ISLAMISATION Meaning and
Definition
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Islamisation refers to the process by which a society or country adopts, or is influenced by, the customs, teachings, and practices of Islam. It involves the gradual integration of Islamic beliefs, values, laws, and traditions into different spheres of society, such as politics, economics, education, and culture. Islamisation can occur voluntarily, through the conversion of individuals to Islam, or it can be promoted by Islamic religious leaders, organizations, or even governments.
This phenomenon can manifest in various ways, including the adaptation of Sharia law, the establishment of Islamic educational institutions, the introduction of Islamic holidays and rituals, the promotion of Islamic dress codes, and the construction of mosques and other religious buildings. Islamisation can also entail the incorporation of Islamic teachings and principles into the legal framework, governance, and social policies of a nation.
The extent and implications of Islamisation vary greatly across different countries and regions. Some perceive it as a means to preserve and strengthen religious identity and cultural heritage, recognizing Islam as a central aspect of their national identity. Others view it as a threat to secularism, human rights, or the principles of religious freedom and pluralism. The consequences of Islamisation have been a topic of debate and controversy, often triggering social, political, and religious tensions within societies and between different groups.
Etymology of ISLAMISATION
The word "islamisation" is derived from the noun "Islam", which refers to the religion founded by Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century CE. "Islam" is an Arabic word meaning "submission" or "surrender" to the will of God. The suffix "-isation" is added to "Islam" to form the noun "islamisation", which refers to the process of making something Islamic or the spread and influence of Islam. The term is often used to describe the cultural, religious, and social changes that occur when a society or region adopts or becomes heavily influenced by Islamic beliefs, practices, or institutions.
