A Critical Approach to Modern Interpretations of the Relationship between Religion, Politics, Democracy, and Human Rights (Case Study: Abdolkarim Soroush and Nasr Hamid Abu Zayd)

The present research aims to critically examine the modern thoughts and interpretations of Abdolkarim Soroush and Nasr Hamid Abu Zayd regarding the relationship between religion and politics, democracy, and human rights. The main question of the research is: how do Soroush and Abu Zayd challenge and critique traditional religious interpretations in these areas? This study is based on the hypothesis that Soroush and Abu Zayd, by employing modern Western approaches such as hermeneutics, have paved the way for introducing new topics into the political thought and practice of Muslims, compelling traditionalists to respond and adapt more to modernity in light of new needs and changing societal conditions. The research method is descriptive-analytical, and the results indicate that the modern interpretations of these Islamic reformist thinkers, influenced by Western philosophy and thought, are in contradiction with Islamic principles and, therefore, are subject to criticism in various ways. These reformist thinkers, with a flawed understanding of religion, have opened the door to any incorrect interpretation of religion. Western modern sciences, by using attractive symbols such as civil rights and promoting the seemingly appealing achievements of secular societies, convey and impose their concepts. Given the growth of modernity, postmodernism, and emerging social issues, it is essential for authentic jurisprudence to further align itself with these new developments, and Islamic scholars must adopt an appropriate academic and scientific approach to engage with contemporary global issues.