Islamization of Pakistan: A Critical Review of Iqbal Zafar's Book
If you are interested in the history and politics of Pakistan, you may have come across the book Islamization of Pakistan by Iqbal Zafar. This book claims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the process of Islamization in Pakistan from 1947 to 2019. It covers topics such as the role of the military, the judiciary, the media, the education system, the religious parties, and the civil society in shaping the Islamic identity and ideology of Pakistan.
However, before you rush to download the pdf version of this book, you may want to read this critical review. In this article, we will examine some of the major flaws and biases of Iqbal Zafar's book and offer some alternative perspectives on the Islamization of Pakistan.
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The Author's Background and Motivation
One of the first things that should raise your suspicion about this book is the author's background and motivation. Iqbal Zafar is a former Pakistani diplomat who served in various countries, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt. He is also a staunch supporter of the Islamic Republic of Iran and its ideology of Shia Islamism. He has written several books and articles praising Iran's political system and criticizing Pakistan's secularism and democracy.
Therefore, it is not surprising that his book on Islamization of Pakistan is heavily influenced by his personal views and agenda. He portrays Pakistan as a failed state that has deviated from its original Islamic vision and succumbed to Western influences and corruption. He blames Pakistan's problems on its alliance with the United States, its rivalry with India, its support for the Afghan mujahideen, its nuclear program, its tolerance of minority sects and religions, and its lack of Islamic law and governance.
On the other hand, he praises Iran as a successful model of Islamic revolution and resistance that has maintained its sovereignty and dignity in the face of Western sanctions and threats. He argues that Pakistan should follow Iran's example and adopt a Shia-based Islamic constitution and leadership that would unite the Muslim ummah and challenge the hegemony of the West.
The Author's Methodology and Sources
Another problem with this book is the author's methodology and sources. Iqbal Zafar does not provide any clear or consistent framework or criteria for his analysis of Islamization in Pakistan. He cherry-picks facts and events that suit his narrative and ignores or distorts those that contradict it. He relies heavily on secondary sources, such as newspaper articles, opinion pieces, blogs, websites, speeches, interviews, etc., without verifying their accuracy or credibility. He also quotes extensively from his own previous writings, creating a circular logic that reinforces his own biases.
Moreover, he does not engage with any alternative or opposing views or arguments on Islamization in Pakistan. He dismisses any criticism or dissent as either ignorant or malicious. He does not acknowledge any diversity or complexity within Islam or Pakistani society. He treats Islam as a monolithic and static entity that has only one correct interpretation and application. He treats Pakistan as a homogeneous and passive entity that has only one legitimate identity and destiny.
The Author's Conclusions and Recommendations
The final problem with this book is the author's conclusions and recommendations. Iqbal Zafar concludes that Pakistan has failed to achieve its Islamic goals and ideals because it has followed a wrong path of Islamization that has been influenced by external forces and internal enemies. He recommends that Pakistan should abandon its current political system and constitution and adopt a new one based on Shia Islamism.
However, he does not explain how this radical change would be possible or desirable in a country that has a majority Sunni population, a diverse ethnic and cultural landscape, a vibrant civil society and media, a strong military and bureaucracy, a nuclear arsenal, and a complex regional and international environment. He does not address any of the potential challenges or consequences of such a drastic transformation. He does not offer any evidence or examples of how Shia Islamism has improved the lives or rights of ordinary people in Iran or elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, Islamization of Pakistan by Iqbal Zafar is a poorly written and poorly researched book that reflects the author's personal biases and agenda rather than an objective
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