Islamic Modernism and the Re-Enchantment of the Sacred in the Age of History

This book explores the relationship between religion and modernity, arguing that modernity is the result of the 19th-century intellectual landscape and that Islamic Modernism emerged to reconcile religion and modernity. It highlights the epistemology and methodology of historicism that influenced the Middle East and South Asia, and how Muslim Modernists engaged in a theological reform project to marry their commitments to religion and modernity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This book delves into the intricate interplay between religion and modernity, contending that modernity should be viewed as a result, rather than a catalyst, of the 19th century's new intellectual landscape. Monica M. Ringer employs the framework of Islamic Modernism to explore the underlying epistemology and methodology of historicism that permeated the Middle East and South Asia during this period, exerting both a forceful and enabling influence on the reevaluation of religion's definition, nature, function, and position. Ringer demonstrates that Muslim Modernists, akin to their counterparts in other religious traditions, undertook a sophisticated project of theological reform aimed at harmonizing their dual commitments to religion and modernity. These Modernists engaged in a dialogue not only with European scholarship and Catholic Modernism but also with their own rich Islamic traditions, forging a unique and complex synthesis.

The emergence of Islamic Modernism can be attributed to a multitude of factors. Firstly, the 19th century witnessed a global shift towards rationalism, secularism, and scientific inquiry, which challenged traditional religious beliefs and practices. This intellectual climate provided fertile ground for the emergence of new ideas and ideologies that sought to reconcile religion with modernity.

Secondly, the colonial era brought about significant changes in the political and social landscape of the Middle East and South Asia. The arrival of European powers and the establishment of colonial rule introduced new technologies, education systems, and cultural norms that challenged the traditional Islamic order. Many Muslims began to question the relevance and efficacy of their religious traditions in the face of these new challenges.

Thirdly, the rise of nationalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries further fueled the emergence of Islamic Modernism. Nationalist movements sought to create a distinct identity for Muslim communities and to promote their religious and cultural heritage in the face of foreign domination. Muslim Modernists saw themselves as agents of change, working to modernize their religious traditions and adapt them to the demands of the modern world.

The shape of Islamic Modernism took various forms, reflecting the diverse contexts and experiences of Muslim communities. Some Muslim Modernists sought to preserve the essential teachings of Islam while incorporating modern ideas and technologies. They emphasized the importance of education, scientific inquiry, and social reform in order to create a modern Muslim society that could compete with the West.

Other Muslim Modernists, however, went further in their reform efforts, seeking to completely reject traditional Islamic beliefs and practices. They embraced secularism, rationalism, and humanism, advocating for a separation of religion and state and the adoption of Western cultural norms and values.

Despite the differences in their approaches, Muslim Modernists shared a common goal of reconciling religion and modernity. They recognized the importance of adapting to the changing social and political landscape while preserving the core teachings of Islam. They believed that religion could play a positive role in promoting social justice, human rights, and economic development, provided it was reinterpreted in light of modern scientific and philosophical ideas.

The emergence of Islamic Modernism was not without its challenges. Many traditional Muslims viewed it as a threat to their religious identity and heritage, and they opposed the reforms advocated by Muslim Modernists. The colonial powers also attempted to suppress and marginalize Islamic Modernism, viewing it as a threat to their interests in the region.

However, Islamic Modernism continued to grow and evolve, and it played a significant role in shaping the modern Muslim world. It inspired other religious movements, such as the Islamic Revival in the Middle East and South Asia, and it contributed to the development of a more secular and democratic political discourse in the region.

In conclusion, the emergence of Islamic Modernism was a complex and multifaceted process driven by a combination of intellectual, political, and social factors. It sought to reconcile religion and modernity in a way that was both innovative and challenging, and it played a significant role in shaping the modern Muslim world. While Islamic Modernism faced its share of challenges, it remains a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Islamic tradition in the face of change.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474478748