THE CONCEPT OF CHARACTER EDUCATION ACCORDING TO IBN MISKAWAIH AND ITS RELEVANCE TO CHARACTER EDUCATION IN INDONESIA

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the concept of moral education proposed by Ibn Miskawayh and its relevance to the development of character education in Indonesia. This research employs a qualitative approach using library research methods, focusing on a textual analysis of Ibn Miskawayh’s principal work Tahdhīb al-Akhlāq wa Taṭhīr al-A‘rāq along with relevant secondary literature such as academic books and journal articles. The findings reveal that Ibn Miskawayh’s concept of moral education is based on the cultivation of the soul through achieving balance among the rational, irascible, and appetitive faculties, which in turn forms major virtues such as wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice. The process of character formation, according to him, is carried out through moral habituation, the exemplary role of educators, self-discipline training, and supportive social environments. This concept aligns significantly with the Character Education Strengthening (PPK) initiative in Indonesia, particularly in the implementation of value internalization through school culture, role-modeling, and continuous behavioral habituation. Therefore, Ibn Miskawayh’s educational thought provides both philosophical foundations and practical guidance for designing holistic character education models oriented toward the comprehensive development of learners, encompassing intellectual, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.