The Philosophy of Human Rights in Islam: Beyond Western Universalism
Abstract
This paper examines the evolving concept of love in modern Western thought and contrasts it with the comprehensive framework of love in Islamic philosophy. Modern Western discourse often portrays love as a subjective and emotional experience, emphasizing autonomy and inclusivity, as reflected in movements like LGBTQ+ advocacy. However, this perspective often detaches love from deeper ethical and spiritual dimensions, reducing it to a relativistic construct defined by personal feelings and societal norms. In contrast, Islamic teachings, as explored by scholars such as Al-Ghazali, Ibn Arabi, Ar-Razi and Ibn Sina, present love as a transformative journey rooted in moral principles and the quest for spiritual transcendence. Love in Islam encompasses stages, from human affection to ultimate devotion to Allah, aligning personal and societal relationships with divine law (Shari’ah) to achieve spiritual growth and moral excellence. By comparing these perspectives, this study highlights the Islamic view of love as a disciplined and holistic path that integrates emotional, rational and spiritual dimensions, offering clarity and purpose in a world where the meaning of love has become fragmented and contested.
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