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Unveiling the Roots of Extremism: How Desert Prophet Nurtured the Seeds of Isis, Al Qaeda, and Boko Haram

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Published in The Muhammad Code: How A Desert Prophet Brought You ISIS Al Qaeda And Boko Haram

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In the annals of history, the Middle East stands as a cradle of civilization, where ancient empires flourished and the seeds of modern religions were sown. However, amidst this tapestry of cultural richness, a somber chapter unfolded – the rise of violent extremism. This article delves into the origins of this phenomenon, tracing its roots back to a charismatic desert prophet whose teachings sowed the seeds of Isis, Al Qaeda, and Boko Haram.

The Muhammad Code: How a Desert Prophet Brought You ISIS, al Qaeda, and Boko Haram

by Howard Bloom

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The Desert Prophet: Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Wahhab

Birth and Early Life:

Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Wahhab was born in 1703 in the Najd region of central Arabia. His family had a long history of religious scholarship, and he received a traditional Islamic education from an early age. However, Abd al-Wahhab's interpretation of Islam diverged significantly from the mainstream teachings of his time.

Reformist Zeal:

Abd al-Wahhab embarked on a mission to purify Islam, believing that society had strayed from its original path. He rejected traditional practices such as saint worship, pilgrimages to tombs, and the use of amulets. Instead, he emphasized the strict adherence to the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.

The Birth of Wahhabism

Doctrinal Framework:

Abd al-Wahhab's teachings formed the basis of a new Islamic sect known as Wahhabism. Wahhabis believed in the unity and sovereignty of God (tawheed),the rejection of innovation (bid'ah),and the duty to establish an Islamic state based on Sharia law.

Alliance with the Al Saud:

In the 1740s, Abd al-Wahhab forged an alliance with the Al Saud family, a powerful tribal dynasty. This alliance proved pivotal in the spread of Wahhabism throughout the Arabian Peninsula. By the 19th century, the Wahhabis had established a powerful empire that extended from the shores of the Persian Gulf to the Red Sea.

Legacy of Extremism

Seeds of Militancy:

Although Abd al-Wahhab's teachings were initially aimed at religious reform, they inadvertently sowed the seeds of militancy. His emphasis on the purity of faith and the duty to establish an Islamic state resonated with disaffected individuals who sought a radical solution to perceived injustices.

Inspiration for Extremist Groups:

In the 20th century, Wahhabism became a major influence on a wave of extremist groups, including Isis, Al Qaeda, and Boko Haram. These organizations adopted its strict interpretation of Islam, its call for jihad against their perceived enemies, and its goal of establishing a global caliphate.

Theological Commonalities

Monotheism and Tawheed:

All Wahhabi-influenced extremist groups adhere to the belief in the absolute unity of God (tawheed). They reject any form of polytheism or idolatry and view their mission as restoring the purity of monotheistic faith.

Rejection of Bid'ah:

Extremist groups share a common disdain for innovation (bid'ah) in religious practice. They believe that any deviation from the original teachings of Islam is heretical and must be eradicated.

Establishment of an Islamic State:

Wahhabi-inspired groups aim to establish an Islamic state based on their interpretation of Sharia law. They believe that only a truly Islamic state can guarantee the well-being of Muslims and protect them from their enemies.

Combating Extremism

Addressing Root Causes:

Combating extremism requires a multifaceted approach that addresses its root causes. This includes promoting education, economic opportunity, and social justice, as well as countering extremist propaganda and providing alternative narratives.

Countering Radicalization:

Governments and community organizations play a vital role in countering radicalization by providing support and resources to vulnerable individuals and engaging in dialogue with extremist groups to challenge their ideology.

International Cooperation:

Extremism is a global problem that requires international cooperation to combat. Countries need to work together to share intelligence, disrupt terrorist networks, and prevent the spread of extremist propaganda.

The rise of extremism in the Middle East has its roots in the teachings of the desert prophet Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Wahhab. Wahhabism, with its strict interpretation of Islam and emphasis on militancy, has become a major influence on extremist groups such as Isis, Al Qaeda, and Boko Haram. Combatting extremism requires a holistic approach that addresses both its root causes and its manifestations, fostering a more tolerant and peaceful society.

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