Explain Maulana Maududi’s views on nationalism.

Maulana Abul A'la Maududi (1903-1979) was a prominent Islamic scholar, philosopher, and political activist known for his influential contributions to Islamic thought and political ideology. Maududi's views on nationalism were shaped by his deep commitment to Islam as a comprehensive system of life and governance. Here is an explanation of Maulana Maududi's perspective on nationalism:

Maududi rejected the concept of nationalism based on ethnic or territorial identities, viewing it as a divisive force that undermined the universal message of Islam. Instead, he advocated for a form of Islamic nationalism that transcended ethnic boundaries and emphasized the unity of Muslim communities worldwide under the banner of Islam.

According to Maududi, true nationalism should be rooted in Islamic principles and values, with Muslims identifying primarily as members of the global Islamic ummah (community) rather than as citizens of specific nation-states. He believed that Islamic solidarity should take precedence over nationalist sentiments, fostering a sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims regardless of their national origins.

Maududi criticized secular nationalism for promoting materialistic and worldly ideologies that prioritized narrow national interests over spiritual and moral values. He argued that true nationalism should be based on a higher purpose and guided by divine principles enshrined in the Quran and Sunnah (teachings of Prophet Muhammad).

Maududi's concept of Islamic nationalism emphasized the establishment of an Islamic state governed by Sharia (Islamic law) as the ideal form of governance for Muslims. He viewed the Islamic state as a means to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and moral integrity prescribed by Islam, serving as a model society for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Overall, Maududi's views on nationalism reflected his broader vision of Islam as a comprehensive socio-political framework capable of addressing the challenges of modernity and providing guidance for individual and collective life. While his ideas have been influential within Islamic circles, they have also been subject to debate and interpretation within the broader context of Islamic political thought and nationalism.