Revisiting contemporary halal research from the perspective of the tawhidic paradigm

Abstract

The concept of halal, established over 1,400 years ago in the Qur’an, has only recently developed into a commercial industry within the global Islamic economy. This evolution has placed the halal industry within a capitalist ecosystem, which has helped it expand into sectors beyond food but has also raised concerns about potential economic exploitation that may dilute its faith-based values. Recognising this, the study investigates whether halal research aligns with the tawhidic paradigm—rooted in the unity of God and Islamic values—through an analysis of halal-related publications. Using thematic analysis, the study categorises publications within halal science and education, guided by the framework of the Islamization of knowledge. Data sourced from Scopus and Google Scholar is classified into five categories: un-Islamic, conventional studies, conventional halal studies, relevantization, and Islamization. Findings reveal that most articles fall within the "relevantization" category, indicating applications of Islamic teachings in modern issues. However, the degree of relevantization may still be minimal, portraying only limited tawhidic elements. This suggests that current halal research does not consistently safeguard halal as a divinely ordained system. Focusing on articles aligned with 'conventional halal studies' could help emphasise the tawhidic elements in halal-related work. By fostering more faith-based halal research, the study proposes that the industry can better retain its spiritual integrity, highlighting halal's unique religious and ethical dimensions. This approach is essential for preserving halal's sanctity as a faith-bound system while addressing contemporary challenges in science and education.