This thesis studies the formation of the basic ideology of the Muh&dotbelow;ammadiyah during the period 1912--1942, analyzing in particular the fundamental aspects of its religious and social beliefs. The words and deeds of its leaders were crucial during the period in forming the Muh&dotbelow;ammadiyah's ideology, for these alone provided the basis for the movement's program. Their religious outlook reflected the movement's philosophical view of this world and the role of reason in understanding religion. This view was marked by openness, tolerance, and pluralism in dealing with other ideas, and a belief in the salutary character of change. What set the Muh&dotbelow;ammadiyah apart from other reformist groups was its insistence that the way to revive belief in and observance of Islamic injunctions was not limited to merely purifying certain aspects of religious practice ('ibadah), especially khilafiyah (controversial) matters such as takhayyul (fancy), bid`ah (innovation), and khurafah (superstition), but in pursuing social reform in line with a theology of practical action. For the Muh&dotbelow;ammadiyah, basic Islamic teachings served to encourage social responsibility; religious principles thus underlay every action.

No description available.