Truth In Two Faces: An Epistemological Examination Of Islamic Law between Material And Formal

Abstract

This article explores the epistemological tension between material and formal truth within Islamic law. Islamic legal theory recognizes al-ḥaqq (truth) as an absolute value derived from God, yet in its practical implementation, this truth takes on two forms: material truth and formal truth. Material truth emphasizes the realization of substantive justice, integrating intention, maqāṣid al-sharīʿah (objectives of Islamic law), and contextual factors, while formal truth relies on procedural evidence such as shahādah (testimony) and bayyinah (clear proof) to ensure legal certainty and consistency. These dual paradigms often generate conflict in practice, as material truth may demand flexibility beyond formal structures. To resolve this dichotomy, the article proposes the principle of maslahah mursalah as an integrative solution. Drawing on Imam al-Ghazali's framework, maslahah mursalah serves as both an epistemological bridge and a practical method to balance justice and legality. The study employs a normative-conceptual method, focusing on religious courts in Indonesia. Ultimately, this paper argues that Islamic legal methodology must evolve toward a dialectical approach that harmonizes normative textualism with moral responsiveness. The integration of material and formal truth through maslahah mursalah can transform Islamic law into a system that is both principled and adaptive to the demands of justice in modern society.