Journal of Al-Tamaddun

Joseph Chinyong Liow (2022). Islam and Political Power in Indonesia and Malaysia: The Role of Tarbiyah and Dakwah in the Evolution of Islamism. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 148 Pages. ISBN 978-1-108-70558-5

2024-05-21T09:25:27+08:00

Religion and Its Position in the Society: A Critical Study on Rudolf Carnap’s Thoughts

2022-07-19T01:46:15+08:00

The battle between rationalism and empiricism is a reaction arising from an attempt to have an understanding of reality. Wilhelm Dilthey’s critique of positivism gave birth to the Vienna Circle with his ideas on logical positivism or neo-positivism. This paper explains Rudolf Carnap’s, the most prominent figure, thoughts of the understanding of religious theology’s position in logical positivism. The research results state that: first, the Vienna Circle significantly contributed to the development of contemporary philosophy; second, they were based on verification-confirmation, metaphysical elimination, and combination of knowledge aspects; and third, the transcendental philosophy offered by Immanuel Kant was on which our further studies were based. Transcendental philosophy was born out of “conflict” between empiricism and rationalism.

Analyzing 1937 AD Diplomacy and Cultural Exchange through the Hispano-Arab-Islamic Mecca Pilgrimage

2024-05-11T11:19:51+08:00

This research employs Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to delve into the historical interactions between Spain and the Arab-Islamic world during Franco's regime, with a focus on the 1937 pilgrimage to Mecca. This initiative exemplifies the use of cultural and religious diplomacy to enhance bilateral relations, revealing efforts to portray Spain as respectful of Islamic practices. By examining unpublished documents, including Francisco Limiñana's detailed planning of the pilgrimage, the study highlights the complexity of colonial and post-colonial relationships, blending cooperation and power dynamics. The analysis underscores the intertwining of Spain's internal policies with its external posture, aiming to bolster national identity and Franco's legitimacy. The findings challenge oversimplified narratives, offering a nuanced view of Western-Arab-Islamic interactions, essential for understanding contemporary challenges and fostering intercultural dialogue. Significantly, Limiñana's role transitioned from organizing the pilgrimage to becoming Spain's first ambassador to Saudi Arabia in 1956, illustrating the evolution of Spanish-Arab relations.

What Made a Place Holy in Early Islam? An Inquiry into Meaning and Doctrinal Modalities

2023-05-31T00:28:20+08:00

Compared to other religious systems rooted in Late Antiquity, Islam placed greater emphasis on the transcendent, assigning less value to physical forms per se. This article seeks to explore conceptions relating to what made a place ‘holy’ in early Islamic places of worship, delving into understanding the significance of sacred spaces in Islam, and dissecting the procedures and beliefs instrumental in the consecration of such locations. The primary focus rests on mosques, which were deemed the pinnacle of sacred spaces during the nascent Islamic period. This discourse deliberately omits discussion on Islamic funerary structures, which emerged in the classical form later in the third/ninth century. Instead, it analyzes the cases of the Ka’ba in Mecca and the Prophet’s mosque in Medina. The former serves as an exemplar of Islamized sanctuaries, whereas the latter epitomizes the prevalent archetype of sacred spaces in early Islam.

Religious Moderation in the Context of Integration between Religion and Local Culture in Indonesia

2022-12-15T21:34:58+08:00

This study analyzes the historical flow of Islamic indigenization to Religious Moderation (wasaṭiyah). With qualitative methods and literature study approaches, this study concluded that firstly, Islamic Pribumization is the result of the thoughts of K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), Islam Nusantara initiated by K.H. Said Aqil Siradj and Religious Moderation by Lukman Hakim Saifuddin which was motivated by his response to the trend of Arabization, Fundamentalism and Islamic Radicalism in Indonesia. Secondly, the discourse of Islamic Pribumization and Islam Nusantara has similarities; both use the methodologies of al-'ādah muḥakkamah and al-'tsābit bi al-'urf ka al-tsābit bi al-naṣ which are considered capable of paying attention to the needs that exist in local culture. Meanwhile, Religious Moderation is a top-down policy by the government under the Ministry of Religious Affairs to maintain religious harmony by applying a moderate religious perspective. All three have the same characteristics of affirming moderate Islamic principles, upholding tolerance, and maintaining local wisdom. Thirdly, based on the historical flow and contextualization of religious values with culture, the concept of Islamic Indigenization has substantially shifted to be adopted by the concept of Islam Nusantara and now represents it as one of the indicators of religious moderation, namely accommodating local culture so that it has strong relevance. This research shows the relationship between the historical flow of Islamic indigenization, Islam Nusantara, and Religious Moderation, which seeks to create a dialogue between religion and culture.

Pertempuran Rusia-Uthmaniyah 1877-1878 dan Impaknya terhadap Muslim Bulgaria

2023-10-14T21:31:20+08:00

The fierce battle that broke out in history between Russia and Ottoman in 1877–1878 was an attempt to solve the problems faced by the Ottoman administration in the Balkans. This is mainly related to accusations that the Ottoman government cannot protect Christians in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Ironically, Russia's victory did not lead to the resolution of the conflict in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Instead, it negatively impacted Muslims in the Balkans, especially in Bulgaria. This article will analyse the social effects of the war on Bulgaria's Muslim minority. This article uses a qualitative method called content analysis to evaluate British official documents and records collected from the British National Archives and the University of London, specifically from the School of Slavonic and East European Studies. The result shows that the Russo-Ottoman War of 1877 was not intended to give justice to the Christian community under the Ottoman empire; on the contrary, it was a strategy used by Russia and the Bulgarian government to eliminate the Muslim minority in Bulgaria.

The Influence and Adaptation of Observatories in Islamic Civilization: A Case of Malaysia

2024-06-29T14:18:10+08:00

This article explores the historical development of observatories for astronomical pursuits within the context of Muslim civilization. It aims to provide an overview of how observatories evolved alongside advancements in astronomy during the Islamic caliphate. The study investigates the parallels between Malaysian astrofiqh observatories and those established during the Islamic civilization era, employing a qualitative approach involving instrument observation, interviews, and document analysis. The findings reveal that the ‘Abbasid caliphate led in establishing observatories for educational and research purposes in astronomy. Key factors contributing to the success of observatory development include the rulers’ support, intellectual dedication, and political stability. Furthermore, the study highlights specific similarities between Malaysian astrofiqh observatories and their historical counterparts, encompassing various aspects such as objectives, physical features, instruments, and nomenclature.

Diplomatic Ties between the Ottoman Empire and the Malay Sultanate from the 14th to the 19th Centuries

2023-10-20T08:56:07+08:00

Malaya began its relationship with the Ottoman Turkish Empire in the 15th century, during the time of the Melaka-Sultanate. This relationship continued even after the arrival of colonialists and the fall of the Ottoman Turkish Empire. At first, their relations were focused on politics and economics. These two kingdoms were considered to be the powerful Islamic forces that influenced Europe and Asia. The Sultan of Melaka visited Turkey several times to strengthen their relationship and even took an oath of allegiance to the Ottoman Turkish Empire, promising to defend Islam in Asia. After the fall of Melaka, the Ottoman Turkish Empire provided war aid through Aceh to help Melaka regain control of the seized kingdom. The Ottoman Turkish Empire also influenced the Malay community’s thinking and struggle to resist colonialism in the 18^th century. The Malay community even took the Ottoman Turkish Empire as a model for freeing Malaya from Western threats. This paper will examine the initial relationship between the Melaka Malay Kingdom and the Ottoman Turkish Empire, particularly from a political perspective, and the type of influence that catalysed the Malays’ spirit to continue to rise and defend Malaya from external threats. This research will focus on document analysis and descriptive writing methods. The relationship between Malaya and the Turkish Government lasted until the Islamic caliphate fell in 1923. Furthermore, Ottoman Turkey was a significant Islamic government that the Malays expected to obey, as it acted as a power that was always concerned with Islam and the country as an Islamic state.

The Wali-Songo and (Western) Historiography: A Critical Review of a Methodological Achievement

2023-07-10T14:45:54+08:00

Since the early 19^th century, Western academics, particularly Dutch philologists, have been leading the way in modern research on Javanese history and literature. This scholarship has significantly influenced the narrative of Indonesian history in various aspects. However, despite its noteworthy legacy, there have been some challenges to the emic and native perspectives. This study aims to address this issue by examining the wali-songo (the Javanese nine saints) narrative in Western historiography. The study will critically review the contribution of Western scholars in explaining the narrative of wali-songo, primarily in terms of methodology. It will also highlight the legacy and impact of this scholarship on the intellectual history of Indonesia, specifically in the context of the wali-songo narrative. Ultimately, this paper seeks to bring about a nuanced understanding of the “historiography of wali-songo” in light of existing scholarship on this topic.

Historical Reality as an Integral System in the Context of the Development of Kazakh Culture and Islamic Traditions

2023-09-04T15:39:22+08:00

This study examines the issues of historical reality as an integral system in the context of the development of the Kazakh culture of epic singing and versification. Songs from a certain era were the recognition of historical moments such as the “national catastrophe” of the XVIII century, reflecting the opposition to the colonisation of the XIX century and the participation of famous historical figures in the 1916 national liberation uprising. The purpose of this study is to investigate the Kazakh folk epic poetry represented by legends, songs and poems, which reflect the various cultural events of the Kazakh historical reality of national evolvement and development. The primary approach used in this study is the combination of a systematic analysis of the materials from Kazakh national song and poetic culture with the logical development of the results and conclusions of this study. The main results of this study are the establishment of the conditional reliability of the events described in historical poetry. Assessing the historical reality of a single state in general and Kazakhstan in particular, one should consider the fact that not all historical events that have taken place were reflected in the works of national poets and became part of the national epic poetry. The various historical events and circumstances that occurred in the country throughout its history should also be considered. The prospects for subsequent study in this area are determined by the importance of studying the origins and traditions of the folklore of the Republic of Kazakhstan as the historical reality of the development of the state, which forms an integral system of the historical existence of the Kazakh people. The practical significance of this study lies in its potential to apply its findings to achieve a comprehensive understanding of specific phases in the evolution of Kazakh song and oral folklore, within the broader context of Kazakh cultural traditions.

The phenomenon of Jihad: Historical Transformation and Modern Interpretation

2023-09-04T16:10:46+08:00

The article seeks to differentiate the religious concept of jihad from its modern politicized interpretation to reduce Islamophobia. A historical review of modern Islamic values and principles is carried out. To confirm the hypothesis put forward, the author uses reliable information from the Holy Quran and hadith. The classical views of the Muslim scholars Ibn Qasir and Abu Jafar al-Tabari, who defended the religion of Islam from various misconceptions, are also presented as sources. The author conducted an etymological and hermeneutic analysis of the theory of “armed jihad” and religious concepts distorted for various political reasons. The features of the impact of the microenvironment and individual factors affecting the radicalization of a person are determined. At the same time, the author widely informs about the comprehensive work and measures taken to prevent religious extremism and terrorism in Kazakhstan. The reasons for the spread of radical religious ideology in Kazakhstan are presented in three stages, taking into account Kazakhstan’s experience in combating them.

Mobilizing Intolerance: Teungku Dayah (Ulama) and Religious Discourse in Aceh, Indonesia

2023-10-14T09:33:18+08:00

In 2018, Aceh was ranked 32nd in the index of tolerant cities in Indonesia conducted by the Setara Institute. The poor rating of religious tolerance in Aceh was due to an act of violence that occurred in Aceh in the previous periods, in which religious grounds were used. Ironically, this act was carried out by people who claim the authority of the Aswaja ideology in Aceh. The field research seeks to uncover the real root of the problem by interviewing religious authorities in Aceh, namely Teungku Dayah (ulama in Acehnese society), Santri (Muslim Students), and lecturers at Islamic higher education institutions. The results of the study showed that the acts of violence in Aceh stemmed from Teungku Dayah's inaccurate understanding of pluralism. Pluralism is understood and positioned as an ideology that contradicts and threatens the sustainability of the Aswaja's ideology in Aceh.

The Practice of Islamic Traditions among the Bugis in Bali

2023-10-14T09:49:49+08:00

This study aims to explore the practice of the grave pilgrimage tradition in the Suwung Village, Denpasar, using qualitative methods. Interviews, observations, and document studies were conducted to gather data directly from the Bugis community during the grave pilgrimage. The results of the study show that the majority Hindu Balinese community can accept the Bugis migrants, who are Muslims, to express Islamic traditions in Bali. This expression of Islamic religious tradition is marked by the existence of ancient Islamic manuscripts in Muslim villages, one of which is the Bugis Suwung Village in Denpasar. Specifically, the traditions that are unique in this village are the tradition of Ngeruwah (praying for the spirits of ancestors before the arrival of the month of Ramadan), the tradition of Pagelicing Qur’an (parading the Qur’an), and the tradition of grave pilgrimage. However, the tradition of parading the Qur’an has not been practised since the 1970s. This was done because the tradition was feared to be cultised by the Muslim community in the region.

Discourse on the Extended Meaning of Shahada: A Cognitive-Pragmatic Approach

2023-06-25T12:25:29+08:00

The existence of God is an extraordinary occurrence that presents a challenge for the limited human intellect to comprehend. Hence, arriving at that conviction necessitates unwavering trust and belief. In Islam, the affirmation of this conviction must be expressed in two lines known as the shahada. In addition to this paranormal event, the language structure pertaining to the two words found in the shahada includes the term أشهد (ashhadu), which translates as ‘I testify’. This statement assumes that the person testifying had prior knowledge of God’s existence, despite the fact that it is supernatural and challenging to ascertain. Why is the word أشهد (ashhadu) included in both sentences of the shahada? This essay seeks to examine the semantic significance of the linguistic expression realised in the proclamation of the two sentences of the shahada, specifically focusing on the word أشهد (ashhadu). This analysis will be conducted within a cognitive-pragmatic or sociocognitive framework. Typically, the cognitive pragmatics method considers not just the semantic meaning of a statement but also the pragmatic meaning of an utterance. During a speech or communication event, both of these meanings are consistently present as an individual intellectually constructs a representation of the context and scenario. The context encompasses not just tangible objects but also intangible aspects, for instance psychological and cognitive factors, including beliefs and knowledge. The findings obtained by this study indicate that the sentence أشهد (ashhadu), in addition to its semantic meaning of ‘I testify’, also possesses a pragmatic-psychological significance in the form of a linguistic texture (zauqullughoh) that may be experienced by the speaker. This may possibly offer psychological encouragement to individuals when they begin to self-explore or engage with their originator.

The Epistemology of Ta’dib in Islamic Civilizational Discourse: Reviving and Reconstructing Contemporary Muslim Scholars' Views

2023-11-03T15:57:14+08:00

Since the end of the twentieth century, a new epistemic discourse on education has emerged. This discourse appears in tandem with the enthusiasm of the pioneers of the new age of science movement in offering brilliant ideas as an alternative to modern scientific epistemology. This study aims to provide a new epistemological construction of education synthesized from contemporary Muslim scholars' ideas and works. This study adopts the narrative literature review method. We use this method to locate the literature on contemporary epistemology and the current educational crisis. This study has not only succeeded in making abstractions from the ideas of Muslim scholars but also in synthesizing three patterns of scholarly entity ideas: figures of new epistemological movements, with their characteristics of eclecticism, religious syncretism, monism, pantheism, exaltation of humanity, transformative, ecologically oriented, and holistic; and ideas from critical pedagogical figures; and most importantly, the standpoints of contemporary Muslim scholars. The construction of a new epistemology of education moves from monotheism as the foundation of education, restructuring the educational curriculum based on the structure of Islamic knowledge, and a vision of education that equally respects and liberates human beings.

Intellectual Background of Ibn Badis and His Contribution on Societal Change in Algeria, 1913-1940

2023-10-13T23:54:34+08:00

Abd Al-Hamid Ibn Badis was a hugely influential figure in the Islamic world. He impressed scholars both in the East and the West, with the French historian and journalist Andre Julien describing him as one of the most powerful figures of his time. The Tunisian Mufti Tahar Ibn Ashour even called him the father of Algeria’s Renaissance. In addition to exploring Ibn Badis’ impact on societal change, this study has been conducted to examine the elements of his intellectual background and how he overcame the obstacles he faced during the French colonial period. At that time, the entire country, including schools and endowments, was ruled by the French. The study highlights that Ibn Badis’ contribution to Algerian society was not only in education, but also in the economy, politics, sports, and all areas that promote human development. The study also reveals that Ibn Badis’ success in preventing the colonialists was due to his ability to exploit legal loopholes and gain support from all social classes. After they applied his educational philosophy and saw its results, people were eager to support him. France even intentionally ignored some of his works due to the possible disruption of security caused by his rising popularity. Therefore, this study recommends that Abd Al-Hamid Ibn Badis’ contribution should be implemented to add more value to human endeavours.

Sejarah, Perkembangan dan Revolusi Pertanian Dalam Tamadun Islam serta Kaitannya Dengan Zaman Moden

2023-12-04T00:41:52+08:00

Islamic civilization witnessed an extraordinary agricultural revolution that played an important role in shaping the socio-economic landscape. The aim of this abstract is to provide an overview of this revolution, exploring the main drivers, impacts, and changes that occurred. This research was carried out using qualitative method. This method involves a library study which is a comprehensive literature review about the agricultural revolution in Islamic civilization and its connection with modern times. The agricultural revolution in Islamic civilization emerged during the Islamic Golden Age (8^th to 14^th centuries), characterized by advances in various fields of knowledge, including agriculture. One of the main factors behind this agricultural revolution was the development and spread of new cultivation systems. This system not only increases agricultural productivity but also facilitates the expansion of cultivated areas in arid and semi-arid areas. Islamic agricultural practices also produced Islamic scientists such as Ibn al-Awwam who studied plants, soil fertility, and agronomy, which led to the introduction of new plant varieties and better planting techniques. Their scientific discoveries and experiments laid the foundation for modern agricultural science. In addition, the connection of the agricultural revolution in Islamic civilization with modern agriculture lies in its sustainable and efficient techniques. Emphasis on irrigation management, crop conservation, and the use of technology in line with approaches such as precision agriculture, conservation agriculture, and sustainable farming methods. In conclusion, the agricultural revolution in Islamic civilization has a great connection with modern agriculture. By taking the lessons of the Islamic agricultural revolution, we can strive to improve management in cultivation, technological innovation, and increase production in our efforts to create a resilient and productive agricultural system for the future.

Absattar Haji Derbisali and the Importance of His Works for the Development of Islamic Studies in Kazakhstan

2023-09-07T08:00:32+08:00

Religion is an essential element in the existence of society and the culture of the people. It embodies universal human values and principles for the realisation of public relations. From the beginning of Kazakhstan’s independence to the present day, the issue of the spread of different religions in Kazakhstan, including Islam, remains relevant. The research aims to study the activity and creativity of Absattar Haji Derbisali in the context of the development of Islamic studies in Kazakh society. General scientific methods, the method of analysis and synthesis, as well as special historical methods: ideographic, historical-genetic, problem-chronological and comparative-historical, were used. As a result, it was possible to describe the main stages in the biography of the scholar Absattar Haji Derbisali. The significance of his works and achievements in the field of Islamic studies and its dissemination in Kazakhstan were described. The study established that it was Absattar Haji Derbisali who was the founder of the Kazakh School of Arabic Studies. This indicates that the spread of Islam in the territory of Kazakhstan took place based on the approaches and methods of this scholar. It has been established that Islamology was little explored and did not develop in Kazakh society. Based on this it was proved that the role of Absattar Haji Derbisali in the development of Islamic studies was extremely high, which had a positive impact on the development of the independent state. It has been established that his approaches to the management and organization of society are a priority since they provide for the interests of various religious cells. The practical value of the study lies in the fact that its results can be used in the development of training programmes for Islamic studies or in the deepening of knowledge about the peculiarities of the development of Islam in the culture of Kazakhstan.

Determination of Hijri Calendar in Islamic History and Its Criteria in Southeast Asia

2023-09-04T16:25:13+08:00

It is common for the beginning of Ramadhan and Shawwal to cause differences. In 2022, the imkān ar-ru’yah (visual moonsighting) Neo-MABIMS was introduced in Indonesia as an effort to unify the Islamic calendar. However, it is often compared to the hisab wujudul hilal (lunar calculation) method. This study aims to project the hilal (new moon) altitude and elongation angle after the implementation of Neo-MABIMS and compare the beginning of the month of Ramadhan and Shawwal between imkān ar-ru'yah and hisab wujudul hilal. A quantitative method was used to reveal differences between 2023 and 2031. Data was analysed using a comparative approach with the support of the Starry Night Pro Plus 6 and Accurate Hijri Calculator 2.2 applications. The results of this study show that a hilal altitude of 3° with an elongation angle greater than 6.4° was found in three periods for the beginning of Ramadhan (2023, 2029, 2030). Meanwhile, for the beginning of Shawwal, this was found in only two periods (2024 and 2031). In the comparison between imkān ar-ru’yah and hisab wujudul hilal, there will be differences marking the beginning of the month of Ramadhan in the years 2024, 2025, and 2030. Similarly, the onset of Shawwal will experience distinctions in 2023, 2026, and 2030. As a result, hisab (calculations) and ru’yah (sighting) adherents will differ on the day of celebration of Eid al Fitr to as many as three different dates.

Maritime Activities of the Demak Sultanate: Shipping and Trade Route in the Nusantara Network (1478-1546)

2023-10-14T13:15:04+08:00

This study endeavours to explain the geostrategic conditions of the north coast of Java, as well as the activities and maritime policies of the Demak Sultanate. It adopts a historiographic approach comprising heuristics based on the book Suma Oriental as a primary source and other relevant secondary sources; in-depth verification and interpretation of data from various sources; and methodical historical writing. The results illustrate (1) the geostrategic conditions of the north coast of Java, which is in the middle of the Nusantara spice route, helped make Demak and other port cities an important emporium. The region is traversed by monsoon winds that support shipping activities and has abundant teak wood resources for the shipbuilding industry. (2) Demak’s maritime activities included military expeditions to conquer the Portuguese in Malacca and several important emporiums on the north coast of Java; trade expeditions to export-import various commodities; and establishing trade partnerships with other regions, especially Malacca and Maluku. (3) Raden Patah’s maritime policy included the deployment of military expeditions to conquer the Portuguese in Malacca in 1512, establishing trade partnerships with Malacca, producing Jung ships, and building port cities on the north coast of Java as important emporiums; Pati Unus mobilized a military expedition to conquer the Portuguese in Malacca in 1521 and formed the Demak-Cirebon-Palembang military alliance; and Trenggana conquered Lampung and Banten to control the pepper trade until the conquest of the Sunda Kelapa emporium under the Pajajaran kingdom.

Islamization of the Term “清真” (Qing Zhen): Its Analysis for Purity and Authenticity for Muslim in China

2023-12-03T18:34:22+08:00

This paper aims at examining the meaning of the two Chinese characters “清” (Qing) and “真” (Zhen” once used singly as well as combined together in the Chinese classical literatures in order to show why and how the Chinese Muslim scholars have applied and Islamized them for interpreting Islam by the Confucian ways and Taoist methods at the civilization and culture dialogue level. Further, the paper also demonstrates the evolution of “Qing Zhen” which has eventually become a special term for Muslims in China and how its connotations have currently been limited and restricted. Meanwhile, the paper discusses the related critical issues, such as the epistemology of the Ḥalāl Food and its legislation in China. Lastly, the author comes with some humble suggestions which tie with the results of the study by wishing for Muslims, in China or anywhere else, to reexamine their conducts and to reconsider how to inherit Islam as well as how to hand it down to the next generation.

A Comprehensive Appraisal of the Movements aiming at Fostering Sirah Studies in British India during 1857-1947 CE

2024-06-04T12:38:15+08:00

The study of Sirah stands as a cornerstone of Islamic Studies and related disciplines, having evolved profoundly over the centuries. It offers indispensable historical context and serves as a guiding beacon for Muslims in their faith and conduct. Between 1857 and 1947, Sirah Studies in the Subcontinent underwent a transformative phase that significantly influenced global Sirah scholarship. This period was marked by the emergence of critical works by Orientalists, which spurred robust responses from Muslim scholars in the region, catalyzing the rise of various influential Sirah movements. Traditionally, these movements have been analyzed in isolation, overlooking their collective impact on the evolution of modern Sirah studies. This research aims to bridge that gap by examining the combined effects of these movements, underscoring their unified contributions to the reformation and advancement of Sirah Sciences in the subcontinent.

The Strategic Role of Islamic Kingdoms in Aceh in the 18th and 19th Centuries: The Case of Trade in Kuala Batee and Trumon

2024-02-14T15:32:38+08:00

Kuala Batee and Trumon kingdoms had an important role in the spice trade, especially pepper in the archipelago. Both kingdoms were fragments of the Susoh kingdom, all of which were special autonomous kingdoms under the Sultanate of Aceh Darussalam in the 18th century. A historical analysis approach knows several important findings. First, the Kuala Batee and Trumon kingdoms emerged as part of Aceh's growing power on the South West Coast after it ceased to rule in Minangkabau in 1665. Secondly, these kingdoms were originally fragments of the Susoh kingdom. They were subject to the rule of the Sultan of Aceh before finally putting up a fight. Third, as Aceh's control weakened, the Kuala Batee and Trumon kingdoms established trade relations with other regions, including Europeans and the United States, making them strategic powers in world trade.

Multiculturalism, Islamophobia and the Muslim Minority in Australia: A Reflection

2023-01-17T11:56:17+08:00

Australia’s approach to multiculturalism has been a journey of evolving policies and societal shifts. The country’s immigration policies in the 1960s marked a significant departure from the restrictive ‘White Australia’ policy, leading to a more diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious population. Recognizing the potential for value and norm conflicts, the Australian government adopted multiculturalism as a state ideology, aiming to foster social cohesion and reduce inter-community conflicts. This policy has been largely successful in managing conflicts, as evidenced by the relatively low incidence of political, ethnic, and religious violence, including terrorism, compared to other nations. The positive impact of multiculturalism is evident in the thriving Australian Muslim communities, which, along with other ethnic and religious groups, have been able to preserve their cultural heritage. These communities contribute significantly to the social and economic fabric of the nation. However, despite the overarching success of multiculturalism, challenges persist. The Muslim minority in Australia has faced Islamophobia, manifesting in both overt attacks and subtle forms of discrimination. This has been a complex issue, with some Muslim groups maintaining a degree of exclusivity and engaging in identity politics, while also recognizing and embracing the broader multicultural ethos that has become an integral part of Australia’s identity. The Australian government has continued to refine its multicultural policies, with initiatives aimed at promoting anti-racism, access, and equity since 2010. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to diversity, belonging, and inclusion, which encompasses Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as well. The policy landscape is complemented by state and territory policies that further support multiculturalism. Despite the progress, the experiences of Australian Muslims highlight the ongoing need for vigilance against discrimination. Reports indicate that Australian Muslims are a diverse group, facing stereotypes and prejudice that can perpetuate social tensions. The Australian Human Rights Commission has emphasized the importance of sharing the stories of Australian Muslims to foster understanding and address Islamophobia. The Commission’s findings underscore the need for a national anti-racism framework and strong leadership to combat discrimination and support social cohesion. While Australia’s multicultural policy has been a beacon of successful integration and social harmony, it is clear that the journey is not complete. The nation continues to grapple with the dual realities of a celebrated multicultural society and the undercurrents of intolerance that challenge it. The experiences of the Australian Muslim community serve as a reminder of the work that remains to be done in ensuring that multiculturalism is not just a state ideology but a lived reality for all Australians. The path forward lies in education, awareness, and institutional change that upholds the values of diversity and inclusion for every individual in the nation.

الأدب الفلسطيني وسيلة لاسترداد حرية القدس

2024-06-05T15:25:54+08:00

This study aims to highlight the position and the role of the Palestinian literature in emphasizing the spirit of resistance and defiance for the sake of liberation of Jerusalem. The study relies on the analytical descriptive approach, which it analyses the content of several Palestinian poems which call to defend the land of Jerusalem. This study found that literature is a reflection of societies where it portrays the social realities of specific societies. And as Palestinian people witness a major political and social conflicts for more than fifty years up until now, hence some of them choose to express their experiences through literary writings. Therefore, this study concludes that Palestinian literature plays a very important role in proliferating the Palestinian issues to the people all around the world, encourages people to defend the land of Jerusalem and later on liberate it from the Israeli occupiers by any appropriate and suitable means.