Mujaddid
Definition
A Mujaddid (Arabic: مجدد; Turkish: Müceddit) is an Islamic renewer or reformer believed to appear at the beginning of each century to restore and rejuvenate the faith of the Muslim community (Ummah). According to a hadith (Prophetic tradition), the role of a Mujaddid is to revitalize Islam and correct the practice of Muslims, steering them back to the pure teachings and practices of the early Islamic community (al-Salaf al-Salih). Mujaddids often combat perceived innovations (bid‘ah) and deviations that have crept into Muslim practice over time.
Etymology
The term Mujaddid originates from the Arabic verb جدد (jaddada), which means “to renew” or “to revive.” The noun formed from this verb, مُجَدِّد (mujaddid), translates to “one who renews.”
Historical Context and Significance
The concept of Mujaddid finds its roots in a hadith reported by Abu Dawood, which states: “Allah shall raise for this Ummah at the beginning of every century a person who shall renew their religion for them.”
This notion has matured into an established expectation among many Muslims that exceptionally learned and pious figures will emerge every century to reinvigorate Islam.
Prominent Examples of Mujaddid
One of the most widely recognized Mujaddids is Ahmad Sirhindi (1564–1624), also known as Mujaddid Alf Sani (“Renewer of the Second Thousand [years]”). He played a significant role in reviving the Naqshbandi Sufi order and countered the syncretic policies of the Mughal emperor Akbar. His efforts to return to orthodox Sunni practice and eliminate perceived innovations cemented his role as a Mujaddid.
Influence on Islamic Thought
Mujaddids have historically influenced Islamic thought by:
- Critiquing contemporary religious practices and providing a framework anchored in perceived classical orthodoxy.
- Spurring renewal movements that aim to bring society back to what is seen as the authentic practice of Islam.
- Engaging in social and political reforms in line with religious principles, reflecting an amalgamation of spiritual and worldly responsibilities.
Canonical Books on Mujaddid
For further study on Mujaddid and the renewal tradition in Islam, consider the following books:
- “Revival and Reform in Islam” by Fazlur Rahman
- “The Venture of Islam: Conscience and History in a World Civilization” by Marshall G. S. Hodgson
- “The Renewal of Islamic Law: Muhammad Baqer as-Sadr, Najaf and the Shi’i International” by Chibli Mallat
- “Mujaddidʹi Alf-i Sani: Hazrat Shaikh Ahmed Sirhindi” by Badr `Aʻẓamī
Takeaways and Conclusion
Understanding the role of a Mujaddid provides a lens through which one can appreciate the dynamism and adaptability within Islamic tradition. The Muslim community’s recurring need for these figures highlights the religion’s ongoing dialogue between tradition and renewal.
In conclusion, the institution of the Mujaddid underscores not just the quartz-like maintenance of Islamic orthodoxy, but the continuous, lived experience of adapting the faith to contemporary circumstances undergirded by the principles laid down centuries ago by the early Muslim community.
