The problem of identity and Arabism in the thought of Shakib Arslan

Abstract

This research aims to trace the ideas of Shakib Arslan (1869-1946) concerning the concept of identity, which he initially linked to Islam. His ideas subsequently diverged, sometimes advocating for Islamic unity under the Ottoman state, and at other times for Arab unity. The research adopted the historical and analytical methods, focusing on providing an analytical reading of the most important ideas advocated by Shakib Arslan, such as Arabism and unity, while identifying the historical circumstances and relationships that shaped his thought. The research arrives at several conclusions, most notably that Arslan could not separate Arabism from its Islamic dimension. He viewed Islam as the unifying, normative, and value-based framework within which Arabism should remain governed, while he saw the Arab League as the necessary political framework after the fall of the Caliphate. Furthermore, the research clarifies that the Arab renaissance cannot be achieved, nor can it reach its goals, apart from Islamic teachings. Therefore, the renaissance advocated by Shakib Arslan was a cohesive Arab-Islamic renaissance, combining modern science with pride in cultural and religious heritage, calling for unity, and rejecting division.