Janun

Janun, also known as Janunism, is a term used to describe a form of religious extremism and fanaticism that emerged in the early 20th century in the Middle East, particularly in Iraq. The movement is characterized by its rejection of modernism, secularism, and Western influences, and its advocacy for a strict interpretation of Islamic law. Janunism gained prominence during the early 20th century, with its followers often engaging in violent acts against perceived enemies, including other religious groups, foreigners, and those who supported modernist or secular ideas.

The term "Janun" is derived from the Arabic word for "madness" or "fanaticism," reflecting the movement's extreme and irrational nature. Janunists believed in the imminent return of the Mahdi, a messianic figure prophesied in Islamic tradition, and saw themselves as the vanguard of this event. They often used violent means to achieve their goals, including assassination attempts, bombings, and the establishment of their own theocratic states.

The movement's most notable leader was Sayyid Muhammad, who founded the Januniyya sect in the 1920s. Sayyid Muhammad's followers, known as Janunis, were responsible for numerous acts of violence, including the assassination of Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri as-Said in 1920. The Januniyya sect was eventually suppressed by the Iraqi government in the 1930s, but remnants of the movement continued to operate in Iraq and other parts of the Middle East.

Janunism is often studied in the context of religious extremism and the role of religion in political and social movements. Its extreme views and violent tactics have made it a subject of interest for scholars and policymakers alike, who seek to understand the factors that contribute to the emergence and persistence of such movements.