The Meaning of Iqamat al-Din and Its Implementation in the Contemporary Era:A Comparative and Analytical Study of the Opinions of Classical and Modern Scholars

Abstract

Iqamat al-Din (Establishment of Religion) is a fundamental Qur’anic concept that encompasses the comprehensive implementation of Islam in all aspects of individual and collective life. This study explores the linguistic and terminological meanings of Iqamat al-Din and examines its interpretation by classical and contemporary Muslim scholars. Drawing on Qur’anic exegesis, Hadith literature, and scholarly writings, the research identifies varying emphases among scholars—from limiting Iqamat al-Din to the establishment of monotheism and essential beliefs, to extending it towards the full application of Islamic law, moral values, socio-political order, and governance. The opinions of prominent classical exegetes such as al-Mawardi, Ibn Kathir, al-Razi, and al-Qurtubi are compared with modern thinkers including Abul A‘la Maududi, Amin Ahsan Islahi, Abu al-Hasan Ali Nadwi, and Israr Ahmad, alongside dissenting views like those of Javed Ahmad Ghamidi. The analysis highlights the centrality of Iqamat al-Din in Islamic thought, the divergence in its scope, and its practical implications in the contemporary context, especially in the face of secularism, political fragmentation, and globalization. The study concludes that Iqamat al-Din is not confined to ritual practice but demands an integrated approach to faith, law, morality, and governance, requiring both individual commitment and collective struggle for its realization.