The Relevance of Modern Educational Thought in India to Contemporary Islamic Education

Susmihara Susmihara, Andi Bangsawan Tolere, Syamzan Syukur

Abstract


This study examines the relevance and conceptual convergence of modern Indian educational thought with contemporary Islamic educational paradigms. Both educational traditions face shared modern challenges, including hyper-standardization, secular-religious dualism, market-driven utilitarianism, and the erosion of ethical-spiritual values. Utilizing a qualitative philosophical inquiry and comparative textual analysis, this paper systematically analyzes the core educational ideas of prominent modern Indian thinkers—such as Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, Swami Vivekananda, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad—alongside classical and contemporary Islamic educational principles. The findings reveal significant philosophical alignment between modern Indian humanism and the Islamic holistic vision of education (Tarbiyah, Ta'dib, and Ta'lim). Both frameworks emphasize integral human development, environmental stewardship, experiential learning (Nai Talim), and the synthesis of spiritual wisdom with empirical knowledge. The study demonstrates that integrating these cross-cultural philosophical insights provides valuable theoretical and practical models for reforming contemporary Islamic education—moving it beyond mechanical instruction toward holistic human flourishing, critical civic engagement, and ecological responsibility in a pluralistic world.

Keywords


Modern Indian Thought; Islamic Education; Comparative Philosophy; Holistic Pedagogy; Maulana Abul Kalam Azad; Educational Reform

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.56114/edu.v5i3.13710

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