Analyzing ISIS’s Claim of Salafi Orientation and State-Building Project

The Islamic State, or ISIS, has long claimed to adhere to the doctrine of Salafism, a conservative Muslim orientation that seeks to model actions on early Muslim community practices. However, a recent analysis by scholar Jacob Olidort reveals that ISIS’s claims of Salafi adherence are not entirely accurate. While ISIS uses Salafism as a political vehicle to establish credibility for its ambitions, its state-building activities often contradict traditional Salafi teachings.

Olidort’s research highlights the disconnect between ISIS’s political goals and Salafi theological principles. Despite claiming to build a Salafi state and an apocalyptic caliphate, ISIS’s curriculum and generation-raising efforts are driven by personal and regional factors rather than Salafi doctrines. This discrepancy raises questions about the group’s true motivations and the extent to which Salafism influences its actions.

While ISIS draws heavily on Salafi texts and principles in its publications, including works by Wahhabi authors, its focus on subjects like literature, geography, and mathematics lacks doctrinal basis in Salafi teachings. The group’s emphasis on building a curriculum and training recruits in warfare tactics suggests a broader agenda beyond strict adherence to Salafi doctrine.

Overall, Olidort’s analysis challenges the perception of ISIS as a purely Salafi organization and sheds light on the complex interplay between religious ideology and political ambition within the group. As ISIS continues to promote its vision of an Islamic state, understanding the nuances of its ideological foundations is crucial for policymakers and analysts seeking to counter its influence.