The debate over the «Islamic Reformation» masks a number of related debates that will be analyses in the present article: the argument is often made that Islam is distinguished by the absence of a formal priesthood, which makes it easier for charismatic reformers to challenge the tradition; The argument about the contest over values. Part of the dilemma facing Muslims since the dawn of modernity stems not only from the sense of inferiority generated by being (and later subjugated and humiliated) left behind by the materially advancing West, but also from a feeling of moral defensiveness in such areas as democracy, universal human rights, women’s rights, etc.; A very significant complicating factor is the fact that religious reform is at present more a demand made from the outside than from the inside of the Muslim community.
Islamic Reform, religious authority, crisis of authority, religious tradition.