Understanding 'jihadist' nasheeds through symbolic convergence theory (SCT). (1st December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Matusitz, Jonathan; Owsley, Katie
• Is Part Of: Performing Islam. Volume 10:Number 1/2(2021)
• Page Start: 23
• Page End: 38
• Publication Date: 2021-12-01
• Subjects: Performing arts -- Islamic countries -- Periodicals; Islamic countries -- Social life and customs -- Periodicals; 700.48297
• DOI: 10.1386/pi_00016_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2043-1015

Abstract

This article applies symbolic convergence theory (SCT) to the use of nasheeds by 'jihadist groups'. SCT postulates that individuals come together to form a cohesive group with a shared consciousness and symbolic reality. SCT rests on fantasy themes. Fantasy themes are both a psychological and rhetorical mechanism to generate and organize interpretations of events. By and large, a nasheed is an Islamic-themed chant that often sings the praises of Allah and/or the Prophet Muhammad. Recently, nasheeds have been co-opted by 'jihadist groups' to motivate Muslims to join the 'jihad'. An important conclusion of this analysis is that organizations like Al-Qaeda and ISIS, through careful construction and manipulation of nasheeds, are able to (1) unite groups through dramatization of messages and shared group fantasies, (2) convey a message of global Muslim triumph and (3) inflame passions and arouse actions through violent holy war.