The Concept of Religiosity in Classical and Modern Philosophy of Religion

Abstract

This study explores the concept of religiosity through general, Islamic, and secular perspectives. Religiosity encompasses the impact of beliefs, emotions, rituals, and communal ties on both individual and collective life. Theoretical frameworks commonly distinguish between cognitive (belief), affective (emotional), and behavioral (ritual and institutional) dimensions, with integrative models addressing the interplay between personal and institutional expressions of faith. Within Islam, religiosity is embodied in the holistic notion of al-Dīn, which unites īmān (faith), ʿibādah (worship), and akhlāq (ethical conduct), rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah. These elements cultivate taqwā (God-consciousness), foster communal solidarity, and promote moral excellence. Empirical research further affirms that Islamic belief (ʿaqīdah), worship, and ethics are positively correlated with individual well-being and social cohesion, underscoring the integrated nature of Islamic religiosity. In secular contexts, however, religiosity is reframed as religion becomes privatized and detached from state and civic affairs. While secularism often challenges traditional religious authority, post-secular dynamics enable religiosity to re-emerge within pluralistic societies, where individuals negotiate their identity through personal worship, ethical frameworks, and community engagement. This demonstrates religion’s adaptability, surviving in both private and public spheres under changing socio-cultural conditions. This analysis highlights religiosity as a multifaceted and resilient phenomenon—shaping identity, guiding morality, and adapting to diverse cultural landscapes. In Islam, it manifests as a unified system of belief, practice, and ethics, while in secular societies, it persists in reinterpreted forms, reflecting the enduring relevance of religious commitment in human life.