Deconstructing the Concept of Caliphate in Modern Thought: A Critical Analysis of Theocracy and Islamic Democracy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70062/incoils.v5i1.411Abstract
ABSTRACT: This study aims to critically analyze the concept of khilafah in modern Islamic political thought through a deconstructive approach to the ideas of theocracy and Islamic democracy. The concept of khilafah, which was originally interpreted as a universal system of government for Muslims, has been transformed into an ideological symbol that is often misinterpreted politically. Using a qualitative approach and literature study, this research examines the reinterpretation of contemporary Muslim scholars such as Abdullahi Ahmed An-Na'im, Mohammad Hashim Kamali, and Nurcholish Madjid, who emphasize the values of justice, benefit, and deliberation as the essence of the caliphate. The results show that in the Indonesian context, the application of caliphate values does not have to be realized in the form of formal political institutions, but rather in a leadership ethos based on the principles of Pancasila democracy. This deconstruction confirms that Islam and democracy are not two conflicting entities, but rather complement each other in building a just, inclusive, and civilized system of government. Thus, this research contributes to strengthening the paradigm of modern Islamic politics that places spiritual values as the ethical foundation for democracy in multicultural Muslim countries such as Indonesia. Key words: Caliphate, Islamic Democracy, Deconstruction, Theocracy, Indonesian Islamic PoliticsReferences
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