Fazlur Rahman Malik

Fazlur Rahman was an intellectual who sought to reconcile Islam with modernity by challenging traditional Islamic scholarship. His early education incorporated traditional Islamic learning and modern university training, which formed the basis for his revolutionary approach. Following the completion of his doctoral studies at Oxford, Rahman experienced an intellectual crisis that compelled him to reevaluate his religious beliefs by studying the Qur’an and the life of the Prophet. This led him to believe that while religious traditions are valuable, they must be constantly revitalized and reformed. He promoted a “one God-one Humanity” paradigm, urging for an updated and applicable Islamic tradition that tackles modern challenges. Rahman’s comprehensive reform approach involved reconstructing Qur’anic interpretation methodology and comprehending the Prophet’s example. Rahman posited that Muslims should rely on eternal sources for guidance in traversing the contemporary world. His economic stance drew from the Qur’anic promotion of socioeconomic justice, with economic affluence serving as a means of attaining a just society. Rahman promoted regulated economic activity and situated Islamic economics between capitalism and socialism. Moreover, he discerned between Qur’anic ribā and contemporary banking interest and advocated for the latter’s restricted permission. The institution of zakat/zakā (mandatory alms-giving on the rich) played a pivotal role in Rahman’s social and economic paradigm by ensuring state intervention to address social needs. Rahman’s legacy endures as a significant contribution to the continuous discourse on modernity and Islam. This entry delves into Rahman’s life and transformative ideas and emphasizes his goal to rejuvenate and reform Islamic thought.