Author: Obaidullah Nimruzi
Philosopher of Afghanistan: Sayyed Jamal al-Din Afghan (Part One)
Keywords: Sayyed Jamal al-din, Afghan, Asad Abadi, Anti-Colonial Struggle
Summary of the Article:
Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani is one of the most prominent and influential figures in modern Islamic history. Throughout his life, he served as a beacon of light, paving the way for the awakening of Muslim nations against colonialism and tyranny. Born in 1254 Hijri (1838 CE) in Afghanistan, he drew upon his vast knowledge and international experiences to become one of the greatest reformers and thinkers in the Islamic world. By deeply analyzing the internal conditions of Islamic societies and understanding the socio-political and cultural circumstances, Sayyed Jamal al-din concluded that the only path to liberation for Muslims from decline was through unity and a return to the authentic principles of Islam. Not only as a thinker but also as a political and social activist, he played a pivotal role in reviving Islamic identity through his intellectual and practical struggles.
Sayyed Jamal al-din’s ideas on Islamic unity, religious reforms, embracing modern science and technology, and resisting colonialism and tyranny remain alive and inspiring. His activities in various countries, including Iran, Egypt, India, the Ottoman Empire, and Afghanistan, initiated intellectual and social movements whose effects are still evident in the Islamic world today. This article examines the dimensions of Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani’s life, personality, and thoughts, aiming to analyze his influence on the modern history of the Islamic world.
Introduction: The Age of Decline and the Emergence of an Intellectual Savior
The 19th century was a critical period for the Islamic world, marked by stagnation in science, politics, and economics in many Muslim lands. The Islamic empires, once at the height of power and glory, gradually weakened and fragmented under the pressure of Western colonial powers, particularly Britain and France, as well as through internal corruption. During this era, Western colonialism subjugated Islamic countries, exploiting their natural and human resources, leading Muslims to feel culturally and socially inferior, often losing their identity in the face of foreign influences.
Internally, oppressive and corrupt systems in Islamic societies exacerbated tyranny and furthered the neglect of indigenous Islamic sciences and culture. Superstition and a poor understanding of religion, coupled with sectarian and ethnic divisions, accelerated the collapse of these communities. In this dark era, the revival of Islam and the restoration of its former dignity became a necessity.
Amid this decline, a figure emerged who devoted his life to restoring the dignity and identity of Muslims. Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani, a great thinker and reformer, was born in this critical period and began significant political and intellectual activities. As a global thinker, he focused not only on local issues but also on broader concerns of the Islamic Ummah, disseminating his reformist messages widely.
Afghanistan: A Land of Heroes and Martyrs
Afghanistan, a mountainous land in the heart of Central Asia with a rich history and culture, has always been recognized as a cradle of outstanding scientific, cultural, and political figures. This land, steeped in millennia of history, has consistently produced individuals of great perseverance, knowledge, and intellect for the Islamic world and humanity. Afghanistan is not only a land that nurtures self-sacrificing martyrs who give their lives for their country but also a birthplace of great leaders and eminent scholars whose impact extends beyond its borders to the broader Islamic world. One of these distinguished figures is Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani, whose name shines brightly in the history of Islamic reforms and the Muslim awakening.
A Champion in Every Field:
The people of Afghanistan, with their proud history of defeating adversaries on various fronts, have consistently demonstrated resilience and success in facing the toughest challenges. Throughout history, Afghanistan has been a pioneer in resisting oppression and corruption, whether against foreign invaders or in scientific and cultural arenas. From ancient times, when Afghanistan was a center of knowledge and philosophy, to the modern era, figures like Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani have emerged from this land. Despite numerous hardships, the Afghan people have often triumphed over others, showcasing their strength in every domain.
A Great Honor for Afghanistan:
Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani is one of the greatest honors in Afghanistan’s history. Recognized not only as a national and religious figure of his homeland, his reformist ideas and activities sparked a monumental transformation in the Islamic world. With a global perspective and a modern approach to the issues of the Muslim world, he paved the way for the awakening and progress of Muslims. This significant contribution is a source of pride not only for the Afghan people but also for Muslims and freedom-loving individuals worldwide who see him as part of their heritage.
Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani: A Proud Son of Afghanistan
While Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani deeply respected other cultures and nations, he always identified himself as a son of Afghanistan and proudly acknowledged his roots in this esteemed land. Despite living in various countries and interacting with prominent global thinkers, he emphasized that his core identity belonged to Afghanistan. This sense of belonging and pride in his homeland is evident in many of his works and writings, serving as a source of inspiration and pride for the Afghan people, who celebrate the legacy of such a great figure.
Leading in Every Sphere:
Afghanistan’s people have been pioneers in knowledge and education, influencing other regions in the realms of science and culture throughout history. From ancient times to the modern era, this land has consistently led in science, politics, and intellectual endeavors. Figures like Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, Abu Dawood Sejestani, Imam Fakhruddin Razi, Ibrahim Adham, Al-Biruni, and Ghyasuddin Jamshid Kashani, among many others, illustrate Afghanistan’s intellectual legacy. In contemporary times, Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani stands out as one of Afghanistan’s most remarkable intellectuals, dedicated to awakening Muslims and fostering intellectual reform. He repeatedly emphasized the importance of incorporating science and education into the lives of Muslims and utilizing Western scientific achievements.
Throughout human history, the Afghan people have set examples of civilization and progress for the world, with Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani being a notable illustration. Afghanistan, recognized as a cradle of civilization, has long fostered the growth of science and culture, introducing prominent figures to the world. Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghani, as one of the greatest figures in modern Islamic history, perpetuated this ancient tradition. With his innovative and reformist ideas, he taught the Islamic world and even other nations invaluable lessons, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, progress, and the integration of modern achievements with religious principles. His efforts place him not only as a key figure in Afghanistan’s history but as one of the most influential personalities in the broader history of the Islamic world.
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