Reason, pillar of Islam: between faith, knowledge and ethics
In this first chronicle, Faker Korchane analyzes the central place of reason in Islamic thought, based on the teachings of the Koran and the Mu’tazila tradition, a rationalist theological school. He explains how reason is considered a divine gift and an essential tool to understand religion, the universe and the relationships between human beings. His discourse highlights the dimensions that are both analytical and synthetic of reason, as well as its role in the quest for meaning and coherence.
Review of the Chronicle of Faker Korchane on the reason in Islam
Reason, a universal divine gift
Faker Korchane begins by emphasizing that reason is a divine gift offered to all human beings, whether Muslim or not. This universality of reason allows everyone to understand the world and to seek a meaning to what surrounds them. The Mu’tazila, an Islamic theological school, have particularly highlighted the importance of reason, considering it as the first proof of the existence of God and the very foundation of the understanding of religion. For them, reason is not only an intellectual tool, but also a manifestation of divine unity in the universe.
Reason in the Koran
Korchane cites several verses from the Koran to illustrate how reason is valued in Islam. For example, in Sura 21 (“the prophets”), it is said: “We have not created heaven and earth, nor what is between them, by play.” This verse emphasizes that everything in the universe has logic and coherence, and that reason allows you to discover this harmony. In Sura Youssef, the Koran is described as an “explicit Arabic” text, which, according to Korchane, means that it is clear and accessible to human reason. The word “Arab” is interpreted here as meaning “explicit” or “articulated”, strengthening the idea that the Koran invites you to reflect and understanding.
The two dimensions of reason
Faker Korchane distinguishes two dimensions from reason in Islamic thought: analytical reason (FIKR) and synthetic reason (SIL). The analytical reason is used to dissect, dissect and understand the individual elements, such as a scalpel that examines the details. The synthetic reason, on the other hand, establishes links between these elements, revealing the unity and the harmony which underlie the universe. These two dimensions are complementary: the first makes it possible to understand the parts, while the second reveals how these parts assemble to form a coherent whole.
Reason and the heart
An important point raised by Korchane is that, in the Koran, the seat of reason is the heart. Contrary to the Western idea of a cold and detached reason, reason in Islam is deeply linked to emotion and spirituality. Verse 46 of Surah Al-Hajj (“the pilgrimage”) says: “Have they not walked on the earth, having a heart capable of reasoning, ears capable of hearing? Now, it is not the looks that are blind, but it is the hearts that beat in the breasts.” This verse shows that reason is not only an intellectual faculty, but also a spiritual capacity that emanates from the heart.
Reason and ethics
Korchane also addresses the question of ethics and morality, explaining how reason can guide believers in their choices. He quotes a hadith in which the prophet Mohammed (صلى الله عليه وسلم) says: “Supreme good is the right character. Sin is what disturbs internally and that we do not like to reveal to others.” Another hadith reports that a man asked the prophet: “What is the supreme good?” And the prophet replied: “Consult your heart, because good is what gives your soul and your heart tranquility and serenity.” These lessons show that reason, when guided by the heart, makes it possible to distinguish good from evil and make ethical decisions.
Reason and verification
Faker Korchane insists on the objectivity of the rational approach, which makes it possible to verify and question ideas. He gives the example of a CNRS researcher whose work has been criticized for their lack of methodological rigor. This example illustrates that reason, when applied objectively, makes it possible to distinguish ideological discourses from true scientific research. This ability to verify and criticize is a strength of reason, which distinguishes it from passions and impulses.
Conclusion: Reason as a tool for understanding and harmony
In conclusion, Faker Korchane recalls that reason in Islam is both a tool of understanding and a means of revealing the harmony of the universe. It is not opposed to spirituality, but on the contrary is inseparable from it. By combining analytical reason and synthetic reason, believers can both understand the details of the world and perceive the unity that links them. This vision of reason, anchored in the teachings of the Koran and the Islamic tradition, offers a balanced and deep perspective on the role of rational thought in spiritual and ethical life.
