Cdr (R) Ahsan ul Haq

Basic concept and characteristics of Islamic culture and civilization

Definition:
Culture and civilization is deeply linked with each other, both are base on religion, faith, way of
life, customs, traditions, ideas, life hereafter, moral values, manners, social and ethical values,
law, dress, food, ideology and concept of other religion. Every culture is based on its religious
values.

Elements of Islamic civilization:

1. Dealing with outside the non Muslim world.

2. Internal peace.

3. Uniformity and equality.

4. Economic prosperity.

Historical Development of Islamic Culture & Civilization

 From the ninth century to the twelfth century, Islamic culture flourished and crystallized
into what we now recognize as Islam. The military expansions of the earlier period
spread Islam in name only; it was later that Islamic culture truly spread, with people
converting to Islam in large numbers.

 This spread of Islamic culture was facilitated by trade, missionaries, and changes in the
political structure of Islamic society. As a result, we encounter multiple different
interpretations of Islam across many different Islamic societies.

Characteristics of Islamic culture and civilization

1. Divine law: Based on divine law not on naturalist law. Quran says, ”Surely this law
revealed from the lords of all worlds.”

2. Guidance of Allah: Islamic culture is the guidance of Allah and covers every aspect of
human life as political…… other culture prepared by human being not covers every
aspect of human life. Quran says,”No moist and dry thing but written in a clear record.”

3. Reformation of soul and body: Human is collection of two things, soul and body Quran
says,”They believe on unseen.” no external change effects on this culture, other culture
can change anytime.

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Cdr (R) Ahsan ul Haq

4. Unity between worldly and spiritually life: There is no difference between worldly and
spiritual life because Holy Prophet (SAWW) has said,”No separation from society in
Islam.”

 Individualism and collectivism: Everyone is responsible individually to Allah Quran says,

"No one will take burden of others.”Collectively he is responsible to the society.

 Simple and logical: Islamic culture and civilization is simple, logical, practical and
complete balance between every aspect of life. No special treatment for anyone
whatsoever, other reformers stress on one side on the cost of the other as to leave the
world. Its rules and laws are ever, stable, forever and no change in these law and rules.

 Reformative and revolutionary movement: real movement therefore goes forward with
good deeds and stop bad deeds. Quran says, "Whatsoever prophet gives perceived it
and whatsoever he stops you leave it.”

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