The cognitive functions of the human soul according to Imam al-Ghazali, and Ibn Rushid :a comparative study

Abstract

This study compares and contrasts Imam al-Ghazali's (c.1055-1111) and Ibn Rushd's (c.1126-1198) views on the cognitive functions of the human soul and its role and effect on knowledge acquisition. The descriptive, analytical and synthetic approach was adopted which was mainly interpretative in the form of textual commentary. The five concepts of ilm (knowledge), ruh (spirit), nafs (soul), aql (intellect) and qalb (heart), were defined according to exegetists, theologians, jurists, lexicographers and philosophers. The study mainly focused on the external and internal senses of the human soul and noted some variations and similarities in al-Ghazali's and Ibn Rushd's perception of the cognitive functions of the human soul, in terms of their positioning and function in relation to the reception of intelligible forms and their relationship to the type of knowledge perceived. No special relation was noted on methodology since both scholars employed the same methodology in other areas of study. No significant relation and influence of cognitive functions of the human soul was noted on the classification of knowledge. The study views the cognitive functions of the human soul as an indispensable element of modern Muslim education curricula. The research advocates that whoever is involved in knowledge dissemination and seeking in modern curricula should be made aware of the role of the cognitive functions of the human soul, its role in knowledge acquisition and the type of knowledge acquired in order to seek or disseminate knowledge solely in quest of the pleasure of Allah (SWT).