The Conceptualizing Rushd as an Islamic Development Model

Abstract

This research explores an undefined development paradigm within the frameworks related to Islamic epistemology, and on its potential to innovate and interact with global development frameworks. Building on foundational theories articulated mainly by Elmessiri et al. (2006) in Bias: Epistemological Bias in the Physical and Social Sciences, the research aims to propose a theoretical Islamic development model (Rushd), informed by principles of Islamic epistemology and its manifestation in developing Waqf institutions (Islamic Endowments). Hence, the research critically examines some contemporary approaches to waqf development that often reduce waqf to a utilitarian instrument for policy alignment and income generation, neglecting its deeper moral and social functions. This study is guided by an overarching question and a sub question: How can Islamic thoughts in societal development facilitate the construction of a development model that captures the Islamic knowledge conceptions most important principles? What principles within the Islamic epistemology can guide societal engagement to enrich this model? The focus of this paper is on the practicality of knowledge construction in contemporary development practices. It does not aim to provide normative answers to the earlier stated questions but to facilitate for exploring a reconstructive and evolving model of development that integrates Islamic epistemology with societal experiences.

Keywords: Islamic Epistemology, Development Models, Waqf, Society Building, Rushd.