Islamism
Islamism refers to a collection of political and religious ideologies that advocate for the role of Islam within political frameworks. This movement is diverse and encompasses a range of beliefs but generally centers on the notion that Islamic principles should be integrated into state governance and society. The term is often used interchangeably with "political Islam," though it is broader in scope, capturing both political aspirations and sometimes social-religious activism.
Ideological Foundations
The core belief of Islamism is that Islam is not only a religion but a complete way of life that includes governance and law. Islamists assert that the Quran and the Hadith, the sayings and practices of Prophet Muhammad, provide a blueprint for a political system. This ideological perspective finds its roots in the early Islamic state of Medina, established by Muhammad, which is seen as a model for governance based on divine guidance.
Key Concepts
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Sharia: Central to Islamism is the application of Sharia, or Islamic law, in both personal and public life. Sharia encompasses a wide range of civil, criminal, and family laws derived from Islamic texts.
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Pan-Islamism: This concept advocates for the political and social unity of all Muslims worldwide, transcending ethnic and national divisions. It seeks to establish a single Islamic governance structure that unites the Ummah, or global Islamic community.
Historical Context
Islamism emerged in the modern era as a response to the decline of Islamic power and influence, particularly during the colonial period. The dissolution of the Ottoman Empire and the abolishment of the Caliphate in 1924 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk were pivotal events that sparked a revivalist movement among Muslims desiring a return to Islamic governance.
Variants and Movements
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Sunni Islamism: The majority of Islamist movements are rooted in Sunni Islam. Notable groups include the Muslim Brotherhood founded in Egypt in 1928 by Hassan al-Banna, which has inspired numerous offshoots and movements globally.
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Shia Islamism: While less covered, Shia Islamism has been influential, particularly in regions like Iran following the Iranian Revolution of 1979 led by Ayatollah Khomeini. This variation emphasizes a theocratic political system led by religious scholars.
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Jihadism: A radical interpretation of Islamism that supports armed struggle, or jihad, as a means to achieve political goals. Groups such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS are associated with jihadist Islamism.
Criticisms
Islamism is often critiqued for its perceived rigidity and intolerance. Critics argue that it imposes a monolithic interpretation of Islam that overlooks the diversity within the Muslim community. Concerns also arise over the treatment of non-Muslims and women under Islamist governance, with fears of human rights abuses being prevalent.
Post-Islamism
In recent years, a trend towards Post-Islamism has emerged, characterized by a reassessment of earlier Islamist ideologies. This movement advocates for a more pluralistic and democratic approach to Islamic governance, acknowledging the need for adaptability in a modern context. Salwa Ismail describes it as blending traditional Islamic values with contemporary political systems.