Definition and Meaning
Faraj, Muhammad Abd al-Salam: An influential ideologue and leader of Islamic Jihad in Egypt, Muhammad Abd al-Salam Faraj (d. 1976) argued that Muslims were obligated to engage in armed revolt against the Egyptian government. He claimed that by adopting Western-inspired legal codes over Islamic law (Sharia), the government had lost its Islamic legitimacy and must be replaced by an Islamic regime.
Etymology
- Faraj (ูุฑุฌ): Means ‘relief’ or ‘deliverance’ in Arabic.
- Muhammad Abd al-Salam: A common Muslim name meaning ‘Muhammad, servant of peace.’
Background and Historical Facts
Muhammad Abd al-Salam Faraj was born in Egypt and became a pivotal figure in the Islamic Jihad movement. His life spanned a crucial period in modern Egyptian history, marked by intense political and social upheaval. Faraj authored the influential pamphlet “Al-Farida al-Gha’iba” (“The Neglected Duty”), which articulated his doctrine that jihad should prioritize fighting internal “un-Islamic” regimes before external enemies.
Historical Milestones:
- 1976: The year Faraj was killed, marking his role as a martyr for his cause.
- 1981: The assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat by members of Islamic Jihad, a direct manifestation of Faraj’s ideology.
Cultural Context
In various Islamic cultures, the term “Jihad” has multiple connotations. While Faraj and his followers interpreted it as armed struggle, the concept of Jihad in many other Islamic communities is often understood as a spiritual or moral struggle.
Synonyms and Antonyms
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Synonyms:
- Militant Islamism
- Religious Insurrection
- Political Jihad
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Antonyms:
- Pacifism
- Secularism
- Diplomatic Engagement
Related Terms with Definitions
- Jihad: Struggle or effort in the way of Allah, often misunderstood to only mean armed struggle.
- Sharia: Islamic canonical law based on the teachings of the Quran and Hadith.
- Islamic Jihad: An Islamist militant organization considered as an armed wing advocating for the implementation of Sharia.
Exciting Facts
- Faraj’s philosophy emphasized “near enemy” (Muslim governments perceived as corrupt or un-Islamic) over the “far enemy” (non-Muslim countries).
- His thoughts greatly influenced later Islamist movements, most notably Al Qaeda.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “Faraj’s pamphlet ‘The Neglected Duty’ remains a chilling blueprint for the theology of armed jihad against secular governments.” - Scholar John Esposito.
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “The Management of Savagery” by Abu Bakr Naji โ a book discussing Islamist strategies, featuring Faraj’s influence.
- “Inside Egypt: The Land of the Pharaohs on the Brink of a Revolution” by John R. Bradley โ touches upon the socio-political environment in which figures like Faraj gained influence.
- “Jihad: The Trail of Political Islam” by Gilles Kepel โ offers insight into how Farajโs ideas shaped modern political Islam.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
“In understanding the past, we grasp the echoes of ideologies that continue to shape our world. Let us stride towards a future enlightened by knowledge and devoid of prejudice.”
