Author: Obaidullah Nimruzi
Philosopher of Afghanistan; Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan (Part 15)
Colonialism and Despotism: Two Factors of Decline in the East
In the nineteenth century, when colonizers from the West, armed with their knowledge, techniques, and industrial and military powers, stormed the gates of the East, there was no longer any sign of the past greatness of Islamic and Eastern lands. These regions, suffering from scientific, economic, and cultural poverty, appeared increasingly vulnerable to both internal and external crises. Amid this turmoil, internal despotism, characterized by tyrannical and autocratic rulers in Islamic countries, combined with foreign colonialism, had plunged the nations into ignorance.
Before the industrial and political transformations of the nineteenth century, the kings and rulers of Islamic countries governed with oppression and corruption. Instead of addressing the basic needs of the people, they exploited them, often resorting to lies and deceit to suppress the nations. Under this despotism, poverty and ignorance took root in society, trapping nations in governmental deceptions and ultimately leading to submission to oppression.
While these societies suffered from internal corruption, the threats posed by Western colonizers turned into a serious risk, progressively placing the lands of the East in jeopardy of occupation and plunder. The colonizers, exploiting the internal weaknesses of these countries, quickly took control and dominated them through complex economic, military, and cultural strategies.
Intellectual Movements and the Emergence of Social Movements Against Despotism and Colonialism
In response to these difficult and changing conditions, social and reformist movements began to emerge in many Eastern countries, especially within Islamic societies. Although these movements were initially weak and scattered, they signaled the onset of significant transformations in the history of these lands.
Movements that sought social and political awakening gradually stood against colonialism and despotism. Although they initially achieved only modest gains, they laid the groundwork for substantial changes in Islamic societies and the East. These movements emphasized two main principles: social justice and individual freedom, aiming to combat both foreign and domestic domination.
Among these struggles, the role of intellectuals and thinkers, such as Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan, in the political history of the East is noteworthy. During this critical historical period, Sayyed Jamal al-din sought to awaken political thought and awareness among the Muslim populace. He recognized that to confront colonialism and despotism, a military struggle alone was insufficient; rather, fundamental changes in the intellectual and cultural spheres of Islamic societies were necessary.
Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan: Leader of Awakening and Reform
In the second half of the nineteenth century, as Eastern lands were embroiled in political, social, and economic crises, Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan emerged as a prominent and influential figure. At a time when Islamic countries and the East faced critical challenges, he, as a thinker and political activist, was able to address the most pressing needs of his era.
With a deep understanding of the internal and external problems facing the Islamic world, Sayyed Jamal al-din concluded that the struggle against colonizers and internal dictatorships required a united front among all Muslims. Observing the disintegration and disorder within Islamic nations, he underscored the urgent necessity of creating unity among Muslims.
Furthermore, he believed that returning to the scientific and religious principles of Islam, coupled with intellectual reform in Islamic societies, was crucial in the fight against despotism and colonialism. In this regard, Sayyed Jamal al-din emphasized the importance of rebuilding relations between Muslims and the West on an equal and respectful basis.
The Motivation for Unity and Solidarity in Sayyed Jamal al-din’s Thought
Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan believed that only through unity and solidarity among Muslims could they effectively confront external and internal threats. He consistently emphasized that Islamic nations should strive to create a united Ummah, rather than succumbing to sectarian differences. In fact, Sayyed Jamal al-din sought to guide Muslims towards a common goal through intellectual and social struggle.
In this spirit, Sayyed Jamal al-din traveled to various Islamic countries, where he spread a message of unity and resistance against colonialism. He had a particularly significant impact in Egypt and Iran, emphasizing the importance of a correct understanding of both religion and science, enabling nations to free themselves from their dire circumstances.
Continues…
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