Tablighi Jamaat

2009 Malaysian Tablighi Ijtema

Tablighi Jamaat is a Sunni Islamic missionary movement that focuses on urging Muslims to return to practicing their religion as it was practiced during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad, particularly in matters of ritual, dress, and personal behavior. The movement was founded in 1926 by Muhammad Ilyas Kandhlawi in Mewat, India.

History

The Tablighi Jamaat was established in response to the perceived decline in the observance of Islamic practices among the Muslim population in India. Muhammad Ilyas Kandhlawi initiated the movement with the slogan "Aye Musalmano! Musalman bano" (O Muslims! Become Muslims). The movement quickly spread across the Indian subcontinent and later to other parts of the world.

Beliefs and Practices

The core belief of Tablighi Jamaat is that Muslims should emulate the life of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions. The movement emphasizes six principles:

1. Kalimah (Declaration of faith)
2. Salah (Prayer)
3. Ilm (Knowledge)
4. Ikram-e-Muslim (Respect for fellow Muslims)
5. Ikhlas-e-Niyyat (Sincerity of intention)
6. Dawah (Proselytizing)

Members of the Tablighi Jamaat often travel in groups, known as jamaats, to various locations to spread their message. These trips can last from a few days to several months.

Organizational Structure

The Tablighi Jamaat does not have a formal organizational structure or leadership hierarchy. Decisions are typically made through mutual consultation (Shura). The movement is decentralized, with each group operating independently but adhering to the same principles and practices.

Global Presence

The Tablighi Jamaat has a significant presence in many countries around the world, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, UK, and the US. The movement's annual gatherings, known as Ijtemas, attract hundreds of thousands of participants.

Criticism and Controversies

The Tablighi Jamaat has faced criticism from various quarters. Some Islamic scholars argue that the movement's focus on ritualistic practices detracts from other important aspects of Islam. Additionally, the movement has been scrutinized by governments and security agencies in various countries due to concerns about radicalization, although the Tablighi Jamaat itself is apolitical and non-violent.

See Also

• Islamic revival
• Dawah
• Sunni Islam
• Muhammad Ilyas Kandhlawi
• Ijtema