Author: Obaidullah Nimruzi
The Philosopher of Afghanistan: Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan (Part 29)
Lesson Two: Industry – The Key to Human Survival
In the second lesson, Sayyed Jamal al-din focuses on human nature and the path of human evolution. He states that, like other animals, human beings initially had no significant difference in their methods of growth and lifestyle. However, over time, through experience and practice, they found their own path toward progress.
The story of Abel and Cain is an example of this evolutionary journey. Humanity learned from past experiences and, through interaction and engagement with the environment, discovered new ways of living and surviving. Gradually, based on emerging needs, humans turned to the invention and development of industries. Eventually, through industry, they gained a power that was not available to them among other creatures.
In the end, Sayyed Jamal al-din emphasizes that industry is the foundation and essence of human survival. Unlike other beings, humans cannot survive in nature by relying solely on physical strength. However, through industries and technologies, they can achieve extraordinary power and pave the way for their lives.
The Power of Industry and the Role of Reason in Human Advancement
Industry as a Source of Power and Influence
Sayyed Jamal al-din believes that industry is a form of power, and power is always influential—whether through action (doing) or reaction (being affected). He then speaks about the power of reason, stating that it is exclusive to human beings, and if directed properly, it becomes the foundation of human happiness and salvation.
If a person uses their rational power solely to meet physical and sensual needs, limiting it to satisfying instincts and bodily pleasures, then this great divine blessing has been wasted. For instance, if the sole aim of the intellect is to procure food, strengthen the body, satisfy lust, and fulfill worldly desires, then such a person has squandered the noble gift of reason, making it like a fruitless tree.
Such a person not only falls from their human position but ranks among the lowest of animals or even plants that lack this immense blessing. In contrast, the one who dominates and restrains their desires and saves themselves from falling into the abyss of passion walks the path of rationality. Such a person deeply understands the reality of the world and knows that the survival of humanity depends on maintaining balance and ensuring the continuity of life for future generations.
The Necessity of Social Solidarity and Division of Labor
Any wise individual understands that the survival of humankind and the preservation of generations can only be realized through cooperation and unity among the members of society. No individual alone can meet all of their needs.
In daily life, people require a variety of skills, crafts, and professions. However, one lifetime is not enough to learn and master all of them. Therefore, people must rely on the knowledge and abilities of others—hence, cooperation and division of labor become essential.
Under such conditions, human society functions like a body whose parts are formed by different social classes. Each part performs a specific task that ultimately benefits the whole body—and consequently, benefits itself. If someone separates from society and believes themselves to be self-sufficient, while they cannot meet their own needs, they are essentially destroying themselves without even realizing it.
The Value of Work and Social Responsibility
When a wise and thoughtful person realizes these truths, they consider themselves an effective and genuine member of society. They understand that their efforts not only benefit others but eventually return to benefit themselves.
Meeting the needs of life—especially in the long term—is impossible without various industries and professions. Industry is the foundation of societal survival, and anyone without a useful skill or craft becomes a burden on society.
Such a person not only fails to benefit others but also lacks a sense of responsibility for self-improvement. Thus, their presence in society is futile, and their absence is better than their presence, like an unnecessary organ in the body that must be removed.
Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan and the Nurturing of Reformist Students
Encouraging Writing and Promoting Free Thought
Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan encouraged his students to practice writing and motivated them to publish news and express their thoughts in order to strengthen their writing skills. He would assign specific topics for them to write about, testing their talent and guiding their character toward a proper and social direction.
It is reported that one day he asked his students to write an essay on “freedom.” Saad Zaghloul, one of his prominent students, produced an excellent piece. Sayyed concluded from his writing that the idea of freedom was growing in Egypt, for this young man had been able to articulate a clear vision of it.
Sayyed Jamal al-din’s Intellectual School
Sayyed Jamal al-din was always striving to encourage his students and followers to think, debate, and engage in open discussions. He successfully brought together a group of reformist writers who were skilled in writing and capable of choosing beneficial and effective topics.
His intellectual school consisted of gatherings held in his own home, in the homes of his friends, and in various scholarly circles. Even popular coffeehouses—such as the renowned Matatia Coffeehouse near the Azbakeya Garden—became hubs for intellectual thought.
In these gatherings, dozens, sometimes hundreds, of scholars, mystics, and researchers would gather daily to discuss complex scientific, social, and political issues with Sayyed. With his particular wisdom, Sayyed would resolve their problems and offer convincing responses.
Prominent Students and the Pioneers of the Awakening Movement
It was in these very gatherings that many pioneers of the Islamic Awakening were nurtured. Among these notable figures were Muhammad Abduh, Saad Zaghloul, Mahmoud Sami al-Baroudi, Adeeb Ishaq, Abd al-Salam Mublikhi, Salim Naqqash, Ibrahim al-Laqani, Ali Mazhar, Ibrahim Muwailihi, and Abdul Karim Salman. Each of these individuals later played significant roles in the intellectual, political, and social transformations of Islamic societies.
Saad Zaghloul’s Acknowledgment of Sayyed Jamal al-din’s Role
Years later, at the peak of his political power, Saad Zaghloul issued a statement acknowledging: “I did not create this awakening movement, as some speakers have claimed. I make no such claim and cannot even imagine it. This movement has a long history—its roots go back to the time of Muhammad Ali Pasha and Ahmed Urabi. But what truly nourished and advanced it were the efforts of Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan, his followers, and his students. This is a truth that must not be denied, for only the weak and incapable conceal the facts.”
The Intellectual Circle at Matatia Coffeehouse
Professor Ahmad Baha Uddin describes this era: “Every afternoon, Sayyed Jamal al-din Afghan would appear at Matatia Coffeehouse and gather his students around him. In one hand, he carried perfume and incense; in the other, large chunks of dried curd, which he shared with his students. Around him sat dozens of students and thinkers. His close companions, Adeeb Ishaq and Salim Naqqash, had brought elements of modern culture from Syria to Egypt.”
Among them was Mahmoud Sami al-Baroudi, with his thick mustache, who later played a key role in Ahmed Urabi’s revolt. Also present were Muhammad Abduh, a short but profound thinker, and Saad Zaghloul, a tall young man who would later lead the great 1919 revolution and become the first prime minister elected by popular vote.
The Seeds of Revolution in Egypt’s Coffeehouses
In this coffeehouse, the winds of change and revolution were already blowing. The political and intellectual heroes of the era—still unaware of their destiny—sat on its worn-out chairs and listened to Sayyed Jamal al-din’s powerful speeches.
Sayyed, this astonishing man, would sit among his students, puffing on his pipe, releasing words like thunderbolts into the air—words that stirred blood, awakened honor, and set the body of the Islamic nation into motion.
Continues…
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References:
[1] The Wise Man of the East, page 51.
[2] Previous source, page 52.
[3] The Wise Man of the East, page 54.
[4] Ahmad Baha’ al-Din, Ayam Lah Tarikh, pp. 14-15.
