Al-Takhalluq Bi-akhlaq Allah and Virtue Ethics: Introducing the Sufi Concept in Modern Discourse

This research introduces the Sufi concept al-takhalluq bi akhlaq Allah to the modern discourse on virtue ethics. In order to achieve this end, this research analyzes conceptually al-Ghazali's notion of al-takhalluq bi akhlaq Allah and then introduces it in the modern discourse on virtue ethics through the works of MacIntyre after analyzing his system of virtue ethics. This research observes that an approach which maintains God at the center, includes hereafter in its worldview and strikes a balance between rules and virtues reflecting the greater telos of al-Saʿada al-Ukhrawiya is absent in the modern discourse on the ethical theories, be it deontology, teleology and even virtue ethics. And this troubles a Muslim in modern times while engaging with those theories. However, by introducing al-Ghazali's notion Muslims do not feel distant and need not discard their God and tradition, but, in fact, can start engaging from the vantage point of their religion, tradition and identity.