Islam in Bangladesh: Decline of the Liberal Hanafi School in the Information Age

Abstract

This essay highlights the importance of justice and public interest in mu’amalat (or social relationship) in Islam. Elaborating on the methodologies of different Sunni madhabs, the essay outlines the features and social influence of varied ‘groups’ within the Hanafi School. It explains the causes and continuation of diversity in practicing Islam, and concludes its possible future.

Keywords: Islam, Bangladesh, Hanafi School, Radicalization, Qawmi madrasa, Tablighi Jamat, Jamate Islami; Politcal islam; Muslims is Bangladesh; Minority in Bangladesh; Hefazate Islam; Hefazat-e-Islam; waz mahfil; Al Azhar; the Shaltoot Fatwa, Shari'a

JEL Classification: Z12, Z13, Z18