The Faculty of Islamic Studies (FIS) at UIII welcomes a distinguished expert in the field of Al-Qur’an and Exegesis (Tafsir), Dr. Salahuddin Ayyub Fakhruddin. A “pure” alumnus of the prestigious Al-Azhar University in Cairo, where he completed his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees, Dr. Salahuddin brings a deep, original, and contemporary perspective to the FIS academic community.
The Power of Interpretation: From Ecology to Humanity
Specializing in Tafsir and Qur’anic Sciences, Dr. Salahuddin views the Qur’an as a dynamic source of guidance that requires constant elaboration to remain relevant. His research is driven by a mission to address global challenges, particularly by promoting universal values such as justice, tolerance, and inclusivity. One of his most intriguing academic visions is the development of a “Tafsir Ecology.” He introduces a profound concept: “Manusia Berbadan Bumi, Berhati Langit” (Humans with Earthly Bodies and Heavenly Hearts), a framework aimed at exploring the relationship between spirituality and environmental stewardship. “I want to elaborate on new methods to understand the Qur’an in a contemporary context, moving away from narrow and exclusive religious views,” he explains.
Why UIII? A Dream for Global Recognition
For Dr. Salahuddin, joining UIII is the realization of a long-held dream. He envisions UIII becoming a world-class icon for Islamic education and a credible reference for national Islamic perspectives.
“UIII represents my dream for Indonesia to become a global reference. Programs like an MA in Turath Islam are essential—they are the first step in the original Islamic intellectual journey. We are here to create new icons of knowledge,” he says. He specifically aims to harmonize Eastern and Western academic methodologies, believing that these two “poles” should not be opposed but empowered in parallel to produce comprehensive research.
Character and “Recharging” at the Rooftop
Dr. Salahuddin describes his academic character in three words: Humorous, Moderate, and Open. In the classroom, students should expect an environment that is punctual yet highly interactive. He favors intense discussions where intellectual openness is the priority.
However, behind his rigorous academic life, Dr. Salahuddin has a unique way of “recharging” his energy. On the rooftop of his residence in Mampang, Jakarta, he manages a lush garden and a farm of dozens of Shamo chickens, an upright, muscular Japanese gamefowl. “When I am busy with my plants and chickens, I can momentarily forget the weight of academic texts. It’s a pure joy that refreshes my mind,” he shares with a smile.
A Message to Students
As he prepares to welcome students into his class, Dr. Salahuddin leaves them with a powerful principle of resilience:
Be intellectually independent, objective, and productive. Never give up on challenges, for they are the ‘nutrients’ that form your scientific character. As the maxim goes: “al-Ribḥ ma‘a al-Ḍamān” or success is measured by the risks and sacrifices one is willing to endure.