Definition

Proper noun: * A puritanical and revivalist Islamic movement: The Salafi Movement is a modern revivalist and reformist movement within Sunni Islam. It advocates a return to what its followers believe are the original, uncorrupted practices of Islam as practiced by the first three generations of Muslims (the Salaf, or "pious predecessors"). Its core principle is the rejection of religious innovation (bid'ah) and the strict adherence to the Quran and the authentic Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet Muhammad.

Usage

The term is used to describe the ideological movement as a whole, which encompasses a wide spectrum of followers, from quietist scholars and apolitical preachers to politically active groups and, in some interpretations, militant jihadists. * The Salafi Movement has gained significant influence in many parts of the Muslim world through its extensive missionary work (da'wah). * Scholars within the Salafi Movement emphasize a literal interpretation of Islamic texts. * Analysts often distinguish between the quietist, political, and jihadist strands of the Salafi Movement.

Advanced Usage

• "Salafi jihadism": This is a specific, militant subset of the broader Salafi Movement. It advocates violent jihad to establish what it sees as pure Islamic governance and to combat perceived enemies of Islam. This is the aspect most commonly associated with the provided reference definition.
  • The ideology of Salafi jihadism has been a driving force behind several transnational terrorist organizations.

Variants and Related Words

• Salafism (n): The ideology, doctrine, or principles of the Salafi Movement. Often used synonymously with "the Salafi Movement."
  • He studies the history and theology of Salafism.
• Salafi (n. or adj.): A follower of the Salafi Movement; or, relating to the Salafi Movement.
  • The Salafi preacher attracted a large audience. (adj.)
  • Many Salafis reject participation in democratic politics. (n.)
• Salafiyyah (n): An Arabic-derived term for Salafism, often used in academic and Islamic discourse.

Synonyms

• Wahhabism: A specific, conservative Islamic reform movement founded in the 18th century in the Arabian Peninsula, which is considered by many to be a foundational or synonymous form of Salafism. The terms are often used interchangeably, though some scholars make distinctions based on historical and methodological nuances.

Notes on Different Meanings

The provided reference context defines a specific, militant manifestation. It is critical to understand that the broader Salafi Movement is not monolithic: 1. Purist (or Quietist) Salafis: Focus solely on religious education, purification of creed, and personal piety, and typically avoid political involvement. 2. Political Salafis: Engage in the political process to implement their vision of Islamic law, often through preaching, social work, and political parties. 3. Jihadist Salafis: Advocate and engage in armed struggle, believing it is a religious obligation to fight to establish Islamic rule and combat corrupt regimes and foreign influence. This is the group described in the reference definition.

Noun

1. a militant group of extremist Sunnis who believe themselves the only correct interpreters of the Koran and consider moderate Muslims to be infidels; seek to convert all Muslims and to insure that its own fundamentalist version of Islam will dominate the world