Wahhabi Islam : from revival and reform to global Jihad

Wahhabi Islam Book Description

Until September 11, 2001, few Westerners had ever heard of ‘Wahhabism.’ Now, it is widely recognized as an austere and puritanical form of Islam, often linked to Osama bin Laden and Saudi Arabia. The term ‘Wahhabi’ comes from Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Wahhab (1702-1791), who advised Muhammad Ibn Saud, founder of the House of Saud. In this book, Natania DeLong-Bas provides an in-depth study of al-Wahhab’s writings, focusing on theology, legal theory, proselytizing, and law on women. Through a close reading of his texts, she challenges the common view that 20th- and 21st-century Wahhabi extremism originates in his work.

Key Features of Wahhabi Islam

DeLong-Bas explores how themes like jihad, martyrdom, and misogyny were added to Wahhabi teachings in the 19th century after armed conflict with the Ottoman Empire. She argues that the strict division of the world into dar al-Islam and dar al-kufr, which defines only Wahhabi adherents as true Muslims, is not present in al-Wahhab’s original writings. Her research debunks the image of al-Wahhab as an uneducated, rural figure. Instead, she presents a revisionist view of his thought, which is both controversial and essential for understanding modern Wahhabi ideology.

Why Read This Book?

This book fills a significant gap in the literature on Wahhabism by returning to the original writings of its founder. DeLong-Bas provides a nuanced analysis that challenges common journalistic portrayals. Her work is crucial for students and scholars of Islam, as well as those interested in the origins of modern extremist ideologies. By examining al-Wahhab’s texts, she offers a fresh perspective on the evolution of Wahhabi thought and its impact on contemporary global events.

About This Book

Natania DeLong-Bas’s study is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the roots of Wahhabism and its transformation into a global ideology. Through rigorous scholarship, she presents a compelling argument that reshapes our understanding of this complex movement. The book is essential for those interested in the intersection of religion, politics, and ideology in the modern world.