The Paradox of Religious Dogma and Practical Action: A Reflection on Islam's Call for Meaningful Pursuit...

In 1917, an Egyptian theologian found himself at the center of a controversial legal case in Cairo. The theologian had made an assertion that shook the foundations of traditional Islamic teachings: he argued that Adam, as described in the Qur'an, was not a prophet, and that Noah, rather, should be recognized as the first prophet. This opinion, challenging established religious narratives, quickly stirred the ire of conservative religious circles and led to a lawsuit filed in Egypt’s religious court. The complaint lodged against the theologian accused him of denying a core religious truth, leading to a demand for his punishment under the laws of apostasy, including the dissolution of his marriage.

In the initial ruling, the court sided with the complaint, declaring the theologian an apostate and officially annulling his marriage. However, when the case was appealed, the judgment was overturned, with the court nullifying the prior verdict. While the theologian was absolved of apostasy, the judge nonetheless admonished him, declaring, “You have grossly disgraced us before the people! While the Europeans are occupied with things which are beneficial to them, you are busy in useless pursuits.”

This incident, which occurred over a century ago, encapsulates a broader, still-relevant discussion within the Muslim world. The judge’s words, chastising the theologian for focusing on theological minutiae rather than pursuing practical, beneficial endeavors, reflect an age-old tension between religious orthodoxy and pragmatic action. Theologians and religious leaders in Islam are often called to engage with the complexities of faith and doctrine, but as history has shown, these discussions can sometimes become detached from the real-world needs of the community. In the judge’s critique, we find a poignant reminder of Islam’s central tenet: the pursuit of knowledge and action should ultimately serve a higher, practical purpose.

A History of Theological Disputes and Intellectual Pursuits

The legal drama in 1917 may seem like a long-forgotten episode, but it speaks to a timeless issue within many religious traditions, not just Islam. Theologians, scholars, and intellectuals often become embroiled in debates that, while important within specific doctrinal contexts, can seem irrelevant or even harmful when removed from the practical realities of life. In the case of the Egyptian theologian, his pursuit of a novel interpretation of the Qur’anic account of Adam and Noah led him to challenge established religious authority. While this may have been an intellectual exercise, it quickly became clear that such theological matters could stir far-reaching consequences—both personal and societal.

However, the charge that the theologian’s efforts were "useless" speaks to a much larger conversation that continues to resonate within the Muslim world and beyond: the question of whether religious discourse should be engaged with as a purely intellectual pursuit or as a tool for real-world change.

This brings us to a crucial aspect of Islamic teaching: the Prophet Muhammad’s directive that, alongside the other pillars of faith, Muslims should always seek the pursuit of beneficial and meaningful actions. The Prophet’s teaching, “Besides the other qualities of Islam, one is man’s renunciation of disadvantageous activities,” emphasizes the importance of practical, result-oriented endeavors. In this light, the criticism of the theologian’s focus on theoretical matters becomes more profound. The call for Muslims to “renounce disadvantageous activities” serves as a reminder that, while intellectual debates may have value in fostering understanding, they should not distract from action that will bring about positive change for the community.

The Quest for Meaningful Progress

The challenge posed by the judge’s words in 1917 still reverberates today. In many Muslim-majority countries, intellectual and theological pursuits continue to occupy a significant portion of religious discourse. Debates over doctrinal purity, interpretations of scripture, and historical narratives continue to shape the direction of religious and political life. However, these discussions, much like the case of the Egyptian theologian, can often be seen as diverting attention from the pressing issues that face modern societies—issues such as poverty, education, social justice, and political reform.

The situation is particularly evident in countries experiencing social and political unrest, where religious leaders and intellectuals often find themselves at odds with pragmatic reformers who are more focused on economic development, infrastructure, and human rights. In some cases, these intellectual battles can even become divisive, preventing meaningful collaboration on projects that might improve the lives of everyday citizens.

The Call for Practical Application of Religious Values

Islam, like many other faiths, urges its followers to engage in actions that are beneficial not only for the self but also for the wider community. The Qur'an encourages Muslims to seek knowledge but also to apply it in ways that are constructive. “And say, ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge’” (Qur'an 20:114), but also, “Do good, for Allah loves those who do good” (Qur'an 2:195). These verses, among many others, underscore the idea that knowledge and action are deeply intertwined. It is not enough to possess knowledge; one must also translate it into action that benefits society.

This approach aligns with the principles of wisdom and Islam's focus on results. Whether it is addressing societal inequities or tackling global challenges like climate change, the message is clear: the pursuit of knowledge and the interpretation of religious texts must be done with an eye toward the greater good. This is why the critique leveled against the theologian in 1917 carries weight even today. His theological debates, while important in their own right, were seen as an indulgence in “profitless ends,” diverting attention from the greater need for practical, tangible improvements in society.

Lessons for Today’s Muslim World

As Muslims around the world face new challenges in an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the lessons of the 1917 case in Cairo should not be forgotten. While religious debates and theological discussions can enrich our understanding of faith, they must be accompanied by efforts to address the real-world issues facing communities today. From improving education systems to ensuring equitable access to healthcare, from promoting peace to fostering economic development, Islam’s call to focus on the beneficial must be heeded.

In this context, the words of the Prophet Muhammad resonate strongly: Muslims must renounce actions that do not yield positive results. It is incumbent upon religious leaders, scholars, and activists to ensure that their work serves the practical needs of the people. As the world moves forward, the integration of faith and action—an action that is mindful of the needs of society and the well-being of others—should guide the way.

The conversation initiated by the Egyptian theologian in 1917 continues to invite reflection on the role of intellectual pursuits within religious life. While the quest for deeper understanding remains crucial, it must always be rooted in the intention to bring about positive change, both for individuals and for society as a whole. In this way, the Muslim world can honor its intellectual tradition while advancing toward a future grounded in practical, meaningful progress.