Universal Human Rights: A Comparative Research in Islam and the West

Occasion for presenting this book:

26 Rajab: Passing of Allamah Muhammad-Taqi Jaʿfari

Book Bibliographic Details:

Author: Allamah Muhammad-Taqi Jaʿfari

Translator: Beytollah Naderlew

Publisher: ‎ Kashtinooh Publishing Institute

Length: 270 Pages

Language: English

ISBN: 978-1990451980

Publication Date: July 17, 2023

About the Book:

In “Universal Human Rights: A Comparative Research”, Allamah Muhammad Taqi Ja’fari presents a rigorous philosophical and legal analysis comparing the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” (1948) with Islamic jurisprudence. Rather than a simple critique, the book serves as a profound inquiry into the ontological and ethical foundations of rights. Ja’fari argues that while the Western declaration focuses on the “natural” and “material” aspects of human life, the Islamic perspective integrates the spiritual and transcendental dimensions of the human soul. He posits that for rights to be truly universal and effective; they must be rooted in an understanding of human dignity (Karamah) that transcends shifting political climates and cultural relativism.

The text delves into specific themes such as liberty, justice, and the right to education, highlighting where the two systems converge and where they fundamentally diverge. A key pillar of Ja’fari’s thesis is the distinction between “natural life” and “intelligible life” (Hayat-e-Ma’qul). He suggests that the Western model often protects the individual’s right to pursue any desire, whereas the Islamic model seeks to protect the individual’s potential to achieve moral perfection. By providing a clause-by-clause commentary, the book invites a cross-cultural dialogue, challenging both Muslim and Western scholars to reconsider the metaphysical origins of the laws that govern human society.

About the Author:

Allamah Muhammad Taqi Ja’fari (1923–1998) was a towering figure in contemporary Islamic philosophy, often referred to as the “Ibn Sina of the 20th century.” Born in Tabriz, Iran, he attained the rank of Ijtihad at a remarkably young age in the prestigious seminaries of Najaf. He was a prolific polymath who authored over 100 books, most notably a 15-volume interpretation of the Nahj al-Balagha and a 27-volume commentary on Rumi’s Masnavi. Ja’fari was unique in his era for his extensive engagement with Western thought, maintaining correspondences with prominent European thinkers such as Bertrand Russell. His life’s work was dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional spirituality and modern science, always advocating for a “humanity-oriented” approach to knowledge.

Where to find it:

You can find the book at one of the online bookstores below:

• Strand Bookshop
• Jamia Hamdard Library System
• Google Books
• Amazon