Islam, Sectarianism, and Politics in Sudan Post-Mahdiyya
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Islam, Sectarianism and Politics in Sudan since the Mahdiyya
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Subtitle: Hurst & Company, Londres, 2003, 252 p.
Original source:
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Claude Arditi
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Islam, Sectarianism and Politics in Sudan since the Mahdiyya
Year: 2005 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.2463
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The book "Islam, Sectarianism and Politics in Sudan since the Mahdiyya," authored by Gabriel Warburg and published by Hurst & Company in 2003, encapsulates over three decades of research into the intertwining of Islam and politics in Sudan, particularly focusing on the Mahdist movement in the 19th century. This period marked the establishment of a unique Islamic state that succeeded in ousting foreign occupiers but ultimately fell victim to British imperial interests. Following the Mahdiyya's decline, the book discusses the colonial administration’s attempts to separate religion from politics, as well as the challenges of establishing a democracy in a context shaped by deep-rooted sectarian divides.
Islam and Democracy: A Complex Relationship
One of the primary themes of Warburg's work is the relationship between Islam and democracy, which he argues is often misunderstood and oversimplified. He references the perspectives of various scholars, including Esposito and Voll, who contend that there is no inherent conflict between Islam and democratic governance. Instead, the challenges arise from how these two elements interact within specific cultural and political contexts. Warburg poses critical questions about the nature of democracy in a multicultural society, particularly regarding the treatment of non-Muslims and the impact of ethnic nationalism on coexistence. He observes that many Sudanese and foreign scholars attribute the failures of democracy not solely to Islam itself but to the roles played by Islamic brotherhoods and political rivalries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Warburg's analysis sheds light on the multifaceted issues facing Sudanese democracy, highlighting the vital role that both historical context and religious interpretations play in shaping political outcomes. While the author acknowledges the complexity of establishing a democratic framework in a society marked by religious divisions, he suggests that the potential for a democratic Islamic state remains viable. By examining the historical interplay of Islam, politics, and sectarianism in Sudan, the book encourages readers to reconsider prevailing assumptions about the compatibility of Islam with democratic principles, reflecting on the broader implications for similar societies across the Muslim world.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of Claude Arditi's book?
The book analyzes the role of Islam in Sudanese politics from the Mahdiyya movement to independence in 1956, exploring the implications of religious and political intersections.
How did colonialism affect Islam's role in Sudanese politics?
The British colonial administration attempted to separate religion and state, limiting Islam's political influence while allowing private religious practice, leading to complex outcomes in governance and society.
What factors contributed to the failure of democracy in Sudan?
Factors include inadequate political policies, rivalries among leaders, and the historical context of Islamic state formation, compounded by the influential role of religious confraternities.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Islam, Sectarianism, and Politics in Sudan Post-Mahdiyya”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Cutan:
Sudan, as a focal point in this work, is explored through its historical development, particularly regarding the Mahdist movement, Islamic state establishment, and colonial encounters, reflecting the intricate relationship among religion, politics, and identity within the region.
2) Religion:
Religion plays a crucial role in the political life of Sudan, as the text discusses the emergence of an Islamic state and its impact on governance and societal structure in a post-colonial context.
3) Politics:
Politics in Sudan has been influenced by the interplay of Islam and sectarianism, where the quest for power often intersects with religious movements, shaping the country's governance and policies post-Mahdiyya.
4) Power:
The dynamics of power in Sudan are closely tied to the rise and fall of Islamic movements, highlighting how colonial powers sought to redefine governance separate from Islamic principles, ultimately affecting political stability.
5) Cultural diversity:
Cultural diversity is a significant theme as the text explores how various religious and ethnic identities intersect in Sudan, creating both challenges and opportunities for democratic governance and coexistence.
6) Reflection:
Reflection on the failures and successes of democracy in Sudan prompts considerations of the historical context, allowing for an assessment of how religious convictions shape political systems.
7) Experience:
Experience gained through the historical establishment of an Islamic state in Sudan provides insights into contemporary political struggles, illustrating the complexities that arise when religion and politics intertwine.
8) Education:
Education is presented as a critical factor in the discussion of democracy and governance in Sudan, with implications for how well citizens understand and engage with democratic processes.
9) Doctrine:
Islamic doctrine is scrutinized in relation to its compatibility with democratic principles, raising questions about how these teachings influence political legitimacy and governance in Sudan.
10) Minister:
The role of political leaders such as the Prime Minister in the historical context of Sudan is essential for understanding governance challenges and the implementation of policies, particularly during the periods of leadership change.
11) Obstacle:
The text identifies various obstacles to the establishment of democracy in Sudan, including entrenched political identities and the historical legacy of conflict between Islamic movements and colonial governance.
12) Identity:
Identity, particularly in religious and ethnic terms, shapes the political landscape of Sudan, affecting how groups interact within the context of governance and societal relations post-colonization.
13) Egypt:
Egypt's historical influence on Sudan is acknowledged, particularly regarding the colonial presence and the political dynamics that ensued during the Mahdist period and afterward.
14) Shari (Sari):
Shari’a has a prominent role in the legal system of Sudan, as Islamic law is referenced in the context of governance, revealing the complexities of legal practices within a secular political framework.
15) Limit (Limiting, Limited):
Limitations are evident in the discussions of democracy in Sudan, particularly regarding how religious adherence can inhibit the establishment of more inclusive political practices.
16) Court:
The court systems within Sudan are impacted by religious law, highlighting how legal frameworks influence political authority and societal norms in a post-colonial context.
17) Lead:
Political movements in Sudan lead to significant shifts in power dynamics, particularly as Islamic currents influenced governance and policies during periods of conflict and colonial influence.
18) Book:
The book encapsulates the complexities of Islam, sectarianism, and politics in Sudan, offering comprehensive insights into historical trends that have shaped contemporary issues in the region.