Methodology of Islamic Studies Area

The methodology of Islamic studies consists of various research approaches. Various dimensions of Islam in the problems of human life are studied objectively and systematically. Gather information and find general principles for the development of science, especially about Islam.

One approach is called Regional Islamic Studies. The development of this approach discusses the Southeast Asia, China, and East Africa region. The countries studied were selected from representatives of the Asian and African continents.

The development of Islam in one area is examined from various aspects. Precisely more in one country that has the development of Islam in its society. 

Both in terms of the history of the entry of Islam, approaches and strategies for the spread of local Islam, cultural acculturation with local traditions, the role of Islamic politics, and the function of Islam in society.

East Africa Region. Includes the countries of Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia, especially the modern East Sudan which previously separated from Central Sudan. The development of Islam in Sunda was carried out culturally and structurally. Many are carried out by holy people or faqis who come from Arabia and Egypt.

Southeast Asia Region. It refers to the Islamic region in Indonesia, Mindanao or the Southern Philippines, Pattani in Thailand, the Peninsula and North Kalimantan or the territory of Malaysia. The strategy of Islamic da'wah in Southeast Asia uses three ways. Peaceful trade route. Da'wah missions of Islamic preachers from Arabia and India. And through power after the kingdom or state stands.

China area. For more than 4,000 years the old Chinese civilization has been going on. T'ai Tsung ascended the throne in 626, the Prophet Muhammad had just migrated from Mecca to Medina. The unification of China by T'ai Tsung (638 AD), the new Prophet Muhammad laid the foundation and foundation of an Islamic state. 

The Yuan dynasty (1260-1363) was instrumental in the spread of Islam. Relations were more harmonious during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and the first pilgrimage of Chinese Muslims in large numbers.

There was a process of translating Arabic books into Chinese. The process of fading and coldness of Chinese Islam occurred when the Chinese Muslim population carried out a rebellion and was cruelly suppressed by the ruling government in the 19th century. 

The methodology of Islamic studies also examines contemporary areas. This means the development of Muslims in various countries today. The studies that have been carried out include Islam in the United States, Islam in China after the cultural revolution, and Islam in Southeast Asia.

Specifically for Islam in Southeast Asia, it is categorized as: Majority Muslims, such as in Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia. Minority Muslims, such as in the Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore. An example of the existence of a Muslim minority is the implementation of a special religious court for kinship cases.

The Goodness of Islam across Regions

One of the objectives of developing the methodology of Islamic studies is normative scientific proof of Islamic teachings as rahmatan lil 'alamin, or goodness for the universe. This effort is made to minimize the negative image that corners Islam in the world community.

Some of the initial arguments to prove the positive development of Islamic development in a region, namely:

First

Islam as a religion of peace. The form of a statement of oneness to Allah SWT as God Almighty must be accompanied by the benefit of human brotherhood.

Second

Islam plays a role in dealing with the problems of human life. Covers religious, political, economic, social, educational, legal, cultural issues. Islamic teachings are not limited to unsich belief in God. But includes all systems of social life with its multidimensionality.

Third

The social role of Islam in dealing with differences in caste and social strata, including differences in gender, skin color, ethnicity, language, and religion. All humans are equal before God, only the level of piety and business achievements in the world that distinguishes them according to God.

Islamic teachings must be proven comprehensively as a religion that prioritizes equality between humans according to their respective potentials and functions. Egalitarian in society as creatures and servants of Allah.

Fourth

The role of Islamic politics and law emphasizes justice, wisdom, and affirms the rule of law. Every leader in Islamic teachings must provide peace and security, and always put the interests of the people first.

Fifth

Islamic education provides free space in the fulfillment of human rights in obtaining education. Equitable education is part of the mission of Islam, in fact studying science is an obligation until death.

Sixth

Islamic economics combats the harmful practice of usury and makes a person entangled with the folds of interest. Advocate honesty for the good and justice of mankind. Reject the practice of fraudulent scales, fraudulent buying and selling, monopoly of economic commodities, and capitalism which justifies all means.

Material wealth is a means of doing good and advancing other human beings. Unfair competition makes weak people poorer. Islamic teachings recommend optimal use of wealth for the good of the world and the hereafter. Not even a slave to property.

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