Definition and Meaning
Islamic Party (South Africa): A South African political party established by Muslims who opted not to align with the Muslim Front. It was founded in 1992 after the Religious Charter was formulated by the South African chapter of the World Conference on Religion and Peace. Its primary goal has been to foster and develop a distinct Muslim South African political identity, although it has not secured any seats in the national legislative assembly.
Etymology
The term “Islamic” originates from the Arabic word “Islam,” meaning submission (to God), derived from the root word “s-l-m” which denotes peace or safety. The term “Party” is derived from the Latin word “pars” meaning a part or portion, which in a political context, refers to a group formed to pursue collective goals.
Background and Historical Facts
- Formation: Influenced by the political shifts and democratic movements in South Africa during the early 1990s, the Islamic Party was created by community members seeking greater representation and advocating for policies that reflected their religious values.
- 1992: Founding year after the adoption of a Religious Charter by the World Conference on Religion and Peace’s South African chapter.
- No Parliamentary Seats: The party has not won any seats in South Africa’s national assembly, indicating either a low level of electoral support or the dominance of larger political entities.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Cultural Context: The party reflects the struggle within multi-ethnic and multi-religious contexts to balance religious identities with national political participation.
- Similarity to Other Movements: Much like Islamic political movements in other countries, the Islamic Party aims to align national governance with religious principles. It shares a similar ethos with other Islamic political parties around the world, focusing on Sharia law principles within a modern state framework.
- Differences: Unlike other Islamic political entities that may have found significant success in predominantly Muslim countries, the Islamic Party operates in a diverse and predominantly non-Muslim nation.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: Muslim Political Party, Religious Political Movement, South African Muslim Party
- Antonyms: Secular Party, Non-religious Political Entity
- Related Terms: Muslim Front (a different entity), Religious Charter, World Conference on Religion and Peace
Exciting Facts
- The party’s lack of parliamentary success provides a case study in the electoral dynamics and challenges faced by religious-based parties in secular democracies.
- The Religious Charter that inspired the party underscores a notable intersection of religious missions and political actions.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “The power of a unified community lies not just in its numbers, but in its moral vision.” – Fictitious quote by Ahmed Saeed, renowned Islamic scholar.
- “As multi-faceted as South African society is, so must be its political initiatives, allowing space for religious as well as secular voices.” – Fictitious quote by Fatimah Dlamini, South African political analyst.
Further Studies and Literature
To further explore the concepts surrounding religious political parties and the Islamic Party in particular, consider these writings:
- “Islam and Democracy” by John L. Esposito
- “Islamic Political Movements in the Modern Era” by Ibrahim Kalin
- “Muslims in South Africa: An Historical Overview” by Ahmad Najib
- “Religion and Politics in Post-Apartheid South Africa” by Adam Habib
Related Translations
- Arabic: الحزب الإسلامي (جنوب أفريقيا)
- Urdu: اسلامی پارٹی (جنوبی افریقہ)
Quizzes
Farewell Thought
“In the mosaic of diverse societies, the inclusion of all voices, including those rooted in faith, enriches the tapestry of democracy. May we strive for unity in diversity, allowing every belief to illuminate the broader horizon of human experience.”
Pub. Date: October 04, 2023
By: Fatima Ahmed
