This video lecture presents a holistic approach to Islamic pedagogy, contrasting it with reductionist methods. The speaker outlines core assumptions and principles underpinning a holistic teaching philosophy rooted in Islamic theology and philosophy, emphasizing the sacred nature of education and the pursuit of spiritual growth.
Education as a Sacred Act: The foundational principle is that Islamic education is a sacred and spiritual act, not merely a mechanical process. It aims to cultivate the whole person (insan) and foster growth towards spiritual perfection (seeking proximity to Allah).
God-Centricity: The core belief is God-centricity—Allah as the center of all things. This leads to seeking help, reliance, and fear only from Allah, rejecting dependence on other created beings.
Receptivity to Guidance: Humans are inherently receptive to guidance, both ontologically (natural inclination towards Allah) and legislatively (through Islamic Sharia). This receptivity justifies the provision of divine guidance.
Divine Wisdom (Hikma): All creation possesses divine wisdom; therefore, teaching and learning should aim to understand and fulfill this wisdom, ultimately fostering growth towards Allah.
Three Factors Driving Behavior: Human behavior is driven by the interplay of intellect (perception of truth), heart (emotional inclination), and body (action). Holistic teaching integrates these three aspects to promote growth.
Ontological Principles for Pedagogy: Holistic pedagogy should promote order and consistency, fostering tranquility and peace in the classroom. It should cultivate a sense of commitment by acknowledging Allah's guidance and blessings. Finally, it should recognize that nothing is created in vain, encouraging the pursuit of lofty goals.
Epistemic Principles for Pedagogy: Holistic teaching emphasizes continuous learning and the creation of learning experiences. Clear communication (akin to the clarity of Quranic revelation) is crucial for fostering reflection and transformation. Studying history and the natural world offers opportunities for contemplation and connection to divine wisdom.
