The former Dean of the Faculty of Islamic Studies (FAI) at Universitas Muhammadiyah (UM) Bandung, Afif Muhammad, emphasized that a Muslim's piety must not stop at the spiritual dimension alone. Muslims are now required to actively master science and technology to produce tangible works that benefit the wider community.
He conveyed this call during a routine study session organized by the Institute for the Study, Practice, and Development of Al-Islam and Kemuhammadiyahan (LPPAIK) at the UM Bandung Musala on Thursday (23/7/2026). On that occasion, Afif dissected the multidimensional concept of good deeds (amal saleh) as an important pillar of civilization building.
Referring to the thoughts of Islamic scholar Harits bin Asad, Afif explained the three main dimensions of good deeds, namely amal jawarih (physical action/real work), intellectual deeds, and amal qalbu (deeds of the heart). He emphasized that physical action demands professionalism, competence, and the ability to adapt to technological advancements so that the potential of the community can be productively channeled.
In the intellectual dimension, higher education institutions are expected not to merely produce graduates with academic degrees, but to mold intellectuals capable of generating real innovation. Afif cited examples of national figures like Buya Hamka and classical scholar Imam At-Thabari, whose scholarly legacy remains alive and serves as a reference across generations.
Meanwhile, the third dimension, namely the deeds of the heart (amal qalbu), serves as the spiritual motor ensuring all work activities hold the value of worship. Facing the era of artificial intelligence (AI), Afif reminded that technological development must always be grounded in divine and humanitarian values so that the progress of the times does not lose its moral direction.
