The Balik-Islam phenomenon: Filipino Muslim reverts – between the Gulf countries and the Philippines

Mohamed Quadir, Harunani and Ushama, Thameem (2024) The Balik-Islam phenomenon: Filipino Muslim reverts – between the Gulf countries and the Philippines. AL-SHAJARAH ISTAC Journal of Islamic Thought and Civilization, 29 (1). pp. 25-46. ISSN 1394-6870

Preview

PDF (THE BALIK-ISLAM PHENOMEN) - Published Version Download (893kB) | Preview

Abstract

Islam arrived in the Philippines long before Christianity. However, today, at most, only 11% are Muslim in this largest Catholic country in Asia. Muslims comprise mainly of the Moros residing in the Southern parts of the country – Mindanao, Palawan, the Sulu Archipelago – and the Balik-Islam. The Balik-Islam are primarily former Christians who have converted or “returned” (Balik) to Islam. Many amongst the Balik-Islam are former expats or migrant workers who embraced Islam in the Gulf countries and have returned to the Philippines. Their understanding and practice of Islam have been greatly influenced by the stricter, more orthodox Salafi and Wahhabi versions practised by their former “arbaab” (boss or master). This paper delves into the Balik-Islam phenomenon; primarily exploring the reasons for Filipinos converting to Islam, the relationship of the Balik-Islam with the Moros, and their place in the history of the Muslims of the Philippines.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Balik-Islam, Philippines, Moros, Bangsamoro, Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) Countries, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW)
Subjects:	BPL Islamic education
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Usul al-Din and Comparative Religion
Depositing User:	Prof.Dr Thameem Ushama
Date Deposited:	02 Dec 2024 13:30
Last Modified:	02 Dec 2024 13:30
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/116215

Actions (login required)

View Item