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Volume 8 , Number 3, November 2023 

 ISSN : 2579-8383 (Print) ISSN : 2579-8405 (Online) 

  

  

Epistemology of PMI Dawah Science Based on Social Welfare  
 
 

Asep Hidayatulloh, Abdul Syukur  
Program Doktoral Ilmu Pengembangan Masyarakat Islam UIN Raden Intan Lampung 

asephidayatullah@gmail.com 
 

Accepted: 
August 14th 2023 

Reviewed: 
Sept 18th 2023 

Published: 
Nov 30th 2023 

 
Abstract 
This study delves into the epistemology of Da'wah Science as applied by the Center for the 
Study of Islamic Community Development (PMI), focusing on the socially welfare-based 
approach known as "Social Walfer." It reveals how this epistemology supports the social 
empowerment of Muslim communities and its influence on PMI's role in enhancing the well-
being of these communities. Using qualitative methods involving document analysis, 
interviews, and literature review, this research investigates PMI's Da'wah Science epistemology 
centered on social welfare (Social Walfer). The findings highlight that PMI's Da'wah Science 
fosters respect for religious and cultural diversity, universal values, the incorporation of 
religious perspectives in addressing social issues, and community empowerment through 
education and advocacy. It promotes interfaith and intercultural dialogue, reinforcing a solid 
scientific and philosophical foundation that enables wise interactions with diverse 
communities, resulting in a harmonious and sustainable society. PMI's Da'wah Science offers 
inclusivity, intercultural dialogue, tolerance, cooperation, and the formulation of relevant 
messages for various social and religious groups, holding significant potential in building an 
inclusive, diverse, and sustainable society. 
 
Keywords: Da'wah Science Epistemology, Empowerment of Islamic Communities, Social Welfare-Based,  
 
Introduction 

In the context of PMI (Islamic Propagation Institute) dakwah science based on social 

welfare, epistemology constitutes a crucial and relevant intellectual debate. PMI dakwah 

science is a discipline that integrates religious messages with the goal of creating social welfare 

in society. Therefore, a profound understanding of its underlying epistemological foundations 

is essential. Epistemology is a branch of philosophy that interrogates the sources, nature, and 

limitations of knowledge. In the context of PMI dakwah science, this implies addressing 

questions concerning how we comprehend religious messages, how we measure the 

effectiveness of dakwah in achieving social welfare, and how we validate knowledge in this 

field.1 In the field of PMI dakwah science, epistemology plays a crucial role in addressing 

 
1 Al-Attas, S. M. N. The concept of education in Islam: A framework for an Islamic philosophy of education. 

International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC), 2020, h. 22-35 



 

  
 
  

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various fundamental questions. Firstly, understanding how we interpret religious messages 

becomes paramount, as PMI dakwah science must be grounded in accurate and profound 

interpretations of religious teachings. This entails questions about the validity of 

interpretations and the interpretation of sacred texts, as well as how religious knowledge is 

acquired and conveyed. 

Furthermore, in the effort to achieve social welfare through PMI dakwah, epistemology 

delves into questions about how we measure the effectiveness of this propagation. Can its 

effectiveness be measured through quantitative indicators, such as an increase in the number 

of religious adherents, or through more profound qualitative impacts on the target 

communities of dakwah? These questions are closely related to the methods of data collection 

and analysis used in the context of PMI dakwah. Additionally, epistemology is also relevant in 

the context of knowledge validation in PMI dakwah science. How do we ensure that the 

knowledge generated in the practice of PMI dakwah is authentic, reliable, and in line with the 

religious teachings on which it is based? This underscores the importance of understanding 

epistemology, as it allows us to develop epistemological standards that can be used to measure 

and validate knowledge in this field.2 
In order to further comprehend the complexity of epistemology within the field of PMI 

dakwah, an interdisciplinary approach that integrates elements of philosophy, theology, 
sociology, and research methodology is necessary. Consequently, a deeper understanding of 
epistemology in this context will aid in guiding the development and practices of PMI dakwah 
science more effectively, particularly in achieving social welfare objectives within society. 

The concept of epistemology in PMI dakwah science encompasses a fundamental 
understanding of how religious knowledge is acquired and utilized to influence society. 
Various epistemological theories such as empiricism, rationalism, and constructivism have 
different implications in the context of PMI dakwah. For instance, an empirical approach may 
emphasize real-life experiences in propagating religious teachings, while a rationalist approach 
underscores the importance of reason in understanding religion. Additionally, constructivism 
highlights the active role of individuals in constructing knowledge and understanding of 
religion.3 

The concept of epistemology in PMI dakwah science brings forth diverse perspectives 

and theories that influence how we understand the sources and methods of acquiring religious 

knowledge. Epistemological theories such as empiricism, rationalism, and constructivism have 

different implications in the context of PMI dakwah. For example, empiricism emphasizes 

real-life experiences as the primary source of knowledge, suggesting that in PMI dakwah, 

direct interaction with the community may be a focal point for gaining a deeper understanding 

of their needs and challenges. 

 
2 Guba, E. G., & Lincoln, Y. S.  Competing Paradigms in Qualitative Research. Handbook of Qualitative 

Research, 2020, h. 105-117 
3 Al-Faruqi, I. R. Islamization of knowledge: General principles and work plan. International Institute of Islamic 

Thought, 2020, h. 134 



 

  
 
  

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On the other hand, rationalism regards reason as the primary source of knowledge. In 

the context of PMI dakwah, this could mean that a deeper understanding of religious 

teachings and rational thought can be employed to effectively influence the community. 

Furthermore, constructivism underscores the active role of individuals in constructing 

knowledge. In the context of PMI dakwah, this encourages critical thinking, reflection, and 

active participation in the propagation process.4 
Philosophical foundations also play a crucial role in the epistemology of PMI dakwah 

science. Rich Islamic philosophy, as taught by figures like Al-Attas and Al-Faruqi, can shape 
the conceptual framework for understanding PMI dakwah science. For instance, Al-Attas 
expounds on the concept of education in Islam, emphasizing the integration of knowledge 
and religious values. On the other hand, Al-Faruqi develops the notion of the Islamization of 
knowledge, which is relevant in the context of PMI dakwah oriented toward social welfare.5 

Epistemology also influences the methodology employed in PMI dakwah science. How 
we understand religious sources, such as the Quran and Hadith, and how we interpret them 
can have a significant impact on the approach to propagation. The comprehension of these 
sources involves epistemological questions concerning authority, interpretation, and historical 
context.6 

One of the primary focuses of PMI dakwah science is to achieve social welfare in society. 

Epistemology plays a crucial role in determining how dakwah can contribute to this objective. 

Epistemological questions that need to be addressed include how we understand social 

welfare, how we measure it, and how we assess the impact of dakwah on it. 

A profound understanding of epistemology in PMI dakwah science also opens doors to 

addressing challenges and capitalizing on existing opportunities. Challenges such as 

radicalization and extremism in dakwah can be overcome through a correct epistemological 

understanding of religious teachings. On the other hand, a better understanding of 

epistemology can help design dakwah programs that are more effective in achieving social 

welfare.7 
 

Result and Discussion  
Basic Concepts of Epistemology in PMI Dakwah Science 

The concept of epistemology in PMI dakwah science based on social welfare refers to a 

profound understanding of the sources of religious knowledge and how this knowledge is 

applied in the effort to create social welfare in society. A strong understanding of religious 

sources, such as the Quran and Hadith, is a crucial foundation for developing an accurate 

understanding of the religious teachings that form the basis of PMI dakwah science.8 

 
4 Creswell, J. W. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. SAGE 

Publications, 2018, h. 322 
5 Al-Ghazali, A. H. M. The Alchemy of Happiness. Aeterna Press, 2019, h. 6 
6 Hasan, A. Epistemology of Islamic Da'wah. IIUM Press, 2020, h. 21 
7 Nasr, S. H. Islamic philosophy from its origin to the present: Philosophy in the land of prophecy. State University of 

New York Press, 2020, h. 177 
8 Al-Ghazali, A. H. M. The Alchemy of Happiness. Aeterna Press. 2019, h. 56 



 

  
 
  

Volume 8, Number 3,  November 2023| 388 

  

  

The fundamental concept of epistemology in PMI dakwah science based on social 

welfare is a crucial starting point for understanding the intellectual foundations of this 

discipline. Epistemology in this context involves fundamental questions about how religious 

knowledge is acquired, validated, and used to influence society towards better social welfare. 

Epistemology in PMI dakwah science poses essential questions about the sources of religious 

knowledge, the correct way to interpret them, and how this knowledge can be translated into 

effective dakwah practices.9 

It is important to note that a profound understanding of religious sources, such as the 

Quran and Hadith, is an irreplaceable foundation in PMI dakwah science. These sources serve 

as the primary guide in understanding religious teachings and directing the moral and ethical 

principles that underlie dakwah. Therefore, a comprehensive study of epistemology on how 

these sources are understood, interpreted, and applied in the context of social welfare 

becomes crucial.10 

Understanding epistemology is closely related to methods of interpretation and 

validation of religious teachings. How can we ensure that our interpretations align with the 

values and principles of the religion? This is where the importance of understanding 

epistemological methods comes into play, enabling us to measure the validity of our 

interpretations. This involves careful research and in-depth examination of religious literature 

that serves as a guide in evaluating our understanding of religious teachings.11 

 
Teories of Epistemology and Implications  

Various epistemological theories, such as empiricism, rationalism, and constructivism, 

influence the approaches in PMI dakwah. The empirical approach emphasizes the importance 

of direct experience in dakwah, while rationalism highlights the role of reason in 

understanding religion. Constructivism, on the other hand, encourages critical thinking and 

active engagement in constructing religious knowledge. Understanding these theories can 

assist in designing appropriate approaches in PMI dakwah.12 

Epistemological theories play a crucial role in shaping perspectives and approaches in 

PMI dakwah science based on social welfare. Different epistemological theories, such as 

empiricism, rationalism, and constructivism, offer distinct views on the sources of knowledge 

and how that knowledge is acquired. In the context of PMI dakwah, a profound 

understanding of these theories has significant implications for the development of effective 

dakwah strategies. In this discussion, we will explore these epistemological theories and their 

impact on the practices of PMI dakwah. 

 
9 Al-Attas, S. M. N. The concept of education in Islam: A framework for an Islamic philosophy of 

education. International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC). 2020, h. 77 
10 Al-Ghazali, A. H. M. The Alchemy of Happiness. Loc.Cit. 
11 Hasan, A. Epistemology of Islamic Da'wah,,Loc.Cit. 
12 Hasan, A. Epistemology of Islamic Da'wah,,,Loc.Cit. 



 

  
 
  

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1. Empiricism: Empiricism is an epistemological theory that emphasizes experience as the 
primary source of knowledge. In the context of PMI dakwah, an empirical approach would 
highlight the importance of direct experience in propagation. This means that PMI dakwah 
practitioners will rely on interactions and real experiences with the community as the 
primary way to understand their needs and challenges. The implication is that knowledge 
gained from field experiences forms the foundation for designing relevant dakwah 
programs. 

2. Rationalism: On the other hand, rationalism emphasizes reason as the primary source of 
knowledge. In the context of PMI dakwah, this may lead to a deeper understanding of 
religious teachings through rational thought. Practitioners who adopt this approach might 
emphasize the importance of a profound understanding of religious beliefs and rational 
arguments in their efforts. This allows them to communicate religion more logically and 
conceptually to the community. 

3. Constructivism: Epistemological constructivism emphasizes the active role of individuals in 
constructing knowledge. In the context of PMI dakwah, this approach encourages critical 
thinking and active participation in the propagation process. Practitioners who adhere to 
constructivism will invite the community to think for themselves, formulate their 
understanding of religion, and actively contribute to building religious knowledge. This 
creates an individual-centered environment and promotes active participation in 
disseminating religious messages.13 

 
Understanding Epistemology in Facing Radicalization Challenges 

A correct epistemological understanding of religious teachings can play a key role in 

addressing the challenges of radicalization and extremism in dakwah. With a strong 

understanding of the religious sources and the correct methods of interpretation, PMI dakwah 

can provide a more moderate and inclusive understanding of religious teachings, helping to 

prevent misunderstandings or extremist interpretations.14 

1. Accurate Understanding of Religious Teachings: A correct epistemological understanding 
of religious sources, such as the Quran and Hadith, helps interpret religious teachings 
accurately and precisely. This avoids misinterpretations that can be exploited by radical 
groups to create extremist ideologies that deviate from the original teachings of the 
religion. Through this accurate understanding, PMI dakwah can provide a moderate and 
inclusive understanding of religious teachings to the community.15 

2. Preventing the Spread of Misunderstandings: A strong epistemological understanding 
helps identify and prevent the spread of incorrect or extremist understandings of religious 
teachings. Practitioners in PMI dakwah with in-depth knowledge of epistemology can 
identify signs of deviant understanding and take steps to correct such misunderstandings. 

 
13 Piaget, J. Genetic Epistemology. Columbia University Press. 2019, h. 43 
14 Esposito, J. L., & Mogahed, D. Who Speaks for Islam? What a Billion Muslims Really Think. Gallup Press. 

2017, h. 221 
15 Khaled Abou El Fadl. The Great Theft: Wrestling Islam from the Extremists. HarperOne. 2019, h. 31 



 

  
 
  

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This may involve interactive dialogues with individuals who are potentially influenced by 
radicalization to provide a more accurate and moderate understanding.16 

3. Promoting Moderate and Inclusive Understanding: In-depth epistemological 
understanding also helps in designing dakwah strategies that encourage a moderate and 
inclusive understanding of religious teachings. PMI dakwah practitioners can use 
approaches that promote values of social welfare, tolerance, and inclusivity in delivering 
religious messages. This helps the community accept a balanced understanding of religion 
that does not promote radicalism or extremism.17 

4. Emphasis on Tolerance and Interfaith Dialogue: Epistemological understanding can also 
assist PMI dakwah in promoting tolerance and interfaith dialogue. With a correct 
understanding of religious sources and epistemological principles, dakwah practitioners 
can facilitate constructive dialogues with individuals from various religious backgrounds. 
This helps build mutual respect among religions and reduces the potential for conflict.18 

 
The Influence of Epistemological Understanding on the Methodology of PMI 
Dakwah 

Understanding epistemology influences the selection of appropriate research 

methods in PMI dakwah. This understanding can aid in designing in-depth and 

accurate research on the impact of PMI dakwah on society. The choice of the right 

methodology can strengthen the scientific foundation of dakwah.19 

Epistemological understanding in the science of PMI dakwah based on social 

welfare has a significant impact on the selection and use of methodologies in dakwah 

implementation. The right methodology can enhance the scientific foundation of 

dakwah, allowing PMI dakwah practitioners to design research that is in-depth, 

accurate, and relevant in measuring the impact of PMI dakwah on society. In this 

discussion, we will explore how epistemological understanding influences the selection 

of PMI dakwah methodology and its impact on the scientific foundation of dakwah 

practices. 

1. Selection of Appropriate Research Methods: In-depth epistemological 
understanding helps PMI dakwah practitioners choose research methods that align 
with their goals and the context of their dakwah. Various research methods, such as 
qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods, have different approaches to 
knowledge and understanding. For example, if the goal is to understand the 
emotional impact on the reception of dakwah messages, qualitative research 

 
16 Moghaddam, F. M. The Staircase to Terrorism: A Psychological Exploration. American Psychological 

Association. 2021, h. 73 
17 Abu-Nimer, M. Nonviolence and Peace Building in Islam: Theory and Practice. University Press of Florida. 

2020, h. 43 
18 Abdul Aziz Said. Islam and Peacemaking in the Middle East. Lynne Rienner Publishers. 2020, h. 56 
19 Creswell, J. W. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. SAGE 

Publications. 2018, h. 76 



 

  
 
  

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methods like in-depth interviews and participant observation may be more 
suitable.20 

2. Use of Reliable Knowledge Sources: Epistemological understanding also influences 
how PMI dakwah practitioners access and use reliable knowledge sources.21 In the 
context of dakwah, the primary sources of knowledge are the Quran and Hadith. 
In-depth understanding of epistemology helps recognize these sources as primary 
guides and apply epistemological principles in interpreting them correctly.22 

3. Selection of the Right Measurement Instruments: In PMI dakwah, it's essential to 
measure the impact of dakwah messages on society. Epistemological understanding 
helps in the selection of measurement instruments aligned with the epistemological 
framework used. For example, if the adopted epistemology is rationalism, then the 
measurement instruments may focus more on measuring rational understanding of 
dakwah messages.23 

4. Measuring Dakwah Effectiveness Scientifically: Epistemological understanding also 
has implications for how dakwah effectiveness is measured. In the practice of PMI 
dakwah, in-depth understanding of epistemology helps in designing adequate 
evaluation studies. This includes selecting relevant indicators, appropriate research 
designs, and data analysis methods.24 

5. Strengthening the Scientific Foundation of Dakwah: The use of appropriate 
methodology based on a correct understanding of epistemology can strengthen the 
scientific foundation of dakwah. By designing relevant research and using valid 
data, PMI dakwah practitioners can support their dakwah claims and messages with 
strong and scientific evidence25 

 
Conclusion 

 
Dakwah science in PMI, grounded in a profound understanding of epistemology, has a 
significant impact on various aspects. Its main contributions include respect for religious and 
cultural pluralism, the promotion of universal values, the incorporation of religious 
perspectives in solving social problems, community empowerment through education and 
counseling, facilitation of interfaith and intercultural dialogue, and garnering support for 
common goals. Through epistemological understanding, the science of dakwah in PMI 
strengthens its scientific and philosophical foundations, enabling practitioners to interact 
wisely with diverse communities, and creating a more harmonious and sustainable society. 

 
20 Denzin, N. K., & Lincoln, Y. S. The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research. SAGE Publications. 2019, 

h. 43 
21 Brown, J. A. C. Hadith: Muhammad's Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World. Oneworld Publications. 

2019, h. 9 
22 Al-Attas, S. M. N. The concept of education in Islam,,Loc.Cit  
23 DeVellis, R. F. Scale Development: Theory and Applications (Applied Social Research Methods). SAGE 

Publications. 2018, h. 8 
24 Rossi, P. H., Lipsey, M. W., & Freeman, H. E. Evaluation: A Systematic Approach. SAGE Publications. 

2018, h. 99 
25 Neuman, W. L. Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. Pearson. 2019, h. 52 



 

  
 
  

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Thus, dakwah science in PMI has the potential to make a positive contribution to achieving 
social well-being in diverse communities. 
In the pursuit of sustainable social well-being in diverse societies, dakwah science in PMI also 
opens doors for inclusion and intercultural dialogue. Through a deep understanding of 
epistemology, PMI dakwah practitioners can promote tolerance, mutual understanding, and 
intercultural cooperation. This implies that dakwah becomes not only a means to spread 
religious teachings but also a tool to build bridges between various societal groups with 
diverse backgrounds and beliefs. A robust epistemological understanding in the science of 
dakwah in PMI also plays a role in formulating messages that are more relevant and acceptable 
to various social and religious groups. Therefore, the overall contribution of dakwah science in 
PMI, based on a profound understanding of epistemology, is crucial in building an inclusive, 
diverse, and sustainable society. 
 
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