Confessions Of A Lapsed Islamist
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Confessions of a Lapsed Islamist
Is Islamism Truly Islam?
Islamism Defined
Islamism can be understood as a political movement originating in the 20th century, aiming to establish Islamic governments in Muslim-majority countries. Key thinkers like Sayyid Qutb, Maududi, Ayatollah Khomeini, and Hassan al-Turabi have influenced its development, impacting nations such as Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Turkey, Palestine, Somalia, Sudan, and Pakistan. These movements often start with a select, devout group that initiates both political and community action. Interestingly, this approach has been mirrored by some Christian groups transforming religious influence into political clout.
Islam versus Islamism
Islam itself is the practice and belief rooted in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), defining a Muslim's way of life. Despite varying religious backgrounds among Islamists, their political methods and governance models share surprising similarities. For instance, Khomeini, a Twelver Shia, and Qutb, an inspiration for both the Muslim Brotherhood and Al Qaeda, illustrate differing theological views but parallel political strategies.
Characteristics of Islamist Governments
Typically, Islamist governments are one-party systems with limited opposition. Though often coming to power through elections, they tend to neglect public participation and transparency, frequently controlling media and avoiding gradual change. Despite strong commitments to social justice and official accountability, these qualities can erode in the face of unchecked power. Power often concentrates among a spiritual elite, as seen in Iran's Guardian Council.
Social and Economic Focus
Islamist regimes frequently focus on enforcing outward Islamic practices such as dress codes and prohibitions on alcohol, while neglecting broader systemic reforms. There's no single economic policy among them, but a deterministic economic model?"often unsuccessful and ironically un-Islamic?"is prevalent.
Legal and Governance Issues
Authoritarian in nature, these governments aim to implement their version of Sharia law but lack a consistent rule of law. They avoid independent judiciaries and focus narrowly on aspects like Hudud, hindering social stability and economic progress.
Historical Context and Challenges
Islamist regimes share more in common with early 20th-century Marxist regimes than with the Prophet’s governance model in Medina. This reflects an education gap among Islamists and reluctance to learn from non-Muslim scholars regarding governance failures. Islamist governments tend to impose their will without persuasion, confusing their survival with that of Islam.
Critical Insights
Youssef Choueiri highlights the resemblance between Alexis Carrel’s ideas and Qutb’s, suggesting a blend of foreign influences rather than authentic Islamic governance. While not synonymous with fascism, and with variations among thinkers, there are authoritarian tendencies within certain Islamist writings.
Lessons from the Prophet's Leadership
In pre-Islamic Arabia, governance was minimal, yet the Prophet (PBUH) expanded his influence gradually through community support. Even with authority, he applied Islamic rules sparingly and upheld justice for all. The independence and fairness of Islamic law contrast sharply with today’s Islamist doctrines.
Contemporary Reflections and Regrets
Today's Islamists often regret prioritizing political power over religious principles. Their political ventures have stalled religious movements, causing concern among those committed to promoting Islam’s values. The assumption that governance will foster religious adherence is contradicted by the need to practice faith genuinely first.
Conclusion
Contemporary Islamism risks losing its authenticity and cannot thrive without reformulating itself. Shedding its outdated influences and engaging with broader philosophical ideas is crucial. Islamists must demonstrate governance capabilities, prioritize community over empty ideology, and learn from global thinkers to remain relevant and true to Islamic heritage.
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