Ontology of Maqashid As-Siyasah : Interpretation of Qur'anic Verses and Hadith as the Foundation of Islamic Political Ethics

Abstract

This paper discusses the ontological aspects of the concept of maqashid as-siyasah (the objectives of Islamic politics). This study is significant as an academic exploration of epistemological arguments regarding the theorization of Islamic politics as a paradigm of social life to be actualized in the context of contemporary times. In this study, the author employs an interpretative approach, a methodology commonly used in Qur'anic and Hadith studies. The research produces an ontological argument concerning five core values that serve as the foundation and objectives of politics (maqashid as-siyasah al-Islamiyah, the telos of political Islam). First, politics is seen as a means to achieve true happiness (as-sa'adah al-haqiqiyah), grounded in faith and righteous deeds as the realization of genuine happiness or the common good. Second, politics is a path to attaining just governance (al-‘adalah bi al-quwwah), a justice that acts as the primary driver of societal welfare, the cause of peace, and the guarantor of the sustainability of a God-approved government. Third, politics functions as a means to establish a participatory government (syura bi al-imarah), a governance model that upholds the values of consultation as a form of participation and a symbol of communal sovereignty. Fourth, politics serves as a way to create an excellent society (al-‘ammah al-fadhilah), a community that is unified (wahidatan) and moderate (wasathan). Finally, politics is a vehicle to build an Islamic civilization (al-hadlarah al-Islamiyah) based on the entities of individuals, families, and society, ideologically constructed through Islamic values. These objectives represent a comprehensive framework for Islamic politics, reflecting the integration of spiritual, ethical, and practical dimensions in political systems aligned with Islamic values.