City and virtue in Islamic civilization

The physical environment in which humans live is fundamentally influenced by the social environment they are part of. Humans have the ability to shape their surroundings according to their needs and desires. Therefore, social and physical environments are intertwined. The preservation and enhancement of this harmony depend on a better understanding of human existence. The places where humans live should provide spiritual and social comfort and meet various needs. Ibn Khaldun's statement, "Man is conditioned by his environment," reflects the reality of the harmony between social and physical laws. A city represents culture and civilization. It is the eternal center where the spirit and life gain vitality. For an Islamic city, moral principles and the fundamental tenets of religion are paramount. The essence, foundation, and essence of Islamic civilization is tawhid (the oneness of God). A city reflects the spirit of tawhid. Tawhid signifies the proper order of everything and the establishment of a system that reflects God's will. Al-Farabi describes the purpose of studying philosophy as recognizing the creator of the universe, understanding that He is the true cause of everything, acknowledging that He brings order to the world with justice and wisdom, and maintains this order with His generosity. Al-Farabi also believes that a person should strive to resemble the Creator to the extent of their capabilities. He evaluates the analysis of God, the universe, and humanity within the context of state, society, and individual relations, presenting the possibility of a virtuous society through civil sciences. When Al-Farabi speaks of the Virtuous City (al-Madina al-Fadila), he envisions a city that, despite being inhabited, can be advanced through virtue and calls on societies to form virtuous communities. This study examines the concepts of God, universe, human, city, civilization, and utopia through the perspectives of Islamic philosophers and other esteemed thinkers. The insight and wisdom of Turkish thought and Islamic tradition necessitate this. Turkish thought and culture have never expressed themselves by excluding the thoughts and cultures of other nations, whether Muslim or non-Muslim. Due to this noble approach, our nation has deservedly been the focus of civilizations for centuries. The complexity of this study arises from the intricate nature of the topic and necessitates a detailed segmentation. This study aims to guide those interested in systematically learning about Islamic thought to the primary sources.