Every 100 years in Islam, according to a Prophetic tradition, Allah raises someone to revive and renew the religion.
This concept centers around the idea of tajdid, which means renewal or revitalization. It doesn't imply that Islam itself is flawed or outdated, but rather that with the passage of time, practices and understanding can become diluted, misinterpreted, or neglected. Therefore, Allah sends individuals or movements to:
- Clarify religious principles: They help to dispel misconceptions and correct misunderstandings about Islamic teachings.
- Revive forgotten practices: They encourage the implementation of sunnah (Prophet Muhammad's practices) that have been abandoned or marginalized.
- Address contemporary challenges: They offer guidance and solutions to new problems and situations faced by the Muslim community, based on Islamic principles.
- Renew the spirit of Islam: They inspire a deeper connection with Allah and a renewed commitment to living a righteous life.
The person who fulfills this role is often referred to as a mujaddid (renewer). While there is no official designation for a mujaddid, history often recognizes certain scholars, leaders, or movements that have significantly contributed to the revival of Islam in a particular era.
It is important to note that this tajdid is not about creating a new religion or altering the fundamental tenets of Islam. It's about restoring its original purity, relevance, and effectiveness in addressing the needs of each generation.
