سَلْخ الهوية الدينية في علم الكلام الجديد

Abstract

This research addresses the phenomenon of the erosion of religious identity in contemporary Islamic theology, this is a pivotal issue that has preoccupied Islamic thought in the modern era, the study analyzes its intellectual and philosophical causes, its doctrinal and social manifestations, and its effects on the individual and society. It also explores ways to address it within the framework of contemporary Islamic theology. The study demonstrates that this phenomenon has profound effects, weakening faith, undermining the authority of religious texts, threatening social cohesion and the continuity of Islamic identity as a unified system, and transforming religion from a fixed divine authority into a fragile individual experience lacking solid foundations when individuals become detached from their monotheistic dimension. This study examines the intellectual and philosophical roots of this phenomenon, particularly modern epistemological shifts such as scientism, which subjects everything to the standards of empirical science; existential secularism, which excludes religion from all aspects of life; and moral relativism, which denies the immutability of values. These trends have contributed to the dismantling of traditional religious authorities and the erosion of the role of revelation in shaping human consciousness. This research sheds light on the position of several contemporary thinkers, particularly those of the Ahlul-Bayt school (peace be upon them), who emphasized that religious identity is not merely social affiliation or formal rituals, but rather a comprehensive intellectual and spiritual entity that preserves the existential meaning of humanity and guides it to its true purpose. This is achieved through a balance between doctrinal principles and the demands of the age, without succumbing to excessive human interpretations or doctrinal distortions. The Imams (peace be upon them) established clear principles for preserving religious identity, such as teaching Islamic sciences, preserving sacred texts, guiding scholarly and independent reasoning within the framework of established principles, and encouraging constructive criticism that does not undermine fundamental tenets. As Imam Ali (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever adheres to the Book of Allah holds fast to guidance, and whoever opposes it goes astray." Imam al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) also said: "Religion means knowing the truth and acting upon it, so do not deviate from it with corrupt opinions." The research also indicates that the new Islamic theology offers rational tools for renewal aimed at reconstructing religious identity by developing methodologies of thought and integrating modern human knowledge, while preserving doctrinal constants and the objectives of Islamic law. This ensures that religion remains a comprehensive way of life for the nation, capable of confronting the challenges of the age without compromising its divine essence or fundamental identity.