To better understand the phenomenon of “nationalism” and examine all its dimensions and aspects, it is necessary to provide an accurate and comprehensive definition of this ideology. Additionally, we must analyze the terms that are related to it in some way. In this section of the article, we aim to define this phenomenon and discuss the perspectives of writers and researchers on the subject.
Definition of Nationalism:
Nationalism is a form of collective consciousness—an awareness of belonging to a nation, often referred to as national consciousness. This awareness typically fosters a sense of loyalty, enthusiasm, and attachment among individuals toward the elements that constitute a nation, such as race, language, traditions, customs, social values, and culture in general. Sometimes, this awareness leads to an exaggerated glorification of these elements and a belief in their superiority over the national characteristics of other nations.
The terms “nationalism” may appear to be synonymous. Translators have commonly rendered the English word “nationalism” as melli-garayi in Persian, just as the word “nation,” from which nationalism is derived, has been translated as millat in Persian.
Nationalism has multiple definitions, and there is little consensus on a single definition. Some sources define nationalism as the attitudes of a nation’s members concerning their national identity and the actions they take to achieve autonomy. Another interpretation considers nationalism as a political sentiment and inclination manifested through belonging, loyalty, and obedience to a national identity and character. This inclination is highly influenced by time and place and can manifest in completely opposing and contradictory forms and contents.
The author of the book Nationalism from the Perspective of Islam defines nationalism as follows:
While providing an exact definition of nationalism seems difficult, examining various definitions allows one to conclude that nationalism is a deep sense of attachment to a particular nation and absolute loyalty to it, such that this attachment takes precedence over everything else.
In Arabic, this term is translated as qawmiyya (ethnicity) and wataniyya (patriotism). Many scholars have written extensively on this topic. The author of the book Islam and Secular Nationalism, Abdessalam Yassine, dedicates the fourth chapter of his book entirely to the discussion of nationalism and ethnicity. Regarding ethnicity, he writes:
“Ethnicity is a new term that has entered Islamic societies. This word and its modern concept originated and developed in Europe…”
In dictionaries, qawmiyya (ethnicity) is translated as “nationalism, nationality,” while wataniyya (patriotism) carries a similar meaning: “nationalism, patriotism, love for one’s homeland.” In the Contemporary Arabic
Language Dictionary, wataniyya is defined as:
A feminine noun derived from watan (homeland). This word is also used to mean love for one’s homeland, sincerity, and sacrifice for it.
The equivalent of the two terms qawmiyya and wataniyya in Latin-based languages is the word “nationalism.” In Latin, the word “nation” is derived from natio and natus, which mean “birthplace.” Scholars and political scientists have provided various definitions for this term.
Below, we will examine some of the key terms and concepts closely related to nationalism. Understanding these terms will help us better grasp the subject.
Definition of Nation:
The word “nation” (millat) is originally an Arabic term that historically meant “path” or “way.” In religious terminology, millat refers to a way or doctrine that is either divinely ordained, presented by a prophet, or a false path imposed on society by misguided leaders. In some texts, this term is synonymous with “religion.”
Nationalists consider the nation the central focus of human life in achieving various political goals, including political mobilization, democracy, territorial defense, economic growth, the preservation of traditions, and spiritual revival. However, what exactly is a nation, and how can it be distinguished from other forms of human communities?
The first point to consider is that labeling a group or community as a “nation” is not merely a description but also an acknowledgment of its legitimacy as an autonomous entity in the political sphere. Ernest Renan, the 19th-century French writer, defines a nation as a soul and a spiritual principle, likening national consciousness to a daily referendum of the people.
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