Knowledge Integration and Moderation in Contemporary Islamic Thought: A Comparative Study of Muslim Intellectuals

Dartim Dartim; Mohamad Ali; Muttoharun Jinan

doi:10.71039/istifham.v4i3.142

Authors

Dartim Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
Mohamad Ali Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
Muttoharun Jinan Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71039/istifham.v4i3.142

Keywords:

Knowledge Integration, Islamic Epistemology, Moderation, Contemporary Islamic Thought, Interdisciplinary Paradigm

Abstract

This study analyzes major paradigms of knowledge integration in contemporary Islamic thought, examining the perspectives of Ismail Raji al-Faruqi, Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas, Kuntowijoyo, Nidhal Guessoum, and M. Amin Abdullah, and focusing on their relationship to the principle of moderation (Wasatiyyah). Using a qualitative library research design with a philosophical-historical approach, the study examines key texts and intellectual contributions, applying descriptive-analytical and interactive methods to identify patterns of coherence and relevance. The findings indicate that each thinker offers a distinct yet complementary model: Islamization of knowledge, adab-based epistemology, scientification of Islam, reconciliation between Islamic tradition and modern science, and integration–interconnection. Despite these differences, all paradigms converge in rejecting the dichotomy between religious and secular sciences and in promoting a holistic epistemological framework. Moreover, moderation emerges as a unifying ethical principle reflected in the balance between revelation and reason, openness to diverse perspectives, and the integration of normative and empirical knowledge. This study concludes that knowledge integration constitutes not only an intellectual endeavor but also a civilizational imperative for addressing contemporary challenges.

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