Abdul Jabbar Al-Rifai and the Renewal of Religious Thought: A Critical Perspective on Addressing Extremism and Terrorism

Abstract

The Islamic world is facing unprecedented challenges due to the rising phenomenon of extremism and terrorism, which has necessitated a reassessment of the structure of religious thought and the methods of interpreting sacred texts. This study aims to analyze the intellectual project of the Iraqi thinker Abdul Jabbar Al-Rifai, who has become a prominent figure in critiquing religious ideology and advocating for the establishment of a new Ilm al-Kalam that restores religion to its humanistic essence, away from political or sectarian exploitation. The research also examines Al-Rifai’s approach to the phenomenon of takfir (excommunication) and the means of addressing it through the renewal of religious discourse. The study concludes that Al-Rifai’s thought represents a rational and humanistic reformist vision capable of contributing to the building of a more tolerant and peaceful society.