Ask Haviv Anything Episode 16: Hamas and the broken promise of 150 years of Islamic reform
May 30, 2025
Explore the fascinating evolution of Hamas from its roots in 19th-century Islamic reform movements to its current theocratic rule in Gaza. Delve into how modern interpretations of Islam could offer pathways for de-radicalization and peace. Discover the key thinkers like al-Afghani and Abduh, who once championed modernization, and analyze the shift toward extremist ideologies. The conversation raises thought-provoking questions about the interplay between reform, nationalism, and the rigid interpretations that challenge cultural diversity.
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Hamas's Roots in Reformist Islam
- Hamas's violent theocratic dictatorship roots trace back to 19th-century Islamic reformers who initially advocated modernization and rationalism.
- This lineage reveals a potential path for Gaza's deradicalization from within its own religious tradition.
19th-Century Islamic Reform Begins
- 19th-century reformers like Jamal al-Din al-Afghani identified Islamic stagnation caused by blind adherence to medieval traditions.
- They sought a revival through rational reinterpretation to meet the challenge posed by Western power and modernity.
Abdukh's Rational Islamic Reform
- Muhammad Abdukh expanded reform ideas advocating independent reasoning (ijtihad) to harmonize Islam with science and modern governance.
- He called for consultation and rule of law rooted in Islamic ethics as essential for political and religious revival.