The Relationship between Reason and Revelation in Islamic Thought: Al-Ghazali as a Model

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between reason and revelation in Islamic thought, with a particular focus on Imam Al-Ghazali's efforts to resolve the perceived conflict between the two. Islam, as shown through its foundational sources, does not endorse a real contradiction between reason and religious texts; instead, it affirms their complementary nature in the pursuit of truth. Intellectual trends on this issue have generally followed three approaches: prioritizing reason over revelation, rejecting reason in favor of revelation, or adopting a reconciliatory view, the latter being the stance of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama‘ah, exemplified by Al-Ghazali. The study highlights Al-Ghazali’s epistemological approach, which integrates the light of reason with the light of revelation, emphasizing the interdependence of rational and religious sciences. The research employs an analytical methodology through a close examination of Al-Ghazali's texts, and is structured into two main sections in addition to the introduction and conclusion.