Introduction to Ideology
An ideology is a set of beliefs, ideas, or a program based on the philosophy of a society. The ideology of Pakistan is based on Islam. Pakistan was created so Muslims could live their lives according to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. The idea of a separate nation came from the Two Nation Theory, which explained that Muslims and Hindus are two distinct nations with different beliefs, customs, traditions, heroes, languages, and civilizations. Because of these deep differences, they could not live together peacefully in one country.
Meaning and Definition of Ideology
The word \”ideology\” comes from two Greek words: \”ideo\” (idea) and \”logos\” (study or science). So, ideology means \”the study of ideas.\”
Definitions:
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A pattern of moral beliefs about humans, society, and the universe
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A social or political program that becomes a collective goal for a nation
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A vision or aim that guides how people plan for their future
Types of Ideologies:
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Political ideology
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Religious ideology
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Economic ideology
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Social ideology
Ideology of Pakistan
The ideology of Pakistan is firmly rooted in Islam. The creation of Pakistan was to allow Muslims to live according to Islamic values.
Main Features of the Ideology:
Beliefs: Muslims and Hindus had completely different religious beliefs. Allama Iqbal said that India was a land of many religions and cultures that could not live together in harmony.
Customs and Traditions: Muslims followed Islamic customs, while Hindus followed their own traditions. Iqbal believed that these major differences meant Muslims needed a separate homeland.
Heroes: For Muslims, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the ultimate role model and hero. He showed how to live a complete Islamic life. Hindus had their own religious figures and values.
Language: Language was another major issue. The Congress Party promoted Hindi, while Muslims supported Urdu. The Urdu-Hindi controversy of 1867 was a big reason for Muslim dissatisfaction. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan played a major role in defending Urdu.
Separate State Concept: Allama Iqbal encouraged Muslims to demand a separate homeland. He used his poetry to awaken Muslim identity and pride.
Two Nation Theory: Iqbal said that Hindus and Muslims had different religions, cultures, and lifestyles, and after the harsh rule of Congress ministries, Muslims demanded a separate state.
Lifestyle Differences: Muslims worship one God, while Hindus worship multiple gods and even animals like cows. Muslims’ beliefs and way of life were totally different. This made coexistence difficult.
Islamic Ideology: Pakistan was made so Muslims could follow Islamic teachings freely. It was the vision of Allama Iqbal and became a reality on 14 August 1947.
Quaid-e-Azam and the Ideology of Pakistan
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was the leader who turned the vision of a separate Muslim state into reality. He firmly believed in Islamic ideology as the foundation of Pakistan.
Key Points from His Speeches and Beliefs:
Muslim Nation’s Foundation: “Pakistan was created the day the first Hindu converted to Islam.”
Islam as a Complete Code of Life: In 1944, Jinnah said Islam is the complete guide for Muslims. We don’t need other ideologies like communism or nationalism.
Unity Among Muslims: In 1948, he said, “Stop calling yourself Sindhi, Punjabi, Pathan, or Balochi. We are all Muslims.”
Muslim Identity: Muslims are not a minority; they are a nation and deserve a separate state.
Islamic Laboratory: Pakistan is not just land—it is a place to apply Islamic teachings in real life.
Protecting Muslim Culture: Jinnah wanted Pakistan to be a place where Islamic culture and values could flourish.
Demand for a Separate Homeland: In his famous 1940 speech, he explained that Hindus and Muslims have different religions, heroes, and histories. Living together under one government would not work.
National Strength: He believed that Pakistan was built on strong foundations and no power could destroy it.
Allama Iqbal and the Ideology of Pakistan
Allama Iqbal was the thinker and philosopher behind the idea of Pakistan. He believed Islam was the only solution to the problems faced by Muslims in the subcontinent.
Key Ideas and Contributions:
Religion Over Territory: Nations are formed by shared religion, not shared land. Muslims are a separate nation because of their Islamic beliefs.
Asia in Miniature: Iqbal described India as a continent of many cultures and religions, and said that democracy without considering religious groups would fail.
Religion as Power: He believed that religion gives strength to both individuals and nations.
Islam as a Way of Life: Iqbal said Islam is a complete guide for Muslims and that race or territory does not matter.
Separate Muslim Nation: Iqbal rejected the idea of one Indian nation and insisted Muslims needed their own homeland.
Economic Justice: He believed that only Islamic laws (Shariah) could solve the economic problems of Muslims.
Tauheed and Equality: The idea of Tauheed (Oneness of God) promotes equality, freedom, and brotherhood—principles that should be reflected in the state.
Muslim Identity: Muslims have a unique identity and culture, different from Hindus. They need separate recognition.
Criticism of Western Democracy: Iqbal believed Western democracy lacked depth and could not solve the problems of the Muslim world. Only Islam could do that.
Idea of a Muslim State (Allahabad Address 1930): Iqbal suggested that Punjab, NWFP, Sindh, and Balochistan should be combined into one Muslim state. This idea was the foundation of Pakistan.
Two Nation Theory: Even after 1000 years of living together, Hindus and Muslims remained different. So, separate governments were necessary.
Islam and Politics: Iqbal believed religion and politics cannot be separated in Islam.
Islam as Salvation: He said Islam always helped Muslims in times of crisis and would continue to do so.
Opposition to Nationalism: Iqbal opposed nationalism because it would harm Muslim unity and benefit only Hindus.
Unity of the Muslim World: Iqbal gave the message of unity, brotherhood, and equality to the entire Muslim Ummah.
“Ek ho Muslim Haram ke paasbani ke liye,
Neel ke sahil se le kar ta-ba-khaak-e-Kashghar.”
Against Racial Boundaries: He believed that Islam could break all artificial boundaries of race and nation and unite Muslims across the world.
Salient Features of the Allahabad Address (1930)
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Called for a united Muslim state including Punjab, NWFP, Sindh, and Balochistan
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Declared that religion and politics go hand in hand in Islam
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Supported a federal system to unite different communities
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Rejected European-style democracy as unsuitable for India
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Promoted the idea of a moral and Islamic state
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Emphasized Muslim identity and nationalism
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Provided the foundation for the Pakistan Resolution of 1940
Conclusion
Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal were both clear in their belief that Islam was the foundation of Pakistan’s ideology. Their efforts, ideas, and sacrifices gave Muslims a country where they could freely practice their religion and live according to Islamic principles.