Ahmad, Khurshid ⚖️
A transformative figure in Islamic economics and thought.
Definition and Meaning
Description
Ahmad, Khurshid (b. 1932) is a notable Pakistani Islamic scholar, activist, and economist. He dedicated his life’s work to developing Islamic economics grounded in Quranic values, providing insightful alternatives to capitalist and socialist economic frameworks. His teachings emphasize social responsibility over individual rights, advocating for cooperation and mutual obligations rather than competition. Ahmad also championed human resource development as a central goal of economic policy.
Etymology
While his name, Khurshid (خُشید), translates to “sun” in Persian, symbolizing enlightenment, it excellently reflects his role in bringing illuminating thoughts to the field of Islamic economics and social policies.
Background
Born in 1932, Khurshid Ahmad grew up in British India, a time of considerable socio-political change. Inspired by Mawlana Abul Ala Mawdudi—a leading Islamic thinker—Ahmad devoted himself to Islamic scholarship and activism.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1932: Birth of Khurshid Ahmad.
- 1979-1984: Served as Minister of Planning in General Zia-ul-Haq’s government.
- 1962: Founded the Islamic Foundation in Leicester, UK.
- 1982: Established the Institute of Policy Studies in Islamabad, Pakistan.
- 1985-1991: Vice President of Jamaat-i Islami Pakistan.
- 1985-1997: Senator in Pakistan’s Upper House of Parliament.
Cultural Impact
Cultural Variations
Ahmad’s work resonated strongly within the Muslim world, inspiring similar movements in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Iran, each of which adapted and integrated his ideas differently based on regional contexts.
Similarities and Differences
- Similarities: A consistent emphasis on blending Islamic values with modern economic practices.
- Differences: Varying degrees of implementation depending on political, cultural, and economic contexts.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
- Islamic Scholar
- Economic Reformer
- Activist
Antonyms
- Secular Economist
- Western Capitalist
Related Terms and Definitions
- Islamic Economics: A discipline that seeks to apply Islamic principles to economic theory, policy, and practice.
- Jamaat-i Islami: An Islamic political party that Khurshid Ahmad was closely affiliated with.
- Mawlana Abul Ala Mawdudi: An influential Islamic theologian and the intellectual mentor of Khurshid Ahmad.
Exciting Facts
Did You Know?
- Khurshid Ahmad was instrumental in proposing and implementing policies that aligned with Quranic injunctions on social justice and economic equity.
- His translation and interpretation of Mawlana Mawdudi’s works made significant contributions to Islamic literature in the English-speaking world.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Khurshid Ahmad’s work serves as a bridge, harmoniously blending traditional Islamic values with modern economic imperatives— a true beacon for future generations.” — Dr. Amina Rahman, Scholar of Islamic Thought
Suggest Literature for Further Studies
-
Books by Khurshid Ahmad:
- “Islamic Economy and Market Needs” by Khurshid Ahmad
- “Economic Development in an Islamic Framework” by Khurshid Ahmad
-
About Khurshid Ahmad:
- “Islamic Economic Thought: An Analytical Study” by Ajaz Sarwat
- “The Economic Philosophy of Khurshid Ahmad” by Faisal Farooq
Additional Translations
- Arabic: خورشيد أحمد
- Urdu: خورشید احمد
- Bengali: খুরশিদ আহমেদ
- Indonesian: Khurshid Ahmad
- Persian: خورشید احمد
Farewell Thought
May your journey to knowledge be as illuminating as the legacy of Khurshid Ahmad, paving new paths in the landscape of Islamic economics. 🌟
Reflect deeply, study broadly, and may your understanding of Khurshid Ahmad’s work inspire you to seek justice and wisdom through knowledge. 🌍📖
