An Ideal Islamic Educational Institution: A Conceptual Model

Abstract

There is a growing dichotomy between Islamic ideology and the application of Islamic values. If this trend continues, the notion that Islam, as a religion, is not a reliable source of knowledge or a moral guide may become the norm, with religion destined to remain separate from the real world. Thus, the impact of Islam as a way of life could be jeopardized. The ensuing consequence may result with formal worship becoming isolated from everyday application, whereby worship becomes limited to rituals. The treatment of this chasm should address the cause: a lack of educating and preparing students to live an Islamically aligned life, which serves both God and their community. A significant contribution toward a solution is to structure an Islamic Educational Institution (IEI). This paper proposes a conceptual model for an ideal Islamic Educational Institution that is Shari’ah-Compliant. This model may provide a contribution toward bridging the gap between the ideology and application of Islamic values and knowledge, thereby cultivating principled Muslims.