HAMAS
Etymology and Translations
The term HAMAS (حماس) translates to “zeal” in Arabic and stands for Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyyah (“Movement of Islamic Resistance”). In Turkish, it is referred to as “İslami Direniş Hareketi”.
Historical Background
HAMAS was established in December 1987 with the onset of the Palestinian uprising, known as the intifadah. Its foundation marked a pivotal moment in the Palestinian resistance, initiating a structured Islamist response to Israeli occupation.
Founders
- Abd al-Aziz al-Rantisi: One of the key founders and pivotal in the organization’s strategic orientation.
- Shaykh Ahmad Yasin: Served as the spiritual leader, guiding the movement’s ideological stance.
Organizational Structure
HAMAS consists of several branches, with the most noteworthy being:
- Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades: The armed wing committing to militant actions.
- Social and Welfare Activities: A significant portion of HAMAS’s budget is allocated towards education and social welfare, reinforcing its grassroots support among Palestinians.
Ideological Framework
HAMAS describes its resistance against Israel in terms of jihad, portrayed as an individual religious duty.
- Jewish State and Islam: The organization accuses Jews of attempting to destroy Islam, positing that this perceived threat invalidates the legitimacy of the state of Israel.
- Islamic Waqf: HAMAS characterizes Palestine as an Islamic waqf (pious endowment), indicating that the land is a sacred trust that cannot be forfeited.
Political Stance
HAMAS’s ideology often resulted in tension with other Palestinian entities, such as the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Unlike the PLO, HAMAS rejects peace processes premised on the principle of territorial compromise, advocating instead for total liberation through militant means.
Palestinian Support
The organization claims to have the allegiance of approximately 30 to 40 percent of Palestinians, bolstered by its systematic welfare programs and religious narratives emphasizing the sanctity of Palestine and Jerusalem.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “Hamas: A Beginner’s Guide” by Khaled Hroub: A comprehensive analysis of the organization’s history, ideology, and operations.
- “The Political Role of Hamas in Palestine” by Ahmed Yousef: An insider’s view on the political dynamics within HAMAS.
- “Hamas: Politics, Charity, and Terrorism in the Service of Jihad” by Matthew Levitt: A critical examination of HAMAS’s dual role as a social service provider and a militant organization.
Takeaways and Conclusion
HAMAS represents a critical component of the Palestinian Islamist resistance, ingrained deeply in social, spiritual, and militant facets of Palestinian society. It juxtaposes the concept of jihad as an enduring battle for the divine sanctity of its homeland, markedly distinct from secular nationalist movements like the PLO. Understanding HAMAS within the context of both its religious narratives and its pragmatic social services provides a nuanced perspective on its enduring influence.
In illuminating the intersection of religion, politics, and militant resistance, HAMAS remains a complex entity meriting continued scholarly attention and analysis.
