Secularism
Secularism - The concept derived from the European historical experience, which sought to remove coercive power from ecclesiastical authority and thus safeguard the freedom of religion; essentially, it is the separation of religion and state.
Etymology
The term “secularism” comes from the Latin word “saeculum,” which means “world” or “age” and its first use can be attributed to the 19th century in the context of European societal evolution.
- Arabic: علمانية (Al-Ilmaniyya)
- Turkish: Laiklik / Sekülerizm
Definitions and Interpretation in Islamic Context
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In the Euro-American context, secularism is understood as a promoter of religious freedom by privatizing religion and keeping it out of state affairs.
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Within many Muslim-majority societies, secularism is often interpreted as the removal of religious values from the public sphere, and therefore it is frequently condemned.
Historical Background
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Muslim Theologians’ Perspective: Muslim theologians have long distinguished between matters of “Din” (religion) and “Dawlah” (state) but insist that public life must be guided by Islamic values.
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Experience of Secularism in the Muslim World: Muslims have historically experienced secularism as an ideology imposed from outside—through colonial rule and foreign influence, and thus perceived it as an extension of foreign culture.
Contemporary Views
- Islamists vs. Secularists: The tension perceived between religion and secularism often pits secularist attempts to define Islam solely as a matter of personal belief against those advocating for the re-imposition of Islamic Law (Sharia) and Islamic political authority.
Islamic Law and Secularism
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Public vs. Private Sphere: Muslim scholars argue that while Islam does not mandate a singular form of government, it requires that public life and institutions are reflective of Islamic moral and ethical values.
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Modern Context: In the contemporary Muslim world, debates continue regarding the applicability and relevance of secularism, especially concerning the governance, legislation, and civil rights.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Secularism and Its Discontents” by Talal Asad
- “Formations of the Secular: Christianity, Islam, Modernity” by Talal Asad
- “Islam and Secularism in the Middle East” edited by John L. Esposito
Takeaways
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Interactive Dynamic: The relationship between Islam and secularism is characterized by tension but also by an ongoing negotiation of boundaries.
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Historical Context: Understanding the unique historical experience of Muslim societies with secularism is crucial for a nuanced perspective.
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Continued Debate: The debate around secularism in Islam underscores broader questions of identity, governance, and the role of religion in public life.
Conclusion
In sum, secularism, while rooted in a Western historical context of church-state separation, has had different implications and receptions in the Muslim world. The ongoing discourse reflects deep-rooted issues around cultural identity, political authority, and the role of religion in shaping public life.
This entry provides a comprehensive understanding of secularism within the Islamic context, enriched with historical insights and contemporary perspectives.
