Salafism In Nigeria: Islam, Preaching, And Politics (the International African Library)
by Alexander Thurston /
2016 / English / PDF
3.6 MB Download
The spectre of Boko Haram and its activities in Nigeria dominates
both media and academic analysis of Islam in the region. But, as
Alexander Thurston argues here, beyond the sensational headlines
this group generates, the dynamics of Muslim life in northern
Nigeria remain poorly understood. Drawing on interviews with
leading Salafis in Nigeria as well as on a rereading of the history
of the global Salafi movement, this volume explores how a canon of
classical and contemporary texts defines Salafism. Examining how
these texts are interpreted and - crucially - who it is that has
the authority to do so, Thurston offers a systematic analysis of
curricula taught in Saudi Arabia and how they shape religious
scholars' approach to religion and education once they return to
Africa. Essential for scholars of religion and politics, this
unique text explores how the canon of Salafism has been used and
refined, from Nigeria's return to democracy to the jihadist
movement Boko Haram.
The spectre of Boko Haram and its activities in Nigeria dominates
both media and academic analysis of Islam in the region. But, as
Alexander Thurston argues here, beyond the sensational headlines
this group generates, the dynamics of Muslim life in northern
Nigeria remain poorly understood. Drawing on interviews with
leading Salafis in Nigeria as well as on a rereading of the history
of the global Salafi movement, this volume explores how a canon of
classical and contemporary texts defines Salafism. Examining how
these texts are interpreted and - crucially - who it is that has
the authority to do so, Thurston offers a systematic analysis of
curricula taught in Saudi Arabia and how they shape religious
scholars' approach to religion and education once they return to
Africa. Essential for scholars of religion and politics, this
unique text explores how the canon of Salafism has been used and
refined, from Nigeria's return to democracy to the jihadist
movement Boko Haram.
