13.4 Islam in the Modern World
3 min read•august 7, 2024
Islam in the modern world faces challenges and opportunities. From to fundamentalism, Muslims navigate diverse ideologies while adapting to . These movements shape contemporary Islamic thought and practice, influencing Muslim communities worldwide.
, diaspora experiences, and the growth of and industries reflect Islam's evolving role. These developments highlight the dynamic nature of Islam as it engages with modernity, balancing tradition and change in various cultural contexts.
Modern Islamic Movements
Islamic Modernism and Feminism
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- Islamic modernism emerged in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to Western colonialism and the perceived need for reform in Muslim societies
- Islamic modernists sought to reinterpret Islamic teachings in light of modern knowledge and values, emphasizing the compatibility of Islam with reason, science, and progress
- developed in the late 20th century, advocating for gender equality and women's rights within an Islamic framework
- Islamic feminists challenge traditional patriarchal interpretations of Islamic texts and promote alternative readings that support women's empowerment (, )
Islamic Fundamentalism and Islamism
- emerged in the 20th century as a response to perceived threats to Islamic identity and values from Western influence and secularization
- Fundamentalists seek to return to a strict, literal interpretation of Islamic texts and practices, rejecting modern innovations and influences as un-Islamic (, )
- is a political ideology that seeks to establish an Islamic state governed by law and to promote Islamic values in all aspects of society
- Islamist movements can range from moderate to radical, with some advocating for peaceful political participation and others resorting to violence and terrorism to achieve their goals (, , )
Islam in the Contemporary World
Secularization and Globalization
- Secularization refers to the process of separating religion from public life and institutions, which has affected many Muslim-majority countries in the modern era
- Some Muslim countries have adopted secular political systems and legal codes, while others maintain a greater role for Islam in public life (, )
- Globalization has increased the interconnectedness of Muslim communities worldwide, facilitating the spread of ideas, practices, and movements across borders
- Globalization has also exposed Muslim societies to new cultural influences and challenges, leading to debates over identity, authenticity, and adaptation
Diaspora and Muslim Minorities
- The refers to Muslim communities living outside of traditionally Muslim-majority regions, often as a result of migration, displacement, or conversion
- Muslim minority communities can be found in many parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia (, )
- Diaspora communities face unique challenges in maintaining their religious and cultural identities while integrating into diverse societies
- Muslim minorities often navigate complex issues of citizenship, belonging, and representation, as well as discrimination and
Islamic Practices and Institutions
Islamic Banking and Finance
- operates according to Sharia principles, which prohibit charging interest () and engaging in speculative or unethical investments
- Islamic financial institutions offer alternative products and services, such as profit-and-loss sharing agreements () and interest-free loans ()
- Islamic finance has grown rapidly in recent decades, with Islamic banks and investment funds operating in many countries worldwide (Malaysia, Bahrain)
- Islamic banking aims to promote economic justice, social responsibility, and ethical business practices in line with Islamic values
Halal Industry and Certification
- Halal refers to that which is permissible under Islamic law, particularly in relation to food, drink, and other consumer products
- The halal industry encompasses the production, distribution, and certification of goods and services that meet Islamic standards of purity and ethics
- ensures that products are free from prohibited ingredients (pork, alcohol) and are prepared according to Islamic guidelines
- The global halal market has expanded significantly, driven by the growing Muslim population and increasing demand for halal products in both Muslim and non-Muslim countries (halal food, cosmetics, tourism)
Key Terms to Review (27)
Al-Qaeda: Al-Qaeda is a militant Islamist organization founded in the late 1980s by Osama bin Laden, known for its extremist ideology and commitment to violent jihad against perceived enemies of Islam. The group gained global notoriety for orchestrating terrorist attacks, most infamously the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States, marking a significant moment in the relationship between Islam and modern global politics.
American Muslims: American Muslims are individuals of the Islamic faith living in the United States, representing a diverse array of cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. This community has significantly contributed to American society while also facing unique challenges related to identity, discrimination, and integration within a predominantly non-Muslim society.
Amina Wadud: Amina Wadud is a prominent Islamic feminist scholar and activist known for her groundbreaking work on gender and Islam. She gained significant attention for her advocacy of women’s rights within the framework of Islamic teachings, especially through her interpretation of the Quran and emphasis on gender equality in religious practice.
Fatima Mernissi: Fatima Mernissi was a prominent Moroccan feminist writer and sociologist known for her critical analysis of the role of women in Islam and her advocacy for women's rights within Islamic societies. Her work challenged traditional interpretations of Islamic texts and aimed to empower women by highlighting their historical contributions and rights, making her a key figure in discussions surrounding Islam in the modern world.
French Muslims: French Muslims refer to individuals in France who practice Islam, constituting one of the largest Muslim populations in Western Europe. This group includes both immigrants and descendants of immigrants from various countries, primarily from North Africa, and plays a significant role in the cultural and religious landscape of modern France.
Globalization: Globalization is the process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, cultures, and economies, driven by advancements in technology, communication, and trade. This phenomenon influences cultural exchange, economic relationships, and social dynamics across the globe, significantly impacting various aspects of life, including religion.
Halal: Halal refers to what is permissible or lawful in Islamic law, particularly in relation to dietary practices. The term is derived from Arabic and plays a crucial role in the lives of Muslims, guiding not only what they eat but also how they conduct themselves in various aspects of life. Understanding halal helps illuminate the intersections between religious beliefs, culture, and modern consumerism.
Halal certification: Halal certification is the process through which products, services, and processes are verified to comply with Islamic dietary laws and ethical standards. It ensures that food and other products are permissible for consumption by Muslims, maintaining adherence to the principles outlined in the Quran and Hadith, thus playing a crucial role in modern commerce and lifestyle choices for the Muslim community.
Hamas: Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist political and militant organization that emerged in the late 1980s, primarily in the Gaza Strip. It is known for its social services and its military wing, which has been involved in armed conflict against Israel, positioning itself as a significant player in Palestinian politics and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Indonesia: Indonesia is the world's largest archipelagic state, made up of over 17,000 islands and home to the largest Muslim population in the world. It is a nation where Islam plays a significant role in shaping its culture, politics, and society, making it a crucial example of how Islam interacts with modernity in diverse settings.
Islamic Banking: Islamic banking refers to a financial system that operates in accordance with Islamic law (Sharia) and principles, which prohibits interest (riba) and promotes risk-sharing, ethical investments, and financial transparency. This banking system is characterized by its unique modes of financing, such as profit-sharing and leasing agreements, which align with the moral values of Islam while providing financial services to individuals and businesses.
Islamic Diaspora: The Islamic diaspora refers to the global dispersion of Muslims who have settled outside their countries of origin, resulting in diverse communities that maintain their religious and cultural identity. This movement has led to the establishment of vibrant Muslim communities worldwide, influencing local cultures and economies while also facing challenges related to integration and identity preservation.
Islamic Feminism: Islamic feminism is a movement that seeks to promote women's rights and gender equality within the framework of Islamic law and teachings. It emphasizes the interpretation of Islamic texts in a way that empowers women and challenges patriarchal structures in Muslim societies, advocating for a reinterpretation of traditional religious beliefs to align with contemporary notions of equality and justice.
Islamic Finance: Islamic finance refers to the financial activities that comply with Islamic law (Sharia), which prohibits activities such as usury (riba) and excessive uncertainty (gharar). This form of finance promotes risk-sharing and ethical investments, aligning financial practices with Islamic principles. It plays a significant role in the modern economic landscape, providing an alternative to conventional finance and catering to the needs of Muslim populations worldwide.
Islamic Fundamentalism: Islamic fundamentalism is a movement within Islam that seeks to return to what its followers perceive as the original principles and practices of the religion, emphasizing strict adherence to Islamic law (Sharia) and often opposing modern interpretations of Islam. This movement often arises in response to perceived threats from Western influence and seeks to create a society governed by Islamic values, impacting both cultural practices and political structures.
Islamic Modernism: Islamic Modernism is a reformist movement within Islam that seeks to reconcile Islamic faith and values with modernity, emphasizing the need for change in response to contemporary challenges. This movement advocates for the reinterpretation of Islamic texts and traditions to align with modern scientific, social, and political developments, aiming to create a more progressive and pluralistic Islamic society.
Islamism: Islamism is a political ideology that seeks to implement Islamic principles and laws in government and society. It often emphasizes the belief that Islam should guide all aspects of life, including politics, law, and education, aiming to create a state governed by Islamic law or Sharia. This movement has gained prominence in the modern world as various groups advocate for the integration of religion and governance, leading to both reformist and radical approaches within the broader Muslim community.
Islamophobia: Islamophobia refers to the irrational fear, prejudice, or hostility towards Islam and Muslims. This term encompasses a range of negative attitudes and discriminatory actions against individuals based on their Islamic faith, leading to social exclusion, stereotyping, and violence. In the context of the modern world, Islamophobia has gained prominence due to geopolitical conflicts, terrorism, and media portrayals that often misrepresent Islamic beliefs and practices.
Mudarabah: Mudarabah is a form of Islamic finance where one party provides capital while the other offers expertise and management to run a business venture. This profit-sharing agreement allows both parties to benefit from the profits generated, while losses are borne solely by the capital provider, making it a significant aspect of Islamic economic principles.
Muslim Brotherhood: The Muslim Brotherhood is a transnational Islamic organization founded in Egypt in 1928 by Hassan al-Banna, aiming to promote Islamic values and establish a society governed by Islamic law. The Brotherhood has played a significant role in modern Islamic political movements, influencing various social, political, and religious landscapes across the Arab world and beyond.
Qard hasan: Qard hasan refers to an interest-free loan provided in Islamic finance, aimed at helping those in need without expecting any return beyond the principal amount. This form of lending is rooted in the principles of charity and social justice, promoting financial assistance to individuals or businesses facing hardship while adhering to Islamic law, which prohibits usury or excessive interest rates.
Riba: Riba refers to the concept of usury or interest in Islamic finance, which is strictly prohibited in Islam. It is seen as exploitative and unjust, leading to economic inequality and social injustice. The prohibition of riba reflects the broader Islamic principles of fairness, equity, and compassion in economic dealings.
Salafism: Salafism is a conservative movement within Sunni Islam that advocates a return to the practices of the early Muslim community, specifically the Salaf, which refers to the first three generations of Muslims. This movement emphasizes strict adherence to the Quran and Hadith, rejecting any innovations or deviations in religious practice and belief. Salafism plays a significant role in shaping contemporary Islamic thought and has influenced various political movements and ideologies in the modern world.
Secularization: Secularization is the process by which religious institutions, practices, and beliefs lose their social significance in a society, leading to a shift towards non-religious values and institutions. This phenomenon often reflects broader cultural and societal changes where religion's influence diminishes, resulting in a more secular public sphere. Secularization can manifest in various forms, including the separation of church and state, declining religious participation, and an increase in secular ideologies.
Sharia: Sharia refers to Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, guiding the moral, ethical, and legal aspects of Muslim life. It encompasses both personal conduct and community regulations, shaping the daily lives of Muslims and influencing various aspects of society, including governance and justice.
Turkey: Turkey is a transcontinental country located mainly on the Anatolian Peninsula in Western Asia and a smaller portion on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It has played a crucial role in the context of Islam in the modern world, particularly as a bridge between East and West, reflecting both its rich Islamic heritage and its secular governance.
Wahhabism: Wahhabism is a strict, puritanical interpretation of Sunni Islam founded by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab in the 18th century. It emphasizes a return to what adherents believe to be the original principles of Islam, advocating for monotheism and the rejection of practices considered innovations or idolatry. This movement has played a significant role in shaping contemporary Islamic thought and practices, especially in Saudi Arabia, where it is closely associated with the state and its governance.