"Religious Transformations in Islamic Societies: A Doctrinal Study of the Phenomenon of Self-Interpretation of Religious Texts"

Abstract

This research addresses the phenomenon of self-interpretation of religious texts in Islamic societies and highlights the religious transformations that have arisen as a result of this phenomenon through an in-depth doctrinal study. Self-interpretation empowers individuals to interpret religious texts independently, distancing themselves from the traditional interpretations that Muslims have followed throughout history. This phenomenon is considered one of the most prominent features of the religious transformations witnessed in modern Islamic societies, reflecting the intellectual, cultural, and social changes that accompanied this era, in addition to the development of knowledge sources facilitated by advancements in technology and the digital age.

The research examines the effects of self-interpretation from multiple perspectives and presents the positive outcomes associated with it, such as stimulating critical thinking and enhancing personal understanding of religious texts in alignment with contemporary issues such as human rights and gender equality. However, the study also discusses the negative implications of this phenomenon, which may threaten the unity of Islamic doctrine and lead to doctrinal fragmentation among Muslims, as well as the spread of extremist interpretations that may foster radical ideologies.

Furthermore, the research explores the potential impacts on younger generations resulting from the rise of self-interpretation and the absence of proper scientific and methodological guidance. It also discusses the challenges facing the Islamic community in light of these religious transformations caused by the increasing self-interpretation of texts, such as the lack of intellectual dialogue between different Islamic schools of thought and the growing diversity of religious opinions. In conclusion, the research offers a set of recommendations to guide self-interpretation within a structured scientific framework, including the promotion of dialogue among different Islamic intellectual schools, the development of systematic educational programs, and the establishment of regulatory frameworks to ensure a balance between religious renewal and the preservation of the core principles of Islamic belief.