Islam vs. Islamism vs Jihadism

Attribute	Islam	Islamism vs Jihadism
Definition	Abrahamic monotheistic religion	Political ideology or militant movement
Beliefs	Belief in one God (Allah), Prophet Muhammad, Quran	Belief in establishing Islamic state, use of violence for political goals
Goals	Spiritual growth, moral conduct, social justice	Political power, implementation of Sharia law, resistance against perceived enemies
Methods	Prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage	Propaganda, recruitment, terrorism, insurgency
Leadership	Religious scholars, imams, caliphs	Militant leaders, ideologues, political figures

Islam

Islam is a monotheistic religion that originated in the 7th century in the Arabian Peninsula. It is based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, as revealed in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. Muslims believe in one God, Allah, and follow the Five Pillars of Islam, which include faith, prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage to Mecca.

Islam promotes peace, compassion, and social justice. It emphasizes the importance of community, family, and moral values. Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge, show kindness to others, and strive for personal growth and spiritual development. Islam teaches respect for all human beings, regardless of their race, religion, or background.

Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of moderation, balance, and self-discipline. Muslims are encouraged to lead a virtuous life, avoid excess, and practice humility. Islam promotes harmony between the individual and society, and encourages believers to contribute positively to their communities and the world at large.

Islamism

Islamism is a political ideology that seeks to establish Islamic law, or Sharia, as the basis of governance in Muslim-majority countries. Islamists believe that Islam should play a central role in all aspects of society, including politics, economics, and culture. They advocate for the implementation of Islamic principles in the legal system and public policy.

Islamists often view Western influence and secularism as threats to Islamic values and traditions. They seek to create Islamic states that uphold religious principles and protect Muslim identity. Islamism can take various forms, ranging from moderate political parties to extremist groups that use violence to achieve their goals.

Islamism has gained prominence in the Middle East and other parts of the Muslim world, where it has influenced political movements, governments, and social norms. Some Islamists advocate for democracy and human rights within an Islamic framework, while others reject Western ideals and seek to establish strict Islamic rule through force.

Jihadism

Jihadism is a radical and violent interpretation of Islam that justifies the use of terrorism and armed struggle to defend or promote Islamic beliefs. Jihadists believe in the concept of jihad, or holy war, as a means to achieve their goals. They often target civilians, government institutions, and other perceived enemies in the name of Islam.

Jihadist groups, such as al-Qaeda and ISIS, have carried out numerous attacks around the world, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. They use religious rhetoric to recruit followers, justify their actions, and incite fear and division. Jihadism is often associated with extremism, intolerance, and a rejection of mainstream Islamic teachings.

Jihadists distort Islamic principles to justify their violent actions, disregarding the teachings of peace, compassion, and tolerance that are central to Islam. They exploit political grievances, social unrest, and religious fervor to recruit vulnerable individuals and perpetrate acts of terror in the name of their distorted version of Islam.