The view of Islamic thought on secular perceptions

Religion is a fundamental determinant in the life of a believing individual. The duty of a believer is to live in accordance with the beliefs and principles of the religion they adhere to. In this context, religion provides a framework and boundaries regarding how life should be conducted from the perspective of a faithful individual. There are two primary domains that constitute the essence of religion: creed (ʿaqīdah) and practice (ʿamal). The combination of these two domains gives rise to morality. Doctrinal rulings form the basis of daily life. Based on this belief, the actions performed by the individual in daily life, namely practices, emerge. Kalam thought, which is grounded in the reality of existence, considers the correct understanding of God and the world as the first stage. Therefore, understanding the world accurately holds significant importance. The fact that Kalam is a discipline concerned with the belief dimension of religion stems from this. As a discipline that grounds the belief dimension of religion, Kalam aims to define the relationship between God and the world correctly. Within this framework, Islamic scholars have critically evaluated the understanding of existence and meaning proposed by secularism. According to them, secularism severs the connection between faith and life, driving the individual into a vacuum of values. Religion is a phenomenon that emerged with human existence and continues as long as humanity exists. Therefore, how humans perceive the world carries great significance. The element that sustains human life is the belief in a transcendent being, which is inevitable. For various reasons, both societies and individuals have been compelled toward secularization. However, human nature and divine values will not allow complete adherence to this process. Even if the visible influence of religion in social life decreases, it continues to exist in the inner world of humans. Humans cannot limit their search for meaning and existence solely to the material world. Therefore, religion is not merely confined to acts of worship; it also serves as a guide that shapes human thoughts, behaviors, and morality. The emergence of Kalam can be understood as a result of this need. Muslim thinkers have sought to rationally ground the principles of faith, aiming both to ensure the correct understanding of religion and to defend it against differing intellectual currents. Accordingly, Kalam combines reason and revelation to contribute to the establishment of faith on a solid foundation. In conclusion, religion is one of the most fundamental phenomena that gives meaning to human life and guides existence. Secular ideas may temporarily reduce the influence of religion. However, the need for faith inherent in human creation will always keep religion alive. Therefore, religion continues to occupy a central place in human life at both individual and societal levels. Secular thought aims to reduce the influence of religion in social, cultural, and political spheres and to confine faith to the private domain. This approach emerged as a historical product of the Western experience and weakens the bond between humans and God. According to Islamic thought, this severance is contrary to human nature. Human consciousness is shaped by the innate need to turn toward a transcendent Creator. Keywords: Kalam, Religion, Islam, Secularism, Secularization