Vol. 6 No. 1 (2021): al-Irsyad: Journal of Islamic and Contemporary Issues

The Editorial Board is pleased to announce the release of volume 6, issue 1 (June 2021) of al-Irsyad: Journal of Islamic and Contemporary Issues. This publication comprises eighteen scholarly articles on Islamic education and teaching, Hadith studies, linguistics and translation, da’wah, Islamic law and legal, ethics, economics, tourism, and politics. 

In their study, Mohamad et al. investigate the role played by Higher Education Institutions (HEI) in fostering the cultivation of Quranic sanad talaqqī. The study’s findings suggest a need for further development and promotion of the Quranic Sanad Talaqqī Course. Moreover, it is worth noting that acquiring knowledge through the method of sanad talaqqī holds significant importance since it is considered a practice following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and has been followed by proficient reciters throughout history. Hence, Islamic Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) must be crucial in fostering the transmission of the Quranic sanad talaqqī.

Abd Hamid et al. investigated the educational framework and pedagogical practices employed in the tahfīẓ system at Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) in Malaysia. The results indicated that the tahfīẓ learning factor has a modest significance level. Furthermore, the findings of the study do not indicate any notable disparities in the implementation of learning systems based on gender or in the design of the study. The study’s conclusions significantly influence enhancing the quality of teaching and learning, particularly within the tertiary education context. Preserving the miraculous nature of the Quran and cultivating Quranic literacy among future generations necessitate the continued sustenance of the tahfīẓ programmes within tertiary education.

A study was undertaken by Mohamad Shokri et al. to examine the implementation of blended learning (BL) in a general context at UNITEN, as well as the utilisation of digital innovation enhancement in teaching and learning, with a specific focus on the Tahfīẓ Programme at UNITEN. UNITEN has deployed four BL applications: Technology-Aided Learning, Enhanced Learning, Flipped Teaching and Learning, and Adaptive Learning. The investigation findings indicate that the Tahfīẓ initiative incorporates four distinct forms of digital innovation. The four components encompass the uploading of course materials onto the Moodle platform, the incorporation of audio-visual resources from diverse sources such as PowToon, Panopto, and YouTube, the implementation of continuous evaluation through the Moodle platform, and the utilisation of online activities employing numerous mediums like Kahoot, Padlet, Coggle, Mentimeters, and Plickers. This endeavour can enhance the teaching and learning programs of tahfīẓ studies, making them more efficient, captivating, and aligned with contemporary advancements and educational requirements, thereby creating an exceptional cohort.

Yahaya et al. analyse the utilisation of information and communication technology (ICT) in the instructional process of Quranic tahfīẓ. The establishment of Tahfīẓ education in Malaysia has been firmly entrenched throughout the last decade. Incorporating information and communication technology (ICT) into the educational landscape of the 21st century necessitates a corresponding evolution in the teaching of tahfīẓ. This study examines the preparedness of educators and students at MITS Selangor to utilise information and communication technology (ICT) to teach Quranic memorisation. The results indicate that teachers are prepared to utilise information and communication technology (ICT) in the instruction of tahfīẓ, as evidenced by the overall mean score of 3.81 and standard deviation. The value of 0.775 is considered to be at a moderately high level. The average score for pupils is 3.33, accompanied by a somewhat significant standard deviation of 0.736. Although teachers acknowledge the significance of incorporating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the instruction of tahfīẓ, its utilisation remains limited. The enhancement of teaching tahfīẓ through the utilisation of information and communication technology (ICT) should be prioritised as an effective pedagogical tool. This can be achieved by creating an atmosphere that fulfils students’ needs, interests, and contextual conditions. In addition, it also caters to the preferences of learners based on temporal trends. The Malaysian Ministry of Education promotes the cultivation of Ḥuffāẓ, who demonstrate proficiency and exhibit the capacity for holistic physical and spiritual development.

Ibrahim and Baharum have constructed the foundational structure of an Arabic learning module, incorporating innovative methodologies. The primary aim of this research endeavour is to develop and disseminate a foundational Quranic Arabic curriculum that is specifically tailored to meet the needs of the general populace in Malaysia. This study additionally investigates novel methodologies employing fundamental or paramount hues. In addition, this lesson provides the general public with an introduction to the fundamental principles of Arabic grammar as applied in the Quran. The researchers propose intensifying comprehensive studies to enhance public comprehension of the Quran through the Arabic language.

Zaini et al. conducted a study investigating the extent of vocabulary knowledge among senior students enrolled in Arabic Language Studies. The researchers used a series of questionnaires and the Arabic Vocabulary Level Test (aVLT), derived from the Vocabulary Level Test (Nation, 1998, 2001), to determine the participants’ receptive vocabulary size. The study’s participants comprised 31 undergraduate students enrolled at Kolej Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Selangor (KUIS) in Malaysia. The study outcomes indicate that, on average, each participant has attained approximately 2223 high-frequency terms. Prior research has indicated that attaining a minimum level of language proficiency can be accomplished by acquiring a vocabulary of as few as 2000 high-frequency words. This study posits that the explicit and continuous instruction of vocabulary should commence in the early stages of education and persist until the tertiary level.

Daud et al. conducted a study examining the comparison of stress symptoms among huffāẓ in the Bachelor of Qira’at undergraduate program. The participants of this study consist of students enrolled at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) and Kolej Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Selangor (KUIS). The data-gathering process relies on using questionnaire instruments and applying descriptive analysis methodologies. The results of the study suggest that there are varying levels of stress symptoms observed between the two universities. The respondents from USIM indicated that the degree of their stress symptoms is moderate, as seen by their moderate ratings in all three domains: physical, psychological, and mental. Nevertheless, there is a significant incidence of stress symptoms in behaviour. In contrast, the examination of the KUIS respondents revealed a generally low degree of stress, as indicated by the low scores obtained for all four components. The results indicate that stress levels are impacted by various factors, including environmental conditions, situational circumstances, and an individual’s self-perception. In summary, effective stress management plays a crucial role in the holistic development of pupils in accordance with Islamic beliefs.

Md Soh and Ismail analyse the present state of affairs regarding implementing Malaysian Public University (MPU) courses inside Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia. The research findings have unveiled four distinct themes about implementing the system. These themes encompass the aspects of implementation, relevancy, impact, and teaching approach. Ultimately, the findings of this literature review can serve as a valuable starting point for Higher Education Institutions seeking to enhance the implementation of MPU courses to cultivate graduates who are equipped to thrive in the future.

In the setting of Brunei Darussalam, Haji Abd Latif and Shamsu undertake an exploration and investigation of the concept of Islamic Lifelong Learning. This study relies on examining and evaluating previously conducted research and information obtained from authoritative sources, such as government websites. Moreover, the research results have indicated the existence of diverse educational programs within the field of Lifelong Learning, commonly referred to as Islamic Lifelong Learning. Therefore, this study finds that Islamic Lifelong Learning is integral to continuous education in Brunei Darussalam. It is implemented in various settings, such as mosques, balais, universities, and institutes, with specific Islamic modules encompassing ‘Aqīdah, Sharī‘ah, and Akhlāq.

The study conducted by Sudi et al. demonstrates that those with a limited sense of personal spirituality are more susceptible to addiction and experience more severe repercussions. Therefore, this study aimed to gather hadiths about personal spiritual growth to mitigate substance use. The research utilises a thematic analysis methodology to locate and examine interconnected hadiths. The research reveals a significant correlation between spiritual factors such as life goals, gratitude, self-reliance, solid faith adherence, and drug engagement prevention.

In their analysis, Zakaria and Nordin examine the discussion between Prophet Yusuf and his siblings within the negotiating process. They focus on two key aspects: the utilisation of language and the correlation between the negotiator’s authority and the language employed. This analysis focuses on the negotiation discourse found in the text of the dialogue between Prophet Yusuf and his siblings in Surah Yūsuf. The analysis examines three distinct phases of the negotiations: the negotiation regarding the preparation of food supplies, the negotiations surrounding the detention of Bunyāmīn, and the subsequent peace negotiation. The study incorporates Fairclough’s critical discourse analysis framework, encompassing textual characteristics such as modalities, particles, and text structure. The scope of discourse practice is confined solely to verbal communication capabilities. The interplay between the two dimensions demonstrates the examination of the dimensions of social practice. One may observe that the negotiating discourse between Yusuf and his siblings exhibits a social practicality characterised by the use of power. The language employed in this context is persuasive, aggressive, and marked by politeness.

Abdullah et al. examine the translation of Quranic verses into the Malay language, explicitly focusing on the incorporation of the majāz mursal style of language. Their analysis aims to assess the degree of equivalency between the original meaning conveyed in the Quranic message and the resulting target text. This study exclusively examines the correlation between effects or consequences (musabbab). The present study utilises two translation texts of the Quran authored by Mahmud Yunus and Abdullah Basmeih as corpora for analysis, intending to examine the respective methodologies employed in these translations. A selection of nine Quranic verses that feature the literary device known as majāz mursal within the context of the musabbab connection was selected for analysis. In order to assess the accuracy and compatibility of resource language messages with the target language, scholars commonly consult various books of tafsir and famous works on the “ulūm al-Qur’ān. These include al-Kashshāf by al-Zamakhsharī, al-Burhān by al-Zarkashī, Tafsīr al-Ṭabarī by al-Ṭabarī, al-Taḥrīr wa al-Tanwīr by Ibn’ Āshūr, al-Itqān by al-Suyūṭī, and al-Tafsīr al-Munīr by Wahbah al-Zuhailī. The present investigation has identified a translation that fails to accurately convey the intended message of the Quran, primarily due to its adherence to a literal interpretation. Therefore, it is necessary to employ alternative translation methodologies to effectively convey the intended message of the Quran to the intended audience. However, in some instances, the literary device known as majāz mursal may be translated literally if there is no ambiguity in the intended meaning of the message conveyed in the Quran.

In their study, Ab Rahim et al. shed light on the many roles and accomplishments of the preachers who dedicated themselves to the propagation of Islam in Tanah Melayu. The researchers also examine the obstacles encountered by these individuals and delve into the ethical principles and virtues that guided their efforts. The findings of this study indicate that historical Islamic preachers exhibited a high adherence to Islamic teachings and a strong commitment to preserving the religion. Furthermore, these individuals were characterised by their virtuous ideals and exemplary moral conduct. These individuals engaged in verbal and written discourse and demonstrated bravery and resilience to actively resist the colonial powers and protect the integrity of the Islamic faith.

Mohd Sukri et al. examine how matrimonial property is inherited and divided in cases where spouses of differing religious affiliations, specifically Muslims and non-Muslims, were previously married under civil law, focusing on Islamic principles. The research findings indicate that within the framework of divergent religious beliefs between former spouses, specific properties exist that the Muslim partner can legally assert. At the same time, other properties are not eligible for the claim of the non-Muslim partner. This study concludes that the entitlement to inheritance and nominated property is restricted to individuals who identify as Muslims, as these properties are categorised as exclusive to Muslims and cannot be claimed by non-Muslims. In contrast to inter vivos, jointly acquired property, and maintenance, excluded from the inheritance property category, non-Muslim individuals are eligible to claim such assets.

Ismail et al. present Imam al-Qushayriyy as a prominent Sufi personality and elucidate his view of moral evolution as outlined in his renowned work, al-Risāla. The scholarly achievements of Al-Qushayriyy in the field of Sufism are widely acknowledged, particularly his significant contribution in demonstrating the compatibility of Sufi doctrines with the fundamental tenets of sharia. The literary composition known as al-Risālah is widely regarded as a remarkable opus, serving as a significant reference point for mystics in their endeavours to shape moral principles. The study’s findings indicate that al-Qushayriyy places significant stress on purifying the soul (tazkiyyat al-nafs) as a fundamental component in developing moral values. The purification of the heart encompasses various ways, including repentance, striving (mujāhada), retreat (khalwa), seclusion (‘uzla), scrupulousness (wara’), renunciation (zuhd), stillness, hunger, abandonment of carnal desire (shahwah), and recollection. These practices are stated as a means to achieve purity and spiritual growth. Simultaneously, the individual emphasised the moral dimensions encompassing patience, humility, moral rectitude, munificence, generosity, camaraderie, and safeguarding the spiritual well-being of Sufi leaders. Al-Qushayriyy elucidates these ideas by drawing from Quranic passages, hadith, and citations from companions and scholars. According to the ideas presented in the text, the mentorship and direction of Sufi masters or instructors enhance the development of morality, which is intricately related to the purification of the soul.

In their study, Azwar et al. elucidate the significance of Islamic economics and finance in the context of renewable energy initiatives in Indonesia. The findings indicate that Islamic economics and finance have a significant role in the implementation of renewable energy initiatives in Indonesia, manifesting in many ways:

1. Using Sharia-compliant financial instruments presents a viable avenue for financing renewable energy investments. 
2. The utilisation of renewable energy sources has the potential to serve as a catalyst and advocate for the halal business.
3. In the realm of religious and social dynamics, the financing of renewable energy can be facilitated by leveraging the principles of ta‘āwun (cooperation) and jāriyah (ongoing charity) through the utilisation of crowdfunding and waqf (endowment).

To enhance the effectiveness of Sharia economics and finance in renewable energy initiatives in Indonesia, a series of measures and undertakings might be undertaken, encompassing:

1. The endeavour to enhance the promotion of renewable energy’s superiority is being intensified.
2. By implementing accessible and sustainable finance systems, the provision of renewable energy can be facilitated.
3. Investigate and publish findings on renewable energy, specifically focusing on potential collaborations with other companies within the halal value chain in Indonesia.

Soufiane and Guendouz ascertain the functional and social requisites and demands of present-day residential construction by extrapolating the performance of conventional Oasis house construction models. To attain sustainability in the tourism industry.

In their scholarly discourse, Habib and Boukhri examine the Umayyad Caliphate after its decline. The political landscape of the Andalusian Islamic state saw a significant disruption during the fifth century AH, which aligns with the eleventh century AD. This rupture was mainly attributed to anarchy, rivalries, and sectarian strife. Perilous security breaches resulted in the fragmentation and division of the Islamic Caliphate in Andalusia into a collection of autonomous kingdoms and minor emirates. Consequently, these entities became embroiled in ongoing conflicts and skirmishes with neighbouring Christian forces. This characteristic has played a significant role in the absence of stability and peace within these regions, leading to the formation of frail governance systems that endured for an extended period. The prevailing political circumstances exerted significant pressure on their societal circumstances and scientific pursuits, both of which were experiencing a deteriorating trajectory. However, this particular circumstance evoked a sense of both nostalgic inspiration and indignation among particular academics and legal experts, like Imam Abū al-Walīd al-Bājī, a prominent personality and scholar in the region of Andalusia. He significantly advanced and revitalised scientific endeavours by establishing new frameworks to reform specific disciplines. The author’s texts were designed with the primary objective of facilitating educational endeavours. Moreover, he incorporated the reformation of Islamic jurisprudence, primarily focusing on jurists and rulers. Moreover, some of his literary works encompassed sermons and ethical guidelines for the general populace. The individual’s pursuits prompted his foray into the realm of politics, where he assumed the role of a judge within the legal profession. This position afforded him increased interaction with diverse sect leaders, providing him with opportunities to offer counsel and guidance. The individual’s endeavours in this regard entailed reconciling the leaders of various faiths and their noble figures inside the framework of Islam to consolidate their collective might to safeguard the Muslim presence in Andalusia from the impending Christian peril.