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A Research Study on Allama Iqbal’s Perspective Regarding Orientalist Thought

Abstract

According to various dictionaries, "Orientalism" refers to the study of Eastern life, knowledge, literature, languages, and culture by Western scholars. The term "Orientalist" is used for a Western scholar who dedicates their life to acquiring knowledge about the East in these areas.In reality, Orientalism is a well-organized and comprehensive movement rooted in hostility towards Islam. This movement carries several goals and objectives.Allama Iqbal, after deeply studying and observing this movement, presented a balanced, well-reasoned, and clear stance. He was at the forefront of criticizing and rejecting those Orientalist ideas and theories that conflicted with the teachings of Islam.A study of Iqbal’s thoughts and writings makes it evident that he acknowledged the roots and intentions of Orientalist thought. In both his prose and poetry, he explicitly explained their objectives, motives, and methodologies.

Iqbal described the aims and strategies of Orientalist thought as part of a broader Western agenda to spread anti-Islamic culture, promote the Western concept of nationalism in Muslim countries, support Christian missionary efforts, promote Western superiority and psychological domination, and assist in colonial control over the Muslim world.Iqbal took a firm and critical stance against Orientalist ideas, backed by strong arguments. He considered Western civilization as morally degenerate, steeped in obscenity and materialism, and distant from spirituality. He believed that Western knowledge and sciences were rooted in Satanic values and posed a great threat to humanity. Iqbal viewed Western politics as inhumane and materialistic, designed by evil forces, and based on flawed concepts like secular nationalism.Iqbal's attitude toward Orientalist thought was not one of admiration. He disapproved of Western civilization because every aspect of it clashed with Islamic values. He condemned Western politics for its oppression, materialism, and distance from religion.Regarding Western sciences and arts, Iqbal held two different views. He criticized those aspects which were anti-Islamic and harmful to humanity but appreciated those elements that served human welfare.

Overall, Iqbal’s view was that Orientalist ideas were not to be adopted. He encouraged complete avoidance of Western civilization. In contrast to Western politics, he promoted a political system based on Islamic principles, as he believed that politics without religious boundaries was equivalent to tyranny. He discouraged engagement with the harmful and dangerous aspects of Western knowledge but encouraged benefiting from aspects that served the good of humanity.