Summary: | During this era, the world is evolving at such a rapid pace that there is uncertainty and confusion. The idea of modernity embodied by the West has spawned thoughts that contradict Islamic sharia thus rejecting the authority of the Quran and Sunnah as the main source of reference for Muslims. In today’s technological rapidity, Islam is seen as a backward religion and its teachings need to be adapted to the modern lifestyle thus damaging the faith of the Muslims themselves. This study aimed to analyse al-Dihlawi’s critical thinking method through the debate of al-sa’adah (happiness) in the book titled “Hujjah Allah al-Balighah”. This study employed a qualitative approach. The highlights of in-depth readings were derived primarily from the book of Hujjah Allah al-Balighah. The first step was to translate the text, followed by a content analysis method to extract the concept of happiness discussed in the book and explore it in the context of the critical thinking method in al-Dihlawi’s view. This study’s results found that al-Dihlawi’s critical thinking method was used in debating al-sa’adah in five methods: question and answer thinking, rational thinking, scientific thinking, Sufi thinking and rabbani thinking. If Muslims appreciate and apply al-Dihlawi’s critical thinking method, they could strengthen their mind and direct their thinking toward pursuing happiness in this world and the hereafter. Happiness begins when the human mind can control lust and reject anything that is against revelation. Via critical thinking, humans can distinguish between right and wrong through a guide to revelation. When a person can control lust and has a high level of obedience and carry out their obedience to Allah’s commands with a full sense of responsibility as his servant, then he can draw closer to Allah SWT and acquire His blessings. © Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia, 2023.
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