Vol. 7 No. 1 (2022): al-Irsyad: Journal of Islamic and Contemporary Issues

The Editorial Board is pleased to announce the release of volume 7, issue 1 (June 2022) of al-Irsyad: Journal of Islamic and Contemporary Issues. This publication comprises a compilation of ten scholarly essays encompassing several fields of study, including linguistics and translation, Quranic studies, Islamic thought, Islamic psychology, Islamic economics, and Islamic da‘wah.

The advancement of scholarly investigations in Malay and Arabic has motivated academics to formulate an interpretation of the discourse particle lah from the standpoint of Arabic linguistics. The study conducted by Ismail et al. incorporated Sidnell’s approach to elucidate many factors influencing the selection of interpretation methods, including discourse type, informants, and techniques for transcribing data. The utilisation of recordings from the Wacana Sinar speech titled Plan for National Young Leaders/Pelan Pemimpin Muda Untuk Negara is employed. The interview had a moderator and three-panel members representing both the administration and the opposition parties. The utilisation of Arabic Balāghah principles is employed in the analysis of the discourse particle lah in the Malay language, aiding in the formulation of an interpretation. Drawing upon this body of knowledge, particularly with regards to al-ma‘ānī, the examination of the particle lah for discourse interpretation centres on the characteristics of spoken language (khabarī), elements of speech structure (isnād), and aspects of linguistic style (uslūb). This investigation revealed two distinct meanings of the discourse particle lah. The speech structure employed is suggestive of a particular pattern. In addition to that, twelve other readings of the discourse particle lah are grounded in various characteristics of linguistic style.

In their study, Abdul Raup et al. examine the use of Malay pantun in the animated series Upin & Ipin, drawing on the theoretical framework of pantun proposed by Mat Piah (1989). Additionally, the researchers analyse the translation of pantun into Arabic, employing the translation procedures outlined by Vinay & Darbelnet (1958/1995) and Veisbergs (1997). The primary objective of this research is to examine the equivalency of Malay-Arabic pantun translation. Specifically, the study aims to investigate the translation procedures employed, the selection of words, and the maintenance of rhyming patterns in the translated pantun. The study results indicate that most Malay pantun featured in this cartoon series conform to the pantun characteristics outlined by Mat Piah (1989). Additionally, the analysis identified seven translation procedures utilised: literal translation, transposition, modulation, equivalence, adaption, addition, and omission.

In their study, Kamarudin and Mustapha analyse the semantic interpretations of the particles waw and fā’ in narratives found in Surah al-Kaḥf. They also examine the impact of these particles on the continuity and chronological duration of the stories. The study’s results demonstrate several interpretations of these two particles, including instances when a single occurrence in certain verses had two distinct meanings. The implications of both particles have also influenced the coherence between two narratives or storylines; however, the temporal duration has greater significance in the case of the particle fā’ compared to waw.

In their scholarly work, Rozani et al. examine the subject of Al-Tafsīr al-Maqāṣidī in the context of Quranic exegesis. This area of research focuses on the utilisation of Maqāṣid al-Shāriʿah, which refers to the divine purpose behind the order prescribed by Allah, as a guiding principle for Islamic scholars. By adhering to this approach, scholars aim to ensure that their interpretations of Quranic verses are grounded in pursuing divine objectives rather than being influenced by personal inclinations or desires. Hence, the primary goal of this theme review is to consolidate the existing body of literature pertaining to the research domain of al-Tafsīr al-Maqāṣidī, employing the software tool ATLAS.ti 8. The present study conducted a theme review, which involved the identification of 86 initial codes that represent the research area of al-Tafsīr al-Maqāṣidī. These codes were further categorised into 12 distinct clusters. The clusters can be classified into two different groups: concept clusters and application clusters. The findings of the investigation revealed that although there have been ongoing efforts to develop the theory of al-Tafsīr al-Maqāṣidī, it has not yet reached a state of maturity. The study of al-Tafsīr al-Maqāṣidī is predominantly focused on its applicability to modern challenges, which is widely regarded as the most popular area of inquiry.

Abdul Azib and Hussin critically examine Abdul Hadi Awang’s approach to interpreting Isrā'īliyyāt narratives. The research findings indicate that the Isrā’īliyyāt narration, as delivered by Abdul Hadi, may be classified into two distinct categories: narrations accompanied by commentary and narrations lacking commentary. Furthermore, it should be acknowledged that the inclusion of Isrā’īliyyāt narratives in Abdul Hadi’s interpretation was not derived from his primary source of interpretation. Instead, it was strategically employed to captivate the audience during his lecture.

Shbair and Hasfi investigate the potential impact of state media television in Palestine on promoting patriotism since examining such a contribution warrants independent exploration. To explore this matter, the authors employ agenda-setting theories at the primary level, elucidating the media’s capacity to sway audiences, shape public sentiment, and establish a framework of national loyalty. The study’s findings indicated that the content broadcasted on Palestine TV positively fostered a sense of Palestinian nationalism among viewers. This discovery suggests that the media can potentially enhance individuals’ perspectives about patriotism. This study offers valuable insights for future research on the influence of media during periods of crisis, specifically focusing on the Israeli occupation of Palestine and its repercussions on the Palestinian population.

In their study, Nong et al. investigate the factors that have contributed to the increase in homelessness within the urban context of Kuala Lumpur. The study’s outcomes suggest that the efficacy of building the identity notion is diminished for individuals facing social challenges, particularly those experiencing homelessness. The aforementioned deficiencies can be ascribed to a misinterpretation of religious elements and the Islamic doctrine (‘aqīdah), which impede the execution of crucial practices from the Muslim standpoint in their daily existence. Psycho-religious support within homogeneous social groups fails to yield any discernible impact on their lives. Moreover, the prevalence of negative thinking and idleness is closely associated with homelessness. The present study holds theoretical significance in fostering an enhanced sense of identity among homeless populations. This can facilitate the implementation of more efficacious measures by the authorities to address the issue of homelessness among individuals in Malaysia.

Eman Surya and Istianah engage in a scholarly investigation of the verses of the Quran and their interpretations of plagues, disasters, and related occurrences. Their objective is to discern the Islamic rationale underlying the cultivation of human psychological fortitude and resilience amidst the ongoing epidemic. The study’s findings indicate that the Quran contains instances of calamities, such as plagues, and God’s assurance regarding the inevitability of challenges. The text also explores various problems and human responses to these challenges and calamities. Consequently, it can be inferred that the descriptions presented in the Quran have the potential to cultivate psychological preparedness among individuals in any circumstance, particularly in the context of the ongoing pandemic.

In their study, Azwar et al. examine the potential problems associated with the halal food and beverage business in Indonesia. The findings indicated that Indonesia presents favourable prospects within the food and beverage industry. Indonesia has experienced a substantial increase in the Muslim population. The Indonesian market exhibits a substantial size in terms of its target demographic, with a notable surge in public consciousness regarding halal cuisine and a rapid pace of technological advancements. The proliferation of e-commerce and media platforms is steadily expanding. Regarding the aspect of funding, a plethora of alternative financing platforms and prospects for partnership with Islamic banking and financial institutions exist. Nevertheless, the potential of this opportunity remains untapped. Indonesia continues encountering various problems, including constrained entry into global markets, inadequate investigation into market dynamics, and suboptimal utilisation of information technology for industrial advancement. In the current state, there remains a need for harmonisation between the policies implemented by both central and regional governments. Additionally, the existing bureaucracy for facilitating inter-sectoral cooperation is minimal.

In his analysis, Muhammad Salman Palewai explores the communication of da‘wah, or the invitation to Islam, to individuals who do not identify as Muslims in the literary work Ayat-Ayat Cinta, authored by Habiburrahman El Shirazi. The findings of this study indicate that Habiburrahman El Shirazi employs a literary technique wherein non-Muslim characters are prominently featured in the work. Notable examples are the family of Mr. Boutros Rafael Girgis (comprising Maria, Yosoef, Mr. Boutros, and Madame Nahed) and Alicia, a journalist hailing from the United States. The author incorporated various characters to address significant subjects from an Islamic perspective, often misconstrued by specific individuals who are not adherents of the faith. These topics encompass the portrayal of women in Islamic teachings, the dynamics of marital relationships, the interaction between individuals of the opposite gender who are not considered mahram, and the role of Islam as a guiding force that bestows blessings upon both Muslim and non-Muslim communities. Likewise, the author effectively communicates an Islamic message regarding the dynamics between Muslims and non-Muslims through the narrative’s plot.