Jihad and Ikhlas in the Qur’an: A Hermeneutic–Thematic Synthesis for Modern Character Formation
Abstract
This qualitative hermeneutic–thematic study aimed to synthesize Qur’anic discourses on jihad (striving) and ikhlas (purity of intention) to construct an integrated ethical matrix for modern character formation. Using tafsir mawḍū‘ī combined with contextual hermeneutics, we mapped verses across Makkan–Madinan phases, traced the lexical roots j–h–d and kh–l–ṣ via classical concordances, and thematically coded functions and cognates (e.g., mujāhada, ṣabr, anti-riyā’), with triangulation against classical and contemporary exegesis to ensure contextual validity. Findings indicate that jihad operates as a multi-channel kinetic energy spiritual, social, discursive, material, and, under strict justice constraints, defensive whereas ikhlas functions as a moral compass anchoring intention to God’s pleasure; without ikhlas, jihad risks performativity, and without jihad, ikhlas risks quietism. The study articulates a Qur’anic Jihad–Ikhlas Ethical Matrix and an initial operational toolkit (a niyyah audit, a rubric of sincerity, peace-first constraints within maqāṣid, and digital adab guidelines) to inform character education, professional ethos, and civic/digital engagement. Future research should empirically test the toolkit’s usability and impact through pilot implementations in educational and organizational settings.
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.29300/jpkth.v14i2.9165
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