The word axiology is derived from Greek
'axios' which means value and
"logos" which means theory or study. Thus, axiology is
the study or theory of value or the value system. But, what does value mean? Value means either the price of something, the rank, quality, grade, standard or high attribute of something (thought, religion, society, etc); and social principles, goals or standards that are accepted by an individual or a society. Value determines action and helps man to decide for or against doing something.
In Islam, axiology is a value system that evaluates human behavior whether it is good and right (
ma'ruf) or bad and wrong (
mungkar). These values are determined by Allah (s.w.t.). Even though man is given a basic instinctive knowledge of right and wrong, he has no authority of determining the values.
The value system of Islam is absolute and universal, applicable at all times and places. Wherever we go, the values remain the same. The value of each and every activity of Muslims can be determined based on whether the activity is an obligation (compulsory), something recommendable, or forbidden. The accountability of a Muslim for his actions is based on these values which determine either he will be rewarded or punished.
There are five categories of Islamic values in Islamic axiology. The values are: