Triangular Theory of Love and Islamic Teachings: An Analytical Study

Abstract

Allah Ta'ala has bestowed upon man the title of the best creation and has granted him superiority over all other creatures through knowledge. Upon entering the world, man laid the foundation of numerous sciences, including anthropology, sociology, and psychology, which focus on studying humanity and human society. Psychology, in particular, explores human relationships from various perspectives, with social psychology being a sub-branch that specifically examines the influence of society on individuals. It delves into questions about how individuals perceive and think while being part of a social framework. Social psychology has put forth several theories based on different attitudes and behaviors of individuals within a social context, providing valuable insights into their thoughts, emotions, and character. Islam, a religion in harmony with nature, aligns its psychological principles and laws with human psychology, as Allah Almighty, in His profound knowledge, is well aware of the Creator's creations. Hence, this research aims to critically analyze one of the pivotal theories in social psychology, the "Triangular Theory of Love," in the light of the Qur'an and Sunnah. The aim is to determine whether this theory contradicts the concrete and comprehensive principles and laws revealed by the Creator or if it is supported by the guiding principles found in the Qur'an and Sunnah. Furthermore, the research seeks to explore to what extent the practical and legitimate aspects of this theory proposed by the American researcher can be integrated to benefit the global Islamic society. The goal is to guide the development of this crucial domain of human psychology, love, under the principles of Sharia. The research will adopt an analytical and narrative approach to achieve these objectives.