The Concept of "Tadabbur" (Reflection) in the Qur'an and Its Role in Contemporary Islamic Thought

Abstract

The study focuses on the concept of tadabbur, or serious reflection on the verses of the Quran, as it is conceived in the Quran and in modern Islamic thought. The research identifies tadabbur as a primary intellectual and spiritual requirement through linguistic, thematic and critical analysis of primary Islamic texts, which is independent of tafakkur (reflection on creation) and tadhakkur (remembrance). It is a goal of revelation set as a foundation, which is tadabbur, a symptom of a healthy heart, and evidence of a divine origin (Surat Sad 38:29; Surat Muhammad 47:24; Surat al-Nisa' 4:82). The study links both historical and modern causes of its fall, such as education failure, language barrier, Internet distraction, and ideological fanaticism, and shows how the resulting negligence has given way to intellectual stagnation, extremism, spiritual sterility and susceptibility to alien ideologies. It claims that tadabbur is a necessary intellectual practice that can be used to revive (tajdid) to combat extremism by conducting comprehensive reading, addressing modernity, restoring Islamic ethics and spirituality and creating just societies. An effective model of revival is suggested on the individual, educational, and community levels with the focus on reflective recitation, curriculum reform, and institutional change.