The Wahabi/Walliullah Movement, inspired by Abdul Wahab and Shah Walliullah, was a revivalist response to Western influences and degeneration among Indian Muslims. It emphasized unity among Islamic schools and individual conscience in religion. Popularized by Shah Abdul Aziz and Syed Ahmed Barelvi, it had a significant political impact, initially targeting Sikhs and later opposing British rule, playing a notable role in the 1857 Revolt before declining in the 1870s
Popularisation: The teachings of Walliullah were further popularised by Shah Abdul Aziz and Syed Ahmed Barelvi.
Political Perspective: They gave the movement a political perspective, calling for a return to pure Islam and advocating against un-Islamic practices.
Dar-ul-Harb to Dar-ul-Islam: Syed Ahmed Barelvi considered India to be dar-ul-Harb (land of the kafirs) that needed to be converted to dar-ul-Islam (land of Islam).
Initial Targets: Initially, the movement was directed at the Sikhs in Punjab but later turned against the British after the annexation of Punjab in 1849.
Role in 1857 Revolt: The Wahabis played an important role in spreading anti-British sentiments during the 1857 Revolt.
Decline: The movement eventually fizzled out in the 1870s due to British military suppression.
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