CSS Special 2023 Solved Islamiyat Past Papers | Civilization is the Basic Elements of Islamic and Western Culture
The following question of Islamiat is solved by Miss Ayesha Irfan, the highest scorer in CSS Islamiat. Moreover, the question is attempted on the same pattern taught by Sir Syed Kazim Ali to his students, scoring the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. This solved past paper question is uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, how to write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Question Breakdown
The examiner asked about the meaning of Culture and Civilization and the basic elements of Islamic and Western civilization and Culture. However, you must provide a detailed explanation of the relevance of Islamic civilization standards in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah if you wish to perform exceptionally well in Islamic studies. Furthermore, critical analysis and conclusion would increase the chance of good grades.
Outline
1-Introduction
2- Meaning of the concept of Culture and civilization
3- The Significance of Islamic Culture and Civilization
4- Basic Elements of Islamic Civilization and Culture
- ✓Basic Islamic concepts (Tauheed, prophethood, hereafter, self-purification, and holy books and angels)
- ✓Concepts of Worship
- ✓Concept of equity-based human rights and dignity
- ✓A system that ensures justice and honesty
- ✓A mechanism of social Peace and harmony
- ✓Prompting Amr bil ma’ruf wa nahi anil Munkar
5-Basic Elements of Western Civilization and Culture
- ✓The basic concept of Rational thinking
- ✓Concepts of Individualism and capitalism
- ✓Concept of equality-based human rights
- ✓Concept of Democracy
- ✓Democratic Rule of Law
- ✓A so-called representative of women’s rights
6- Critical analysis
7- Conclusion
Answer to the Question
Introduction
Culture and civilization are two interrelated ideas that shape the identity and values of a society. Culture refers to the shared values, traditions, and practices that define a community’s way of life, while civilization encompasses the social, economic, and political systems that support human development. Moreover, the Islamic and Western civilizations are two prominent examples of distinct cultural and civilizational paradigms that have evolved over centuries. Islamic civilization is deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam, which emphasize monotheism, the belief in one God (Allah), and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad’s principles of justice, equality, and human rights as outlined in the Qur’an. The Qur’an, as the sacred scripture of Islam, has been a fundamental source of inspiration and guidance for Muslims throughout history. It serves as the primary reference for morality, ethics, and the basis of Islamic civilization. On the other hand, western civilization is based on rational thinking, individualism, capitalism and the law of democracy. Both types of civilizations have challenges in this expanding modern world. Consequently, by examining these two civilizations, one can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human Culture and the diverse ways in which societies organize themselves.
Meaning of the concept of Culture and civilization
Culture refers to the set of values, traditions, and practices that make a society’s Culture, encompassing language, religion, social norms, and artistic expressions. It is the thread that weaves a community together, giving its members a shared identity and sense of belonging. Additionally, Culture is dynamic and constantly evolving, influenced by factors like history, geography, and technology. Civilization, on the other hand, is a complex and advanced stage of human social development characterized by various factors. It refers to a society or a group of societies that have achieved significant advancements in areas such as technology, Culture, governance, economy, and social organization. Moreover, civilizations are marked by the establishment of cities, the development of agriculture and other forms of food production, the creation of writing systems, the emergence of complex social hierarchies, the formation of legal and political systems, and the advancement of arts, sciences, and philosophy. They often exhibit traits such as urbanization, specialization of labour, trade networks, the accumulation of knowledge, and the presence of cultural and artistic expressions.
The Significance of Islamic Culture and Civilization
Islamic Culture and civilization stand out for their holistic approach to life that integrates spirituality, ethics, and material progress. It is based on the Islamic faith, emphasizing tauheed, justice, and the welfare of humanity. In fact, it is monotheistic, based on the belief in the oneness of the Almighty Allah, the Creator of this universe. It is characterized by submission to the will of God and service to humankind. Moreover, it is a socio-moral and metaphysical view of the world which has indeed contributed immensely to the rise and richness of this civilization. It is a civilization with a universal dimension. It is not associated with a particular geographic region, race or historical era. Still, it is predicated on the idea that man has precedence over the rest of the creatures of Allah. Consequently, it is a well-balanced civilization and consists of equilibrium between the material and the spiritual dimensions of life. In fact, this moderation is the essence of Islamic thought and civilization.
Basic Elements of Islamic Civilization and Culture
- ✓Basic Islamic Concepts(Tauheed, Prophethood, Hereafter, Self-purification, and Holy books and Angels)
Islamic Culture and civilization are based on the fundamental ideas of tauheed (the Oneness of Allah), prophethood, the afterlife, faith in angels, sacred texts, and self-purification. These ideas establish a framework that directs behaviour on both an individual and societal level. Tauheed emphasizes that Allah is the sole Creator and Sustainer,
“There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence”
Surah Al-Baqarah: 2:255
Additionally, prophethood highlights the role of messengers like Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), ensuring a moral and just society. Moreover, the belief in the Hereafter instils accountability, encouraging ethical behaviour by reminding individuals of life after death. Similarly, faith in angels and holy books reinforces a spiritual connection between humans and the divine. Further, self-purification fosters inner growth and discipline, which is important for moral integrity. Consequently, these concepts collectively shape the spiritual, social, and moral dimensions of Islamic civilization and serve as guiding principles for a balanced and purposeful life, ensuring holistic progress for individuals and communities.
- ✓Concepts of Worship
Worship in Islam is a comprehensive system that connects individuals to Allah, integrating spirituality into all aspects of life. It extends beyond rituals to comprise every action performed with the intention of pleasing Allah. However, core acts of worship, such as prayer, Zakat, fasting and Hajj, reflect the essence of devotion and community. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if small.” Islamic civilization is shaped by an all-encompassing approach to religion, which promotes moral behaviour, social harmony, and spiritual development. Thus, in Islam, worship is not just a personal duty but also a catalyst for the advancement and unification of the community.
- ✓Concept of equity-based human rights and dignity
Islamic civilization is fundamentally focused on equity-based human rights and dignity, which emphasize fairness, equality, and respect for every person, irrespective of their gender, colour, or socioeconomic standing. The inherent dignity of every human being is declared in the Quran. Islam’s universal values guarantee that everyone has the right to freedom, property, and life. Furthermore, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated in his Farewell Sermon that “no Arab has superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have superiority over an Arab, except by piety and good action.” This demonstrates how Islam values moral integrity more than material distinctions. Islamic laws also affirm the rights of minorities, women, and children to safety and dignity, protecting these groups. Consequently, by sustaining these ideals, Islamic civilization produces an equitable society where human dignity is paramount.
- ✓A system that ensures justice and honesty
Islamic governance, legal systems, and social interactions are all shaped by the fundamental values of justice and honesty.
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trust to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.”
(Surah An-Nisa: 4:58)
a clear directive from the Quran that demands fairness. Furthermore, integrity and trust are promoted in society by honesty, which is an equally important element. The honest and reliable merchant will be “with the Prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs” in the Hereafter, according to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Transparency in commerce, governance, and interpersonal relationships is ensured by this emphasis on moral behaviour. Thus, the Islamic legal system is a prime example of this, with fairness guaranteed by tenets such as the presumption of innocence and stringent evidence requirements.
- ✓A mechanism of social Peace and harmony
Islamic civilization is based on values that promote social harmony and Peace, creating a well-balanced community where compassion, justice, and collaboration are valued. In Islam, distributing wealth through Zakat, encouraging forgiveness, and outlawing behaviours that sever social ties, such as backbiting and injustice, are important means of fostering social harmony. These values were reaffirmed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who stated:
“The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the people are safe”.
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
In order to lessen inequality and foster mutual care, deeds of kindness, charity, and respect are strongly encouraged. Furthermore, Islam’s focus on social justice guarantees the protection of everyone’s rights, including those of minorities and the underprivileged. Thus, these guidelines create a framework that is necessary for Peace and harmony.
- ✓Prompting Amr bil ma’ruf wa nahi anil Munkar
The principle of Amr bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi anil Munkar is a core element of Islamic civilization, ensuring moral integrity and social harmony. This duty, prescribed in the Quran, underpins the collective responsibility of Muslims to uphold righteousness and combat immorality:
“Let there arise from you a nation inviting to [all that is] good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong. And those will be successful”.
(Surah Al-Imran: 3:104)
It forms the basis of a society built on accountability, justice, and ethical behaviour. Consequently, by institutionalizing Amr bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi anil Munkar, Islamic civilization ensures a community that collectively strives for moral excellence, fostering a culture where good prevails and wrongdoing is systematically addressed.
Basic Elements of Western Civilization and Culture
- ✓The basic concept of Rational thinking
Western civilization is characterized by rational thinking, which is based on reason and logic and shapes its advances in science, Culture, and thought. During the Enlightenment, this idea gained prominence as philosophers such as René Descartes famously asserted, “I think, therefore I am,” highlighting the importance of reason in comprehending human existence. Rationalism challenges conventional beliefs based on superstition or dogma and emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge through critical inquiry, empirical evidence, and systematic analysis. This framework has fuelled revolutionary advances in philosophy, science, and technology, propelling advancements in domains such as engineering, medicine, and governance. But even though rationality encourages creativity and intellectual freedom, placing too much emphasis on it can result in moral and ethical quandaries. To sum up, the Western emphasis on reason has greatly influenced its Culture, encouraging creativity and innovation.
- ✓Concepts of Individualism and capitalism
Western civilization is based on individualism and capitalism, which prioritize economic growth, self-interest, and personal autonomy. Individualism champions the rights and freedoms of individuals over collective obligations, rooted in Enlightenment ideals and thinkers like John Locke, who asserted the concept of natural rights. This philosophy empowers people to pursue their aspirations, promoting innovation, creativity, and personal responsibility. Moreover, capitalism complements individualism by prioritizing private ownership and market-driven economies. However, materialism, social inequality, and weakened community ties are frequently the results of unbridled capitalism and individualism. Consequently, while individualism and capitalism have fuelled progress and personal freedoms in Western civilization, their limitations underscore the need for balanced systems that address social responsibilities, ethical considerations, and communal well-being alongside individual and economic success.
- ✓Concept of equality-based human rights
The concept of equality-based human rights is a cornerstone of Western civilization, emphasizing the intrinsic dignity and worth of every individual regardless of race, gender, religion, or social status. Moreover, human rights gained significant momentum with the publication of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which asserts that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” (Article 1). Western nations have made considerable strides in advancing equality-based human rights, addressing issues like slavery, suffrage, and gender discrimination. However, despite these advancements, inequality persists in many forms, including systemic racism, economic disparity, and gender-based violence, challenging the full realization of human rights. Therefore, the concept of equality-based human rights in Western civilization has been transformative, promoting the idea that all people deserve dignity and equal opportunities.
- ✓Concept of Democracy
Democracy is a fundamental concept in Western civilization, accentuating governance by the people, for the people, and it ensures participation, freedom of speech, and the protection of individual rights. In Western nations, democracy is typically characterized by regular, free, and fair elections, where citizens choose representatives who then enact laws and policies. However, central to democratic ideals is the principle of political equality, where all citizens, regardless of social status, have the right to participate in governance. Documents like the U.S. Constitution and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen enshrine these ideals, advocating for the rule of law, individual freedoms, and the protection of minority rights. In conclusion, democracy remains a cornerstone of Western civilization, fostering political participation and individual freedoms.
- ✓Democratic rule of law
The concept of the democratic rule of law is a foundational principle in Western civilization, ensuring that laws are applied equally and impartially, regardless of an individual’s power or position. It is the belief that no one, not even government officials, is above the law and that laws should be created in accordance with democratic principles, reflecting the will and rights of the people. This system upholds justice, protects individual freedoms, and ensures that legal processes are transparent and fair. Furthermore, in Western democracies, the rule of law guarantees the protection of fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression, the right to a fair trial, and the right to property. Also, it ensures that laws are made through democratic processes, where elected representatives pass legislation that reflects the values and needs of society. Thus, the democratic rule of law plays a vital role in maintaining justice, fairness, and equality in Western governance. While there are ongoing challenges, its core principles continue to serve as a foundation for democratic societies.
- ✓A so-called representative of women’s rights
Western civilization often claims to be a global leader in advancing women’s rights, with significant developments made in areas such as suffrage, education, and workplace equality. Feminist movements in the West have led to legal and social reforms, such as the right to vote, reproductive rights, and anti-discrimination laws. Landmark achievements like the U.S. Women’s Suffrage Movement and the feminist movements in Europe have reshaped societal structures, allowing women greater access to public and political life. However, despite these advancements, the so-called representation of women’s rights in the West remains a complex and often incomplete reality. According to Al-Jazeera, Hillary Clinton, in 2016, Kamala Harris had a shot at becoming the first woman to occupy the Oval Office but stumbled at the final hurdle. Consequently, the representation of women’s rights in Western civilization, while historically significant, remains incomplete and flawed. Real gender equality requires continued efforts to address social, cultural, and economic disparities alongside legal reforms.
Critical analysis
Critically, Islamic and Western civilizations reveal fundamental differences in their core values, principles, and practices. Islamic civilization is rooted in the teachings of Islam, emphasizing monotheism, justice, and compassion. In contrast, Western civilization is characterized by rational thinking, individualism, and democracy. Its emphasis on individualism and capitalism has led to social and economic disparities. Islamic civilization, on the other hand, offers a unique approach to social justice and human rights; the concept of Amr bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi anil Munkar, for example, promotes a collective responsibility to uphold righteousness and combat immorality. However, Islamic civilization also faces challenges related to the interpretation and implementation of Islamic principles in modern contexts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Islamic and Western civilizations offer unique perspectives on human rights, social justice, and individual freedoms. While Western civilization has made significant paces in advancing human rights, its emphasis on individualism and capitalism has led to social and economic disparities. Meanwhile, Islamic civilization offers a unique approach to social justice and human rights, emphasizing the importance of community, mutual responsibility, and compassion. Ultimately, a nuanced understanding of both civilizations is necessary to appreciate their strengths and weaknesses.
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