The Concept of Intelligence in the Quran: A Comparative Analysis with Western Psychological Perspectives

Intelligence is a fundamental element in shaping human character and life. In Arabic, intelligence is synonymous with the term “al-‘aql” (reason), signifying the ability to think and understand. The Qur’an emphasises the importance of intelligence by referencing the term “‘aql” and its derivatives 49 times in verb form. This study aims to demonstrate that the concept of intelligence from the Qur’anic perspective holds a unique and distinguished status, markedly different from the Western psychological view. A comparative analysis was conducted between Western concepts such as Intellectual Quotient (IQ), Emotional Quotient (EQ), and Spiritual Quotient (SQ), and the type of intelligence endorsed by Allah SWT in the Qur’an, supported by relevant scriptural evidence. Additionally, the research introduces a religiously rooted dimension of intelligence, the Transcendental Quotient (TQ). This study employs deductive, inductive, and comparative analytical methods on existing literature. Findings show that the Qur’anic conception of intelligence varies considerably from Western notions in its foundations, purpose, and implications. Western intelligence tends to be world-centred and primarily located in the brain, whereas Qur’anic intelligence is divinely inspired and rooted in the heart. The stages of intelligence and supporting Qur’anic evidence are also outlined. In conclusion, accurate intelligence, as Allah describes in the Qur’an, is a divine gift used to attain happiness and well-being in this world and the hereafter, in contrast to the Western view, which primarily emphasises worldly success.