Why does Allama Iqbal distinguish Western concept of nationalism among Muslims?
There has been a lot written on nationalism. It frequently relates to linguistic, cultural, or geographic identities. Iqbal developed a fierce dislike for many western ideas, particularly nationalism, despite having attended western colleges and studying western philosophy in depth.
In reality, he criticises nationalism as a whole and claims that it gains strength from the fall of religion.
He believes that the western understanding of nationality and nationalism has a very limited perspective. However, in comparison with Islamic nationalism, religion Islam was the main force which can unite people together as a nation. No matter where they live, the notion of Muslim nationalism can unite them together.
ایک ہوں مسلم حرم کی پاسبانی کےلئے
نیل کے ساحل سے لیکر تابخاک کا شغر
Ak Ho Mulim Haram Ki Pasbani Kaylia
Neil Ky Sahil Sy Ly Kar Tabkhak Ka Shagar
According to Allama Iqbal, a person is said as to be Muslim only if he believes in ones of Allah and finality of prophethood. This is the basis of Muslim nationalism which differs from western concept of nationalism, which was based on linguistic, cultural, or geographic identities. Islamic concept of nationalism wasn’t confined to boundaries instead, based on belief.
Even in contemporary times, Muslim sense of nationalism can prove fruitful at all the places where Muslims are struggling in the world.
Unfortunately, Muslims are not paying heed to this concept knowing the significance of nationalism. That was the only thing which distinguished western concept of nationalism among Muslim.
