##🕌 The Call of Islam (COI) - Breaking the Chains of Apartheid
Definition and Meaning
Call of Islam (COI) refers to a breakaway group from the Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa (MYMSA) formed in 1984. Led by Farid Esack and Ebrahim Rasool, COI advocated against apartheid and sought to integrate Islamic principles with the anti-apartheid struggle, aligning itself with the strategies and vision of the United Democratic Front (UDF), the internal wing of the African National Congress (ANC). Although the movement is now in decline, its legacy remains influential in South African history.
Etymology and Background
The etymology of “Call of Islam” signifies a religious and moral plea. The term “call” implies a summons or appeal, while “Islam” denotes the faith, reflecting the group’s intention of invoking Islamic teachings in socio-political activism.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1984: Formation of Call of Islam upon separation from MYMSA.
- 1980s: COI actively participated in the anti-apartheid movement, aligning with the UDF.
- 1994: South Africa transitions to a democratic regime; beginning of COI’s decline.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
COI juxtaposed Islamic values with struggle paradigms that generally influenced non-Muslim South African resistance groups, emphasizing inclusion across various racial and religious lines. This inclusive approach resonated with broader anti-apartheid efforts, paralleling organizations like the UDF and ANC while maintaining distinct religious roots.
Synonyms, Antonyms, & Related Terms:
- Synonyms:
- Islamic Anti-Apartheid Group
- Antonyms:
- Pro-Apartheid Movements
- Related Terms:
- MYMSA: Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa, the origin group of COI.
- UDF: United Democratic Front, the broader anti-apartheid coalition COI affiliated with.
- ANC: African National Congress, South Africa’s primary liberation movement.
Exciting Facts:
- COI leaders Farid Esack and Ebrahim Rasool later held significant political and academic roles in post-apartheid South Africa.
- COI’s activism embraced interfaith solidarity, connecting with various religious communities to oppose apartheid collectively.
Quotations from Notable Writers:
- “In its time, the Call of Islam stood as a beacon of Islamic solidarity against racial injustice.” — Farid Esack.
Suggested Literature and Further Sources:
- ** “Qur’an, Liberation and Pluralism: An Islamic Perspective of Interreligious Solidarity Against Oppression”** by Farid Esack.
- “Muslims in South Africa: An Untold Story” edited by Nazeem Goolam.
- “Apartheid in Africa: Impact on Islam and Muslim Societies” by Ebrahim Moosa.
Translations:
- Arabic: دعوة الإسلام (Da’wat al-Islam)
- Urdu: اسلامي دعوت (Islami Dawat)
- Indonesian: Seruan Islam
- Persian: ندای اسلام (Neda-e Islam)
Closing Thought:
Embracing the lessons of the past empowers us to forge a future rooted in justice, equality, and universal brotherhood. The Call of Islam exemplifies how faith can unite diverse communities under the banner of righteous struggle.
