Author: Sayyed Musleh Uddin
The Present and Future of Islam from the Perspective of Orientalists (Part One)
Abstract
Apart from Islam, no other religion has the ability to resolve and respond to all the problems facing people in today’s world; this distinction is exclusive to Islam. If Islam is properly introduced in society, it can effectively address all issues and fulfill the social, spiritual, and political needs of individuals living under both capitalist and communist systems. These systems have failed to solve human problems, while Islam can provide peace, stability, hope, and guidance to the lost and misguided. Moreover, Islam has vast potential to engage with the world and mobilize human resources to achieve high levels of production and self-sufficiency.
Scientific advancements in the modern era owe much to Islam. Many Orientalists acknowledge that contemporary scientific progress aligns with the achievements of Muslims and is compatible with the principles and foundations of Islam.
Introduction
Many of us, when observing the current state of Islam and Muslims, become disheartened by the dire conditions faced by Muslims around the world. Consequently, we conclude that Muslims are on a path of decline, destined to continue this downward trajectory until the Day of Judgment.
We often hear this sentiment expressed by two groups: those who sympathize with Islam out of compassion, and those captivated by Western civilization who believe Muslims can only escape their miserable conditions through imitation of the West.
Perhaps this belief arises from observing phenomena such as poverty, illiteracy, backwardness, a large segment of Muslims straying from their faith, and the absence of a central, independent Islamic government with decision-making power. This leads to a negative outlook on the future of Islam and the entire Muslim Ummah.
If we analyze the Muslim Ummah superficially and idealistically, these individuals might seem correct. However, a closer examination of the history of the Ummah, considering its diverse experiences, reveals the inaccuracy of this view and the perils of its spread among Muslims.
In this article, we will explore the views of Orientalists regarding the present and future of Islam, which indicate Islam’s upward trajectory in the modern era.
The Present and Future of Islam from the Perspective of Orientalists
Sir Thomas Arnold
Sir Thomas Arnold states: “The absence of tribal and sectarian fanaticism allowed the true force of Islam to emerge in India, enabling it to convert a large number of Hindus to Islam.” [1]
A Russian Writer in 1867
In 1867, a Russian writer, in his significant book about Islam in China, expressed the idea that: “Islam could serve as a national religion for the Chinese emperor, thus overturning the political landscape of the Eastern world.” [2]
Islam in Russian Law
Under Russian law, joining any religion other than the Orthodox Church was prohibited, halting any further progress of Islam there. However, in 1905, an official decree on religious tolerance was issued in Russia. Consequently, many indigenous people in the Caucasus—who had nominally accepted Christianity for a long time—began to convert to Islam in increasing numbers. Eventually, Orthodox Church officials became alarmed, forcing them to appoint a group to disseminate Christian literature among Muslims to counteract the spread of Islamic teachings. [3]
Currently, two major movements are actively promoting Islamic preaching worldwide.
The first is the revival of religious life, which began with the Wahhabi reform movement in the 12th century and continues to influence religious movements throughout Africa, India, and the Malaysian archipelago. This movement has played a significant role in shaping various Islamic groups that maintain strong ties with it, igniting passionate followers and revitalizing religious life. All of this contributes to the revival of Islam’s inherent spirit and its emphasis on spreading its teachings.
The second movement closely accompanying this reformist wave is the Islamic unity movement. This initiative aims to unite all Islamic nations and tribes through a shared bond of love and compassion. Islam encourages Muslims to actively propagate their faith, striving for an exemplary worldly existence and universal Islamic brotherhood. The belief in true, comprehensive unity within the Ummah intends to instill happiness and purpose in believers, empowering them to convey their message even to non-Muslims.
Recognizing the profound impact of these two movements on Islamic propagation ensures the future of Islam. The current engagement of Muslims and the increasing interest in Islam are clear indications that Islam is neither dead nor fading away. Contrary to the assumptions of many, the spiritual influence of Islam does not depend on political dominance. Rather, the lack of political power and material support is one of its strongest spiritual attributes and a key factor in its historical and contemporary expansion.
Islam teaches us to endure hardships, and the occasional lack of material comfort can act as a safeguard against the faith’s potential decline due to excessive material wealth.
Regions that were once under Christian rule demonstrate the highest levels of engagement in spreading Islamic teachings. However, the level of zeal and enthusiasm among Muslims in India and Malaysia is not as pronounced as in Turkey or Morocco. [4]
Continues…
Next Part
References:
[1] Al-Da’wah ila al-Islam, p. 327.
[2] Ibid., p. 347.
[3] Ibid., p. 122.
[4] Ibid., pp. 468-469.
