Theological and Philosophical Dimensions of Atheism: An Evaluation of Sayyed Maududi’s Perspective

Abstract

In the modern era, atheism has evolved beyond a mere intellectual stance into a well-organized civilizational movement—one that either completely denies the existence of God or adopts a skeptical attitude toward Him. During a time when Western materialism, scientism, and secular philosophies were challenging the very foundations of faith, Sayyed Abul A‘la Maududi’s critique of atheism emerged as one of the most systematic and intellectually grounded responses within Islamic scholarship against modern irreligious thought. According to Sayyed Maududi, atheism is not simply a philosophical deviation but a civilizational crisis that disconnects humanity from servitude to its Creator. His writings reaffirmed the supremacy of divine revelation over human reason and sought to reestablish harmony between intellect and faith. This study explores Maududi’s critical engagement with atheism and materialism, particularly his refutation of Darwin’s theory of evolution, Marxist dialectical materialism, and Western rationalism. Through an analytical study of major works such as Tanqīhāt, Tafhīmāt, and Tafhīm al-Qur’ān, it becomes evident that Sayyed Maududi played a pivotal role in reconstructing modern Islamic thought and exposing the moral and intellectual inconsistencies of atheistic ideologies. His concept of “Jāhiliyyat Khāliṣah” (Pure Ignorance) interprets modern Western civilization as a materialistic and sensory world deprived of divine revelation and dominated by skepticism and self-indulgence. The research employs a qualitative and analytical methodology. Primary sources include Maududi’s original writings, speeches, and articles, while secondary materials such as scholarly papers and contemporary analyses are also utilized. The study concludes that Sayyed Maududi’s critique of atheism is not merely theological polemic but a comprehensive intellectual and civilizational reconstruction, reminding modern humanity of the organic relationship between revelation, reason, morality, and truth.

The research finally asserts that Sayyed Abul A‘la Maududi’s critique of atheism remains a foundational pillar of modern Islamic thought. His synthesis of faith and reason provides a holistic alternative to secularism, scientism, and the moral vacuum of the contemporary world. His vision of Islam as a divinely guided system of life continues to offer a lasting framework for moral integrity, spiritual insight, and intellectual coherence.