The Error of Political Islam

PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION required in relation to specific external circumstances, yet this ideology has mistakenly positioned them as core elements of the faith itself (see the example of love in Chapter 4). This is a very subtle and hidden deviation rather than an obvious one. However, our scholars did not recognize this distinction and began searching for the same kind of errors in the line of thought under discussion as had previously been found among deviant sects. Since this was not actually the case, their criticisms were weak and unfounded, making arguments that did not accurately apply to the ideology under discussion. Their situation became like that of a lawyer with a strong case but who failed to effectively advocate his case due to a lack of understanding of the details. As a result, the writings published by these critics have caused harm on two fronts. On the one side, they have fostered a kind of ideological arrogance among the Jamaat’s members. Weak critiques have created the erroneous belief among them that they are certainly in the right and their opponents are necessarily wrong. On the other side, these inadequate critiques have weakened a valid opposition, rendering it ineffective. I feel that God willing, this book will provide new material for reflection for both parties. 5. Finally, even if the above considerations were not present, my sense that “the religion has been harmed” is reason enough for me to attempt to clarify this matter. Clarifying religion is inherently necessary.