معرفت کلامی

Islamic theology is generally regarded as a discipline concerned with explaining, establishing, and defending religious beliefs; however, this understanding does not reveal its full potential. An examination of the Qur’an, the tradition of the Infallibles, and the legacy of Muslim theologians shows that doctrinal teachings are not merely theoretical propositions intended for intellectual assent or polemical debate. Rather, they possess guiding and formative functions and play a role in shaping faith, moral responsibility, and a faithful way of life. Concepts such as tawḥīd, prophethood, resurrection, divine justice, and divine lordship are, in the Qur’anic logic, closely connected with the reform of outlook, the refinement of emotion, the strengthening of will, and the orientation of conduct. Using a descriptive-analytical method, this article explains the possibility, necessity, concept, scope, and method of “educational theology.” Educational theology refers to an intra-theological approach that examines Islamic doctrinal knowledge in terms of its role in the formation, deepening, and orientation of faith, as well as the development of its levels. The findings indicate that educational theology is not a substitute for traditional kalām, but rather an approach-based extension within Islamic theology. By focusing on the formative capacity of beliefs, it analyzes the gap between “knowing” a belief and “living” according to it, and responds to the faith-related needs of contemporary human beings.