The College of Islamic Sciences at the University of Karbala discussed a master’s thesis submitted by the student Nabaa Ali Hassan, entitled:
“Employing the Qur’anic Text in Solving Contemporary Problems – A Thematic Study.”
The thesis highlighted the importance of the Holy Qur’an as an eternal divine text that was not revealed to address the issues of a specific era alone, but rather to serve as a comprehensive way of life capable of accommodating new developments and guiding humanity to the straight path. It emphasized that the Qur’an does not merely provide partial or temporary solutions; instead, it establishes universal rules, general principles, and human values that can be employed to understand, analyze, and address contemporary problems in a conscious and disciplined manner.
Through her research, the student sought to demonstrate how the Qur’anic text can be utilized in addressing modern issues by examining its meanings, deriving its objectives (maqāṣid), and linking them to present-day human realities. This approach aims to achieve a balance between text and reality, preserve the sanctity of the text, ensure sound reasoning in ijtihād, and contribute to societal stability.
The selection of the thesis topic stemmed from both academic and practical motivations, namely the importance of investing in the Qur’anic text as a source of guidance and legislation in addressing the challenges facing contemporary humanity—particularly in light of growing social, intellectual, and economic challenges. The thesis also sought to highlight the universality of the Islamic message and its validity for all times and places, while emphasizing the necessity of returning to revelation as a fundamental source for resolving contemporary issues.
Methodologically, the thesis adopted a thematic analytical approach based on collecting Qur’anic texts related to the selected issues and linking the text to reality through thematic and maqāṣid-based Qur’anic interpretation. It also employed the inductive method to gather texts with religious, social, economic, and political dimensions; the descriptive method to present the views of scholars and exegetes; and the critical method to discuss and analyze the doubts raised concerning the subject of the study.
