Tahaaluf Siyasi (Phase 1, Series 1) - Introduction

Introduction

The idea of the enraging issue of the Islamic political treaty (tahaaluf siyasi) is not clearly understood by certain factions of the society, of whom are engaging in such treaty. Even worst, such misunderstanding could cause greater confusion among the masses.

As a member of the Islamic movement of Malaysia (PAS), I certainly hope that all leaders and members of this party could grasp on the principles, concepts, plan of action, objectives and stages of an Islamic political treaty. It is indeed encouraging that everyone could further understand this concept and its boundaries, of which is allowed and which is not, according to the Islamic rulings.

I will engage fully in this discourse, albeit certain limitations of which I must admit, in pursuit of greater understanding and appreciation of this concept. It is hoped that through this discourse, major misconceptions may be avoided thus enable us to take better precaution in all decisions we make in the future.

This journey of knowledge that I am embarking demands for a greater guidance and teachings from respected scholars, for which do I hope that may my research is coherent with the teachings of Islam.

Through this discourse, I will lay down the discussion of the Islamic political treaty into 6 categories, of which each category demands an understanding of a greater depth. Thus I invite all readers to follow this series of discussions until it finishes. May Allah Almighty grant me the strength to complete this discourse.

Phase 1 - Definition of ‘Tahaaluf’ and matters pertaining its terminology
Phase 2 - Tahaaluf in planning to constructing a state
Phase 3 - Tahaaluf during the construction of a state
Phase 4 - Tahaaluf according to the Islamic sciences (Feqh al-Islami)
Phase 5 - Tahaaluf which is forbidden by the Islamic teachings

We will discuss Phase 1 to phase 4 will elaborate on the Islamic political treaty concept which is largely taking place during the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him; pbuh). It is a point worth mentioning, that to understand and follow the wisdoms laid down by Prophet Muhammad is highly encouraged, as it opens up a wider paradigm in understanding the meaning of our life.

Al-Fadhil Ustaz Nasrudin Haji Hassan At-Tantawi

The author is the Deputy Chief of PAS Youth Wing. He blogs at http://ustaznasrudin-tantawi.blogspot.com

The translator is a Cardiff University student reading Exploration & Resource Geology.