Islamic Worldview and the Four Philosophies of Jāhiliyyah
Written by: Dr. Muhammad Dīn Johar
Every System of Life Is Based on Metaphysical or Theological Foundations
Any system devised for human life is necessarily rooted in metaphysical or theological questions.
Unless a clear concept of man and the universe is established, no practical solution to life's challenges can be reached.
The questions of how man should live and what role he should play are directly connected to our understanding of the nature of the universe and how man should align himself with it.
Impact on Morality and Various Spheres of Life
Whichever worldview is adopted, the moral system will be constructed upon it.
This moral framework then influences individual character, social relationships, and legal structures.
All religions and philosophical schools differ due to their distinct foundational concepts and moral perspectives.
Four Foundational Worldviews of Life
➊ Pure Jāhiliyyah (Ignorance)
Summary of the Philosophy:
This view holds that the universe came into existence by random accident and has no purpose or wisdom behind it.
Human Status:
Man is considered nothing more than an animal, whose only aim is to fulfill desires.
Concept of Morality:
Man creates his own laws from his experiences and history, as no divine guidance is available to him.
System of Accountability:
There is no accountability to a higher being; actions are judged only by worldly consequences.
Historical Background:
This philosophy has been popular among materialists, kings, and affluent classes.
Even today, modern Western civilization is dominated by this materialistic mindset. Though many claim to believe in God and the afterlife, their practical lives are governed by materialism.
➋ Polytheistic Jāhiliyyah
Summary of the Philosophy:
This view claims that the universe is governed not by one God but by multiple deities.
Concept of Deities:
Different nations have considered jinn, angels, planets, and other natural forces as gods.
Moral and Civilizational Impact:
Polytheism is incapable of providing a coherent moral system; hence, laws and ethics continue to rest on the same principles of pure Jāhiliyyah.
Historical Background:
Ancient civilizations like Babylon, Egypt, India, and Greece were founded on this philosophy. Even today, many societies function under a mix of polytheism and pure ignorance.
➌ Ascetic Jāhiliyyah
Summary of the Philosophy:
This view regards the world and physical desires as evil, and believes that salvation lies in renunciation.
Effects of Asceticism:
- Righteous individuals withdraw into solitude, avoiding social responsibilities.
- Among the masses, this leads to misguided patience and submission, exploited by oppressive elites.
- Religious systems become rigid, obsessed with minute details, and lose their spiritual vitality.
Historical Background:
This philosophy has influenced Buddhism, Christianity, and forms of mysticism.
Whenever this view entered prophetic traditions, it distorted the spirit of religion and promoted escapism from worldly duties.
➍ Islam: The Prophetic Worldview
Summary of the Philosophy:
The universe is the kingdom of one Sovereign—Allah, and man is a responsible subject within this kingdom.
Status of Man:
Man is not autonomous, but a servant of Allah and accountable to Him.
Source of Guidance:
The system for living is derived through divine revelation (Waḥy) brought by the Prophets (peace be upon them).
System of Trial:
This world is a test. Man is given reason, awareness, and free will. Full recompense will be delivered in the Hereafter.
Moral System:
Islam presents a comprehensive and complete moral and civilizational order, fundamentally distinct from all systems of ignorance.
Civilizational Impact:
In Islamic civilization, every aspect—from ethics and law to governance, economy, and society—is shaped by belief in Allah’s sovereignty and the Hereafter.
Its principles stand in clear contrast to those of Jāhiliyyah.
Conclusion
Islam presents a complete and coherent worldview that not only answers metaphysical questions but also provides practical guidance for all aspects of life.
In contrast, the worldviews of pure ignorance, polytheism, and asceticism lead mankind toward misguidance and moral-social decay.
