Barelvi'ism and Christianity: similarities and the possible reasons why

Hussain, Nouman (2018). Barelvi'ism and Christianity: similarities and the possible reasons why. University of Birmingham. M.A.

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Abstract

This paper aims to discuss and discover the reasons for the resemblances found between the Barelvi sect of Islām and Christianity. It has a striking similarity with Catholicism in a number of its creed and practices particularly the following four, the humanity of Jesus and Muḥammad, the celebration of the birthdays of Jesus and Muḥammad, the building of structures over graves to venerate the dead, and the revering of Saints, supplicating to them and asking them for aid. The question as to why these two sects have similarities was explored. Upon examination of critical texts such as the biographies of Ahmed Riḍa and his own works, it was determined that he was not directly affected or influenced by Christian missionaries, although some evidence points to the fact that he may have absorbed the culture that surrounded him. It was determined that the reasons were a combination of direct and indirect influences of culture and philosophy that led to the similarities between Barelvi’ism and Christianity and Catholicism. This research highlights the significance of social and philosophical influences on individuals and how these lead to different interpretations of Islām, it further adds to the understanding of the emergence of sects in Islām.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.A.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.A.

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