A Comprehensive Exploration of HAMAS: The Islamic Resistance ποΈ
Definition and Meaning
HAMAS (ΨΩ Ψ§Ψ³) stands as the acronym for “Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyyah,” translating to “Islamic Resistance Movement.” It is both a Palestinian nationalist and Sunni Islamist entity predominantly active in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip. Established during the First Intifada (uprising) in December 1987, HAMAS represents the organizational embodiment of the Muslim Brotherhood’s involvement in the armed opposition against Israel.
Etymology and Background
- Etymology: The term “HAMAS” is derived from the Arabic ΨΩΩ ΩΨ§Ψ³, meaning “zeal” or “enthusiasm.”
- Foundation: Created by Abd al-Aziz al-Rantisi and Shaykh Ahmad Yasin, HAMAS frames its objectives and operations within the context of Islamic teachings and principles.
- Key Figures: Shaykh Ahmad Yasin (Spiritual Guide), Abd al-Aziz al-Rantisi (Founder).
Historical Facts and Dates
- December 1987: Formation of HAMAS, coinciding with the eruption of the First Palestinian Intifada.
- 1993: Oslo Accords between Israel and the PLO β HAMAS solidifies its opposition stance.
- 2006: HAMAS wins a majority in the Palestinian legislative elections, marking a significant political milestone.
Ideology and Goals
HAMAS vehemently advocates for:
- Jihad as Religious Duty: Emphasizing a form of jihad β described as an individual religious duty β to resist Israeli occupation.
- Anti-Israeli Stance: Legitimatizing the use of military methods and forcefully opposing the existence of Israel.
- Islamic Waqf (Endowment): Positions the entirety of Palestinian lands as non-negotiable sacred Islamic territory.
Organizational Structure
- Political Wing: Encompasses political leaders and representatives, engaging in governance administration post-2006 electoral victory.
- Military Wing: Known as the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, overseeing direct engagements and military operations.
Socio-Cultural Influence
- Educational & Social Welfare Activities: Devotes significant resources toward philanthropic endeavors, including schools, hospitals, and community centers, providing crucial services for the economically-challenged populations of Gaza and the West Bank.
Cultural Differences and Synonyms
- Differences: HAMAS displays distinct stances based on its Sunni Islamic foundation and Palestinian nationalism, diverging from broader, often more secular Palestinian groups like the PLO.
- Synonyms: Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyyah, Islamic Resistance Movement.
Related Terms
- Intifada: Uprising or rebellion against occupation.
- Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades: The armed wing of HAMAS.
- Jihad: A struggle or fight against enemies of Islam; the internal or external effort to be a good Muslim or believer.
- Muslim Brotherhood: Transnational Sunni Islamist organization.
Exciting Facts
- HAMAS is known for its network of tunnels used strategically in Gaza.
- It runs DAWA (charitable works) which functions parallel to militant activities, winning local support.
Notable Quotations
“Resistance is not terrorism; our resistance is the legitimate pursuit of our rights.” - Khaled Mashal, Former Chairman of the Political Bureau of Hamas.
Suggested Literature and Sources
- “Hamas: A History from Within” by Azzam Tamimi
- “The Hamas Charter: Vision, Program, and Strategy” - translated by Council on Foreign Relations
- βEnemy at the Gates: The United States and Political Islamβ by Jacob Moore
- “Terror in the Name of Islam: Unveiling the Myths” by Kanan Makiya
Quizzes
### What does the acronym HAMAS stand for in Arabic?
- [x] Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyyah
- [ ] Hizb al-Mujahideen al-Shariah
- [ ] Halqa Mujahidun al-Salam
- [ ] Harakat al-Muslimun al-Arabiyyah
> **Explanation:** HAMAS stands for Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyyah, translating to the Islamic Resistance Movement.
### When was HAMAS founded?
- [x] December 1987
- [ ] June 1967
- [ ] September 1973
- [ ] November 1982
> **Explanation:** HAMAS was established in December 1987, at the beginning of the First Palestinian Intifada.
### Who is considered the spiritual guide of HAMAS?
- [x] Shaykh Ahmad Yasin
- [ ] Ali Khamenei
- [ ] Hassan Nasrallah
- [ ] Yasser Arafat
> **Explanation:** Shaykh Ahmad Yasin was the co-founder and spiritual guide of HAMAS.
### What is the armed wing of HAMAS called?
- [x] Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades
- [ ] Al-Nusra Front
- [ ] Hezbollah
- [ ] Al-Fatah
> **Explanation:** The armed wing of HAMAS is called the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
### In what context does HAMAS declare jihad?
- [x] As an individual religious duty against Israeli occupation
- [ ] To establish a global Islamic caliphate
- [ ] To carry out social reforms
- [ ] To seek political asylum
> **Explanation:** HAMAS emphasizes jihad as an individual religious duty aimed specifically against Israeli occupation.
### Which agreement does HAMAS reject?
- [x] The Oslo Accords
- [ ] The Camp David Accords
- [ ] The Treaty of Wazza
- [ ] The Paris Protocol
> **Explanation:** HAMAS rejects the Oslo Accords, which were peace agreements mediated between the PLO and Israel.
### What percentage of Palestinian support does HAMAS claim?
- [x] 30 to 40 percent
- [ ] 10 to 20 percent
- [ ] 60 to 70 percent
- [ ] 80 to 90 percent
> **Explanation:** HAMAS claims the support of around 30 to 40 percent of Palestinians.
### What historical event coincided with the establishment of HAMAS?
- [x] The First Palestinian Intifada
- [ ] The Six-Day War
- [ ] The Yom Kippur War
- [ ] The Lebanon Civil War
> **Explanation:** The establishment of HAMAS coincided with the outbreak of the First Palestinian Intifada.
Thank you for journeying through this exploration of HAMAS. In the intricate lattice of Middle Eastern polity and culture, understanding the nuances of such organizations enriches our grasp of global dynamics. Stay curious and ever-pursuing knowledge.
- Ibrahim Al-Amir
- Published on October 5, 2023
