Re-Visiting Syed Abul A’la Mawdudi’s Life, Influence, And Islamic Ideology

Abstract

Abul A‘la Mawdudi (1903-1979) was a prominent Islamic scholar and revivalist. The life, theological beliefs, and enduring influence of Mawlana Abul A‘la Mawdudi (1903–79), has made a significant contribution to Islamic revivalism. Highlighted by the British magazine News Statesman as one of “12 great thinkers of our time” in 2003 due to his impact on both extremist and moderate Muslims, Mawdudi’s interpretation of Islam is analyzed within the specific historical context of the Indian Sub-continent. This paper explores the historical context that shaped his ideology, particularly his call for Islamic revivalism and the establishment of an Islamic state. It then dives into four key themes of Mawdudi’s thought: Islam as a complete way of life, the Islamic state, the distinction between Islamic and Muslim history, and a critical stance towards the West. Since Mawdudi’s Islamic ideology is the product of a specific historical context, this paper sketches a brief historical survey of his life in order to understand his intellectual, political, and religious development of thought. In discussing his Islamic ideology, this paper discusses the several essential themes of Mawdudi’s thought such as: (1) Islam as a complete code of life, (2) the establishment of Islamic state, (3) the distinction between Islamic history and Muslims’ history, and finally (4) the anti-Western approach. Then, the research focused on Mawdudi’s understanding of the concept of jihad. Finally, this paper offers the assessment of Mawdudi’s overall ideology and its influence on the Islamic world.