Konsep Akal dalam Perspektif Tafsir Ibnu Katsir

Zuwayriah B. Mantau (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, Indonesia)
Soleh Achmad Khudori (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, Indonesia)

Al-Aqwam: Jurnal Studi Al-Qur'an dan Tafsir
Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Online Journal

This studies focusing on the Qur'anic concept of 'aql from the perspective of Tafsir Ibn Katsir remain limited. Therefore, this study aims to examine the concept of 'aql in the Qur'an through Ibn Katsir exegesis and to analyze its function as a medium through which human beings develop their relationship with Allah SWT. This study employed a qualitative library research approach using descriptive analysis. Primary data were obtained from the Qur'an and Tafsir Ibn Katsir, while secondary data were collected from Qur'anic exegesis books, scholarly articles, books, and other relevant literature. Data were gathered through documentation and analyzed using the thematic (maudhu'i) interpretation approach combined with content analysis to identify, classify, and interpret Qur'anic verses related to the concept of 'aql. The findings reveal three main points. First, the term 'aql appears exclusively in verbal forms, particularly as present-tense verbs and imperative forms, with a total occurrence of 49 instances in the Qur'an. Second, the concept of 'aql can be classified into five dimensions: its role in comprehending physical, psychological, metaphysical, eschatological, religious, and historical realities; its grammatical use as the subject in the forms ya'qilūn, lā ya'qilūn, and ta'qilūn; the consequences of neglecting reason and the corresponding accountability in the Hereafter; the interaction between reason and the heart in shaping righteous behavior; and the inconsistency between rational understanding and human conduct as a characteristic of hypocrisy. Third, reason serves a significant role in the relationship between human beings and Allah SWT by enabling the recognition of God's existence, guiding individuals to obey divine commands and avoid prohibitions, and fostering love for Allah through awareness of His greatness. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the Qur'anic concept of 'aql by highlighting Ibn Katsir's distinctive interpretation of the relationship between reason, revelation, and faith.