Islam in Sudan
Introduction
Sudan, with its deep historical roots, has a vibrant and complex relationship with Islam. As of the latest estimates, around seventy percent of Sudan’s population of approximately thirty-five million people are Muslims, mainly residing in the northern regions. This article explores the historical trajectory, cultural integration, and political dynamics of Islam in Sudan.
Etymology
The word “Islam” (الإسلام) translates to ‘submission’ in Arabic, referring to the submission to the will of God. The Arabic term for Sudan (السودان) translates to ’the land of the blacks’, reflecting its historical identity.
Historical Context
Modern Sudanese history significantly began with the Ottoman Turkish-Egyptian invasion of 1821. During the 19th century, Sudan experienced numerous jihads or Islamic revivalist movements that sought to defend against foreign interference.
The most prominent of these movements was led by Muhammad Ahmad, who proclaimed himself as the Mahdi (Expected One) in 1881. His movement effectively expelled Ottoman-Turkish troops by 1884-1885, although this was soon followed by British control, establishing the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan between 1898 and 1902.
Sufi Influence
Islam in Sudan has been profoundly shaped by Sufi brotherhoods, such as the Qadiri, Khatmi, Sanusi, and Shadhili orders. These Sufi tariqas (paths) have deeply woven themselves into the social fabric of Sudan, blending local customs and promoting an egalitarian version of Islam.
Post-Independence Sudan
Following Sudan’s independence in 1956, the nation was ruled by various civilian and military regimes influenced by Muslim political ideologies. Relations between the predominantly Muslim North and the largely non-Muslim South were often tumultuous. In 1983, military leader Jafar al-Numayri issued decrees for establishing Islamic law, sparking tensions with Southern communities who subsequently mobilized under the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), reigniting the civil war.
Islamist Regimes and Contemporary Issues
A significant turning point in Sudanese politics occurred with the 1989 coup d’état, which brought an Islamist regime to power, formally headed by Omar al-Bashir but significantly influenced by Islamist ideologue Hasan al-Turabi. Their Islamist governance led to international isolation and severe domestic repression, pushing many moderates and the Nubian Muslim communities into opposition alliances such as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in coalition with the SPLM.
Omar al-Bashir’s reign saw instances of reelection, notable political shifts, and significant internal strife until his ouster in 2019.
Further Reading
For a deeper understanding of Islam’s influence in Sudan and its broader implications, consider these scholarly works:
- “Islam and the Political Economy of Meaning (Governance of Sudan)” by USAID
- “The Rise and Fall of Sudan’s Islamist Project” by Jean-Pierre Filiu
- “Divided by Faith: Religious Conflict and the Practice of Tolerance in Sudan” by David F. Campt.
Conclusion
Islam in Sudan represents a complex tapestry reflecting the rich interplay between religion, politics, and culture. It illustrates both the adaptive capacity of Islam to local traditions through Sufism and the profound socio-political impacts instigated by Islamist political agendas.
Key Takeaways
- Islamization in Sudan evolved through both local Sufi traditions and more rigid Islamist movements.
- The influence of Sufi brotherhoods has been generally positive, fostering community cohesion.
- The imposition of Islamic law in the 1980s was a catalyst for renewed civil conflict.
- Political dynamics significantly shifted following the 1989 Islamist coup, leading to significant repression and international isolation.
Understanding this historical and cultural nuance is crucial for comprehending Sudan’s evolving religious and socio-political landscape.
