Critical Perspectives on the Rational Epistemology of Islamic Education

Abstract

This study aims to explore the concept of Islamic educational epistemology as articulated by Mujamil Qomar in his book Epistemologi Pendidikan Islam dari Metode Rasional hingga Metode Kritik (The Epistemology of Islamic Education from Rational Methods to Critical Methods). The review highlights the urgent need to reformulate the epistemological foundations of Islamic education to be more responsive to modern challenges while preserving its spiritual values. Qomar identifies that the main issue in Islamic education today lies in its weak epistemological basis, leading to intellectual stagnation and civilizational decline. Through an integrative approach, Qomar proposes five essential methods for constructing the epistemology of Islamic education: the rational method, empirical method, intuitive method, dialogical method, comparative method, and critical method. Emphasis is placed on the integration of reason, revelation, empirical experience, and intuition in acquiring knowledge. The book also stresses the necessity of rethinking traditional Islamic educational epistemology, moving from dogmatic rigidity to a more creative, critical, and dynamic orientation. Scientific methods are blended with Islamic spiritual values to produce a holistic educational model. This study concludes that an adaptive and transformative epistemology of Islamic education will enable it to meet contemporary challenges and strengthen the authenticity of Islamic scientific traditions. A solid epistemological foundation is expected to produce generations balanced in intellect, skills, spirituality, and morality.