelation received by Prophet Muhammad (SAW), either directly or through the intermediary of Angel Gabriel. Meanwhile, the authenticity of the Quran remains well-maintained, starting from its initial reception of revelation memorized by the Prophet and his companions, a tradition that continues to this day with many people memorizing the Quran. This research underscores the importance of understanding the historicity and authenticity of the Quran to address misinterpretations and distortions propagated by certain ideologies or perspectives within Islam. The findings of this study reinforce that the Quran is the unchanged revelation of Allah and continues to be an irreplaceable source of guidance for mankind throughout the ages.

ORTHODOX TEACHING ON TIME

The Orthodox Church, taking into account the truths detached from the divine revelation, gave the concept of time a major importance, not only to eternal life, but also to the time of the present life. The Holy Fathers emphasized the axiological aspect of time, with reference to its significance for man's life in achieving its saving goal, although they also presented theoretical studies on the essence and origin of time, and showed that, paradoxically, although time is connected with the creation "ex nihilo", yet it is compatible with eternity, that is, with the uncreated.

Perbuatan sebagai Masalah Filsafat dan Implikasinya bagi Kemungkinan Wahyu Adikodrati: Perspektif Filsafat Agama Maurice Blondel

For the first time “action” was raised by Maurice Blondel, a contemporary French philosopher, as a philosophical problem. With actions carried out with “knowing” and “wanting” (actus humanus), so desired actions, the human will can move from limited reality to the Divine as unlimited reality. For Blondel, two types of will are used, volonte voulante (the willing will) and volonte voulue (the willed will). Volonte voulue is a type of human action whose object is empirical goods, because it is always possible to achieve them. Meanwhile volonte volulante is a type of action whose object concerns metaempirical reality and is therefore difficult and even impossible to achieve by the effort of the human will. This object can only be achieved by humans thanks to the actions of the Divine Himself, namely through God's own Revelation which comes to humans. Blondel's contribution to contemporary religious philosophy lies here, namely that he can rationally account for the faith of religious people that believers are made possible by the natural capacity in humans, namely the dynamism of the will to lead him to the possibility of supernatural revelation. However, philosophy here only provides a “possibility” not “certainty”. Meanwhile, “certainty” regarding the existence of special revelation (divine revelation based on the Holy Scriptures) remains a matter of theology as a matter of certainty of faith.