Senarai: Journal of Islamic Heritage and Civilization
Vol. 1 No. 4 (2025): Islamic Philosophy, Theology, and Civilization

Malay Intellectual Traditions in Islamic Political Ethics: Raja Ali Haji and the Moral Boundaries of Authority

Qayyim, Syahmi Izzan (Unknown)
Alsyakir, Hilman Zaid (Unknown)
Abidin, Rafi Zainal (Unknown)
Sari, Intan Permata (Unknown)
Fadli, Ahmad (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
19 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study explores the values of Islamic constitutionalism as reflected in three significant texts: al-Muqaddimah fi Intizam Waza’if al-Malik, Tsamarat al-Muhimmah Diyafah Li al- Umara wa al-Kubara' Ahl Hakim, and Gurindam Dua Belas by Raja Ali Haji. These works, originating  from diverse socio-cultural contexts, represent a continuum of Islamic political thought that emphasizes justice (‘adl), consultation (shūrā), accountability (mas’ūliyyah), and the ethical limitations of political authority. The study aims to examine how these texts articulate principles of governance consistent with Islamic constitutional ideals and how such principles remain relevant to contemporary constitutional discourse. Using a qualitative- descriptive method, this research analyzes the textual content of each work through the lens of Islamic political ethics and compares their constitutional implications. Findings show that each text, despite its distinct genre and historical setting, upholds a model of leadership that is morally bound, consultative, and justice-oriented. al-Muqaddimah offers a structured political  theory  rooted  in  classical  Islamic  governance,  Tsamarat  al-Muhimmah emphasizes the moral character and restraint of leaders, while Gurindam Dua Belas integrates Islamic and Malay ethical-political teachings through literary expression. The  study  concludes  that  these  texts  provide  a  foundational  framework  for understanding Islamic constitutionalism beyond legal formalism, focusing on the moral  obligations  of  rulers  and  the  collective  rights  of  society.  This  research contributes to the discourse on Islamic constitutional theory by highlighting the ethical and cultural dimensions of Islamic governance embedded in classical and local intellectual traditions.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

senarai

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Social Sciences

Description

Senarai: Journal of Islamic Heritage and Civilization (ISSN: 3089-2864) is dedicated to the scholarly examination of the intricate intersections between Islamic philosophical thought, historical development, and the rise and evolution of civilizations. The journal aims to provide a comprehensive ...