The ability to think is a function of reason that Allah SWT has gifted to humans in carrying out their responsibilities as servants of Allah.

Through this ability, humans can make rational and thorough judgments before giving birth to certain views, facts, arguments and so on without being influenced by others. Freedom of thought is also closely related to other freedoms such as freedom of speech, religion and others.

Freedom of thought can provide various benefits and benefits to humans. Among them can create a closer relationship between people through sharing and exchanging ideas as a result of their creativity and wisdom. In addition, it can also sharpen the thinking of the community, especially Muslims in adding experience and forming a noble personality.

According to Islam, every individual has the right and even needs to think in finding a solution to a problem before making a decision that is in line with the will of Islam. Islam does not forbid its people to think independently. However, it does not lead to thoughts that are beyond the limits of faith in Allah SWT.

If viewed from a western point of view, they usually reject the role of religion and classify it as scientifically irrational. In addition, they are also of the view that the western version of individual freedom is considered the best for society in terms of thinking.

The attitude of using western beliefs as a guide and source of inspiration makes them insensitive to eastern culture. They even reject eastern values ​​because these values ​​are usually based on religious teachings and moral values ​​of the local culture. Therefore, they are too comfortable with carrying ideas that are considered progressive in the western society.

Freedom of thought according to Islamic perspective

Universally, one of the most important developments in a human being is his thinking and it has become a nature that this ability requires freedom, that is, there is nothing that can prevent it.

A Muslim has the right to think and indeed needs to think. In various verses, Allah SWT through the Qur'an calls on people to think, reflect and observe about nature as a whole.

In addition, the Qur'an also advises people to know themselves by using the power of reason in addition to taking steps towards perfection from any form of ignorance, error and disbelief.

Thinking is a preparation and strength and always develops in human beings. Without this freedom, it will certainly be an obstacle to its development.

In this regard, humans have better preparations than animals that do not have the ability to think like humans. In order to ensure that freedom of thought always complies with the will of Islam, some guidelines need to be taken into account by every Muslim.

Date of Input: 09/01/2024 | Updated: 09/01/2024 | asmunir