THE VIEWS OF ALLAMAH MUHAMMAD IQBAL AND NURETTIN TOPÇU ON SELFHOOD (PERSONALITY)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the theories of selfhood (personality) developed by Allamah Muhammad Iqbal and Nurettin Topçu. Both Nurettin Topçu and Muhammad Iqbal recognized the urgent need for a new type of human being — individuals with a strong sense of selfhood — to rescue Muslims from the mire of laziness, ignorance, blind imitation, alienation from Islamic values, the loss of curiosity and the spirit of inquiry, dishonesty, deceit, incompetence, and servitude. Both thinkers developed intellectual systems centered on the concept of selfhood. According to Iqbal and Topçu, selfhood is only possible through pure and strong faith, accompanied by complete devotion to the principle of TawÍÊd (the Oneness of God). When a person draws closer to God, they attain true freedom and are liberated from all bonds that limit them. Through love, the human self can reach a potential power, and when polished with the jewel of faith, it can draw nearer to God. What makes a human being truly human is freedom and responsibility. Possessing willpower distinguishes a person from all other creatures and makes them God’s vicegerent on earth. The essence of the self is movement — a constant search and struggle. The Islamic self is courageous; it strives to break free from all restraints that limit it and seeks only to draw closer to God. A person with true selfhood is free from ostentation and hypocrisy, respectful toward both the Creator and creation, humble, generous, brave, and truthful.