The Influence of Hassan Elbanna on Islamist Movements in the Middle East and Southeast Asia

Abstract

Objective: This research examines the intellectual and ideological impact of Hassan Elbanna on the development of Islamist movements in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, emphasizing how his reformist perspective influenced political engagement, religious awareness, and socio-moral changes within various Muslim communities. Theoretical framework: The study is based on Islamic reformist theory, political Islam, and socioreligious mobilization, analyzing Elbanna’s integration of da‘wah, tarbiyah, and socio-political involvement via the ideas of tajdid (renewal) and islah (reform). Literature review: The research employs historical and textual analysis, examining classical Brotherhood texts, Elbanna’s Risalat al-Ta‘lim, regional academic writings on Islamism, and comparative analyses of transnational Islamic movements in the Arab region and Southeast Asia. Methods: A qualitative content-analysis strategy is utilized, identifying recurring themes in Elbanna's teachings on faith, activism, education, and community reform and tracking their incorporation by subsequent movements. Results: The findings indicate that Elbanna’s comprehensive approach to Islamic revival, combining spirituality, social duty, and political engagement, acted as a basic framework for various Islamist organizations. His focus on structured organization, ethical education, and social improvement echoed throughout areas, impacting movements from Egypt to Indonesia and Malaysia. Implications: By framing Hassan Elbanna as a transnational reformist, the research enhances the comprehension of Islamic activism and its worldwide paths. Novelty: This research presents a new perspective on Elbanna as a worldwide designer of contemporary Islamic renewal, showcasing how his cohesive framework of belief, ethics, and activism still motivates transformative movements throughout the Muslim world.