Wahhabism is best described as which of the following?

• A. A sect of Zoroastrianism
• B. A Buddhist school
• C. A Christian reform movement
• D. A conservative movement within Islam

Answer: (D)

Wahhabism is a conservative reform movement within Islam that began in 18th‑century Najd under Muhammad ibn Abd al‑Wahhab and later aligned with the Saudi state. It emphasizes purifying Islamic practice by returning to what it sees as the true, early form of Islam, with a strong emphasis on tawhid (the oneness of God) and rejection of practices considered innovations or elements of polytheism, such as certain saint veneration and folk rituals. This internal focus on reform, purification, and strict adherence to the Quran and Hadith distinguishes it as an Islamic movement rather than belonging to other religions. The other options misplace Wahhabism in Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, or Christianity, which are unrelated traditions.