Bridging Faith and Knowledge: Hamidullah's Role in Philosophical and Comparative Approaches to Islamization

Abstract

This paper explores the contributions of Hamidullah Marazi to the Islamization of knowledge, focusing on his unique approach to integrating Islamic and Western philosophical thought. Marazi’s work, situated within the broader context of the Islamization movement, aims to reconcile Islamic metaphysics and ethics with secular and often materialist Western philosophies. His comparative analysis of Islamic and Western philosophical traditions highlights points of convergence and divergence, allowing for a deeper understanding of both. Marazi’s emphasis on Islamic epistemology as a distinct and coherent system capable of addressing modern ethical dilemmas is a key aspect of his approach. His work has had a significant impact on Islamic scholarship, inspiring a new generation of scholars to engage with Western thought while preserving Islamic values. However, his approach also faces critiques regarding its accessibility to non-Muslim audiences and its potential to limit the scope of Islamic thought. Despite these limitations, Marazi’s contributions remain valuable in fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting a more comprehensive understanding of Islamic philosophy in the contemporary world.