Definition and Meaning
Jamaat-i Islami of Bangladesh: A prominent Islamic political party in Bangladesh, which originally was a part of Pakistan’s Jamaat-i Islami before Bangladesh’s secession in 1971. Jamaat-i Islami of Bangladesh advocates for the establishment of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law through a combination of educational, social, and political endeavors.
Etymology
The term “Jamaat-i Islami” is derived from Arabic محتمع إسلامي, signifying an Islamic society or community. “Jamaat” means community, unity, or party, and “Islami” pertains to Islam.
Background
Jamaat-i Islami was founded in British India in 1941 by Abul Ala Maududi, aiming to foster an Islamic way of life. It split following the partition of India in 1947, forming separate organizations in Pakistan and East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh).
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1941: Formation of Jamaat-i Islami by Abul Ala Maududi.
- 1947: Partition of India and split of Jamaat-i Islami into regional branches.
- 1971: Supporting a united Pakistan during the Bangladesh Liberation War.
- 1975: Readmission into Bangladeshi politics after the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
- 2001: Winning seventeen parliamentary seats and entry into the cabinet under Khaleda Zia.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Jamaat-i Islami in Bangladesh mirrors its Pakistani counterpart in ideology but faces unique political dynamics influenced by Bangladesh’s secular versus religious politics tension.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
Synonyms:
- Islamic Community
- Islamic Congregation
Antonyms:
- Secular Parties
Related Terms:
- Awami League: The primary secular opposition party in Bangladesh.
- Madrasa: Islamic educational institution often aligned with Jamaat objectives.
- Sharia: Islamic law, central to Jamaat-i Islami’s governance ideals.
Exciting Facts
- Jamaat-i Islami effectively engages student bodies and university campuses, shaping future political landscapes.
- Controversial for its alleged wartime activities during the Bangladesh Liberation War, with several leaders tried for war crimes.
Notable Quotations
Abul Ala Maududi, the founder of Jamaat-i Islami, believed:
“Islam wants the whole life of human community to be pervaded with justice, equity, and devotion to duty.”
Further Reading
To further understand Jamaat-i Islami’s historical and political evolution, refer to:
- “Islamic Politics of Bangladesh” by Ali Riaz.
- “The Mawlana and The People” by Shailendra Banerjee.
- “Political Islam in Democracy” by Olivier Roy.
- “Bangladesh: A Political History Since Independence” by Ali Riaz.
Translations
- Arabic: الجماعة الإسلامية في بنغلاديش
- Urdu: جماعت اسلامی بنگلادیش
- Bengali: বাংলাদেশ জামায়াতে ইসলামী
- Persian: جماعت اسلامی بنگلادش
- Indonesian: Jamaat-i Islami di Bangladesh
Dr. Fahimuddin Ahsan October 2023
May knowledge illuminate your path and inspire enlightened actions. 🌟
