THE ROLE OF TEACHERS IN CONTEMPORARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN SHAPING SOCIETY: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY IN THE LIGHT OF THE QUR’AN AND SUNNAH

Abstract

Education is one of the main forces that shape the structure of society. Teachers, in particular, hold a central role in this process because they not only transfer knowledge but also influence the values, attitudes, and behavior of their students. In modern educational institutions, this role becomes even more significant as young generations face new social, cultural, and moral challenges. This paper studies the role of teachers in shaping society in the light of the Qur’an and Sunnah, and discusses how Islamic guidance can be applied within contemporary education. The Qur’an highlights the value of knowledge and describes teachers as guides who help people move from ignorance to awareness. The Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) further shows how a teacher should act—with wisdom, patience, justice, and compassion. These principles provide a model for teachers today, who are expected to build not only the intellectual abilities of students but also their moral and social character. This research uses a qualitative approach, focusing on Qur’anic verses, Hadith, and the writings of Islamic scholars, while also considering the challenges of the present time such as materialism, lack of moral training, and global cultural influences. The findings suggest that when teachers practice values like sincerity, fairness, and responsibility, they can greatly influence the moral development of individuals and promote social harmony. The study concludes that education must not be limited to professional training or the pursuit of worldly success. Instead, it should combine faith and knowledge to produce responsible, ethical, and constructive members of society. Teachers, by following the Qur’an and Sunnah, can play a vital role in this transformation.