Research methodology in contemporary Islamic studies

Authored by: Prof. Dr. Ismail Ghazi Marhaban Introduction to the second edition Praise be to Allah for His grace and blessings, and for His abundant favors. He made for humans a finite lifespan for which they can compensate for shortcomings and avoid loss. Allah extended their deeds after their appointed times through ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and righteous offspring who pray for them. The successful have strived to spread righteous knowledge through documentation and teaching. Allah has blessed me with writing this book on scientific research and writing, which is a great favor. Thus, serving the sciences of Shariah elevates their status and value. Since the copies of the first edition ran out recently and was well received by every discerning researcher, Ibn al-Jawzi Publishing House wished to reprint and expand its dissemination. All this is by Allah’s grace, success, kindness, and guidance. “And if you should count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” [An-Nahl: 18] Here is the second edition before you, dear reader. I have delved deeply into many aspects of the research, and I have worked on many intellectual expressions. On this occasion, I made several modifications; I rearranged some phrases, clarified what needed further explanation, and condensed what was excessive beyond necessity. I also corrected what I found in the writing and printing. Perhaps the most important modification I made was rephrasing the fifth chapter: “Methods of Scientific Research Suitable for Studying Issues of Shariah Sciences,” from the chapter of the second part. I found that the understanding of the research method in contemporary Islamic studies was difficult and lacking in facilitation. I rephrased it, built its idea and wording properly, and placed it in its appropriate position and context. I ask Allah for acceptance of this book and what I have compiled for the benefit of students. All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds.