A Critique of Kierkegaard's Radical Fideism in the Story of the Sacrifice of Ishmael

Document Type : Review

Authors

1 Master’s in Quranic Exegesis, Department of Quran and Hadith, University of Qur'an and Etrat Studies, Isfahan, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Philosophy and Theology, Shahid Motahhari University, Tehran, Iran.

3 Ph.D. in Philosophy of Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

This study critically examines Søren Kierkegaard's radical fideist interpretation of Prophet Abraham's intended sacrifice of his son. Kierkegaard, in Fear and Trembling, presents this act as a "teleological suspension of the ethical" based on pure, non-rational faith. By analyzing the character and preaching methodology of Prophet Abraham as depicted in the Qur'an through the lens of critical thinking standards (e.g., clarity, logic, fairness), this research challenges Kierkegaard's view. The findings demonstrate that Abraham’s arguments against idolatry consistently exemplify rational discourse and critical thought. Consequently, his ultimate submission to God’s command is reinterpreted not as a suspension of reason but as the apex of a rationality grounded in a deep, critically derived understanding of God's essential attributes. The study concludes that the Qur’anic narrative affirms a harmony between informed faith and critical rationality, thereby invalidating the application of pure fideism to this story.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Quranic Doctrines
Volume 22, Issue 42 - Serial Number 42
December 2025
Pages 381-404

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 12 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 27 October 2025
  • Publish Date: 22 December 2025

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