13.4 Islam in the Modern World

Islamic Modernism is a reformist movement within Islam that seeks to reconcile Islamic faith and values with modernity, emphasizing the need for change in response to contemporary challenges. This movement advocates for the reinterpretation of Islamic texts and traditions to align with modern scientific, social, and political developments, aiming to create a more progressive and pluralistic Islamic society.

Secularism: The principle of separating religion from political, social, and educational institutions, allowing for a more pluralistic approach to governance.

Pan-Islamism: A political movement aimed at uniting Muslims worldwide under a single political and cultural identity, often in response to colonialism.

Reformism: A broader ideological approach that advocates for change within religious practices and beliefs to adapt to modern conditions and ideas.

Globalization is the process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, cultures, and economies, driven by advancements in technology, communication, and trade. This phenomenon influences cultural exchange, economic relationships, and social dynamics across the globe, significantly impacting various aspects of life, including religion.

Cultural Diffusion: The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, often facilitated by globalization.

Transnationalism: A social phenomenon where individuals or groups maintain connections across national borders, often leading to a blend of cultural practices.

Economic Integration: The process by which countries reduce barriers to trade and investment, fostering economic interdependence and collaboration.

Secularization is the process by which religious institutions, practices, and beliefs lose their social significance in a society, leading to a shift towards non-religious values and institutions. This phenomenon often reflects broader cultural and societal changes where religion's influence diminishes, resulting in a more secular public sphere. Secularization can manifest in various forms, including the separation of church and state, declining religious participation, and an increase in secular ideologies.

Pluralism: The coexistence of multiple religious beliefs and practices within a society, allowing for a diversity of perspectives and reducing the dominance of any single faith.

Rationalism: A belief system emphasizing reason and logic as the primary sources of knowledge and decision-making, often contrasting with faith-based approaches.

Religious Disaffiliation: The process through which individuals or groups formally distance themselves from organized religion, often leading to a decline in religious identification.

Islamic finance refers to the financial activities that comply with Islamic law (Sharia), which prohibits activities such as usury (riba) and excessive uncertainty (gharar). This form of finance promotes risk-sharing and ethical investments, aligning financial practices with Islamic principles. It plays a significant role in the modern economic landscape, providing an alternative to conventional finance and catering to the needs of Muslim populations worldwide.

Sharia Compliance: The adherence to Islamic law in all financial transactions and practices, ensuring that they do not involve prohibited activities.

Riba: The Arabic term for interest or usury, which is strictly forbidden in Islamic finance as it is considered exploitative.

Mudarabah: A form of partnership in Islamic finance where one party provides capital while the other manages the investment, sharing profits according to pre-agreed ratios.

Halal refers to what is permissible or lawful in Islamic law, particularly in relation to dietary practices. The term is derived from Arabic and plays a crucial role in the lives of Muslims, guiding not only what they eat but also how they conduct themselves in various aspects of life. Understanding halal helps illuminate the intersections between religious beliefs, culture, and modern consumerism.

haram: Haram denotes what is prohibited or forbidden in Islamic law, often used in contrast to halal.

Zabiha: Zabiha refers to the method of slaughtering animals in accordance with Islamic law, ensuring that the meat is halal.

Tayyib: Tayyib means wholesome or good and is often associated with halal to emphasize that food should be pure and healthy.

Islamic feminism is a movement that seeks to promote women's rights and gender equality within the framework of Islamic law and teachings. It emphasizes the interpretation of Islamic texts in a way that empowers women and challenges patriarchal structures in Muslim societies, advocating for a reinterpretation of traditional religious beliefs to align with contemporary notions of equality and justice.

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, which governs the moral and legal aspects of the lives of Muslims.

Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power, dominating in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

Gender Justice: The fair treatment of individuals regardless of their gender, aiming to address inequalities and promote equal rights in society.

Amina Wadud is a prominent Islamic feminist scholar and activist known for her groundbreaking work on gender and Islam. She gained significant attention for her advocacy of women’s rights within the framework of Islamic teachings, especially through her interpretation of the Quran and emphasis on gender equality in religious practice.

Islamic Feminism: A movement that seeks to address gender inequality within Islam by advocating for women's rights through reinterpretation of religious texts.

Quranic Interpretation: The study and explanation of the Quran's meanings, which can vary widely depending on the scholar's perspective, particularly concerning gender issues.

Gender Equality: The state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender, a principle that Wadud argues should be central to Islamic teachings.

Fatima Mernissi was a prominent Moroccan feminist writer and sociologist known for her critical analysis of the role of women in Islam and her advocacy for women's rights within Islamic societies. Her work challenged traditional interpretations of Islamic texts and aimed to empower women by highlighting their historical contributions and rights, making her a key figure in discussions surrounding Islam in the modern world.

Islamic Feminism: A movement that seeks to address issues of gender equality and women's rights within the context of Islam, advocating for a reinterpretation of religious texts to support women's empowerment.

Veil: A piece of clothing worn by some Muslim women, often symbolizing modesty and cultural identity, which has been the subject of much debate regarding its implications for women's freedom and autonomy.

Gender Roles: The societal expectations and norms that dictate how individuals should behave based on their gender, which can often restrict women's opportunities and rights in various cultures, including Islamic societies.

Islamic fundamentalism is a movement within Islam that seeks to return to what its followers perceive as the original principles and practices of the religion, emphasizing strict adherence to Islamic law (Sharia) and often opposing modern interpretations of Islam. This movement often arises in response to perceived threats from Western influence and seeks to create a society governed by Islamic values, impacting both cultural practices and political structures.

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, governing all aspects of a Muslim's life, including daily routines, ethics, and legal matters.

Jihad: A term often associated with Islamic fundamentalism, referring to the struggle or effort in the path of God, which can manifest as both personal spiritual growth and collective action, including militant struggles.

Salafism: A branch of Islamic fundamentalism that advocates a return to the practices of the earliest Muslims (the Salaf) and often emphasizes a literal interpretation of Islamic texts.

Salafism is a conservative movement within Sunni Islam that advocates a return to the practices of the early Muslim community, specifically the Salaf, which refers to the first three generations of Muslims. This movement emphasizes strict adherence to the Quran and Hadith, rejecting any innovations or deviations in religious practice and belief. Salafism plays a significant role in shaping contemporary Islamic thought and has influenced various political movements and ideologies in the modern world.

Wahhabism: A reformist Islamic doctrine founded by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab in the 18th century, promoting a strict interpretation of Islam similar to Salafism.

Jihad: An Arabic term meaning 'struggle' or 'striving,' often used in an Islamic context to refer to both personal spiritual struggle and armed struggle in defense of the faith.

Ikhwan al-Muslimin: Also known as the Muslim Brotherhood, it is a transnational Sunni Islamist organization that seeks to implement Islamic law and promote social justice, sometimes in contrast to Salafi principles.

Wahhabism is a strict, puritanical interpretation of Sunni Islam founded by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab in the 18th century. It emphasizes a return to what adherents believe to be the original principles of Islam, advocating for monotheism and the rejection of practices considered innovations or idolatry. This movement has played a significant role in shaping contemporary Islamic thought and practices, especially in Saudi Arabia, where it is closely associated with the state and its governance.

Salafism: A reform movement within Sunni Islam that seeks to return to the practices of the 'salaf' or the early generations of Muslims, similar to Wahhabism but with broader interpretations.

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith that governs all aspects of a Muslim's life, which Wahhabism strictly adheres to in its interpretation.

Ikhwan: A religious militia formed in the early 20th century by Wahhabi leaders to enforce Islamic law and Wahhabi doctrines, playing a significant role in Saudi Arabian history.

Islamism is a political ideology that seeks to implement Islamic principles and laws in government and society. It often emphasizes the belief that Islam should guide all aspects of life, including politics, law, and education, aiming to create a state governed by Islamic law or Sharia. This movement has gained prominence in the modern world as various groups advocate for the integration of religion and governance, leading to both reformist and radical approaches within the broader Muslim community.

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and the Hadith, governing various aspects of a Muslim's life including moral conduct, family relations, and legal matters.

Jihadism: A radical interpretation of jihad that promotes armed struggle to defend or spread Islam, often associated with extremist groups.

Political Islam: A broader term that encompasses various movements aiming to establish a political system based on Islamic principles, which includes both moderate and radical forms.

Sharia refers to Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, guiding the moral, ethical, and legal aspects of Muslim life. It encompasses both personal conduct and community regulations, shaping the daily lives of Muslims and influencing various aspects of society, including governance and justice.

Quran: The holy book of Islam, believed to be the literal word of God as revealed to Prophet Muhammad, serving as a primary source for sharia.

Hadith: The recorded sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad that complement the Quran, providing additional guidance for interpreting sharia.

Fiqh: Islamic jurisprudence that deals with the interpretation and application of sharia law in different contexts.

The Muslim Brotherhood is a transnational Islamic organization founded in Egypt in 1928 by Hassan al-Banna, aiming to promote Islamic values and establish a society governed by Islamic law. The Brotherhood has played a significant role in modern Islamic political movements, influencing various social, political, and religious landscapes across the Arab world and beyond.

Hassan al-Banna: The founder of the Muslim Brotherhood, he emphasized the need for social reform based on Islamic principles and advocated for a revival of Islamic values in society.

Islamism: A political ideology that seeks to implement Islamic law and principles in government and society, often associated with movements like the Muslim Brotherhood.

Jihadism: A more militant interpretation of Islam that advocates for armed struggle in defense of Islam, often at odds with the non-violent approach of the Muslim Brotherhood.

Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist political and militant organization that emerged in the late 1980s, primarily in the Gaza Strip. It is known for its social services and its military wing, which has been involved in armed conflict against Israel, positioning itself as a significant player in Palestinian politics and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Islamism: A political ideology that seeks to implement Islamic law and principles in government and society, often associated with groups like Hamas.

PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization): An organization founded in 1964 to centralize the leadership of various Palestinian groups and promote the Palestinian cause; it has historically been a rival to Hamas.

Intifada: A series of Palestinian uprisings against Israeli occupation, with the first Intifada occurring from 1987 to 1993, during which Hamas gained prominence.

Al-Qaeda is a militant Islamist organization founded in the late 1980s by Osama bin Laden, known for its extremist ideology and commitment to violent jihad against perceived enemies of Islam. The group gained global notoriety for orchestrating terrorist attacks, most infamously the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States, marking a significant moment in the relationship between Islam and modern global politics.

Jihad: An Arabic term meaning 'struggle' or 'striving,' often interpreted in the context of a religious duty; can refer to both personal and armed struggle in defense of Islam.

Islamism: A political ideology that seeks to implement Islamic principles in governance and society, often advocating for a return to what adherents see as authentic Islamic practices.

Terrorism: The unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in pursuit of political aims; al-Qaeda is one of the most recognized groups associated with this practice.

Turkey is a transcontinental country located mainly on the Anatolian Peninsula in Western Asia and a smaller portion on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It has played a crucial role in the context of Islam in the modern world, particularly as a bridge between East and West, reflecting both its rich Islamic heritage and its secular governance.

Republic of Turkey: The modern nation-state established in 1923 following the fall of the Ottoman Empire, emphasizing secularism and nationalism.

Atatürk: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was the founder of the Republic of Turkey and known for implementing significant reforms to modernize and secularize the country.

Islamism: A political ideology that seeks to implement Islamic principles in government and society, which has been a point of contention in Turkey's modern political landscape.

Indonesia is the world's largest archipelagic state, made up of over 17,000 islands and home to the largest Muslim population in the world. It is a nation where Islam plays a significant role in shaping its culture, politics, and society, making it a crucial example of how Islam interacts with modernity in diverse settings.

Pancasila: The foundational philosophical theory of the Indonesian state that emphasizes five principles, including belief in one God, which reflects Indonesia's commitment to religious pluralism and democracy.

Nahdlatul Ulama: An influential Islamic organization in Indonesia that promotes moderate Islam and focuses on social issues, education, and community development.

Islam Nusantara: A concept that refers to the local, culturally-infused practice of Islam in Indonesia, emphasizing harmony and coexistence with other religious traditions.

The Islamic diaspora refers to the global dispersion of Muslims who have settled outside their countries of origin, resulting in diverse communities that maintain their religious and cultural identity. This movement has led to the establishment of vibrant Muslim communities worldwide, influencing local cultures and economies while also facing challenges related to integration and identity preservation.

Ummah: The collective community of Muslims around the world, united by their faith and shared practices.

Halal: Referring to what is permissible in Islamic law, especially concerning dietary laws and ethical standards.

Migration: The movement of people from one place to another, which can be voluntary or forced, significantly affecting the composition of societies.

French Muslims refer to individuals in France who practice Islam, constituting one of the largest Muslim populations in Western Europe. This group includes both immigrants and descendants of immigrants from various countries, primarily from North Africa, and plays a significant role in the cultural and religious landscape of modern France.

Secularism: A principle in France known as laïcité, which advocates for the separation of religion from government affairs and public life.

Banlieues: Suburban areas surrounding Paris that are often home to many French Muslims and are characterized by socioeconomic challenges and diversity.

Islamophobia: Prejudice or discrimination against Islam and Muslims, which has become a prominent issue in France amid rising tensions over cultural integration and national identity.

American Muslims are individuals of the Islamic faith living in the United States, representing a diverse array of cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. This community has significantly contributed to American society while also facing unique challenges related to identity, discrimination, and integration within a predominantly non-Muslim society.

Islamophobia: The irrational fear or prejudice against Islam and Muslims, often resulting in discrimination and hostility towards individuals in the American Muslim community.

Cultural Pluralism: A societal approach that recognizes and values the coexistence of diverse cultural groups, including American Muslims, within a unified society.

Interfaith Dialogue: Conversations and initiatives aimed at promoting understanding and cooperation among people of different religious backgrounds, including efforts involving American Muslims.

Islamophobia refers to the irrational fear, prejudice, or hostility towards Islam and Muslims. This term encompasses a range of negative attitudes and discriminatory actions against individuals based on their Islamic faith, leading to social exclusion, stereotyping, and violence. In the context of the modern world, Islamophobia has gained prominence due to geopolitical conflicts, terrorism, and media portrayals that often misrepresent Islamic beliefs and practices.

Xenophobia: An irrational fear or hatred of people from other countries or cultures, often manifesting as hostility towards immigrants or foreign nationals.

Stereotyping: The oversimplified and generalized beliefs about a group of people, often leading to misrepresentation and unfair treatment.

Discrimination: The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, often based on characteristics such as race, gender, or religion.

Islamic banking refers to a financial system that operates in accordance with Islamic law (Sharia) and principles, which prohibits interest (riba) and promotes risk-sharing, ethical investments, and financial transparency. This banking system is characterized by its unique modes of financing, such as profit-sharing and leasing agreements, which align with the moral values of Islam while providing financial services to individuals and businesses.

Riba: The Arabic term for interest, which is prohibited in Islamic finance as it is seen as exploitative and unjust.

Mudarabah: A profit-sharing partnership where one party provides capital and the other manages the investment, sharing profits according to pre-agreed ratios.

Takaful: An Islamic insurance concept based on mutual cooperation, where participants contribute to a pool that is used to support members in times of need.

Riba refers to the concept of usury or interest in Islamic finance, which is strictly prohibited in Islam. It is seen as exploitative and unjust, leading to economic inequality and social injustice. The prohibition of riba reflects the broader Islamic principles of fairness, equity, and compassion in economic dealings.

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, which governs all aspects of a Muslim's life, including finance and business ethics.

Zakat: A form of almsgiving treated in Islam as a tax, representing a percentage of a Muslim's savings that must be given to the poor and needy.

Islamic Banking: A financial system that operates according to Islamic law, avoiding riba and focusing on profit-sharing and ethical investment.

Mudarabah is a form of Islamic finance where one party provides capital while the other offers expertise and management to run a business venture. This profit-sharing agreement allows both parties to benefit from the profits generated, while losses are borne solely by the capital provider, making it a significant aspect of Islamic economic principles.

Sharia-compliant financing: Financial transactions that adhere to Islamic law, prohibiting interest (riba) and promoting ethical investing.

Sukuk: Islamic financial certificates, similar to bonds, that represent ownership in a pool of assets, providing returns to investors without infringing on Sharia law.

Islamic banking: A banking system that operates according to Islamic law, focusing on ethical investments and prohibiting interest-based lending.

Qard hasan refers to an interest-free loan provided in Islamic finance, aimed at helping those in need without expecting any return beyond the principal amount. This form of lending is rooted in the principles of charity and social justice, promoting financial assistance to individuals or businesses facing hardship while adhering to Islamic law, which prohibits usury or excessive interest rates.

Riba: The practice of charging interest on loans, which is prohibited in Islam as it is considered exploitative and unjust.

Zakat: A form of almsgiving in Islam, considered a religious obligation, where Muslims are required to give a portion of their wealth to those in need.

Microfinance: Financial services aimed at low-income individuals or those without access to typical banking services, often including small loans and savings accounts.

Halal certification is the process through which products, services, and processes are verified to comply with Islamic dietary laws and ethical standards. It ensures that food and other products are permissible for consumption by Muslims, maintaining adherence to the principles outlined in the Quran and Hadith, thus playing a crucial role in modern commerce and lifestyle choices for the Muslim community.

halal: An Arabic term meaning 'permissible' or 'lawful' in Islam, referring to what is allowed or acceptable under Islamic law.

haram: An Arabic term meaning 'forbidden' or 'unlawful' in Islam, referring to actions, substances, or practices that are prohibited.

Zabiha: The Islamic method of slaughtering animals for food, which is essential for meat to be considered halal.