Abstract

This study aims to identify the key features of the Prophetic methodology in addressing intellectual and behavioral deviations through a foundational analytical approach based on the Qur'an and the authentic Sunnah. It examines the Prophetic practices that addressed various forms of intellectual and behavioral deviation and derives the educational and da'wah principles and methods employed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for their prevention and treatment. The significance of this study stems from the increasing prevalence of intellectual and behavioral deviations in contemporary societies and their adverse impact on intellectual security and social stability. This highlights the need to revisit the Prophetic Sunnah as an authentic and comprehensive source for human development and reform through a balanced methodology that integrates the reinforcement of sound creed, the correction of thought, and the refinement of behavior. The study adopts the inductive method to collect the relevant Prophetic traditions, the analytical method to examine their meanings and objectives, and the deductive method to derive the educational principles governing the Prophetic approach to reform. It further explores the concept of intellectual and behavioral deviation, its causes and manifestations, and presents the theological, educational, and ethical foundations upon which the Prophetic methodology is established. In addition, it analyzes the practical strategies employed by the Prophet (peace be upon him) in addressing extremism, fanaticism, intellectual misconceptions, and moral and social deviations, while relating these strategies to contemporary intellectual and behavioral challenges. The findings demonstrate that the Prophetic methodology is characterized by comprehensiveness, balance, and realism. It emphasizes prevention before treatment, addressing root causes rather than merely dealing with consequences, taking individual differences into account, adopting gradual reform, promoting dialogue and persuasion, and exercising gentleness and compassion alongside firmness whenever necessary. This integrated approach effectively contributes to the reform of both individuals and society. The study also concludes that incorporating this Prophetic methodology into educational, academic, da'wah, and media institutions constitutes an important framework for strengthening intellectual security, promoting moderation (wasatiyyah), and reducing manifestations of intellectual and behavioral deviation within Muslim societies