Islam and Proselytism in South Africa and Malawi

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Periodical article

Title:	Islam and Proselytism in South Africa and Malawi
Author:	Mumisa, Michael
Year:	2002
Periodical:	Journal of Muslim Minority Affairs
Volume:	22
Issue:	2
Period:	October
Pages:	275-298
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	South Africa Malawi Southern Africa
Subjects:	Islamization Christian education Islamic education Religion and Witchcraft Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) conversion da'wa education
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1080/1360200022000027285
Abstract:	The concept of proselytism and conversion in Muslim and Christian theology has always been central to interreligious conflict and resolution in most parts of Africa. This paper focuses on some of the major challenges faced by Muslims in South Africa and Malawi in attempting to spread their religion. Noting the differences in proselytization and mission among Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the paper surveys the role of Islamic education in South Africa and Malawi along with the education system introduced by the Christian missionaries as the main instruments for conversion. It finds that the provision of literacy in Swahili and local languages and the teaching of skills to become a 'muallim' (scholar) were often factors attracting many South Africans to Islam, as these also enhanced one's sense of African identity. The paper reviews the contribution of Malawian and Zanzibari Muslims to the 'da'wah' (Islamic mission) work in South Africa and the emergence of the 'tablígh' movement in the country. Ref. [ASC Leiden abstract]