International Bulletin of Theology and Civilization
International Bulletin of Theology and Civilization (IBTC) is a peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary academic journal dedicated to exploring the dynamic relationship between theology, philosophy, and global civilization. The journal seeks to provide a platform for in-depth scholarly analysis, fostering critical discussions on the theological implications of contemporary issues, historical developments, and their impact on global cultural, ethical, and social structures. IBTC publishes original research articles, theoretical papers, book reviews, and thought-provoking essays that explore the intersection of faith, reason, and civilization. The journal encourages diverse perspectives, aiming to bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern intellectual debates. It serves as a comprehensive resource for scholars, researchers, and students of theology, philosophy, and the humanities.
All articles published in the International Bulletin of Theology and Civilization (IBTC) are distributed under the terms of an open-access license. Authors retain the copyright of their work and grant the journal the right of first publication. Readers are free to share, use, and reproduce content for non-commercial purposes, provided proper citation is given.
Workload, Perceived Organizational Support and Employee Well-Being in Large Manufacturing Firms in Malaysia
The manufacturing sector in Malaysia plays a central role in driving economic growth, yet employees in large manufacturing firms face heavy workloads, strict production targets, and repetitive tasks that jeopardize their well-being. This conceptual paper explores the relationship between workload, perceived organizational support (POS), and employee well-being in large-scale manufacturing organizations. Drawing on the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model, Organizational Support Theory (OST), and Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, the study positions workload as a critical job demand that depletes energy and heightens stress, while POS functions as a vital organizational resource that buffers negative outcomes and enhances resilience. Employee well-being is examined holistically, encompassing job satisfaction, psychological health, work-life balance, and overall quality of life. The paper contributes theoretically by extending the JD-R model to the Malaysian manufacturing context, highlighting POS as both a mediator and moderator in the workload–well-being nexus, and integrating COR to explain resource loss and gain cycles. Practically, the study underscores the need for human resource policies that balance workload management with supportive practices such as recognition programs, flexible scheduling, and employee assistance initiatives. Policymakers are urged to reinforce well-being-oriented regulations as part of sustainable development strategies. Ultimately, the proposed framework not only addresses a critical research gap in the Malaysian manufacturing sector but also offers insights for enhancing organizational resilience and aligning with national goals for inclusive and sustainable growth.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vijendran Govindaraju, Ramakrishnan Nair Gunasaigran, Saralah Devi Mariamdaran Chethiyar, Syed Muzaffar Hussain (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FAITH-BASED RESPONSES TO GLOBAL CRISES: PANDEMICS, WARS, AND CIVILIZATIONAL RENEWAL
This article explores the role of faith-based frameworks in responding to modern global crises such as pandemics, wars, and existential threats to civilization. Drawing from Islamic, Christian, Hindu, and interfaith traditions, it analyzes how religious responses have historically offered psychological resilience, moral clarity, and social solidarity in times of disruption. The article investigates how contemporary religious institutions and spiritual leaders have mobilized moral discourse, humanitarian aid, and civilizational narratives to address the crises of COVID-19, armed conflicts, and ecological collapse. By examining case studies from Pakistan and other parts of the Global South, this work emphasizes the potential of faithbased ethics in fostering long-term civilizational renewal. It concludes with recommendations for integrating spiritual paradigms with policy-level crisis management frameworks.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
THE SACRED AND THE SECULAR: NEGOTIATING PUBLIC THEOLOGY IN PLURALISTIC SOCIETIES
This article explores how public theology engages with pluralistic democratic societies where religious and secular values frequently intersect. The study investigates the complexities of balancing theological influence with civic inclusivity in societies characterized by ethnic, ideological, and religious diversity. Drawing on both qualitative and quantitative data, including case studies from Pakistan, India, and Western nations, this paper presents a comprehensive framework for understanding how the sacred and secular negotiate space in public discourse, policymaking, and national identity formation. Special attention is given to the role of interfaith dialogue, civil religion, and legal pluralism as mediating structures in democratic environments.
The Theology of Hospitality: Religious Responses to Migration and Refugees
Migration, both forced and voluntary, presents a humanitarian crisis and a moral test for societies worldwide. This article explores the theological foundations of hospitality within the Abrahamic traditions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—and analyzes how religious teachings inform practical responses to refugees and displaced populations. Drawing on sacred texts, historical precedents, and contemporary religious initiatives, the article reveals that hospitality is not merely a social virtue but a theological imperative. The study also examines the ambivalence in certain religious responses and the impact of religious discourse on policy and public perception. Using qualitative content analysis and visual data representation, this article highlights the significant yet underexplored role that theology plays in shaping inclusive or exclusive responses to migration crises.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Bulletin of Theology and Civilization https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
THE ROLE OF FAITH-BASED MOVEMENTS IN SHAPING MODERNCIVILIZATIONAL DISCOURSE
The concept of martyrdom, deeply rooted in Islamic theology, has historically served as a spiritual and political catalyst shaping national identities and civilizational trajectories. In the context of Pakistan, martyrdom (shahadat) has transcended theological origins to become a symbol of national pride, military valor, and civil resistance. This paper explores the theological underpinnings of martyrdom, tracing its transformation through historical milestones and state discourse. It also examines how martyrdom narratives have influenced collective memory, policy formulation, and sociopolitical unity. Through interdisciplinary analysis and graphical interpretation of historical data, this study highlights the complex interplay between theology and nationalism in constructing civilizational myths.
Copyright (c) 2025 International Bulletin of Theology and Civilization https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Abrahamic Faiths and Civilizational Ethics: Shared Values in a Fragmented World
In an era marked by sociopolitical fragmentation and cultural polarization, the Abrahamic faiths—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—offer a foundational framework of shared ethical values that can contribute meaningfully to civilizational harmony. This paper explores the common moral teachings found across these traditions and argues that their overlapping principles can be harnessed for fostering peace, justice, and mutual respect. Through a comparative theological analysis and historical insights, the study presents a compelling case for ethical convergence rooted in divine commandments, prophetic traditions, and communal responsibilities. The findings underscore that the Abrahamic legacy is not merely doctrinal but ethically transformative for global coexistence.
Constructing Global Ethics Through Theological Pluralism
This paper explores the formulation of a universal ethical framework through the lens of theological pluralism, acknowledging the diverse metaphysical narratives that shape moral reasoning across civilizations. It investigates how interreligious dialogue and comparative theology contribute to developing inclusive ethical principles capable of addressing global crises like climate change, economic inequality, and violent extremism. Drawing from major religious traditions, the study argues that theological pluralism does not dilute doctrinal truths but enhances mutual moral comprehension, which is essential for global coexistence. Through a qualitative and thematic analysis, this paper proposes a model for "global ethics" grounded in pluralistic theology, highlighting convergences in compassion, justice, stewardship, and human dignity.
Religious Peacebuilding in Conflict Zones: Theological Frameworks and Case Studies
Religious peacebuilding has emerged as a potent strategy in mitigating conflicts driven by ethnic, cultural, and theological divides. This article examines the theological foundations underpinning peacebuilding efforts, particularly within Islamic and interfaith paradigms. Using qualitative case study analysis from regions including Pakistan, Nigeria, and the Balkans, the research explores how religious leaders, texts, and institutions contribute to reconciliation and peace. The study identifies key theological doctrines such as sulh (reconciliation), adl (justice), and rahma (mercy) as central to Islamic peacebuilding, while highlighting challenges such as politicization of religion and doctrinal rigidity. Two graphs illustrate the correlation between interfaith engagement and reduction in conflict, and the role of religious actors in post-conflict reconciliation.
Interfaith Dialogue as a Tool for Civilizational Harmony: Past Experiences and Future Possibilities
This article explores the pivotal role of interfaith dialogue in fostering civilizational harmony throughout history and in the contemporary global landscape. Drawing from Islamic, Christian, Jewish, and Eastern philosophical traditions, it examines case studies from medieval Andalusia, Mughal India, and Ottoman coexistence, while analyzing present-day interfaith efforts in Pakistan, the Middle East, and the West. The study outlines how interfaith dialogue contributes to peace-building, mutual respect, and the prevention of religious extremism. Furthermore, it evaluates contemporary challenges, such as politicization of religion and digital misinformation, and proposes future frameworks for sustainable interreligious engagement in an era of rising identity conflicts..
Monotheism and the Rise of Ethical Civilizations: A Cross-Religious Study
This article explores the correlation between monotheistic belief systems and the emergence of ethical civilizations across historical epochs. Drawing on Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as primary monotheistic traditions, this cross-religious study examines how the conceptualization of one transcendent deity contributed to moral codification, justice systems, and collective ethical behavior in civilizations. Using historical, theological, and sociological frameworks, the study evaluates ethical governance, social contracts, and altruistic conduct derived from monotheistic thought. The analysis further explores how monotheistic ethics shaped notions of human dignity, accountability, and social justice, laying the groundwork for modern legal and ethical systems. Comparative insights from polytheistic and non-theistic traditions provide contrast, enhancing understanding of monotheism’s distinctive role in civilizational ethics.
RELIGION AND HUMAN RIGHTS: CIVILIZATIONAL TENSIONS AND THEOLOGICAL RESOLUTIONS
This paper explores the intricate relationship between religion and human rights, highlighting historical civilizational tensions and presenting potential theological resolutions. While religious traditions have often been accused of undermining universal human rights, many theological frameworks also provide the foundation for human dignity, justice, and compassion. This study examines key areas of conflict and convergence through comparative analysis, historical case studies, and theological reinterpretations. The paper advocates for interfaith dialogue and contextual reinterpretation of sacred texts to build inclusive human rights frameworks that respect religious diversity.
Prophecy and Social Reform: Theological Paradigms of Civilizational Change
This article explores the theological dimensions of prophecy as catalysts for civilizational transformation. By comparing major prophetic traditions—particularly within Islamic, Judaic, and Christian frameworks—the study uncovers how prophetic figures have historically initiated moral, social, and political reforms. Drawing from scriptural exegesis and civilizational theory, it investigates the dynamic between divine mandate and societal response. The research situates prophecy not merely within religious doctrine but as a transformative mechanism with implications for governance, law, and ethics. Using both historical evidence and modern sociological data, the study establishes a nuanced understanding of how prophetic teachings underpin shifts in civilizational values and institutional reforms..
CLIMATE CRISIS AND THEOLOGICAL RESPONSIBILITY: TOWARDS A GREEN THEOLOGY
The growing ecological degradation and climate crisis have prompted scholars to reevaluate the role of theology in addressing environmental issues. This paper investigates the theological imperatives of ecological stewardship across Islamic and interfaith perspectives in Pakistan. By integrating green theology within ethical frameworks, the study emphasizes the theological responsibility of protecting creation as a sacred duty. Through historical scriptural analysis, community engagement data, and interdisciplinary insights, this research advances the concept of "Green Theology" as a moral, ecological, and spiritual response to environmental collapse. The article also presents empirical data on public theological attitudes toward climate action in Pakistan and proposes policy recommendations for faith-based environmental advocacy.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
THE CONCEPT OF DIVINE LAW IN CIVILIZATIONALDEVELOPMENT: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
The notion of divine law (lex divina) has played a pivotal role in shaping civilizations across history. From theocratic governance in ancient Mesopotamia to Sharia-driven legal systems in Islamic civilization, and the canon law of Christendom, divine law has acted as both a moral compass and a structural framework for governance. This paper undertakes a comparative analysis of divine legal traditions and their impact on civilizational progress, socio-political structures, and legal systems. By focusing on key civilizations including Islamic, Western (Christian), and Indic traditions, the study explores how divine law contributed to the evolution of legal and moral norms. The analysis highlights both convergences and divergences, revealing the dynamic interplay between theology and socio-political order.
AUGUSTINE AND THE CITY OF GOD: REIMAGINING CIVILIZATION IN A POST-SECULAR AGE
Augustine’s City of God stands as a monumental theological and philosophical response to the collapse of Rome and continues to provide a rich framework for understanding the intersection of divine authority, civil order, and historical destiny. In an era marked by post-secular tensions—where religion resurfaces in global politics and ethics—this paper re-evaluates Augustine’s dualistic vision of the civitas Dei (City of God) and the civitas terrena (Earthly City). The study explores how Augustine’s model informs contemporary discourse on sovereignty, public virtue, and moral order. Through historical analysis and thematic exploration, the article aims to bridge classical Christian thought with 21st-century societal challenges.
CIVIL RELIGION IN AMERICA: THEOLOGICAL ROOTS AND CULTURAL EVOLUTION
Civil religion in America has served as a unifying ideological force that intertwines theological elements with national identity. Rooted in Puritan theology, Enlightenment ideals, and the political theology of the Founding Fathers, American civil religion has evolved to accommodate historical shifts and sociopolitical challenges. This paper explores the theological foundations of civil religion, its transformation through major historical phases, and the enduring role of symbols, rituals, and cultural narratives in shaping collective national identity. By integrating theological, sociological, and political perspectives, the study reveals how civil religion has functioned as a mechanism of national cohesion, moral guidance, and, at times, social exclusion.
FAITH AND REASON: REASSESSING THE DIALOGUE BETWEENTHEOLOGY AND PHILOSOPHY IN MODERN SOCIETIES
The dynamic interplay between faith and reason has historically shaped intellectual discourse across civilizations. In modern societies, marked by rapid scientific advancement and religious pluralism, the relationship between theology and philosophy necessitates a renewed investigation. This article critically examines how contemporary theological thought continues to interact with philosophical reasoning in resolving ethical dilemmas, sociopolitical tensions, and metaphysical queries. Drawing on Islamic and Western traditions, it assesses the evolution of this dialogue, highlights challenges posed by secularism and scientism, and proposes pathways for integrative thought. The study employs comparative and analytical methodologies supported by recent academic contributions to reflect on the relevance and renewal of this dialogue in educational, political, and spiritual spheres..
LIBERATION THEOLOGY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE MOVEMENTS IN LATIN AMERICA: A THEOLOGICAL EVALUATION
This paper explores the rise and evolution of Liberation Theology in Latin America and its deep-rooted connection with social justice movements. Emerging in the 1960s amid widespread poverty and oppression, Liberation Theology reinterpreted Christian doctrine through the lens of Marxist critique and grassroots activism. This theological paradigm has since shaped numerous socio-political movements advocating for human dignity, equity, and systemic reform. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the paper evaluates theological foundations, regional impacts, and critiques from both ecclesiastical and secular perspectives. The study also reflects on the relevance of Liberation Theology for contemporary struggles for justice across the Global South.
THE ROLE OF THEOLOGY IN THE FORMATION OFCIVILIZATIONS: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
Theology has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural, political, and social structures of civilizations across history. From ancient Mesopotamia to modern nation-states, theological principles have influenced legal codes, governance systems, moral frameworks, and educational paradigms. This paper explores how theology acted as a civilizational cornerstone, analyzing its contributions across various historical epochs and religions including Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Through a comparative and historical approach, the study illustrates how theological worldviews not only inspired monumental architecture and literature but also created shared identities that sustained civilizations. The findings highlight that understanding theological influence is essential for interpreting civilizational development, especially in societies where religion remains central to collective life..
THE ROLE OF CHRISTIAN ETHICS IN THE FORMATION OF DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS
This paper explores the foundational role Christian ethics have played in shaping modern democratic institutions. Drawing upon historical, theological, and political sources, the study highlights how values such as human dignity, justice, equality, and the rule of law—central to Christian ethical teachings—have directly informed democratic thought and governance structures. The research contextualizes these ethical influences within European political evolution and traces their diffusion into global democratic systems. Using qualitative historical analysis and comparative frameworks, this article underscores how moral principles from Christian traditions continue to underpin key democratic institutions today.
RELIGIOUS THOUGHT IN THE AGE OF GLOBALIZATION:CIVILIZATIONAL RESPONSES TO GLOBAL CHALLENGES
In an era marked by rapid globalization, religious thought faces profound transformations as it interacts with economic, political, cultural, and technological currents on a global scale. This article explores how major world religions reinterpret, resist, or integrate globalizing forces, and the way religious ideologies contribute to civilizational responses to global challenges such as moral relativism, secularism, climate change, economic inequality, and cultural homogenization. Drawing on Islamic, Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist responses, the study provides a comparative perspective on how religious worldviews construct ethical frameworks and community resilience mechanisms in an interconnected world. The paper emphasizes the significance of interfaith dialogue and religious ethics in shaping a just and sustainable global civilization.
Copyright (c) 2023 International Bulletin of Theology and Civilization
THE REFORMATION AND THE RISE OF THE MODERN WEST: A THEOLOGICAL EVALUATION
This paper explores the profound influence of the Protestant Reformation on the emergence of the modern Western world. From a theological and historical perspective, it evaluates the core doctrinal shifts introduced by Martin Luther and subsequent reformers and links them to developments in secular governance, capitalism, individualism, and modern scientific inquiry. It argues that the Reformation restructured not only the religious but also the socio-political fabric of Europe, paving the way for modernity. The article also examines the Reformation's enduring theological legacy and its implications for understanding the modern Western identity.
THE ROLE OF RELIGIOUS REFORMATION MOVEMENTS INCIVILIZATIONAL TRANSFORMATION
Religious reformation movements have historically played a pivotal role in shaping civilizations by redefining moral, social, political, and philosophical frameworks. This article examines how key reformation movements, such as the Protestant Reformation in Europe, Islamic revivalist movements, and Bhakti movements in South Asia, led to civilizational transformations across different regions. These movements not only restructured religious authority but also stimulated intellectual awakenings, legal reforms, and political revolutions. Through a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, this study traces the links between religious reforms and civilizational change, arguing that while reformations often began within religious parameters, their ripple effects extended far beyond, influencing science, governance, education, and human rights discourses. The article concludes that reformation movements, despite diverse theological bases, share a common feature: catalyzing paradigm shifts that have lasting socio-civilizational consequences.
THE RISE OF ATHEISM AND SECULARIZATION: A THEOLOGICALAND CIVILIZATIONAL ANALYSIS
The global surge in atheism and secularization has profound implications for theological discourses and the civilizational values embedded in religious traditions. This paper analyzes the historical development, philosophical underpinnings, and contemporary expressions of atheism and secular thought, while examining their impacts on societies that have traditionally been rooted in religious worldviews. Drawing from theological perspectives, the paper explores how secular ideologies challenge metaphysical narratives and reshape sociopolitical and moral frameworks. Furthermore, the study assesses the responses from religious institutions and thinkers to the growing influence of secularism, especially in post-industrial and post-colonial contexts. By combining theological analysis with sociocultural insights, the article presents a multidimensional exploration of the ongoing transformation in belief systems and cultural paradigms.
POSTCOLONIAL ISLAMIC THEOLOGY AND THE RECONSTRUCTION OF MUSLIM CIVILIZATION
The postcolonial condition of the Muslim world has necessitated a rethinking of Islamic theology in light of historical, socio-political, and epistemological transformations. This paper explores the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of postcolonial Islamic theology and its role in reconstructing Muslim civilization. It critically engages with the legacies of colonialism, the fragmentation of the ummah, and the need for a renewed theology rooted in indigenous experiences and global engagement. Using interdisciplinary frameworks and theological discourse analysis, the paper underscores the importance of integrating classical thought with contemporary challenges to revive a cohesive Muslim civilizational identity.
RELIGIOUS SYMBOLISM AND ITS ROLE IN SHAPINGCIVILIZATIONAL ART AND ARCHITECTURE
Religious symbolism has played a profound role in the artistic and architectural expressions of civilizations throughout history. This paper explores how various religious motifs, structures, and sacred geometries have influenced monumental architecture and artistic traditions across diverse cultures. Focusing on Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian civilizations, the study examines temples, mosques, cathedrals, and religious art as reflections of theological ideas and metaphysical beliefs. By integrating historical analysis and comparative visual interpretation, this research highlights the interplay between sacred ideology and material culture. The findings suggest that religious symbolism has not only guided aesthetic choices but also served as a unifying framework for collective identity, memory, and cultural continuity in civilizations.
MAQASID AL-SHARIAH AND SUSTAINABLE CIVILIZATION: A THEOLOGICAL-ETHICAL FRAMEWORK
This study explores the integration of Maqasid alShariah (Objectives of Islamic Law) with the principles of sustainable development, proposing a comprehensive theological-ethical framework to guide civilizations toward long-term ecological and societal well-being. By aligning the five cardinal objectives of Shariah with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this paper demonstrates how Islamic ethical principles can inform policies in governance, environment, social justice, and economics. The analysis includes a graphical representation of this alignment and a critical theological discussion on how divine guidance fosters a sustainable and morally anchored civilization.
IBN KHALDUN’S THEORY OF CIVILIZATION AND ITS RELEVANCE TO CONTEMPORARY ISLAMIC THOUGHT
Ibn Khaldun’s theory of civilization, particularly outlined in his seminal work Muqaddimah, presents a multidimensional understanding of historical development, social cohesion (ʿasabiyyah), governance, and moral decline. This study explores the core concepts of Ibn Khaldun’s thought and evaluates their relevance within contemporary Islamic intellectual discourse. With rising debates over governance, economic justice, and the collapse of communal solidarity in modern Muslim societies, this paper argues that Ibn Khaldun’s cyclical model of civilizational rise and fall offers profound insights for today’s scholars and policymakers. The article utilizes comparative analysis, modern interpretations, and Islamic theoretical frameworks to present a recontextualized view of his work.
THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE CONCEPT OF"PROGRESS" IN CIVILIZATIONAL NARRATIVES
The concept of "progress" has long been central to civilizational narratives, often shaped by theological doctrines and religious philosophies. This paper explores how different theological traditions—Islamic, Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist—conceive of progress, not merely in terms of material or technological advancement, but as a moral, spiritual, and eschatological journey. By critically analyzing sacred texts and historical interpretations, the study highlights the dialectical relationship between faith-based worldviews and evolving civilizational values. The paper concludes that religious conceptions of progress serve as both a critique and a guide to modernity, offering a multidimensional understanding that includes ethical, spiritual, and societal growth.
THE CALIPHATE AS A CIVILIZATIONAL IDEAL: HISTORICAL REALITIES AND MODERN INTERPRETATIONS
The institution of the Caliphate remains a contested yet potent symbol of Islamic civilization, governance, and spiritual unity. This article explores the historical trajectory of the Caliphate from the Rashidun era to modern political interpretations, examining its civilizational impact and its role in shaping Islamic identity. Through a multidimensional approach, we assess the Caliphate’s contributions in the realms of law, governance, education, and culture. The study further investigates the ideological resurgence of the Caliphate ideal in contemporary Muslim political discourse, particularly in post-colonial contexts. Drawing on both classical Islamic sources and modern scholarship, we provide a critical analysis of the Caliphate as a civilizational ideal in contrast to modern nation-state structures.