On December 11-12, 2023, Tashkent played host to international scholars and experts focused on exploring the impact of the Jadids on the notions of independence, national identity, and statehood. A video played during the opening ceremony juxtaposed the image of the Jadids with current presidents of the Turkic states, while intentional, it also is logical. It is safe to say that right now, Uzbekistan is going through its third wave of cultural, intellectual, and national reform. In discussions with Dr. Adeeb Khalid, Mark Reese, Christopher Fort, and Dr. Levente Ladvenszky, Daryo gained a new perspective on the Jadid movement and its lasting legacy.
Historical Context and Influence of Jadidism
Adeeb Khalid, author and expert on Central Asian studies and history, became entrenched in the Jadids from a young age. "The Jadids have a very important role in the articulation of modern national identities in Central Asia," Khalid noted, highlighting how Jadidism addressed the complexities of Islamic heritage and modernity, particularly during the post-colonial era. He also emphasized that the Jadids formed at a very particular time for a particular purpose, that being the push against colonialism.
Jadidism's emphasis on education and women's rights was a recurring theme. Khalid, stressed the movement's advocacy for women's education and political participation, a revolutionary idea at the time, that was then taken to the extreme during the Soviet rule of the country both influencing modern Uzbek values.
Modern Uzbekistan and Jadidism's Relevance
In contemporary Uzbekistan, Jadidism's principles continue to resonate, particularly in harmonizing Islam with modernity. "The question of harmonizing Islam and modernity is still very much here," Khalid observed, suggesting that the Jadid ideals remain relevant in today's societal discourse.
Mark Reese, a celebrated author and translator, stated that the current cultural reform could be described as a "third wave" or a "third Renaissance," indicating a dynamic evolution of Jadid principles in modern times. This wave is characterized by public engagement and debate, marking a progressive shift in Uzbekistan’s cultural narrative.
“It is this beginning of an efflorescence where people are engaged creatively better than I've ever seen them before, more openly than I've ever seen them before.” - Reese emphasized.
Global Perspectives and Contributions
Highlighting the conference's international dimension, Dr. Levente Ladvenszky, from the Hungarian Turan Foundation, acknowledged Jadidism's universal appeal.
"It's most important to teach our children about modern, progressive knowledge," Ladvenszky stated, underscoring the movement’s enduring global significance.
The conference itself, as noted by Dr. Adeeb Khalid, symbolizes the global interest in Jadidism, drawing scholars worldwide and fostering an interdisciplinary dialogue.
The Jadids' ideas and importance were echoed in Saida Mirziyoyeva's speech delivered at the opening ceremony. Stressing that education needed reform then and needs it again now and that the ideas of Jadids are being given a new life.
“The Jadids of Turkestan understood that their ideas of enlightenment could only be realized through schools of a new model. They developed a new curriculum for the new method schools, published textbooks, and introduced them into existing schools. Today we are trying to bring their ideas to life,” Mirziyoyeva informed.
President Mirziyoyev's speech, delivered by his official speech writer emphasized the idea of unity that was put forward by the Jadid. He emphasized the importance of knowledge and enlightenment in overcoming ignorance and outdated thinking, ideas inspired by the Jadids who established new schools and teaching methodologies, libraries, and theatres, and introduced printing presses to the region.
“It is clear to all of us that our ancestors, who came to the field with the noble idea of "Unity in language, thought, and work", believed that the main way to get our people out of ignorance and backwardness, to save them from the mire of ignorance, is in knowledge and enlightenment, in gaining worldly progress,” President Mirziyoev noted.
Uzbekistan is navigating a significant phase of cultural and national identity reform, deeply influenced by Jadidism. This "third wave" represents a blend of historical values with contemporary aspirations, marked by increased public engagement, a re-evaluation of traditional roles, and a persistent effort to blend tradition with modernity. As Uzbekistan progresses through this phase, the enduring legacy of the Jadids serves as a guiding beacon, shaping the country’s path toward a more inclusive and progressive future.
By: Tawney Kruger
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