THE ESSENSE OF TAWHIDIC EPISTEMOLOGY

By, Muhammad Mumtaz Ali

Tawhidic epistemology is grounded in Islamic Revealed Knowledge [IRK], which constitutes the source of True, Authentic, and Universal Knowledge [TAUK]concerning both the physical and metaphysical realms, as well as values, principles, and civilizational vision. It functions as a foundational source for the development of further knowledge related to wisdom, ethical values, guiding principles, and civilizational mission. Tawhidic epistemology offers a balanced and comprehensive understanding of human existence by acknowledging the integration of spiritual aspirations and material needs.

Furthermore, tawhidic epistemology calls upon human beings to reflect upon the signs [āyāt] of the Creator – Allah SWT manifested in the universe, nature, history, and within the human self. Grounded in TAUK and empirical observation, it repeatedly urges people of understanding to “observe,” “experience,” “reflect,” and “think,” thereby emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge as a rational and moral obligation to achieve development here in this world to be successful in the Next world. This epistemological emphasis on reflective and holistic knowledge establishes a fundamental distinction between tawhidic epistemology and positivist epistemology. In tawhidic epistemology the following components are fundamental.

Components of Tawhidic Epistemology

1. THE QURAN IS THE BOOK OF ALLAH WHO IS AL-ALEEM AND AL-HAKEEM

The Qur’an repeatedly affirms that the knowledge revealed by Allah SWT originates from Al-‘Alīm [the All-Knowing] and Al-Ḥakīm [the All-Wise], who possess infinite knowledge and infinite wisdom. Consequently, this revealed knowledge is free from metaphysical speculation and philosophical conjecture.

2. THE QURAN CONTAINS IN IT METAPHYICAL TRUTH

The Qur’an embodies metaphysical truth and provides an unequivocal explanation of the reality of life and the world. Accordingly, it is incumbent upon all people to understand and adhere to the truth revealed in the Qur’an. The rejection or neglect of this truth leads to harm and destruction. Therefore, living in accordance with metaphysical truth is both rational and consistent with a scientific outlook.

3. THE QURAN IS THE BOOK OF IRK OR TRUE, AUTHENTIC, AND UNIVERSAL KNOWLEDGE [TAUK].

The knowledge and wisdom contained in the Qur’an are not merely religious or dogmatic in nature but constitute True, Authentic, and Universal Knowledge [TAUK]. The internalization of this knowledge enables a proper, accurate, and comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the world. Conversely, the neglect or rejection of TAUK leads to crisis and disorder in both individual and social life. The application of TAUK, therefore, provides clear direction and purpose to all intellectual and practical endeavours.

4.THE PURPOSE OF KNOWLEDGE AND TAWHIDIC EPISTEMOLOGY

In conclusion, it is essential to clarify the purpose of knowledge, education, research, and scholarly writing. At its highest level, the ultimate purpose of knowledge is the recognition and acknowledgment of Allah SWT, as well as an understanding of humanity’s place and role in the world. Furthermore, the study and comprehension of social and natural phenomena are obligatory. All intellectual activities should therefore be directed toward the advancement and well-being of both individual life and society.

The Essense of Tawhidic Epistemology

Tawhidic epistemology refers to a comprehensive and integrated framework for understanding, acquiring, and generating new knowledge that is firmly grounded in the truth and reality of the existence of Allah SWT, as well as the truth and reality of life and the universe, as understood through the principle of tawhid, the absolute Oneness of Allah SWT. Within this epistemological paradigm, the primary and foundational prerequisite is the recognition of Allah SWT as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. This perspective emerges from the study of True, Authentic, and Universal Knowledge [TAUK], commonly referred to as Islamic Revealed Knowledge [IRK].

The comprehension of the reality of the Creator, Allah SWT, is derived from TAUK and articulated through the principle of tawhid, which represents the ultimate truth and fundamental reality of existence. This principle affirms the indivisible Oneness of Allah SWT and constitutes the core foundation of the tawhidic epistemological worldview.

Within this framework, all knowledge is understood to originate ultimately from Allah SWT, and the pursuit of knowledge is viewed as an effort to discern and comprehend the signs [āyāths] of Allah’s existence, wisdom, and power as manifested throughout creation. Accordingly, tawhidic epistemology emphasizes truth and reality, the centrality of TAUK and IRK, and their integration with empirical observation, experience, measurement, rational analysis, and intuition in the pursuit of knowledge. Knowledge is therefore not sought for its own sake, but for understanding the attributes of Allah SWT, the nature of life, and the order of creation, with the ultimate aim of drawing closer to Allah SWT and fulfilling the human purpose of existence. This includes the establishment and development of society, community, state, and governance in accordance with the Islamic way of life as ordained by Allah SWT, the Creator and Sustainer.

Tawhidic epistemology is grounded in a deep conviction that there is only one Creator, the Lord of all humankind, who is the ultimate source of all knowledge and wisdom. This foundational belief shapes the approach of scholars toward the acquisition, production, and interpretation of knowledge, as well as their understanding of both the natural and metaphysical realms. Within this paradigm, knowledge functions as a means of uncovering, affirming, and recognizing the truth, reality, and presence of Allah SWT throughout the universe.

Moreover, tawhidic epistemology underscores the indispensability of TAUK in understanding the ultimate truth and reality of existence and highlights the intrinsic relationship between knowledge, understanding, and spiritual insight. While affirming the authority of TAUK as revealed in the Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad [pbuh] as divinely revealed and valid sources of guidance and knowledge, it also acknowledges the essential roles of human observation, experience, reason, and intellect. This epistemology encourages critical reflection, comparative inquiry, and thoughtful engagement with natural phenomena and human experience. In addition, it recognizes the significance of intuition, inspiration, and spiritual experience as legitimate means of accessing deeper metaphysical insights that transcend purely empirical observation and rational discourse.

In essence, tawhidic epistemology views the pursuit of knowledge as an act of obedience to Allah SWT and as a means of fulfilling humanity’s existential purpose as creation of Allah SWT, aimed at fostering peace, progress, and comprehensive development in life and society. It affirms the importance of employing all human faculties—observational, rational, empirical, and spiritual—with sincerity and humility. The sincere quest for knowledge is thus regarded as an expression of devotion to Allah SWT, leading to a deeper understanding of existence and a more profound appreciation of the truth, beauty, and harmony of the universe as manifestations of the āyāths [signs] of Allah’s wisdom and power.

In summary, tawhidic epistemology offers a holistic and integrated approach to knowledge, civilizational development, and success. It embraces TAUK, empirical observation, experimentation, rational inquiry, and spiritual insight as fundamental epistemic tools, all directed toward seeking Allah’s pleasure and guidance in every dimension of life.***

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mumtaz Ali is an academic member from AHAS KIRKHS, IIUM.