جمال الدين الأفغاني: أفكاره الإصلاحية بين الهند ومصر

Abstract

In the mid-19th century, the Islamic nation faced significant challenges marked by the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the growing influence of colonial powers in the Muslim world. These powers sought to dismantle the unity of the Islamic nation, spread ignorance and stagnation, and suppress the spirit of progress that forms the foundation of civilizations. Amidst these circumstances, Jamal al-Din al-Afghani emerged as one of the most prominent reform leaders. He dedicated his life to awakening the Islamic nation, resisting colonialism, and confronting oppressive local regimes. His mission was to revive the spirit of progress in the East and to cultivate a generation of leaders and intellectuals who worked to educate society and elevate it within the available means.

Jamal al-Din al-Afghani is considered a pioneer of the modern reform movement and one of the most prominent advocates for the unity of the Islamic nation. His vision was based on liberating the nation from colonialism, exploitation, and negligence while promoting a new awareness that enhances its civilizational standing. Through his ideas and efforts, he laid the groundwork for a political and intellectual framework that became the foundation for subsequent reform movements.

This research examines the life of Jamal al-Din al-Afghani and his reformative influence in the Islamic world. It is divided into three chapters: the first explores his biography, including his birth, origin, upbringing, and death. The second chapter focuses on the influence of his family, his education, and the political circumstances of his time. The third chapter delves into his reformative efforts, particularly his role in Egypt, addressing the political and economic conditions of the period, his views on resisting colonialism, and his perception of governance.

The study relied on a range of primary sources and references, notably The Complete Works of Jamal al-Din al-Afghani edited by Muhammad Amara, Al-Urwah al-Wuthqa by Jamal al-Din al-Afghani and Muhammad Abduh, and The Truth About Jamal al-Din al-Afghani by Mirza Lotfollah Khan Asad Abadi. During the preparation of this research, challenges arose in interpreting the original texts, which were sometimes characterized by ambiguity, as well as discrepancies among sources regarding his origin and homeland, which made it difficult to establish a definitive birthplace.

This study aims to provide a comprehensive view of Jamal al-Din al-Afghani's character, his reformative efforts, and his profound influence on modern Islamic thought, serving as a model for addressing contemporary intellectual and political challenges.