Comprehensive Definition§
Dakwah (Malaysia) refers to the Islamic proselytization and missionary activity aimed at promulgating Islamic teachings and values in Malaysia. The term signifies a political Islamist movement that gained momentum in the 1970s, marked by intensified efforts to incorporate Islamic principles into the societal and national context. This movement sought to apply Sharia law and Islamic values throughout all facets of life, demonstrating a holistic approach towards Muslim socio-economic, educational, and spiritual development.
Etymology and Background§
Etymology: The term Dakwah or Dawah stems from the Arabic word دعوة, meaning “invitation” or “call.” In the Islamic context, it denotes inviting non-Muslims to embrace Islam and encouraging Muslims to return to the faith’s principles earnestly.
Historical Context: This concept saw particular prominence within Malaysia during the era from 1979 to 1982. The Iran Islamic Revolution significantly influenced global Islamic resurgence movements, including Dakwah in Malaysia. The Malaysian government of the 1980s incorporated Dakwah into state institutions by engaging leaders such as Anwar Ibrahim from the Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (ABIM - Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement).
Institutional Impact§
Political Integration: During the 1980s, the Dakwah movement became politically significant with figures like Anwar Ibrahim fostering the institutionalization of Islamic principles. This integration led to the establishment of key institutions such as:
- Islamic Bank: Facilitating an Islamic economic framework conforming to Sharia laws.
- International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM): Advocating for Islamic education and knowledge proliferation.
- International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC): Promoting studies and discourse around Islamic civilization and thought.
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
Culturally, the Dakwah movement in Malaysia aligns with broader Islamic missionary activities across the Islamic world but stands unique due to its profound institutional and political footprint within the Malaysian governmental framework. Similar endeavors exist across various Islamic countries, emphasizing Islamic education, law, and social policies but adapting to regional narratives and political landscapes.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms§
- Synonyms: Dawah (دعوة), Islamic Missionary Work, Proselytization.
- Antonyms: Apostasy (ارتداد), Secularism.
- Related Terms: Shariah (شريعة), ABIM, Iranian Islamic Revolution, IIUM, ISTAC.
Exciting Facts§
- Islamic Renaissance: The movement coincided with a global wave of Islamic resurgence which saw a revival of Islamic education, banking, and law.
- Women Empowerment: Contrary to external perceptions, women within these institutions like IIUM have played significant roles.
- Interreligious Dialogues: Although primarily Islamic, Dakwah also initiated dialogues for peaceful coexistence with other religious communities in Malaysia.
Quotations§
“Dakwah is not just about bringing people to Islam; it is equally about bringing Islam to the hearts of people.” - Prof. Dr. Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
“The path of Dakwah in Malaysia reflects a pioneering mix of politics and piety, reshaping both minds and systems.” - Fatimah Ahmad Kali.
References and Suggested Literature§
To delve deeper, you may reference the following literature and resources:
- “The Precarious Life of Youth” by Patricia Sloane-White
- “Islam and Political Legitimacy” by Shahram Akbarzadeh
- “Revolutionary Iran: A History of the Islamic Republic” by Michael Axworthy
- International journals on Islamization and Dakwah from IIUM and ISTAC.
“The journey of Dakwah transforms not just societies, but individual hearts and minds towards a holistic Islamic Identity.”
Mahmoud Al-Amrani
October 3, 2023
