One of the most fundamental epistemological tensions in contemporary thought is the confrontation between the logic of "nation" and "ummah/wilayah." The critique of modern nationalism by Islamic thinkers has led to the emergence of transnationalism that claims to revive authentic identity, but has had unexpected consequences for the historical nation. This research aims to conduct a comparative analysis of Fardid's and Sayyid Qutb's approaches to nationalism, discovering the epistemological mechanisms that transform the historical nation into an "incomplete category." The methodology was based on comparative analysis and utilization of Hamid Ahmadi's theoretical framework, including the theory of the "hard core" of national identity and "citizen-centered national identity." Key findings revealed that Fardid and Qutb, through distinct pathways—ontological-mystical and theological-political—reached a convergent conclusion: transforming the nation into a reality that must find completion in the ummah or wilayah. This logic deprives the four fundamental elements of national identity (territory, history, political and cultural heritage) of their ontological autonomy and transforms them into incomplete realities. Transnationalism, despite its claim to defend authenticity, leads to the weakening of the "hard core" of national identity and fails to provide adequate responses to the basic needs of contemporary society—political freedoms, social justice, gender equality, and minority rights. The solution lies in finding a "citizen-centered national identity" that is based on gradual accumulation and, by adding the element of "people" to the hard core, is both rooted in history and responsive to contemporary needs.Only a society rooted in its identity can meaningfully engage with the world.