Explain Maulana Maududi’s views on nationalism.

Maulana Maududi, the founder of the Jamaat-e-Islami, had a complex relationship with nationalism, viewing it through the lens of Islamic ideology. While he acknowledged the importance of Muslim identity and unity, he was critical of secular nationalism and advocated for the establishment of an Islamic state based on Sharia law.

Maududi rejected the concept of nationalism rooted in ethnicity or territorial boundaries, which he believed could lead to divisions and conflicts among Muslims. Instead, he emphasized the idea of "Islamic nationalism," which transcended geographical borders and united Muslims around a common faith and ideology. For Maududi, the unity of the Muslim Ummah (community) was paramount, and he saw nationalism as a means to strengthen Islamic identity rather than replace it.

Maududi was critical of secular nationalism, which he viewed as a Western import incompatible with Islamic principles. He argued that secular nationalism prioritized worldly interests over religious values and failed to provide a comprehensive framework for governance and morality. Instead, he advocated for the establishment of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law, where Islamic principles would guide all aspects of society and governance.

Furthermore, Maududi rejected the idea of nationalism based on ethnicity or language, which he believed could lead to sectarianism and divisions within the Muslim community. He emphasized the importance of Muslim unity and solidarity, calling upon Muslims to prioritize their religious identity above all else.

In summary, Maulana Maududi's views on nationalism were shaped by his commitment to Islamic ideology and his vision of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law. While he acknowledged the importance of Muslim identity and unity, he rejected secular nationalism in favor of an Islamic nationalism that transcended geographical boundaries and prioritized religious values.