Please write a 4 to 5 page double spaced paper discussing the connection between doctrine and ethics in the text of the quran. Here are some questions to think about: (you do not have to answer all- just a few that tie together that help you make your point across). 1. What is the purpose of the doctrine of acquisition (kasb) in Islamic thought, and what issues was it intended to resolve? 2. What is “continuing revelation” and why is this issue important in the development of Islam? 3. What is the significance of the doctrine of guidance and misguidance in the Qur’ān, and how was it

QUESTION

Please write a 4 to 5 page double spaced paper discussing the connection between doctrine and ethics in the text of the quran. Here are some questions to think about: (you do not have to answer all- just a few that tie together that help you make your point across).

1. What is the purpose of the doctrine of acquisition (kasb) in Islamic thought, and what issues was it intended to resolve?

2. What is “continuing revelation” and why is this issue important in the development of Islam?

3. What is the significance of the doctrine of guidance and misguidance in the Qur’ān, and how was it used by later Muslims?

4. What is (are) the origin (s) of the concept of sunna, and how did it contribute to the formation of a normative Islamic outlook?

5. What historical circumstances and influences contributed to the Shī`ī concept of the Imām-Mahdī and to Islamic eschatology in general?

6. What were the main concepts, practices and issues associated with early Muslim ascetic piety?

7. To what extent and in what ways was neo-Platonic philosophy integrated into various forms of Islam?

8. What issues and principles were involved in the formation of Islamic systems of law?

9. What are the main ideas in Sūfism, and what was its impact on Islam in general? Specifically, what did Sūfism contribute to popular forms of Islam?

10.What is the attitude toward Islamic social ethics contained in the concept of hiṣba?

11. How have attitudes toward the performance of ritual varied among Muslims?

Here are some sources that you may use: Please try to use the two bolded ones with the link provided. You may use any other credited books or sources. You should also use the Quran

ANSWER

The Interplay of Doctrine and Ethics in the Quran: Exploring Key Concepts and Influences

Introduction

The Quran, considered the holy scripture of Islam, serves as a guide for Muslims in matters of faith, doctrine, and ethics. Understanding the connection between doctrine and ethics in the Quran is crucial for comprehending the development of Islamic thought and the formation of normative Islamic outlooks. This essay will delve into several key questions, exploring the purpose of the doctrine of acquisition (kasb), the concept of continuing revelation, the significance of guidance and misguidance, the origins of the concept of sunna, the influences on Islamic eschatology, the practices of ascetic piety, the integration of neo-Platonic philosophy, the formation of Islamic systems of law, the main ideas in Sufism, the concept of hiṣba, and the varied attitudes toward ritual performance among Muslims.

The Purpose of the Doctrine of Acquisition (Kasb)

The doctrine of acquisition (kasb) in Islamic thought serves to resolve issues related to divine justice and human responsibility. It addresses questions regarding free will, moral accountability, and the relationship between divine decree and human actions (Salem, 2018). This doctrine emphasizes that humans have the ability to choose their actions and are accountable for their deeds, while recognizing that ultimate outcomes are determined by Allah’s divine decree.

The Significance of Continuing Revelation

Continuing revelation refers to the belief that Allah’s guidance to humanity did not cease with the revelation of the Quran but continues through various means. This issue is important in the development of Islam as it allows for the interpretation and adaptation of Islamic teachings to evolving contexts and challenges. It includes sources such as Hadith (Prophetic traditions), consensus among scholars, and reasoning based on the principles derived from the Quran.

The Doctrine of Guidance and Misguidance

The doctrine of guidance and misguidance in the Quran underscores the human capacity for choice and the consequences of those choices. It highlights that Allah guides those who seek His guidance sincerely, while those who persist in disbelief or wrongful actions may be led astray. Later Muslims utilized this doctrine to emphasize the importance of personal accountability and the need for seeking divine guidance through sincere devotion and righteous conduct.

The Origin and Contribution of the Concept of Sunna

The concept of sunna, meaning the practices and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, originated from the early Muslim community’s desire to emulate the Prophet as the embodiment of perfect ethics and conduct. The concept contributed to the formation of a normative Islamic outlook by providing a practical framework for Muslims to follow in their daily lives. Sunna encompasses both religious rituals and ethical behavior, emphasizing the importance of both individual piety and social responsibility.

Influences on Islamic Eschatology and the Imām-Mahdī

The Shī`ī concept of the Imām-Mahdī and Islamic eschatology, in general, were influenced by historical circumstances and various factors. These include political struggles, the expectation of justice and the establishment of a just society, as well as apocalyptic and messianic beliefs prevalent in the wider context of the time. The concept of the Imām-Mahdī symbolizes the hope for a future era of justice and divine guidance.

Early Muslim Ascetic Piety

Early Muslim ascetic piety emerged as a response to the rapid expansion of the Islamic empire and the potential allure of worldly pleasures. Ascetics sought to detach themselves from material possessions and focused on cultivating spiritual purity and devotion to Allah. Their practices included renunciation of wealth, self-discipline, and withdrawal from worldly distractions. Early Muslim ascetic piety influenced subsequent Islamic ethical discourse and the development of Sufism.

Integration of Neo-Platonic Philosophy in Islam

Neo-Platonic philosophy, rooted in ancient Greek thought, found integration into various forms of Islam through the works of Muslim philosophers such as Al-Farabi, Avicenna, and Ibn Rushd. These philosophers sought to reconcile Islamic theology with philosophical principles, particularly those of Plato and Aristotle. The integration of Neo-Platonic philosophy into Islam influenced theological debates, metaphysical concepts, and the interpretation of Quranic verses.

Formation of Islamic Systems of Law

The formation of Islamic systems of law, known as Sharia, involved a complex interplay of various issues and principles. It drew upon the Quran, the Hadith, scholarly consensus, and analogical reasoning (Qiyas) to establish legal principles and regulations. The development of Islamic law considered ethical concerns, social norms, and the need to uphold justice and the common good. Different schools of jurisprudence emerged, each with their own interpretations and methodologies.

Main Ideas in Sufism and its Impact on Islam

Sufism, a mystical and contemplative tradition within Islam, emphasizes the purification of the heart, the attainment of spiritual closeness to Allah, and the cultivation of love and devotion. It emphasizes inward spiritual experiences, such as ecstatic states and the quest for spiritual union with the Divine (Menzies, 2015). Sufism contributed to popular forms of Islam by promoting a personal and experiential approach to faith, influencing art, literature, and devotional practices.

The Attitude toward Islamic Social Ethics in the Concept of Hiṣba

The concept of hiṣba refers to the duty of enjoining good and forbidding evil within Islamic social ethics. It emphasizes the collective responsibility of Muslims to promote righteousness, social justice, and moral values within society (Afosa_Admin, 2021). Hiṣba aims to establish a virtuous community that adheres to Islamic principles, upholds justice, and fosters ethical behavior. However, differing interpretations and practices of hiṣba have led to debates and challenges in its application.

Varied Attitudes toward Ritual Performance among Muslims

Attitudes toward ritual performance among Muslims have varied across time, culture, and sects. While rituals, such as daily prayers, fasting, and pilgrimage, are considered essential acts of worship, their significance and practice have evolved over centuries. Some Muslims prioritize the external aspects of ritual, emphasizing adherence to the prescribed forms, while others focus on the inner dimensions and spiritual intentions behind the rituals. These variations reflect diverse interpretations and understandings of Islamic ethics and devotion.

Conclusion

The Quran serves as the foundational text guiding Muslims in matters of doctrine and ethics. Exploring concepts such as the doctrine of acquisition, continuing revelation, guidance and misguidance, sunna, ascetic piety, neo-Platonic philosophy, Islamic law, Sufism, hiṣba, and attitudes toward ritual performance, sheds light on the multifaceted interplay between doctrine and ethics within Islamic thought. Understanding these connections enriches our comprehension of the diverse ethical perspectives and practices found within the Islamic tradition. By examining these questions, we gain insight into the development and impact of Islamic thought on the lives of Muslims throughout history.

References

Afosa_Admin. (2021). Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil is the Foundation of Religious Tenets. Ahlul Bait Foundation of South Africa. https://afosa.org/enjoining-good-and-forbidding-evil-is-the-foundation-of-religious-tenets/ 

Menzies, K. (2015). Unveiling the Divine: Encountering the Face of Allah in Sufi Mysticism. Gmu. https://www.academia.edu/11390462/Unveiling_the_Divine_Encountering_the_Face_of_Allah_in_Sufi_Mysticism 

Salem, F. (2018). Freewill, Qadar, and Kasb in the Epistle of Hasan al-Basri to ’ Abd al‫־‬Malik. Aicusa. https://www.academia.edu/36879300/Freewill_Qadar_and_Kasb_in_the_Epistle_of_Hasan_al_Basri_to_Abd_al_Malik