Explain Maulana Maududi’s views on nationalism.

Maulana Maududi, a prominent Islamic scholar and founder of the Jamaat-e-Islami party in South Asia, held complex views on nationalism that were deeply influenced by his interpretation of Islam and his vision of an Islamic state. Maududi rejected the concept of nationalism based on ethnicity or territorial boundaries, viewing it as a divisive force that undermined the unity of the Muslim ummah (community) and prioritized worldly allegiances over religious identity.

Instead, Maududi advocated for a form of Islamic nationalism grounded in the principles of Islamic ideology and faith. He believed that true nationalism could only be realized through adherence to Islamic principles and the establishment of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law. Maududi argued that Islam provided a comprehensive worldview and a universal code of conduct that transcended ethnic, linguistic, and national boundaries, making it the only legitimate basis for collective identity and allegiance.

Maududi's concept of Islamic nationalism emphasized the unity of the Muslim ummah and the primacy of Islamic values in all aspects of life. He rejected the notion of territorial nationalism, arguing that Muslims should prioritize their allegiance to the global Islamic community over loyalty to any particular nation-state. Maududi believed that the division of the Muslim world into separate nation-states was a result of colonialism and Western imperialism, which sought to weaken the unity and strength of the ummah.

Furthermore, Maududi saw nationalism as a secular ideology that promoted materialism, individualism, and the worship of nation-states as false idols. He warned against the dangers of nationalism, which he believed could lead to conflicts, oppression, and the subjugation of religious principles to the interests of the state. Instead, Maududi called for the establishment of an Islamic state governed by the principles of justice, morality, and divine law, where Muslims could live according to their faith and uphold the values of Islam.

In summary, Maulana Maududi's views on nationalism were rooted in his belief in the supremacy of Islam as a comprehensive ideology and a basis for collective identity. He rejected ethnic or territorial nationalism in favor of an Islamic nationalism grounded in religious principles and the unity of the Muslim ummah. Maududi's ideas continue to shape discussions on nationalism, Islam, and governance in the Muslim world, influencing debates on identity, sovereignty, and the role of religion in society.