Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.31820/ejap.18.2.5

Islamic Wittgensteinian Fideism?

Edward Ryan Moad orcid.org/0000-0002-7787-9557 ; Qatar University

Abstract

This paper examines recent deployments of Wittgenstein’s thought, by Mustafa (2018) and Asad (2020), in defense of the Islamic “traditionalism” of Ibn Taymiyyah and the Hanbali school. I will briefly summarize the key features of Wittgenstein’s thought crucial to this, and then examine their ramifications. I argue that Wittgenstein’s position actually undermines any claim to interpretive authority, whether of the “rationalist” or salafi “traditionalist” sort. Secondly, the approach to religious language most commonly associated with Wittgenstein—so-called “Wittgensteinian Fideism” may pose bigger problems for traditionalists than the influence of classical philosophy or “rationalist” theological responses to modern skeptical challenges.

Keywords

Wittgenstein; Ibn Taymiyyah; Fideism; Hanbali; Salafi

Hrčak ID:

287333

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/287333

Publication date:

1.12.2022.

Article data in other languages: croatian

Visits: 1.553 *