https://www.jadaliyya.com/Details/42363/Arab-Spring-The-End-of-Political-Islam-as-We-Know-It
This article examines the roots of al-Ikhwan al-Muslimin (Muslim Brotherhood), and how it has developed since its formation in 1928. Like many other movements that emerged in response to foreign imperialism in the 20th-century Arab world, al-Ikhwan was built on a pan-Islamic and anti-imperialist vision. It gained popularity in Egypt as a social welfare organization aimed at promoting Islamic principles and outreach through da’wa (missionary activity). Eventually, the realization that a political role was needed to further social objectives led to members of al-Ikhwan running for seats in Egypt’s government. As the article argues, the Arab Spring transformed the role of al-Ikhwan’s bifocal approach to da’wa. Such is the case in Tunisia’s Ennahda, where they have shifted away from their social mission towards increasing political ambitions.
