Definition and Meaning
Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah (Arabic: أهل السنة والجماعة) translates to “People of the Prophet’s Way and the Community.” This term generally signifies a greater sect within Sunni Islam, stressing adherence to the traditions of Prophet Muhammad and the consensus of the Muslim community.
Etymology
- Ahl al-Sunnah: Derives from “Ahl” (People) and “Sunnah” (Way or Practice) of the Prophet Muhammad.
- wa’l-Jamaah: Combines “wa” (and) with “al-Jamaah” (Community).
Background and Historical Facts
- Founding: The movement was revived and formalized in northern India during the 1880s, largely based on the scholarly works of Mawlana Ahmad Reza Khan Barelwi (1856-1921).
- Context: Evolved significantly post the Indian revolt of 1857, a catalyst leading to the collapse of the Mughal Empire and the onset of British domination in India.
- Beliefs: They prioritize Islamic Sharia law, traditional practices over Sufi mystic customs, and a profound devotion to Prophet Muhammad.
- Influence: Initially rural, the movement has now pervaded urban and educated spheres in Pakistan and India, engaging actively with contemporary political issues since the 1947 Partition.
Cultural Differences and Synonyms
- Synonyms: Barelvis, Barelwis.
- Cultural Variations: Barelvis differ from Deobandis and Wahhabis in their approach to the veneration of Saintly figures and accepting certain Sufi practices.
Related Terms
- Sunnah: The practices and traditions of Prophet Muhammad.
- Sharia: Islamic canonical law derived from the Quran and Sunnah.
- Mawlid: Birth anniversary of the Prophet, often observed fervently by Barelvis.
- Fiqh: Islamic jurisprudence, interpretation of the Sharia.
Exciting Facts
- Early Advocates: The group’s scholarly and theological approach impacted other global Islamic movements.
- Devotion Practices: Known for celebrating Mawlid with great enthusiasm, something critiqued by other Islamic conservatives.
- Modern Influence: Ahmad Reza Khan Barelwi’s descendants still play significant roles in leading the community.
Quotations from Notable Writers
Ahmad Reza Khan Barelwi:
“The love for Prophet Muhammad should be the guiding principle for all actions among the faithful.”
John L. Esposito:
“Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah in South Asia continued to foster a dynamic and culturally rich interpretation of Islam, appropriate to local contexts yet rooted in classical traditions.”
Suggested Literature
- Islam and the Sects by W.C. Smith
- Barelwi Reform and Revivalism in South Asia by Usha Sanyal
- Tradition and Transformation in Islamic Law by Brinkley Messick
- Muslim Devotees: A Lifestyle Study of Barelvi Movement in India by Harriet Ronken Lynton
Inspirational Farewell
May this exploration illuminate the rich tapestry of Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah, deepening your understanding of their devotion to preserving Islamic tradition amidst modernity. 🌟
Yours in scholarly pursuit, Fatima Siddiqui 2023-10-03
### What does the term "Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah" mean?
- [x] People of the Prophet’s Way and the Community.
- [ ] Seekers of the Truth.
- [ ] Guardians of Sharia.
- [ ] Followers of Sufi Mysticism.
> **Explanation:** Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah translates to "People of the Prophet’s Way and the Community," emphasizing adherence to Prophet Muhammad's traditions and Muslim community consensus.
### Who revived the Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah movement in India in the late 19th century?
- [ ] Sayyid Ahmad Khan
- [x] Mawlana Ahmad Reza Khan Barelwi.
- [ ] Shah Waliullah
- [ ] Jamal al-Din al-Afghani
> **Explanation:** Mawlana Ahmad Reza Khan Barelwi is credited with revitalizing the Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah in northern India during the 1880s through his writings and teachings.
### In which year did British colonization of India formally begin, marking the final dissolution of the Mughal Empire?
- [x] 1857
- [ ] 1607
- [ ] 1707
- [ ] 1907
> **Explanation:** The British colonization began formally in 1857 following the failure of the Indian revolt and resulted in the dissolution of the Mughal Empire.
### What is the primary emphasis of Barelvism within the context of Islamic practices?
- [ ] Total separation from Sufism.
- [x] Adherence to Islamic law (Sharia) and personal devotion to Prophet Muhammad.
- [ ] Incorporation of Hindu practices.
- [ ] Political activism only.
> **Explanation:** Barelvism emphasizes Islamic law and a deep personal devotion to Prophet Muhammad, unlike other movements which may limit such devotions.
### What celebration is notably observed with great enthusiasm by Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah followers?
- [ ] Diwali
- [ ] Good Friday
- [x] Mawlid (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad)
- [ ] Navratri
> **Explanation:** Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah, or Barelvis, celebrate Mawlid with immense fervor, reflecting their devotion to the Prophet Muhammad.
### What impact did Mawlana Ahmad Reza Khan's writings have?
- [ ] No significant impact.
- [ ] Limited to Barelvis.
- [x] Influenced global Islamic movements.
- [ ] Political influence only.
> **Explanation:** The theological influence of Mawlana Ahmad Reza Khan Barelwi extended beyond South Asia, impacting other Islamic movements globally.
### What practice is criticized by other Islamic conservatives but observed by Barelvis?
- [ ] Fasting during Ramadan
- [ ] Performing Hajj
- [x] Celebrating Mawlid
- [ ] Daily salah (prayer)
> **Explanation:** Other Islamic conservatives criticize the Barelvi emphasis on celebrating Mawlid, the Prophet's birthday.
### How has the Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah movement shifted since its inception?
- [x] From a rural phenomenon to urban and educated circles.
- [ ] From a political movement to an apolitical one.
- [ ] From a global phenomenon to a localized one.
- [ ] From conservative to liberal practices.
> **Explanation:** Initially a rural-based movement, Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaah has permeated urban and educated sectors since its inception.
