The Psychological Foundations of Education according to Imam Al-Ghazali (Analytical Study) (Analytical Study)

Abstract

This research aims, in general, to explore the psychological foundations of education from the perspective of the Islamic (Arabic) approach as presented by prominent educators. It focuses on one of the most prominent figures in Islamic psychological education, Imam Abu-Hamed Al-Ghazali, the esteemed educational behavioral scientist. Al-Ghazali delved into the human psyche, its divisions, diseases, and illnesses, offering remedies after diagnosing the ailments. He preceded the scholars of his time in both the East and the West, earning him the right to be considered a pioneer, as acknowledged by Western scholars for his vast scientific knowledge in various fields, including psychological education. His book, "Ma'arij Al-Quds fi Madarij Ma'rifat An-Nafs" (Ascents to Al-Quds in the Stages of Self-Knowledge), authored in the year 592 Hijri (approximately 853 years ago), will be examined. The researcher will present Al-Ghazali's educational methods, his educational views, and his guidance for both teachers and learners. Additionally, the research introduces some educators' reviews and additions related to this research aspect concerning the human soul, which Allah has honored. The goal is to demonstrate that the Islamic approach has always been and remains the most successful in educating the human soul and elevating its behavior from the material and animalistic realm to the realm of being an honored soul, distinguished by Allah from all other creatures.