Jamaah al-Islamiyyah, al-
Jamaah al-Islamiyyah, al-, also known as the Islamic Society, is a significant Sunni organization that originated in the early 1960s in Tripoli, Lebanon. It started as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood but rapidly disseminated its influence to other cities within Lebanon.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: جماعة الإسلامية, الجماعة الإسلامية
- Turkish: İslami Cemaat
Historical Context
Initially led by a laity rather than clerics, Al-Jamaah al-Islamiyyah expanded its base and found significant support especially after the 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon. This facilitated its transition from a purely religious movement to a notable socio-political force.
Leadership
Currently, the group is led by Shaykh Fathi Yakan. Under Yakan’s leadership, the organization became an influential Sunni Islamist force within Lebanese electoral politics of the early 1990s. This strategic involvement enabled the organization to secure wider support than more militant movements advocating for an Islamic revolution.
Shaykh Fathi Yakan himself became a key political figure when he was elected in Tripoli in 1992, effectively breaking the monopoly of established old family dynasties over local politics. This event highlighted the organization’s rising influence within the local and broader national political landscape.
Sociopolitical Influence
Al-Jamaah al-Islamiyyah espouses a broader base of support due to its relatively moderate political positioning compared to more radical movements. This moderation enables it to engage more effectively in Lebanese electoral processes, garnering substantial backing among Lebanese Sunni Muslims.
Further Reading
For those interested in exploring more about Al-Jamaah al-Islamiyyah and its role in Lebanese politics:
- “The History of the Muslim Brotherhood” by Richard P. Mitchell: Offers a comprehensive overview of the Muslim Brotherhood, the ideological predecessor of Al-Jamaah al-Islamiyyah.
- “Islam and Democracy in Lebanon” by Nada Ayoubi: Analyzes the interplay between Islamic organizations and democratic processes in Lebanon.
- “Contemporary Politics in the Middle East” by Beverly Milton-Edwards: Provides context on the broader political dynamics in the Middle East which framed the organization’s activities.
Takeaways
- Foundation and Spread: Al-Jamaah al-Islamiyyah was founded in the 1960s stemming from the Muslim Brotherhood, quickly spreading influence across Lebanon.
- Leadership and Political Participation: Shaykh Fathi Yakan led the organization to notable electoral participation and success.
- Moderate Positioning: Its relatively moderate stance widened its support base compared to more militant groups.
- Breaking Political Holds: The 1992 electoral success marked a significant shift in local politics in Tripoli, undermining the influence of traditional political families.
Conclusion
Al-Jamaah al-Islamiyyah remains a critical player in Lebanon’s socio-political landscape. Its historical roots, moderate approach, and strategic political participation have allowed it to impact Lebanese society significantly while maintaining its religious foundation rooted in the principles of the Muslim Brotherhood.
