✊ Understanding Jamatul Nasril Islam: The 🕌 Nigerian Society for the Victory of Islam

October 12, 2023 4 min read Yasmin Suleiman Religion Islamic Studies African Studies History Islam Jamatul Nasril Islam Nigerian History Sufi Orders Abubakar Gumi

Delve into the history and significance of Jamatul Nasril Islam, a pivotal organization in Nigeria from 1962, uniting diverse Muslim factions under a common cause. Explore its establishment, key influencers, and role in mediating conflicts within the Muslim community.

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🕌 Jamatul Nasril Islam: Definition and Meaning

Jamatul Nasril Islam—also known as JNI and the Society for the Victory of Islam—is an influential Islamic organization established in Nigeria in 1962. Its primary mission was to transcend divisions among Muslims in Nigeria, acting as a bridge between various factions.

Etymology and Background

The term “Jamatul Nasril Islam” comes from the Arabic components:

Jamaʿa (جمعة) meaning ‘group’
Naṣr (نصر) meaning ‘victory’ or ‘support’
Islām (إسلام) meaning ‘submission’ or ‘Islam’

Thus, “Jamatul Nasril Islam” can be translated as “The Society for the Victory of Islam.”

Historical Facts and Dates

1962: Formation of JNI with the aim to unite Nigerian Muslims and foster cooperation despite different Islamic ideologies.
1988-1990: During a period of tension within the Muslim community in Nigeria, JNI played a crucial role in mediating conflicts and establishing reconciliation among major Muslim groups.

Key Figures

Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto: Instrumental in supporting the creation of JNI.
Abubakar Gumi: Influential Islamic reform advocate who played a key role in advising on the formation of JNI.

Cultural Context

In the northern part of Nigeria, the influence of Sufi orders is deeply rooted. There has, however, always been a tension between the Sufi and anti-Sufi movements, with JNI serving as somewhat of a mediator to bring these groups together for a common cause.

Synonyms: Society for the Victory of Islam, Islamic Association of Nigeria
Antonyms: Secular Organizations
Related Terms:
- Sufism: A form of Islamic mysticism.
- Salafism: A movement within Islam emphasizing a return to what its adherents consider the original teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Reconciliation: An act of causing two people or groups to become friendly again after an argument or disagreement.

Exciting Facts and Quotations

Fact: The JNI had a significant peacemaking role in Northern Nigeria where political and religious tensions have historically been high.
Quotation: “To unite in purpose is to multiply the strength and spirit of Islam.” - Ahmadu Bello

References and Suggested Literature

Books:
- “The Arms of Nigeria’s Military Democracy” by Ibraheem Sulaiman
- “The Religious Factor in Nigerian Politics” by Bala Usman
Articles:
- “Islam and Politics in Nigeria” featured in the Journal of Modern African Studies.

Inspirational Farewell

In a world where unity may seem elusive, understanding organizations like Jamatul Nasril Islam reminds us that cooperation and reconciliation can lead to profound victories. Keep exploring the depths of your community’s history, for therein lies the power to inspire and unite.

Yasmin Suleiman, 2023

### What is the main purpose of Jamatul Nasril Islam? - [x] To transcend divisions among Muslims in Nigeria. - [ ] To promote secularism in Nigeria. - [ ] To spread Western culture. - [ ] To establish a new political order. > **Explanation:** JNI’s primary mission is to foster unity among diverse Muslim factions in Nigeria. ### When was Jamatul Nasril Islam established? - [x] 1962 - [ ] 1945 - [ ] 1979 - [ ] 1990 > **Explanation:** JNI was established in 1962 with support from significant figures like Ahmadu Bello and advice from Abubakar Gumi. ### Who was the Sardauna of Sokoto who supported the creation of JNI? - [x] Ahmadu Bello - [ ] Abubakar Tafawa Balewa - [ ] Muhammadu Buhari - [ ] Olusegun Obasanjo > **Explanation:** Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, was a keen supporter of JNI’s formation. ### Which Islamic movement did Abubakar Gumi lead? - [x] Anti-Sufi movement - [ ] Sufi movement - [ ] Sunni revivalist movement - [ ] Shia movement > **Explanation:** Abubakar Gumi was a leading figure of the anti-Sufi movement in Nigeria. ### During which years did the JNI mediate conflicts within the Muslim community in Nigeria? - [x] 1988-1990 - [ ] 1962-1965 - [ ] 2001-2003 - [ ] 2010-2012 > **Explanation:** JNI played a vital role in mediating tensions during the years 1988-1990. ### Which of the following is not a related term to JNI? - [ ] Sufism - [x] Secularism - [ ] Reconciliation - [ ] Salafism > **Explanation:** Secularism, which is the principle of separation of religious institutions from governmental institutions, is not related to JNI's mission. ### What was the outcome of JNI's mediation during 1988-1990? - [x] Formal reconciliation of major Muslim groups. - [ ] Greater divisions among Muslim factions. - [ ] Disbandment of the organization. - [ ] Initiation of judicial proceedings. > **Explanation:** JNI’s mediation led to a formal reconciliation among the major Muslim groups in Nigeria during a period of tension. ### What does "Naṣr" in Jamatul Nasril Islam mean? - [x] Victory - [ ] Unity - [ ] Peace - [ ] Knowledge > **Explanation:** "Naṣr" in Arabic means victory or support, emphasizing the mission of JNI to support and uplift Islam.

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