Jamaat-i Islami: Definition, Etymology, and Background
Jamaat-i Islami (جماعتِ اسلامی) is a Pakistani Islamic revivalist party established by Mawlana Abu al-Ala Maw-dudi in 1941 in pre-partition India. It aims at the reformation of society via education and religious invitations (Da’wah) rather than coercion. Its vision is the establishment of a political system based on Islamic principles and Sharia (Islamic law).
Etymology:
The term Jamaat-i Islami derives from Arabic. The word “Jamaat” (جماعة) means “group” or “community,” and “Islami” (إسلامي) means “Islamic.”
Historical Facts and Dates:
- 1941: Founded by Mawlana Abu al-Ala Maw-dudi in British India.
- 1951: Began direct political participation through elections.
- 1977-1988: Political prominence during General Zia-ul-Haq’s regime.
- 1980s: Played a pivotal role in Afghan resistance against USSR.
Cultural Differences and Similarities:
While Jamaat-i Islami shares the revivalist spirit of Islamic movements globally, its organizational structure and political strategies are uniquely tailored to Pakistan’s socio-political landscape.
Synonyms:
- Islamic Community
- Islamic Group
Antonyms:
- Secular Organizations
- Liberal Political Parties
Related Terms:
- Sharia (شريعة): Islamic law.
- Definition: A set of religious principles that form part of the Islamic tradition.
- Da’wah (دعوة): The act of inviting people to Islam.
- Definition: Propagation or missionary activities aiming to introduce Islam to others.
- Mawlana Abu al-Ala Maw-dudi (مولانا أبو الأعلى المودودي): Founder and ideologue of Jamaat-i Islami.
- Definition: A prominent Islamic thinker and political figure.
Exciting Facts:
- Jamaat-i Islami’s ideology integrates religion directly into politics, drawing from Mawdudi’s interpretation of Islam as a comprehensive system.
- The party’s extensive network includes influential affiliations with educational institutions, civil services, and the military.
Quotations:
“Islam is not merely a revolution in rituals or beliefs. It demands a total revolution in human society concerning politics, economics, and justice.” – Mawlana Abu al-Ala Maududi
Suggested Literature for Further Studies:
- Books:
- “Islamic Revival in South Asia” by Tayyib Jan
- “The Islamist” by Ed Husain
- “Islam and the Political Order” by Erika Friedl
- Journals:
- “Journal of Islamic Studies”
- “Islamic Politics Quarterly”
- Articles:
- “The Role of Jamaat-i Islami in Pakistan’s Politics” - Asim Mumtaz
- “Religious Radicalism and Politics in South Asia” - Rahul P. Mishra
Inspirational Thought:
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, and so does the revival of a civilization. Each drop of sincere effort within the Jamaat-i Islami adds to the ocean of transformative power in society.”
author: “© Rashid Al-Amin, Published on 2023-10-03”
Farewell Thought: “Never underestimate the power of committed people coming together to uphold and spread their beliefs. Their unwavering spirit often leads to inspiring transformations beyond imagination.”
