The Approaches of Ahlus Sunnah and Mu’tazilah in Establishing ʿAqīdah Issues through Arabic Language Analysis: A Comparative Study

Abstract

YOAD NAZRIGA SUNARTO (2024): The Approaches of Ahlus Sunnah and Mu’tazilah in Establishing ʿAqīdah Issues through Arabic Language Analysis: A Comparative Study Some ʿaqīdah disagreements exist between sects, particularly between Ahlus Sunnah and the Mu’tazilah, whereas both of them rely on Arabic language analysis as a basic tool in establishing ʿaqīdah. This study examines the differences in ʿaqīdah (Islamic theology) between Ahlus Sunnah and the Mu’tazilah, focusing on their approaches to establish their ʿaqīdah positions through Arabic language analysis as a fundamental tool. The primary aim of this study is to explore and compare the distinct approaches employed by Ahlus Sunnah and the Mu’tazilah in their linguistic analysis to establish ʿaqīdah, especially regarding the names and attributes of Allah, as well as īmān, and qadr. For this purpose, a qualitative methodology is adopted, utilizing desk and library research methods. This involves a detailed study of the Quran, Hadith, and the writings of early Islamic scholars, academic books, journals, and articles. The findings reveal significant differences in the linguistic approaches of Ahlus Sunnah and the Mu’tazilah. Ahlus Sunnah maintains the apparent meaning, applies analogy (qiyās) and evidence (qarīnah) cautiously, and considers the context and the conditions of the speaker, the addressee, and the indications. In their linguistic interpretation, they rely on the Quran, Hadith, and the sayings of predecessors (Salaf). In contrast, the Mu’tazilah employ a more rationalistic approach, often manipulating textual meanings through changing the inflection (iʿrāb), using irregular readings (qirāʾāt shādha), and introducing innovative rhetorical methods to align with their doctrinal views. This comparison highlights the approach differences and their implications for establishing ʿaqīdah. By comparing the approaches of Ahlus Sunnah and Mu’tazilah, the study provides insights into how different approaches of Arabic analysis can lead to divergent ʿaqīdah conclusions, emphasizing the influence of the Arabic analysis approach in the establishment of ʿaqīdah. By providing a detailed comparison, the study underscores the importance of rigorous approaches in linguistic analysis and its impact on theological discussions. Additionally, the study offers insights into refuting incorrect approaches of Arabic analysis towards some ʿaqīdah deviations regarding the names and attributes of Allah, as well as the īmān definition, and the qadr raised by the Mu’tazilah. The statements of Ahlus Sunnah scholars will be presented to strengthen these refutations. This research enhances the understanding of Islamic theological discussions and highlights the crucial role of language analysis in shaping religious beliefs. It provides valuable insights for Islamic theology scholars and students, aiming to improve the accuracy and depth of their linguistic and theological analyses. This study serves as a foundation for further research on the connection between Arabic language analysis and ʿaqīdah in Islam.