Attitudes and Responsibilities Of Muslim Intellectuals in Qs. Az-Zumar Verse 18 and Qs. Fussillate Verse 53

Abstract

This study examines the attitudes and intellectual responsibilities of Muslims as presented in Qur'an Surah Az-Zumar verse 18 and Surah Fussilat verse 53 . The research aims to analyze the Qur'anic concepts of critical thinking, openness to knowledge, and intellectual responsibility in the pursuit of truth. Using a qualitative approach with library research methods, the study employs thematic (maw ḍ ū'ī ) and descriptive-analytical approaches to interpret relevant Qur'anic verses supported by classical and contemporary tafsir literature. The findings indicate that Surah Az-Zumar verse 18 emphasizes the importance of listening carefully to various viewpoints and following the best guidance based on wisdom and sound judgment. Meanwhile, Surah Fussilat verse 53 highlights the necessity of observing the signs of Allah in both the universe and within oneself as a means of strengthening faith through rational reflection and empirical observation. Together, these verses depict the ideal Muslim intellectual as an individual who integrates revelation, reason, and scientific inquiry while maintaining ethical responsibility in seeking, evaluating, and disseminating knowledge. This study concludes that the Qur'an encourages a balanced intellectual attitude characterized by critical reasoning, openness to evidence, moral integrity, and accountability before Allah, making these values highly relevant to contemporary Islamic education and the development of Muslim scholarship.