Qutb’s stance on violence in “Milestones” is a complex and controversial aspect of his work. While he doesn’t explicitly call for indiscriminate violence, his ideas have been interpreted in various ways, sometimes to justify violent actions.

Here’s an overview of how violence factors into Qutb’s vision:

1. Defensive Jihad: Qutb argues for the legitimacy of armed struggle against those who oppose the establishment of an Islamic order or persecute Muslims.
2. Resistance to Jahiliyyah: He views modern un-Islamic systems as oppressive and suggests that force may be necessary to overcome them.
3. Non-Compromise: Qutb rejects peaceful coexistence with non-Islamic systems, which some interpret as tacit support for confrontational or violent approaches.
4. Revolutionary Change: His call for radical societal transformation has been read by some as endorsing forceful overthrow of existing governments.
5. Martyrdom: Qutb glorifies martyrdom in the cause of Islam, which some have taken as encouragement for violent action.
6. Ambiguity: Qutb’s writing often leaves room for interpretation, leading to diverse understandings of the role of violence in his vision.
7. Historical Context: Qutb’s ideas were shaped by his experiences of political repression in Egypt, potentially influencing his views on confrontation with state power.

It’s important to note that Qutb’s work doesn’t provide a detailed blueprint for violent action. Rather, his ideas about confronting “jahiliyyah” and establishing an Islamic order have been interpreted and applied in various ways by different groups, some of whom have used them to justify violence.

Many scholars argue that Qutb’s writings should be understood in their historical context and that violent interpretations often go beyond his intended meaning. Others see his ideas as inherently prone to justifying violence.

The role of violence in Qutb’s vision remains a subject of intense debate among scholars, religious leaders, and political analysts.

Back: Milestones on the way
Next: Groups for and against the use of violence

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