A comparative study of the concept of insān: Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas and Abdurrahman Taha

This thesis explores the concept of insan as perceived and articulated by two prominent contemporary Muslim scholars, Taha Abdurrahman and Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas. Through an in-depth examination of their respective works, this study aims to highlight the profound legacy left by these scholars and explore the nuances of their methodologies, taxonomies, and linguistic approaches. Despite their differing methodologies and linguistic approaches, both scholars converge on the central theme of the relationship between the human and metaphysics. While the Malaysian scholar's works emphasize the dynamic nature of human existence within the broader context of Islamic thought, the Moroccan philosopher focuses on the metaphysical dimensions of insan's nature and the inherent relationship between the human and the Divine. Through comparative analysis, this thesis elucidates the ways in which ʿAbd al-Raḥmān and Al-Attas navigate complex theological and philosophical terrain, drawing upon diverse sources and methodologies to reach a shared understanding of the concept of human. Despite their differences, both scholars underscore the importance of integrating metaphysical insights into the study of human nature, offering valuable insights that contribute to contemporary discourse on the subject. Both thinkers emphasize the need to conceptualize a unique ontology from the Event of the Covenant, which results in the comprehension of various concepts such as the Trust of Vicegerency (i.e., Amanah and Khalifa), the Natural Predisposition (i.e., fiṭrah), and the comprehension of insan's embodiment (qalb, nafs, ruh, aql, and dhat). All of these aspects of insan function differently in the thoughts of Abdurrahman and Al-Attas. By examining their methodologies, taxonomies, and linguistic approaches, this thesis sheds light on the enduring relevance of their scholarship and its potential to enrich our understanding of the human condition within the Islamic intellectual tradition. Key Words: Amānah, 'Aql, Covenant, Dhāt, Fiṭrah, Insān, Khalīfah, Rūḥ, Trust of Vicegerency, Abdurrahman Taha, Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas