Sectarianism

Definition

Sectarianism refers to the divisions and conflicts that arise between different religious or political sects within a larger faith or ideology. It often leads to hostility and discrimination, as groups emphasize their differences over commonalities. In the context of Islam, sectarianism can manifest between the major branches such as Sunni and Shia, affecting social cohesion, political movements, and interpretations of Islamic law.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sectarianism has deep historical roots in Islam, originating from the early disputes over leadership following the death of the Prophet Muhammad.
2. The Sunni-Shia divide is the most prominent example of sectarianism in Islam, leading to significant political tensions and conflicts in various regions, including the Middle East.
3. Sectarianism can influence legal interpretations within Islamic jurisprudence, where different schools may prioritize their sect's perspective over broader consensus.
4. Islamic political movements often exploit sectarian identities for mobilization, which can lead to sect-based violence and conflict in the pursuit of power.
5. Sectarianism poses a challenge to national unity in multi-sect societies, creating rifts that can hinder cooperation and coexistence among communities.

Review Questions

• How does sectarianism influence major schools of Islamic jurisprudence?
  • Sectarianism plays a significant role in shaping the interpretations and practices within different schools of Islamic jurisprudence. Each school may align with specific sectarian beliefs that influence how they derive legal rulings from the Quran and Hadith. This division can lead to differing opinions on critical issues such as ritual practices, moral obligations, and community governance, reflecting the broader sectarian divides within the Muslim community.
• What role does sectarianism play in Islamic political movements, and how can it affect their objectives?
  • Sectarianism often serves as a rallying point for Islamic political movements, allowing them to mobilize support based on shared sectarian identity. This emphasis on sect can significantly shape their objectives, leading them to prioritize sect-specific goals over more inclusive political agendas. Consequently, this can result in conflicts with other groups, exacerbate tensions within society, and influence national policies in ways that reflect sectarian interests rather than national unity.
• Evaluate the implications of sectarianism on social cohesion within Islamic societies and its potential impact on global stability.
  • Sectarianism poses serious challenges to social cohesion within Islamic societies by fostering division and mistrust among different groups. This fragmentation can lead to increased violence, discrimination, and civil unrest, undermining efforts for collective progress and peace. On a global scale, these internal conflicts can spill over borders, influencing geopolitical relationships and contributing to broader regional instability as external powers may exploit these divisions for their interests.

Related terms

Sunni: The largest branch of Islam, which recognizes the first four caliphs as rightful successors to Muhammad and emphasizes consensus in community decision-making.

Shia: The second largest branch of Islam, which believes that only descendants of Muhammad, specifically his cousin Ali, are legitimate leaders of the Muslim community.

Islamic jurisprudence: The study and application of Islamic law (Sharia), which includes interpretations and rulings derived from the Quran and Hadith by various schools of thought.