Jamaat-e-Islami: A Pioneering Islamic Movement in Modern Politics

[Fatima]

Founded in the 20th century, Jamaat-e-Islami stands as one of the most influential Islamic movements in South Asia and beyond. It was born out of a vision to establish a society governed by Islamic principles — not only through personal piety, but also through state structures, law, and governance.

Whether seen as a religious reform group, an ideological movement, or a political force, Jamaat-e-Islami has played a significant role in shaping the modern discourse around Islam and politics.

Historical Background

Jamaat-e-Islami was founded in 1941 in British India by Abul A’la Maududi, a renowned Islamic thinker, scholar, and journalist. In a time of rising nationalism and secular ideologies, Maududi argued that Islam was not merely a private belief system, but a complete code of life — political, economic, legal, and moral.

His vision was to establish an Islamic order through constitutional, educational, and intellectual efforts, rather than violence or rebellion.

Core Ideology

Jamaat-e-Islami’s ideology revolves around the principle that sovereignty belongs to Allah alone, and that Islamic law (Sharia) should be the foundation for all societal systems.

Key beliefs

(a) Islam as a comprehensive system — religion, politics, economics, and personal life are interconnected
(b) Democratic process with Islamic values — the group supports elections and parliaments, but aims to align governance with Islamic teachings
(c) Gradual, peaceful reform — through da’wah (inviting others), education, and political engagement
(d) Opposition to secularism and Western cultural dominance in Muslim lands

Maududi introduced the idea of a theo-democracy, where governance is accountable to both the people and divine guidance.

Organizational Structure

Unlike many informal Islamic revival groups, Jamaat-e-Islami is known for its disciplined, hierarchical structure. It operates with:

(a) Amir (Leader): Elected periodically by members
(b) Shura (Advisory council): For decision-making and policy direction
(c) Membership tiers: Full members (Rukn), associates, and supporters — each with responsibilities in education, preaching, and outreach

The movement has chapters in various countries, including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Kashmir, with some ideological influence in the Middle East and the West.

Political Engagement

Jamaat-e-Islami has long believed in using democratic means to achieve its goals. In Pakistan, it operates as a political party, regularly participating in elections. In Bangladesh, it has also been active in politics, though banned at times due to ideological tensions with secular authorities.

Its political platforms typically emphasize:

[1] Establishing Islamic legal and economic systems
[2] Promoting moral values in public life
[3] Opposing foreign intervention and imperialism
[4] Advocating for social justice, education, and welfare based on Islamic teachings

Despite limited electoral success, Jamaat has consistently shaped public opinion, academic thought, and grassroots activism across the Muslim world.

Contributions to Islamic Thought

Jamaat-e-Islami’s founder, Abul A’la Maududi, wrote extensively on Islamic philosophy, law, and governance. His works, including Towards Understanding Islam and Islamic Way of Life, remain widely read.

His Tafhim al-Qur’an, a Quranic commentary in Urdu, has influenced generations of Islamic scholars and thinkers.

The movement also promotes educational reform, publishing houses, student unions, and media platforms to spread Islamic values and provide alternatives to secular narratives.

Criticisms and Challenges

Jamaat-e-Islami has faced criticism from various quarters:

(a) Secularists accuse it of mixing religion with politics and resisting modern pluralistic values
(b) Some Islamists argue it’s too compromising or slow in its approach
(c) Governments in countries like Bangladesh and India have restricted or banned it at times, citing national security concerns

Despite these challenges, the group maintains a peaceful and ideological stance, generally distancing itself from militancy and extremism.

Legacy and Relevance Today

In today’s context of political instability and identity crises in the Muslim world, Jamaat-e-Islami continues to provide a structured, intellectual, and ethical model for Islamic activism. It serves as a platform for those who seek to reconcile faith and modern life, without abandoning core religious values.

While it may not dominate electoral politics, its influence in shaping Islamic discourse, education, and civil society remains significant.

Jamaat-e-Islami represents a unique blend of spiritual revival and political engagement. Its call for ethical leadership, social justice, and moral governance continues to resonate — especially among youth and intellectuals seeking a meaningful Islamic identity in a rapidly changing world.