A Fair Analysis of Western and Islamic SystemsWritten by: Abu Zaid
Introduction
This article is a response to objections raised against the Islamic system by a supporter of the liberal democratic model. These objections are presented in various points with the intent to portray Islam as a failed system of life and to glorify liberal democracy as ideal. Such criticisms are often aimed at disheartening the youth from embracing the Islamic system. This article will analyze these objections and provide appropriate responses.
➊ The Alleged Benefits of Adopting Western Liberal Democracy
Objection:
Western liberal democracy was adopted after four centuries of struggle and sacrifices, and now the West lives in peace and prosperity. Its flexibility and advancement make it successful, while the Islamic system is rigid, inflexible, and impractical.
Response:
Every system is shaped by its civilization, historical background, and cultural context. The liberal democratic model of the West is the outcome of their specific historical experiences—such as feudalism and clerical despotism. Imposing it upon Muslim societies is not only illogical but also impractical.
In Western countries, the alliance of liberal democracy and capitalism primarily serves the interests of the powerful elite. This system promotes economic inequality and leads to various social and moral issues.
The Islamic system is not bound to any specific era or condition; it is a comprehensive, universal, and natural system. It not only organizes beliefs and worship but also provides principles for economics, society, and politics.
"إِنَّ الدِّينَ عِندَ اللَّهِ الْإِسْلَامُ"
"Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam."
(Surah Aal-e-Imran: 19)
➋ Was the Islamic System a Failure?
Objection:
The Islamic system failed early on since three out of four rightly guided Caliphs were assassinated, and internal conflict began among Muslims over political power.
Response:
Declaring the early Islamic era a failure is a misinterpretation of historical facts. The era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs was one of the most successful periods based on Islamic principles, showcasing unparalleled justice, equality, and collective welfare.
The assassinations of the Caliphs were not a result of the failure of the Islamic system, but rather the outcome of human evil and the socio-political conditions of the time. Every civilization and system has faced internal strife and conspiracies.
Had the Islamic system truly failed, it would not have remained dominant across various regions for thirteen centuries, nor would Muslim societies still yearn for its restoration.
Reference: Allama Shibli Nomani, Al-Farooq, Vol. 1, p. 200
➌ Is Islamic History a Tale of Bloodshed?
Objection:
Islamic history is often portrayed as a history of violence and plunder, which allegedly began immediately after the Prophet ﷺ.
Response:
When studying Islamic history, it is essential to avoid prejudice and bias. Wars and conflicts exist in the history of every civilization. However, the wars in Islamic history were primarily aimed at establishing justice and eradicating oppression.
It is unfair to ignore other vital aspects of Islamic history, such as contributions to knowledge, research, science, justice, and social development.
Western history, which is glorified as a tale of "sacrifice," in reality includes the genocide of Native Americans, nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and colonial oppression. Why the double standard?
Reference: Dr. Hamidullah, Khutbat-e-Bahawalpur, p. 128
➍ Is the Islamic System Inflexible?
Objection:
The Islamic system is rigid and inflexible, whereas liberal democracy adapts to changing circumstances.
Response:
The Islamic system is a natural system that provides fundamental principles and allows for ijtihad (independent reasoning) in secondary matters. Its flexibility can be observed through the various schools of Islamic jurisprudence.
Liberal democracy too has its own rigidity. Its so-called flexibility only serves capitalist interests. The scope of ijtihad within Islam allows the system to adapt according to circumstances.
In Islamic law, even customs and societal norms (urf) can serve as a basis for legislation, provided they do not contradict the Shari'ah.
Reference: Imam Al-Shatibi, Al-Muwafaqat, Vol. 2, p. 90
➎ Is the Islamic System Merely an Idealistic Concept?
Objection:
The Islamic system is merely an idealistic concept, whereas the Western system is implemented and successful in reality.
Response:
The Islamic system is not merely an ideal; history testifies that it effectively promoted social justice, economic equity, and moral elevation.
Had it been merely idealistic, Muslim civilization would not have remained the most powerful and refined civilization for centuries.
The current shortcomings of the Western system—economic crises, moral decay, and the collapse of the family unit—are proof that it has failed to resolve the core issues of humanity.
Reference: Syed Abul A‘la Maududi, Islam ka Nizam-e-Zindagi, p. 15
Summary of the Discussion
Western liberal democracy, influenced by capitalism, contradicts human nature and the principles of equality. Though it achieved relative success within a specific historical context, it cannot be universally applied across the globe.
The Islamic system is natural, comprehensive, and flexible, regulating all aspects of human life. The claim of its failure is contrary to historical facts and objective analysis.
Those who label Islamic history as violent display clear bias by labeling Western atrocities as "sacrifices."
Islam is not a utopian idea; it is a proven reality—successful in the past and capable of success in the future.
