Vol. 5 No. 1 (2020): al-Irsyad: Journal of Islamic and Contemporary Issues

The Editorial Board is pleased to announce the release of volume 5, issue 1 (June 2020) of al-Irsyad: Journal of Islamic and Contemporary Issues. This publication comprises a collection of thirteen scholarly papers that delve into many aspects of Islamic civilisation, languages and translation, theology, history, family issues, Quranic studies, ethics, and spirituality.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental illness that impacts an individual’s ability to communicate, engage in social interactions, and exhibit repetitive and stereotyped behaviour patterns. Individuals with this particular psychological profile exhibit a proclivity towards displaying compulsive preoccupations, a notable absence of empathetic tendencies, and a deficiency in moral reasoning. Prior instances in Western nations have demonstrated that certain individuals have been implicated in grave criminal acts, including homicide, arson, indiscriminate gunfire, cybercrime, and sexual assaults. In Malaysia, there has been a notable rise in the prevalence of autism, with a ratio of 1 in 68 individuals being classified as neurotypical or mentally healthy. This has consequently prompted the need to address the distinct legal rights of those with autism who may become involved in criminal activities. In the context of detaining and interrogating mentally sound individuals, it is noteworthy that the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is uniformly employed, regardless of whether the individual in question has autism or not. Implementing the SOP ultimately gave rise to various issues, responses, and inquiries regarding the measure’s legitimacy and the legal entitlements of individuals with autism. Therefore, the authors Mohd Kusrin et al. conduct an analysis on the nature of autism that is associated with criminal behaviour, emphasising the necessity of developing standardised SOP for the apprehension and questioning of individuals diagnosed with autism. The discussion reveals the necessity of developing an SOP for the custody and interrogation of individuals with autism to protect their criminal legal rights.

Ahmed Shehab conducts an analysis and evaluation of the national measures implemented to safeguard the rights of children. This study focuses on the pivotal role played by the media and national non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in safeguarding children’s rights. The research issue arises from Palestine’s ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the imperative to effectively enforce the Convention’s provisions, which entails establishing domestic systems for safeguarding children’s rights. The findings of the study highlight several key outcomes. Firstly, it emphasises that states that have ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child are responsible for implementing the Convention and must fulfil their obligations under it. Furthermore, this responsibility extends beyond mere compliance and necessitates establishing domestic mechanisms to safeguard children’s rights. To effectively accomplish their intended objectives, mechanisms must be accompanied by the provision of legal and political assurances.

The field of translation studies has experienced growing popularity among scholars and academics. Nevertheless, there has been a lack of substantial focus on the procedures employed for translating iltifāt components, despite their acknowledged impact on comprehending a particular text. The perceived complexity and difficulty in interpreting iltifāt are attributed to the perspectives of numerous experts. Nevertheless, there is a need for enhancement in its translation procedures to mitigate potential confusion among the readers of the target text. Therefore, Kamal and Hussin conducted a comprehensive literature review to analyse the translation of iltifāt components. They aimed to synthesise existing research and uncover novel areas for further investigation. The findings indicate that prior research predominantly concentrates on the textual body of the sacred scripture, namely the Quran, with a specific emphasis on iltifāt ḍamīr (reference switching) and the corresponding tactics employed in its English translation. The study’s results also indicate that implementing effective translation procedures can effectively address the challenges identified in prior research. Hence, it is imperative to prioritise future research in Arabic-Malay translation, focusing on developing translation procedures that ensure equivalence in handling iltifāt ḍamīr components.

In their study, Abdul Manaf et al. analyse the most precise corresponding function of the verb تـَفـَاعَـلَ (tafā‘ala) in surah al-Baqarah. The authors examine the process of accurately translating Malay Arabic texts, explicitly focusing on the proper translation of verbs when the prefix ت (ta’) is affixed to them and the insertion of ا (alif) after the first letter of the root word. To achieve this purpose, five study samples were extracted from Surah al-Baqarah. The results indicated that the four samples were accurately translated when analysed using the derivation translation function and the addition of the suffix tafā’ala. Simultaneously, an alternative translation was proposed for the second sample. Additionally, all affixes included in the provided samples are intended to convey the meaning of “المشاركة” (al-mushārakah). In summary, the effectiveness of translation is contingent upon its accurate rendition. Nevertheless, a slight alteration is implemented to enhance the fluency of the translation within the given verse’s context.

The practise of abstaining from slaughtering and consuming cows within the Hindu community is widely recognised. The cow’s significance in Hinduism is examined by Senin et al. through an analysis of previous scholarly writing on the subject. This study utilises the content analysis methodology employing a Systematic Literature Review. The articles have been sourced from the Scopus and Dimensions databases. Sixteen articles undergo a systematic process involving identification, evaluation, and assessment of eligibility. The present study undertakes a thorough review of the elements contributing to the adoration of cows within the context of Hinduism. This study identified three prominent factors: religion, economy, and politics. During the initial stage, the devotion of cows mainly pertains to religious matters since it is influenced by the ahimsa ideal that originated in Jainism. During the subsequent stage, the emphasis shifts towards an economic consideration, whereby cows are safeguarded rather than slaughtered for the betterment of humanity. In contemporary times, the adoration of cows has been closely intertwined with political considerations, primarily serving as a means to safeguard the Hindu community's existing social and cultural order.

Miskawayh holds a significant position in the advancement of Islamic ethical theory. The integration of Greek philosophy and Islamic knowledge that he formulated during the Middle Ages is widely regarded as a noteworthy advancement in the development of Islamic ethical philosophy. While there have been numerous accounts of Miskawayh’s biography, this study aims to provide a comprehensive biographical narrative that examines the various phases of his life and the changes he experienced—consequently, Abd. Rahman and Ismail engage in scholarly discourse about the biography of Miskawayh. The life of Miskawayh can be comprehensively examined using a biographical narrative analysis, which reveals the presence of four significant phases in his journey. During the initial stage, which encompassed the first two decades of his life, the individual acquired fundamental Islamic knowledge and studied chemistry. The second phase occurred from 956 AD to 963 AD in the city of Baghdad. He actively engaged in philosophical discourse and grappled with ethical dilemmas during that particular time frame. In 963 AD, the third chapter of his scholarly journey took place in Rayy, Iran. During this period, he devoted his efforts to studying several subjects related to writing and pedagogy. The fourth phase of the individual’s life spanned from 976 AD to 1030 AD, commencing at the age of 44 and concluding with their demise at 96 in Iṣfahān, Iran. During this phase, the individual in question engaged in the production of philosophical literature and dedicated efforts towards enhancing and developing ethical principles. Miskawayh’s extensive knowledge and wide-ranging experience have rendered his works on ethics highly influential, particularly his renowned masterpiece, Tahdhīb al-Akhlāq. This seminal work has garnered significant attention from both Islamic and Western scholars in contemporary times.

Conflict is an inherent and inescapable state integral to a home's dynamics, particularly in the context of a polygamous arrangement. Therefore, Abd. Majid et al. examine the various elements contributing to home conflict and propose a practical management approach. The data analysis findings indicate that conflict within interpersonal relationships can be attributed to several internal variables, including clandestine marriage, absence of empathy, feelings of envy, and miscommunication. On the other hand, the external elements encompass disregarding duty, the challenge of adapting, and the absence of effective communication. Several strategies have been employed to address and mitigate this conflict effectively. These include engaging in constructive dialogues, demonstrating acts of generosity, fostering an environment of tolerance, displaying care and concern for one another, expressing appreciation, practising patience, accepting the divine decree of Allah, safeguarding the honour of the home, and minimising involvement in trivial social engagements. The discovery presented herein can serve as a valuable resource for effectively informing strategies and interventions to manage disputes within polygamous households.

Completing the Islamic Pre-Marriage Course is a mandatory component of the marriage application process for Muslim women intending to marry in Malaysia. This course aims to impart a fundamental understanding of the life dynamics relevant to individuals who are soon to be married. Unfortunately, the deaf community is currently unable to participate in this course because of the absence of a dedicated course provided by the state Islamic department specifically tailored to their needs. Therefore, a portion of individuals participated in a pre-marriage course that was arranged for a standard cohort. In their analysis, Mohd Kusrin and Sha’ari examine the execution of the present pre-marriage course, which includes the involvement of individuals with hearing impairments. The authors also explore the obstacles faced by both deaf individuals and sign language interpreters during the course sessions. The study's findings indicate a deficiency in the structured organisation of the Islamic pre-marriage course for individuals with hearing impairments. Additionally, the methodology employed for delivering lectures follows a conventional group-based approach. Furthermore, the sign language interpreter faces challenges in effectively conveying the lecture content to deaf individuals. The implications derived from the aforementioned discussion highlight the significance of implementing an Islamic pre-marital course specifically tailored for individuals with disabilities. This course aims to provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the pre-marriage knowledge typically accessible to individuals without disabilities.

Sexual harassment refers to the perpetration of sexually oriented behaviours, encompassing verbal, non-verbal, physical, or emotional actions directed at another individual. Sexual harassment can potentially be experienced by adolescent females, irrespective of their location, be it within the confines of their residence or in external environments. Therefore, the study conducted by Mohd Salleh et al. aims to investigate the magnitude of the risk of domestic sexual harassment faced by adolescent females within the confines of their own homes. This study involved the participation of 84 female individuals, aged nine to fifteen, residing in Selangor. Prior to their involvement, consent was obtained from their parents or legal guardians. This survey revealed that 7.14% of the participants acknowledged a preference for wearing provocative attire within the confines of their residence and engaging in the consumption of pornographic material alongside immediate male relatives, including fathers, brothers, uncles, and grandfathers. The study’s results indicated that participants reported instances of sexual harassment perpetrated by their family members when they failed to adhere to Islamic norms and were excessively exposed to unrestricted information technology resources. The study’s results also indicated that inadequate maintenance of the family well-being mechanism could lead to harmful conditions for adolescent females within their homes. The findings of this study indicate the potential for creating a mobile application designed to detect early indicators of sexual harassment targeting adolescent females.

The preservation of maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah (Objectives of Divine Law) is a crucial objective of the Quran in human existence. Scholars have determined that maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah serves as a primary impetus for the revelation of the Quran, intending to actualise the well-being of the entire Muslim community. To effectively serve the community, global leaders must prioritise cultivating a harmonious society by transcending divisions based on religion, race, and skin colour. In addition, Usman and Abdul Kadir critically examine the discourse around maqāṣid al-Qur’ān, which refers to the purposes of the Quran as articulated by Islamic scholars throughout history, including both classical and current perspectives. The researchers discovered that the maqāṣid al-Qur’ān entails a directive to surrender oneself to the concept of the Oneness of Allah, which serves as the fundamental tenet. The objectives' primary focus will be on aqīdah (creed), regulations, and narratives found throughout the Quran. Furthermore, several endeavours can be undertaken to foster the integration of the Quran into one’s life by comprehending the maqāṣid al-Qur’ān. These efforts encompass engaging in activities such as reading, memorising, comprehending, and implementing its teachings. The Quran was revealed to safeguard the welfare of individuals, both in their present existence and in the afterlife.

As outlined in the Quran, the establishment of a sustainable nation represents an Islamic paradigm that is explicitly articulated within the sacred text. The model is founded upon the conceptualisation of Islamic principles, which embrace a preservation approach to the Islamic sharī‘ah (order) and implement the nation’s growth by the rules outlined in the Quran and Sunnah. Many nations that excel in diverse domains overlook the need for a harmonious equilibrium between physical and spiritual growth. This scenario exclusively promotes the pursuit of materialistic success while neglecting holistic growth. Consequently, Abdullah and Rozani provided a detailed analysis of the defining attributes of a Balda Ṭayyiba Wa Rabb Ghafūr state, which served as the central pillar of historical Islamic empires. This study elucidated the necessity of Islamic governance in the nation of Balda Ṭayyiba Wa Rabb Ghafūr, encompassing several dimensions such as political governance, a comprehensive Rabbānī (divine) education system, an equitable economic framework, and an environmentally sustainable approach. A nation’s civilisational greatness can be reinstated through a comprehensive comprehension of the Balda Ṭayyiba principle and its inherent characteristics. Therefore, the welfare of a nation is contingent upon factors such as political stability, a comprehensive educational framework, an equitable economic structure, and an environmentally viable ecosystem.

The Islamic civilisation facilitated the transmission of medical knowledge to the Western world through the notable figure of Rhazes, a doctor in the profession. However, his unorthodox views on prophetic notions led to his classification as al-mulḥid, or one who deviates from accepted religious beliefs. The physician originated from Al-Rayy in 250 H/864 AD. As the author of al-Ḥāwī Fī al-Ṭibb, he expressed dissatisfaction with the approach to treating human ailments that just relied on techniques or specialised treatment procedures. Instead, he sought to achieve a comprehensive and satisfactory approach. The individual believed medication administration necessitated a moral framework wherein physicians should diligently prioritise their patients' well-being. Consequently, Al-Rāzī decided to undertake a commendable endeavour by authoring a diligent manuscript titled Akhlāq al-Ṭabīb, intended as a didactic work for his pupils. Therefore, Istianah provides a concise analysis of the fundamental basis of al-Rāzī’s ideas, which gave rise to the ethical notion of physicians in a historical period predating the development of medical ethics. This study demonstrates that al-Rāzī encompassed both the theocentric and anthropocentric paradigms, which were simultaneously present in his work. Consequently, the epistemological foundations of al-Rāzī’s ideas were rooted in religion, science, and philosophy. Al-Rāzī’s book provides a comprehensive exploration of the moral foundations of medical practitioners, specifically about the concept of tawakkul (reliance on God) and the cultivation of good character towards impoverished individuals afflicted with illnesses. By integrating scientific, philosophical, and religious perspectives, al-Rāzī’s work surpasses contemporary legal norms, establishing a moral framework that predates and surpasses existing standards in the present era.

Syeikh Abū Ṭālib al-Makkī was a highly esteemed Islamic scholar renowned for his expertise in the field of Sufism in the Islamic community. The literary contribution known as Qūt al-Qulūb holds substantial scholarly value as a prominent point of reference for both historical and contemporary sages. The notion presented in Maqamāt al-Aḥwāl is frequently employed by numerous Islamic scholars as a framework and rehabilitative guidance for various afflictions that impact the human psyche. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Disorders (DSM-5), paedophilia is classified as a mental disorder. Some specialists believe that individuals with paedophilic tendencies may exhibit signs of mental illness. Usman et al. examine the application of maqām al-ṣabr (stage of patience), as described by al-Makkī, within the context of psychotherapy for rehabilitating individuals with paedophilic tendencies. The present study has identified maqām al-ṣabr as a pivotal factor in the process of rehabilitation from paedophilia. This article aims to combine the patience stage with rehabilitation psychotherapy components to create an efficient treatment module for rehabilitating individuals with paedophilia in Malaysia.