🕌 Islam in Iraq: A Tapestry of Faith

Islam in Iraq: Historical Context, Influences, and Cultural Dynamics 🕌

Comprehensive Definition and Meaning

Islam in Iraq refers to the practice, historical development, and cultural influence of Islam in this Middle Eastern nation. A country founded in 1920 under a British mandate, Iraq hosts a diverse demographic, predominantly consisting of around 55-60% Arab Shii, 15-20% Arab Sunni, and 20% Kurdish Sunni Muslims. The city-states of Najaf and Karbala hold profound religious relevance, particularly for the Shia community worldwide.

Etymology

• Iraq: Derives potentially from the Arabic “al-ʿIrāq” which means “deeply rooted” or “fertile”.
• Islam: Rooted in the Arabic “slm” (س-ل-م), meaning submission, peace, or surrender.

Background

The contemporary borders of Iraq were established in 1920 under the British mandate following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire post-World War I. This era was marked by the establishment of new state borders, redefining political and religious landscapes in the Middle East.

Historical Facts and Dates

1. 1920: Iraq was founded under the British mandate.
2. 1958: Fall of the Monarchy - establishment of the Republic of Iraq.
3. 1968: The Baath regime gains control.
4. 1978-1979: The Iranian Revolution, led by Ayatollah Khomeini, emanating influence towards Iraq.

Cultural Differences and Similarities

Shiites and Sunnis share fundamental Islamic beliefs yet have distinct differences in religious practices, theological beliefs, and historical interpretations:

• Shiite Influence: Majority in central and southern Iraq, Shiite Islam is characterized by its significant veneration of the Imams and the Martyrdom of Husayn (AS) at Karbala.
• Sunni Muslims: Predominantly in the northern regions with Kurdish minorities, Sunni practices influence daily life and governance differently compared to Shii-driven regions.

Similarities:

• Adherence to the Five Pillars of Islam.
• Use of the Arabic language in religious practices.
• Reverence for the Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad.

Synonyms and Related Terms

• Shia Islam: (Arabic: التشيع‎ at-tašayyaʿ)
• Sunni Islam: (Arabic: أهل السنة‎ ahl as-sunnah)
• Najaf: (Arabic: النجف al-Najaf)
• Karbala: (Arabic: كربلاء Karbala)

Notable Quotations

• Ali ibn Abi Talib: “Najaf is indeed my sanctuary and the resting place of my soul.”
• Ayatollah Khomeini: “Najaf is not just a city, it is a beacon of Shia scholarship and resistance.”

References and Literature

1. Book: “The Shi’is of Iraq” by Yitzhak Nakash.
2. Book: “Karbalāʾ and Najaf: Two Shiʿi Shrines as Spiritual Centre” by Jaʿfar Jabrāl.
3. Journal Article: “The Political Role of the Shia Clergy of Najaf” by W. G. A. Orlins.

Exciting Facts

• Najaf houses the largest cemetery in the world, Wadi-us-Salaam.
• Karbala annually attracts millions of Shia pilgrims during Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali.

Further Studies and Inspiration

• Delve into the seminal works of Ayatollah Al-Sistani and his influence over Najaf’s Shia community.
• Explore the roles of Sunni and Shia scholars from Iraq in broader Islamic scholarship.

Quiz

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