A study of the concept of akhlaq based on Badiuzzaman's thoughts : Risales-I Nur courses at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia

Abstract

Today, because of the spread of Western philosophy and anti-Islam propaganda, turbulence and doubts are on the rise among the society and its approach towards Islam. To make things worse, the concept and practice of akhlaq (Islamic Ethics) are being neglected by even its followers. Moreover, Muslims are encountering with a myriad of external and internal problems in both personal and social lives. This study aimed to explore and analyze the concept of akhlaq according to Badiuzzaman’s thoughts, with special reference to his magnum opus, Risale-i Nur. In order to support the findings, a total number of 10 structured interviews were conducted among five students from Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), who regularly attended Risale-i Nur course at the university. The data collected were thematically analyzed, from which three major themes emerged, i.e., participants’ understanding of akhlaq based on Badiuzzaman’s thoughts, their views on Said Nursi’s concept of akhlaq and its significance in facing the challenges in life, and the perceived relevance of Said Nursi’s concept of akhlaq in achieving happiness in life. It is expected that this study will be insightful for educators and parents.