Letter From the Editor - Originality and modernity are wings of Islamic thought
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Letter From the Editor
Originality and modernity are wings of Islamic thought
There is a dire need to evaluate the Is- for the welfare of humanity.
lamic thought constantly and revise its meth- Certainly, universities should pay more
odology and mission in order to identify the attention to the cultural and intellectual pub-
problems of this thought and its recent devel- lications, which contribute to awareness and
opments. This should occur when there are guidance of people. This is the most impor-
deviations from the approved methodologies tant mission of the university in the service
and mission just like the case of many ex- of the community.
tremists and delinquents. Consequently, the The positive effects of the human thought
title “Islamic Thought: Methodology and appear in the development of science, cul-
Mission” was chosen as the theme of the ture and businesses. Paying attention to the
conference organized by the Muslim World human thoughts at our universities and insti-
League in Dakar under the auspices of Sen- tutes leads to the desired development and
egalese President Macky Sall. progress. This approach will lead to putting
Serious talks and discussions took place Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa’s speech into practice,
and resulted in important visions and ideas especially the bringing-up of the Muslim
including the importance of linking the hu- youth who will carry the banner of the Is-
man mind to faith in a way that makes the lamic thought.
belief and faith the key reference of the Mus- Thought leaders and intellectuals know
lim intellectual. Prophet Muhammad’s Sun- very well that systematic thinking and con-
nah is the approved methodology that draws sideration are based on goals and purposes
up the right path for all Muslims. Such link- including solving problems, interpreting
ing is the reason for the strength and excel- strange phenomena and addressing issues
lence of Islamic thought. facing communities together with taking
The Secretary General of the Muslim positive attitudes towards them.
World League Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Nowadays, Muslims suffer from weak-
Abdulkarim Al-Issa has stressed the origi- ness and underdevelopment in all areas and
nality of the Islamic thought at the opening at all levels due to their intellectual back-
session when he said “Originality and mo- wardness although they were in the past the
dernity are the wings of Islamic thought used role models of the whole world in culture
to reach the reform, creativity and cultural and thought. The lack of resources is not the
influence.” real reason, but departing from the correct
The outcomes of the conference are thought and path is. Therefore, the only way
closely related to the concept of authentic- to progress and development is to reform the
ity and modernity. The participants called systematic approach and abide by the su-
upon academic, scientific and intellectual in- preme mission of Islam.
stitutions to enhance their role in addressing By following this approach, demands of
modern legal issues and understanding them the participants in the conference can be ful-
correctly in order to reach accurate and cor- filled through removing all the negative ef-
rect answers that introduce for all a road map fects in the old and modern thought together.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 1
11
Dhul-Qadah 1440/ July 2019
4
MWL holds international
conference in Dakar
14
Ghanaian Vice-President opens
MWL conference in Accra
2 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l
12
President of Senegal decorates
Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa with State Greater Medal
20
Dr. Al-Issa meets King of Ashanti and
launches food aid campaign in Ghana
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 3
MWL holds international
conference in Dakar
4 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l
Dakar (Senegal) - MWL
Under the patronage of His Excellency, the President of Senegal, Macky
Sall, the International Conference on Islamic Thought, Methodology
and Mission wrapped up its activities in the Senegalese capital of Dakar.
The conference was organized by the Muslim World League and saw the
participation of distinguished African scholars and intellectuals.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 5
Dr. Al-Issa addresses the opening of the conference
Participants stressed the impor- Qur’an and the Sunnah to be able to
tance of linking the human mind to undertake the Islamic sciences and
the faith framework, to be on the confront extremist and violent ideas
path of guidance and vision, adher- with their entire negative approaches
ing to the traditions of civilization and developments, including terror-
and human advancement in its moral ist delinquency.
context, seeking peaceful and digni- Participants also stressed the
fied life, and keen to unify the rows need to call on universities and sci-
and do good to all. entific and intellectual institutions
Conferees noted the authentic- to enhance their role in the study of
ity of Islamic thought, which is ex- modern Islamic issues and to take
pressed by the qualified and the com- cognizance of them in order to come
petent specialists who can consider up with correct answers, solutions
developments and have the ability to and perceptions that provide the
separate the wheat from the chaff in road map for the benefit of the entire
the contemporary intellectual trends. humanity.
Conferees called for constructive Participants expressed their grati-
thought based on the guidance of the tude to the Senegalese president
6 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l
Part of the opening session of the Conference
and his government for their gener- welcomed MWL’s Secretary General
ous care and hospitality. They also His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Muham-
thanked the Muslim World League mad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa and the
and its Secretary General for their attendees. He expressed his pleasure
commendable efforts in disseminat- at holding this conference hosted by
ing the tolerant principles of Islam the Senegalese government and peo-
and confronting extremism, vio- ple and thanked the Muslim World
lence and terrorism and calling for League for organizing the confer-
more activism and programs that ence as part of its programs aimed
provide wise intellectual guidance at promoting the scientific and intel-
in the contemporary issues that are lectual communication with differ-
necessary for the Muslim nation and ent nations and cultures.
the entire humankind. His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Mu-
The conference’s activities kicked hammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa de-
off with a speech delivered on the livered a speech in which he thanked
behalf of the Senegalese president the Senegalese President for his gen-
by Speaker of Senegal’s Parliament, erous patronage of the conference,
Mr. Moustapha Niasse, in which he asserting that the importance of its
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 7
A huge numbers of participants in the Conference
theme lied in the distinguished Afri- He added, “The Islamic thought
can scholars’ presence. has illuminated the world with its
His Excellency stressed the mercy, humanity, reform, justice,
MWL’s constant keenness to express openness and tolerance within the
the truths of Islam and its tolerant guidance of Islam, as well as the re-
principles and its positive openness alities of the bright Islamic history
to a number of cultures and civiliza- which is attributed to Islam, and not
tions, its dedication to the establish- those who misuse its name for their
ment of moderation and confronta- material and political interests and
tion of exaggeration and extremism their ideological ideas. Those are
and its call to make the scientific and fully attributed to their greed and
intellectual meetings of Muslims ex- misguidance. We all know that the
press their unified word, away from Islamic law has not preserved any-
labeling and exclusion under any one from sinning or falling a prey
slogan other than the slogan of Islam to misguidance or darkness but the
and its name and collective descrip- only preserved and perfect is our
tion. He stressed the importance of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon
absorbing others with the supreme him.” His Excellency indicated that
manners of Islam. authenticity and modernity are the
8 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l
The attendees of the conference are the excellencies, researchers, scientists, scholars
wings of Islamic thought, hovering Islamic personality, especially the
in the horizon of reform, creativity young people to hold an enlightened
and cultural influence. He stressed Islamic thought that is helpful for
the importance of the Islamic mod- them, the nation, the homeland and
eration in the face of the intellectual all humankind.
deviation. His Eminence Sheikh Al-Hajj
Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa stressed the Imam Emai Anayang, Minister of
importance of understanding the sig- Religious Affairs, delivered a speech
nificance of the texts of the Shari’ah in which he said: “The Islamic
and exploring its purposes and rules. thought, which we are discussing
He underscored the importance of some of its theses today, is marked
understanding the jurisprudence of by open and flexible characteristics
priorities, balances and consequenc- and innovations, but they are guided
es as well as spreading awareness of by Islam and follows its course.
the rules of Shari’ah in changing the His Eminence said that the law
fatwas and rulings, by the change of of Allah Almighty is concerned with
times and places, conditions, cus- organizing the life of humans. In this
toms, intentions and people, and sense, it is a comprehensive thought
contributing to the shaping of the that deals with everything that exists
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 9
Senegal’s Speaker of the parliament recieves Souvenir from the SG of the MWL
in life. It does not overlook any as- acterized by the escalation of vio-
pect and no aspect has primary over lence in its various forms, and many
another. It embraces the issues of life scholars and researchers attribute
with integrated and balanced totali- this to the growing intellectual crisis
tarianism. that has resulted in extremism and
He pointed out that the Islamic terrorism.
thought is keen on the careful bal- Dakar’s Mayor Mrs. Seham
ance between one’s innate desires Wardini delivered a speech in which
and the growth and development of she thanked the MWL for organizing
normal life. They should not limit this international conference and its
themselves to one thing in particular, pivotal role in enhancing the values
as they can’t have political or eco- of moderation, especially in the face
nomic thought without a system of of extremist ideas. She emphasized
ethics and values, or a system of eth- that the Islamic thought extends
ics and values without wise political, bridges of communication with ev-
social and economic arrangement. eryone confidently and aptly.
He pointed out that the confer- On the sidelines of the confer-
ence came in a global context char- ence, a Memorandum of Under-
10 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lDakar’s Mayor Mrs. Seham Wardini recieves Souvenir from the SG of the MWL
standing (MoU) was signed between
the MWL, represented by His Excel-
lency Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Ab-
dulkarim Al-Issa, and the Supreme
Authority of Senegalese Endowment
represented by Her Excellency Mrs.
Halima Joub. The MoU included co-
operation in activating endowments
to contribute to the promotion and
development of charitable work cul-
ture in Senegal, particularly the im-
plementation of mutual endowment,
social and investment programs, as
well as exchanging experiences in
the field of charity and cooperation
and coordination with other endow-
ment organizations and institutions
in the Arab and Islamic worlds. Part of the audience during the conference
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 11President of Senegal decorates
Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa with State Greater Medal
Dakar - MWL
President of the Republic of Sen- nating religious values of moderation,
egal Macky Sall has decorated the boosting cooperation among the fol-
Secretary General of Muslim World lowers of cultures and religions, and
League Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin his initiatives and humanitarian pro-
Abdulkarim Al-Issa with the State grams around the world.
Greater Medal in Dakar in recognition The honorary ceremony took place
of his international efforts of dissemi- during President Macky’s meeting
12 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lSenegalese President mimics Sheikh Al-Issa
and the Order of the largest state
with Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa at the Pal- Senegalese President and expressed
ace of Government in the Senegalese his pleasure for visiting Senegal,
capital of Dakar. President Macky stressing that the services of the Mus-
praised Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa for orga- lim World League around the world
nizing the international conference especially in the African continent
and for the great efforts made by the represent an Islamic and humanitar-
Muslim World League all around the ian duty ordained by the values of the
world and in African, especially in Islamic religion, especially the pro-
Senegal. motion of harmony among followers
Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa thanked the of religions, cultures and ethnicities.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 13Ghanaian Vice-President opens
MWL conference in Accra
14 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lAccra (Ghana) - MWL
His Excellency Vice-President of the Republic of Ghana Dr. Maha-
mudu Bawumia inaugurated the International Conference organized
by the Muslim World League (MWL) in the Ghanaian capital under the
title “Religious and Ethnic Minorities ... Rights and Duties”, with the
participation of His Excellency Secretary General of the Muslim World
League, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa and a number
of selected Excellences and Eminences.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 15Dr. Al-Issa addresses the opening ceremony of the conference
Dr. Bawumia stressed the paramount im- societies where holistic shift is achieved and
portance and seriousness of the theme of the national and religious discrimination is elim-
Conference, saying he was heartened by his inated.
presence and participation in the discussion His Excellency the Vice-President spoke
of an important issue seeking to achieve na- of the MWL’s initiative to bring these impor-
tional and social harmony and peace through tant issues to the discussion table. His Ex-
the consolidation of the culture of preserving cellency also commended His Excellency
the minority rights and their performance of Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa’s ceaseless desire and
duties. willingness to provide all support and help
He pointed out that faith is the element required to promote dialogue, peace, coex-
and the driver leading most of humankind istence and positive national integration, and
and forming life systems, and this is why the take part in supporting the humanitarian and
topic discussed in the symposium is very im- development work targeting the poor, the
portant. He said that granting religious mi- needy and the orphans.
norities their full rights, status, positive in- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa stressed that the MWL
tegration into society, their full participation is pleased to organize this significant confer-
in all matters of their homeland and ensuring ence and always wishes to be a forum collect-
performance of their full national duties hon- ing the shared values, which Allah Almighty
estly are the best way to build just and equal has granted to the humankind so life would
16 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lPart of the Opening Session of the MWL Conference on Minority Issues
go on a straight path that pleases everyone in The Secretary General continued, “In Is-
their harmony, peace, rise and development. lam, our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon
Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa asserted that achiev- him, says: ‘No one of you becomes a true
ing that hope would only take place when believer until he likes for his brother what he
everyone lives under the umbrella of love, likes for himself’, and Allah commands us to
tolerance and understanding the Almighty be kind, good and fair to everyone, regard-
Creator’s way with regard to difference and less of their religions and races.” He asserted
diversity, and when open brotherly dialogue that today’s world is in a dire need to acti-
prevails. vate the humanitarian commonalities, some
He added, “We will not find the harmony of which are sufficient to bring the desired
and peace that we seek and will not eliminate peace and harmony around the world.
the suffering of many poor, disadvantaged, He added, “We say this in the face of the
persecuted and oppressed people around the greedy materialistic view, which sees only
world, unless when we vanquish the brutal- its own interests to the detriment of the rights
ity that is still dominant in some hearts. Be- and the pain of others, and then developers
sides, we will not reach the true happiness in of this theory come to blame on the religions
its world unless when we take into account for the clash of civilizations. While the fact is
bringing joy to others and keeping evil away that religions disavow that, because religion
from them.” is primarily based on bringing joy to humans
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 17Ghanaian vice-President receives Souvenir from H.E. Dr. Al-Issa in the worldly life and the hereafter, but the racism together with fearing others and the values of religions unmask that theory and possibility of the civilizational clash.” He face its immoral challenges.” also stressed that the countries of coexis- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa pointed out that this tence and religious and ethnic harmony could materialistic conception lacking values and overcome these evil orientations and extrem- principles recognizes that religions are the ist ideas and took the path of religious, po- threat to its reputation and entity. Through- litical and intellectual moderation and tem- out its history, this conception tried to dis- perance that is the key base for any stability tort its image and hold it the responsibility and development. He concluded his speech of any extremism or terrorism dressed in a by extending gratitude to the Vice-President fake religious cloak. He highlighted fabrica- of the Republic of Ghana for attending the tions experienced by the religions through- conference. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa also thanked out history. He also underscored dark ages the Ghanaian leadership and people for their in which the Enlightenment in the West had generosity. been hindered for decades because of the re- The Secretary General of the Conference ligious extremism having no relation with of Ghana Catholic Bishops Pope Lazuris An- the correct religion, injustice and persecution und stressed the importance of holding this suffered by followers of religions including conference in Africa that is characterized by Muslims, Christians, Jews and others. a wide variety of religions and cultures, con- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa stressed, “We are all firming that the leaders of religions represent aware that the absence of the correct and ac- the hope to achieve harmony and peace away curate piece of information would lead to from differences and clashes. misunderstanding or deliberate negative in- Pope Lazuris Anund pointed out that the terpretation due to the rooting of hatred and coexistence between the Islamic traditions 18 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l
Ghanaian Catholic Bishops Pope Lazuris Anund
and rituals from one hand and principles and sen. This coincides with the outspread of
rituals of Christianity would result in peace manifestations of religious extremism that
and prosperity among different peoples. He violated the rights of all people without ex-
said: “Cooperation and understanding are re- ception. Consequently, we seek to contribute
quired things to achieve harmony and peace to discussing of the problems of minorities
among peoples with different faiths.” and stopping violence together with achiev-
Pope Lazuris Anund made clear that ing sustainable development for all people
leaders of religions should work together to without discrimination.”
get rid of the hassles of the past and pres- Advisor of the President of the Republic
ent. They also should work on common hu- of Burkina Faso Dr. Abu Bakr Abdullah Da-
man denominators to be able to confront all khouri praised the human goals of the sym-
policies of corruption, forms of extremism, posium calling for abiding by the humanitar-
violence and negative competition with the ian brotherhood necessitated by Islam.
aim of achieving the positive integration and It is worth mentioning that high-rank-
fruitful partnerships that would lead to pros- ing religious, media and political figures of
perity, peace and stability. Director of the Is- various affiliations attended the conference.
lamic Center of Education and Development The symposium discussed a raft of pressing
of the Republic of Ghana Sheikh Ibrahim minority issues, most notably national and
Kudjo Kwai confirmed that the MWL led by common denominators, the cultural rights
Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al- of multi-religious communities and the role
Issa has come a considerable distance in the of religious education and bodies in achiev-
path of peace and global harmony. ing citizenship and promoting coexistence
Sheikh Ibrahim Kudjo Kwai said, “The among religions together with elements and
theme of the symposium was carefully cho- obstacles to social peace.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 19Dr. Al-Issa meets King of Ashanti and
launches food aid campaign in Ghana
Kumasi (Ghana) - MWL
King of the Ashanti Kingdom retary General of the Muslim World
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in the prov- League, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin
ince of Kumasi the capital of the Abdulkarim Al-Issa who paid an of-
province in Ghana, received the Sec- ficial visit to the Republic of Ghana
20 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lKing of the people of Ashanti receives Sheikh Al - Issa
during a tour that included a raft of tended the meeting. It is noteworthy
African countries. that the population of the Ashanti
The King of the Ashanti wel- Kingdom reaches several millions
comed the delegation of the Muslim in whole Africa.
World League, headed by the Sec- During his visit, Sheikh Dr. Al-
retary General, praising the arduous Issa inspected a raft of educational
efforts of the Muslim World League facilities. He also launched a food
in the humanitarian sphere that cov- aid campaign provided by the Mus-
er the entire Africa. lim World League for hundreds of
Many Africans belonging to dif- thousands of residents of the prov-
ferent religions, races and ethnics ince.
make use of these efforts without The Secretary General arrived in
discrimination. The Secretary Gen- the Republic of Ghana on an offi-
eral of the Muslim World League cial visit. He was received by Grand
put spotlight on the deeply rooted Imam of Ghana Sheikh Osman Sha-
history of the Ashanti people and its roboto, a number of high-ranking
wide impact all over Africa. governmental officials, senior reli-
A number of senior and high- gious figures and scholars in Accra
ranking government officials at- International Airport.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 21Al-Issa inaugurates developmental
and orphan sponsorship in Ghana
Ghana - MWL
The Secretary General of the Muslim val of Orphans organized by the Muslim
World League (MWL) Sheikh Dr. Mu- World League and attended by thou-
hammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa has sands of orphans in El Wak Stadium, in
inaugurated a package of developmental the presence of the Minister of Gender,
and orphan sponsorship projects in the Children and Social Protection. He an-
Republic of Ghana, a move which was nounced the MWL sponsorship of thou-
supported and welcomed by state offi- sands of orphans and the establishment
cials and religious figures in the country. of a vocational and technical center un-
Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa started the projects by der the supervision of the Government of
participating in the International Festi- Ghana.
22 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lDr. Issa with a group of orphans during the celebration of the MWL orphan sponsorship
The MWL spokesperson Abdulwahab of food, medical services and orphan spon-
Al-Shehri said this is part of MWL’s mega sorship, and projects of mosques that serve
program in the African continent aimed at Muslims in the African countries.
supporting affected and needy people and Al-Shehri added that this festival comes
victims of crises and disasters in the conti- within the framework of the special program
nent. The program is adopted by MWL for approved earlier by Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa to
its benefit serving all targeted needy seg- contribute to bridging the gaps in the needs
ments in the societies with no religious, eth- of Africa, where the Africans are targeted
nic or political discrimination. It includes with a package of various projects covering
projects to provide potable water, baskets the most important weaknesses and need
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 23Group photo of Sheikh Al - Issa with a number of students
points, through a comprehensive range of
health, development and training initia-
tives. In addition to the housing projects,
food baskets, orphan sponsorship, water
supply and many others for Muslims and
non-Muslims, MWL’s humanitarian and
religious work is not based on religion,
color or ethnicity.
Al-Shehri stressed that MWL pays
special attention to orphans as one of the
needy segments vulnerable to various
types of problems from an early age, es-
pecially in poor communities, due to the
absence of one or both family sponsors.
The MWL has previously launched its
Global Humanitarian Project for the Or-
phan Sponsorship to sponsored thousands
of orphans in many countries around the
world and provide them with financial,
health, social and educational support,
and share their own joys and international
occasions.
He said Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa launched
24 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lSG of the MWL, reassuring the conduct of the medical program for beneficiaries
the project of distributing food baskets for to combat eye diseases, seeking to treat
the poor and needy in Ghana, aiming to pro- hundreds of beneficiaries as part of MWL’s
vide hundreds of thousands of poor people medical project to combat blindness in the
with basic foodstuffs for long periods, based African continent.
on a periodic plan adopted by MWL to help These projects are part of programs and
the needy. initiatives offered by MWL in Africa, which
He launched a project to provide potable are based on its belief in its global humani-
water to a large segment of those who are tarian role in standing with the poor and the
deprived of having access to water supplies affected in their countries. To achieve its
to where they live, as they have to travel Islamic slogan “There is a reward for every
long distances to get drinking water. MWL one with a moist liver”, the MWL enhanced
is one of the largest international organiza- its presence and positive impact on the Af-
tions that has dug thousands of wells and rican continent and consolidated its long-
connected water networks to homes of the standing alliances and agreements with of-
beneficiaries, as well as provided purifica- ficial bodies, civil society organizations and
tion plants and launched awareness-raising humanitarian organizations.
programs on the importance of conserving MWL affirmed its intention to continue
the water resources. exerting greater efforts in Africa towards a
Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa inaugurated one of humanitarian and development activity that
the biggest mosques established by MWL to is orderly and sustainable. MWL’s work
serve the Muslims in Ghana and thousands focuses on coordination with government
of the members of the Muslim community agencies in the countries targeted by its pro-
there. He launched the medical campaign grams.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 25Islam is a moderate approach that
does not emphasize or exaggerate
Mohammad Zakir Hossain
Dr. Hakan Gülerce is the director of the tend an international conference on “The
Migration Policy Application and Research Values of Moderation and Centrism in the
Center of Harran University in Turkey. He Holy Qur’an and Sunnah’,” which was
is also a lecturer on Religion, Modernity, held under the auspices of the Muslim
Social Movements and Migration at the World League (MWL). Mohammad Za-
Department of Sociology. He has been to kir Hossain, the MWL editor, interviewed
several countries in the world conducting him on the sidelines of the conference on
conferences and seminars. He is also Sec- a range of issues concerning Islam and
retary General of International Federation Muslims all over the world as well as the
of Social Science Organizations (IFSSO). Ummah. Following are the excerpts of the
Mr. Hakan was recently in Makkah to at- interview:
26 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lDr. Hakan meets with H.E. the Secretary General of the MWL during the conference
1. How productive and effective did and needed by the Muslim World today. I
you find the international conference on believe today the Muslim World needs this
‘The Values of Moderation and Centrism understanding of “wasatiyah” more than
in the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah’? ever. What we can call as “Positive action”
First of all, I would like to thank MWL or “meaningful action”, based on revelation
for inviting me to this very important con- and faith, is an important way of approach-
ference in Makkah Al-Mukarramah. I be- ing life which needs to be discussed both in
lieve it is more than a conference where theory and in practice. It is a Faith Service
many scholars around the world come to- Through The Guidance Of The Qur’an and
gether, meet and discuss several issues Sunnah. So, serious discussion is required
related to the Muslim world in particular to explore how this concept can give mean-
and humanity in general. The topic, “The ing to all aspects of life and human rela-
Values of Moderation and Centrism in the tionships, and how it can provide sustain-
Holy Qur’an and Sunnah”, is very timely able solutions for humankind’s problems.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 27A large number of scholars attended the Makkah Declaration Conference
So, I believe that this conference helped to ation, lasting solutions to these problems
achieve/contribute to this mission a lot. have not been found. How can the happi-
2. Instability and disunity are harming ness of humanity be obtained both in this
the Ummah. What could be the reasons world and in the next? What kind of ap-
for this growing phenomenon and how do proach is needed in order to solve or, at
you see these should be controlled? least, reduce these problems? Is reconstruc-
In these difficult times, the Muslim tion possible without further spiritual and
World and in general humanity is suffer- material harm being done? Can a universal
ing from the problems which threaten both and sustainable solution be found that tar-
our spiritual and material well-being. Not gets these problems at their very roots? The
only instability and disunity, throughout need for answers to these kinds of question
the world, hunger, poverty, social injustice, is more urgent than ever before. I believe
oppression, war, enforced migration, anar- the enemies of the Muslims are “ignorance,
chy, violence, terrorism, climate change, poverty, and conflict”. Muslims should fight
environmental pollution and a host of other against these three enemies by the weapons
negative trends are on the increase. Despite of “education, work/science, and unity”..
numerous efforts to better the human situ- In general, this is the faith service through
28 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lthe guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah and I have mentioned this in my early writ-
MWL is a good example to implement this ings. For example; about the so-called Is-
mission in our lives. lamic State that appeared a couple of years
3. In your opinion what are the major ago in the Middle East, I said, Islamic State
issues facing the Muslim Ummah? is not Islamic and is not a state. So, I think
As I mentioned above, the major issues we cannot use a term called “Islamic Ter-
facing Muslim Ummah are “ignorance, rorism”. Because terror has no religion. No
poverty, and conflict” and for these issues, Abrahamic religion in the World promotes
we should struggle with “education, indus- terror or violence I believe. But here again,
try, and unity”. In addition to this, I would our living for Islam and sincerity has a lot of
like to use the metaphor of six sicknesses importance about the growing Islamopho-
that we all see in contemporary Muslim cul- bia in the world. So, If we were to display
ture and then reach into our “bag of medi- through our actions the perfections of the
cines” for six cures for these six illnesses. morality of Islam and the truth about faith
These “diseases” of the social life of Mus- and facts about its beliefs, without doubt,
lim Ummah include despair, ignorance, ha- the followers of other religions would enter
tred, disunity, despotism, and selfishness. Islam in whole communities; some entire
The cures for these six sicknesses are all in regions and states, even, would take refuge
the “pharmacy of the Qur’an and Sunnah” in Islam.
These cures are all to be found in the very 5. The MWL initiative on the religious
word of God Almighty, as revealed to the and civilizational dialogue has received
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). great attention in the West. How better
It is important to point out that MWL is can we build up a global culture of dia-
mainly addressing the ills of society and I logue among civilizations?
believe these conferences should continue The great attention (MWL and the
with workshops and discussions organized WEST) expresses the need to explore lev-
by several institutions. els of peace and the principle of the Qur’an
4. Can you please elaborate on these and Sunnah through a series of activities by
other issues? Some of them are as fol- MWL. Under the circumstances of our cur-
lows: rent times with continuous struggles around
a. The image of Islam today stands tar- the world, there is an increasing feeling of
nished; a faith of peace, love, and modera- insecurity and fear. The question of how to
tion is being equated with violence, poverty, succeed in achieving peace as an individual,
and indignity. Both the external forces that as a society and internationally triggered a
are out to damage Islam and a minuscule series of lectures on this subject. I believe
extremist group within the community are MWL will have more responsibility to work
responsible for this; on this mission to present the true Islam and
c. Western media is doing much harm its principles, provide humanitarian aid, ex-
by linking Islam to so-called “Islamic ter- tend bridges of understanding and coopera-
rorism”. This is accentuated by the vulner- tion with all, engage in positive openness
ability of Muslim youth to extremist ideas, to all cultures and civilizations, follow the
especially through social media; path of centrism and moderation to realize
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 29Shari’ah is such a term.
The demonization of Is-
lam via a subjective recon-
struction of political Islam as
a movement pushing for the
implementation of Shari’ah
law must know two things:
1. Shari’ah law is a dy-
namic law to be reinterpret-
ed in accordance with the
needs of Muslim Societies.
It is not monolithic and ahis-
torical.
2. Shari’ah law is humane
and open to multiplicity. Its
position on such controver-
sial issues as human rights,
women rights, political
pluralism, and some penal
codes are open to discussion
and need to be freed from
“demonizing” biases.
3. Shari’ah law is based
on the consent and is not
something unilaterally and
via state imposition.
In short: A major part of
Shari’ah is concerned with
morality, worship, after-life,
and virtue, which fall under
the freedom of conscience
and has no connection to
MWLJ editor interviewing with Dr. Hakan
state affairs or politics while
some parts deal with state
the message of Islam for a and its vital institutions? affairs and politics. This
better world full of peace, One of the often-voiced does not mean that religious
justice and coexistence. frustrations of Muslims is and moral values, such as
6. Critics of political Is- how some specific terms abstaining from lying and
lam consider Shari’ah law from their religion have bribery, will be completely
as a threat to their society. been taken over by the West- left out of politics and gov-
How can we change this ern press and their mean- erning. It only means that
stereotyped image of Islam ing substantially altered. such values can be incor-
30 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lporated after being adopted one or something in a wrong in mutual workshops, con-
as universal or moral val- way, which also can lead us ferences, visits, many activi-
ues once it has been filtered into hatred. Usually, when ties and day trips with a view
through common sense, people get confused they to solving the problems in
reason, sciences, and con- look for someone or some- our respective countries. By
science. One’s intentions thing to blame. This damag- strengthening the connec-
need to be pure, sincere, and ing attitude puts up enormous tion between us, we will be
free from ulterior motives barriers in relationships. So able to have a more detailed
for his message to echo in even if it is just a matter of and intimate understanding
the minds and the hearts. confusion, such confusion of the problems affecting
7. What could possibly created barriers in cross-cul- our countries. We also be-
be the best global mecha- tural connection. We can say lieve we can develop and in-
nism to create a conge- that to have peace and rec- crease the level of cross-cul-
nial atmosphere that can onciliation in the world, we tural communication among
facilitate civilizational must love each other; to be Muslim Ummah. There are
interactions and bring able to love we must know some attitudes and skills to
about peace and security each other; to know we must make cultural adjustments
in the world? What role have the willingness to en- and cultural interactions that
the MWL can play in this gage different cultures. For should be applied. These
regard? me the thing most deserv- attitudes have three dimen-
I would like to start with ing of love is love, and that sions, which are openness,
a very well-known issue. It most deserving of enmity is acceptance, and trust. These
is in human nature to hate enmity. It is love and loving are the attitudes that we need
the unknown. Many psy- others that make a person’s to adopt as we approach an-
chologists today agree that social life secure and lead to other culture. They get us
human beings are quick to happiness. For this purpose, started in the right direction
judge, fear and even hate to strengthen communica- and help us stay on the right
the unknown. If we do not tion between cultures and track towards building posi-
know something, we feel each other, and to increase tive connections with people
afraid of it. Once we get to understanding and respect, who are different.
know something, if we en- the MWL should put more 9. What are your sug-
counter the good names and effort to bring people from gestions to the MWL to
attributes of that thing then different cultures together as build peace and security
we can embark on the path it is doing now at this confer- all over the world?
towards loving it. The more ence. I strongly suggest keep-
we learn about it, the more 8. How do you see the ing the good work that
we love it. This analogy may practical implementation MWL is currently doing and
also work for human beings. of those resolutions? look for the ways and means
If we do not know someone I think, in addition to this to improve it. Not only
we may simply choose to not conference, facilitating the MWL should keep serving
love or sometimes even hate. participation of young peo- the faith, sincerity, and fra-
Sometimes we know some- ple from different countries ternity for a better world.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 31Freedom in Islam: Including
Choice of Religion
By Ahmed Kamal El-Din Izzeddin
Despite much controversy and several misconceptions
about the extent of personal or public freedoms al-
lowed in Islam, the ceiling of Islamic liberties is high-
er than depicted by most poorly informed narratives.
While ‘Islam’ itself connotes total submission to God
the Almighty, this by no means erodes any part of the
space allowed for the individual to exercise her or his
freedom. The intended submission to God is a matter
of personal belief and conscience which is itself sub-
ject to the will of the relevant individual.
32 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lThe Temporal and Divine Spheres of
Existence:
There are basically two broad intertwin-
ing spheres of action in Islam. The first is
a temporal, worldly one, which is deter-
mined by human will and social covenant.
It includes the organization of the political
society, under a social pact and a system of
governance based on popular consensus.
Human actions in the political society are
governed by the promulgated rules of law,
to which all members of the society are
subject. Wrong doing is sanctioned by pre-
ordained punishments exacted by judicial
officials and executed by law enforcement
officers. In sum, it is the quintessence of tions fetter the freedoms of the believer?
the nation state. This is a rather tricky question. On the
The second sphere is more directly outset, duties may denote the existence of
dominated by the divine will, under which some kind of limitation on the human free-
the deeds of man are judged, subject to re- dom, since one has to do certain things un-
ward or punishment by God, in the here- der the compulsion of religion. Well, while
after, or the Day of Judgment. While the the options may be narrowed as a result
first, mundane sphere depends on human of the imposition of such duty, freedom
covenant and design, this divine sphere is a is not necessarily squeezed or suppressed
conceptualization of utter faith. Only those in consequence. An honest believer will
who believe in God consider themselves
as being subjects of His dominion, includ-
ing His rewards as well as His punishment,
depending on the deeds of the believer.
The systems in both spheres can operate
simultaneously in complete mutual syner-
gy and coordination, free of any collision
or contradiction. This enduring harmony
is made possible due to the fact that the
divine sphere has no physical existence
which could collide with the temporal
sphere. Rather, its effect is demonstrated
through the actions of the believer, which
are in turn governed by her or his concep-
tion of the world.
Duties and Freedom:
To what extend do the Islamic obliga-
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 33have willingly submit-
ted to the relevant duty
to such an extent that it
becomes part and par-
cel of his freedom! This
seemingly ironical con-
cept can easily be found
in sufi or mystical litera-
ture and mythology. The
well-known sufi poet
and devoted worship-
per, Rabiaa Al Adawi-
yah, expresses some of
such meanings in one
of her famous poems,
where she surreptitious-
ly and solemnly appeals
to God: “I have known
love since I have expe-
rienced your love, and
closed up my heart to
all, other than You.” The
Prophet of Islam used to
ask his caller for prayer,
or muazzin, Bilal ibn Ra-
bah, to ‘bring comfort’
and ease to him and his
companions by calling
for prayers. Without a
high level of conviction
and purity of faith, it is
not always conceivably
easy to see divinely or-
dained duties as a source
of comfort, serenity and
relaxation. And it is this
delicate juncture of to-
tal human assimilation
with divine duty which
is missed by researchers
into the tenets of Islamic
faith, especially when
34 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lrelating it to modern con- about the essence of free- pinge upon the freedoms
cepts of human rights and dom of faith. A few quota- of other humans, which
liberties. tions from the Muslim Holy would be an encroachment
When Rabei ibn Aamir, Book, the Quran, may help upon the oneness of God
back in the year 14 A.H, ap- illustrate thisindispensable the Almighty who – alone -
proximately, 636 A.D, was conviction: has the ultimate power and
asked by the then Persian (1) “Say, ‘The truth is control over all humans.
monarch about the Islamic from your Lord’: Let him His dominion is shared by
message carried by Prophet who will, believe, and let none, absolutely.
Muhammad he said: “God him who will, reject [it]”. (2) “Let there be no com-
sent us to relieve people, Reference to the Lord, or pulsion in religion: Truth-
whom God so wills, of wor- God, as the ultimate source stands out clear from Error:
shiping slaves [of God] to of truth is crucial here. No whoever rejects evil and be-
the worship of God, of the human being should attri- lieves in Allah hath grasped
narrowness of the world to bute to her or him the origin the most trustworthy hand-
its spaciousness, and of the of truth, not only because hold that never breaks. And
injustice of religions to the man continues to be fal- Allah heareth and knoweth
justice of Islam”. The con- lible, but also because such all things”. This should
text tackled in the previous attribution of truth to man be quite natural, since by
paragraph is essential to would bestow upon him a definition ‘faith’ should be
comprehend the meanings measure of authority and a purely willful exercise.
conveyed in this message control over other human Once belief is ‘forced’ or
carried by Rabei ibn Aamir beings. And if that would coerced it becomes shorn
on behalf of the Prophet. be the case, then man would of its core attribute that
The Quran is quite clear avail an opportunity to im- endows it with its essen-
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 35tial meaning. If someone is (3) “Therefore do thou ‘manage’ (corresponding to compelled into embracing give admonition, for thou the Arabic ‘yudeer’) in this a religion, the result will be art one to admonish.Thou translation of the versed- void. No religion would be art not one to manage enotes a lighter weight in embraced at all. (men’s) affairs”. The word meaning than that carried 36 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l
by the original Arabic word
‘musaytir’, most appro-
priately meaning ‘control-
ling’. Therefore the proper
meaning of the second
verse should go as follows:
“Thou art not one to con-
trol (men’s) affairs”. Again,
this is because if the acts of
man are controlled by any
person other than the doer
of the act, then the whole
of such act becomes void.
Prophet Muhammad says:
“verily, acts are based on
the intentions. And verily,
every person gets what he
[or she] has intended.” The
word ‘intention’ here, from
the Arabic ‘niyyah’ denotes
free will. Once the compo-
nent of freedom is stripped
from the intention, the cor-
responding act becomes
void of its content. Should
it be an act of worship, it
goes unaccepted by God. compelled to believe. In considered in Islam, be
Should it be an evil act, not other words, it is a contra- they good or bad deeds, for
freely intended, it will not diction of terms to speak of the purposes of rewarding
incur punishment by God. ‘compelled belief’, since and punishment alike, be-
This is due to the ultimate such element of compul- cause without his freedom
divine justice. sion would negate believ- man is relieved of all re-
(4) “If it had been thy ing, an act which should sponsibility. Suffice it that
Lord’s will, they would all only be deliberate and free- from inception, the reli-
have believed, - all who ly expressed. gion of Islam itself cannot
are on earth! Wilt thou In conclusion, freedom be embraced except with
then compel humankind, is placed in a uniquely high full freedom and unfettered
against their will, to be- place in Islam, not just as will. Consequently, respect
lieve”! Again, God reminds a decorated icon but as an for the freedom of the in-
his apostle of the human essential ingredient of hu- dividual in Islam is funda-
freedom of faith, and that man action. Only willful, mental and cannot be com-
human beings may not be freely exercised acts are promised.
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 37Hong Kong Muslims - Keeping Islamic
ethos alive amid multi-culturism
Aftab Husain Kola
Islam today is an intrinsic component of Hong Kong’s dynamic hybrid
culture as it was 100 years ago and serves as a fine example of peaceful
cultural co-existence. AFTAB HUSAIN KOLA charts out the Islamic com-
munity’s history and developments of the vibrant city-state comprising of
a cluster of 263 islands.
Hong Kong became the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the
People’s Republic of China on 1 July 1997. With a population of 7,213,338 as
on 2018 with Chinese 92%, Filipino 2.5%, Indonesian 2.1%, others 3.4%,
Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading financial centers.
38 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 lReligion-wise, Buddhists or Taoists form across Central Asia, and from the southeast
30%, followed by Christians 12 % and Mus- through the ancient trading ports on the South
lims 4.2%, and rest others. Out of the near- China Sea. Guangzhou (formerly Canton), at
ly 300,000 Muslims in Hong Kong, most the mouth of the Pearl River and a short train
are of Indonesian origin (150,000). Ethnic ride from Hong Kong, has always demon-
Chinese Muslims number 50,000 and there strated more willingness to foreign influence
are 40000 South Asian Muslims, most of than other Chinese cities, and its Huaisheng
whom are Pakistani and the remaining popu- Mosqueconstructed in the Tang Dynasty is
lation include Indians, Bangladeshis, Malay- recorded to be the oldest mosque in China.
sians and others. China started receiving Muslims after the
Muslims make Hong Kong their home rise of Islam in the seventh century, main-
Muslims in Hong Kong are fully inte- ly as ambassadors or merchants. They took
grated in civic society since the first Indian the land as well as the sea route, along the
lascars (merchant sailors from, mainly, the Silk Roads through Central Asia, and by sea,
Indian subcontinent employed on European over the Indian Ocean via the Straits of Ma-
ships) arrived on East India Company ships lacca. We learn from historical sources that
in the 1830s. The East India Company’s in 651AD, an envoy representing the Islam’s
trade with China reached its peak in the early third Caliph Uthmanbin Affan, came to the
19th century and thereafter it opened the gate Tang court at Changan in central China. As
for the early Muslims making Hong Kong as Islam spread in the Central Asia coupled
their home. Prior to these Muslims, Islam with the conversion of the Turks to Is-
was already introduced in China from the lam, cities in the western province of Xin-
northwest along the overland caravan routes jiang became important centers of Muslim
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 39culture as early as the 10th century. Guards, Prison Guards, Dockyard Guards, The words Hong Kong translate into ‘Fra- Watchmen, Bank Clerks, Royal Naval Dock- grant Harbor’, aptly named because of its yard Police, Ferry Supervisors, Post Office deep-water harbor, which has contributed to Mail Launch Guards, Sanitary Foremen and Hong Kong’s great success as a center for in- Government Servants. The diamond mer- ternational trade and finance. Naturally, the chants from South India, especially Mus- early seamen mostly came from the shores of lims, also arrived in good numbers. Malabar (India), Bay of Bengal, Campbell- pur (north of Pakistan’s Punjab Province,), Organizing into a community Hazara (Abbottabad), Lahore, and Gujarat. When the Muslims maritime traders be- Besides those others came from Shanghai, gan settling in Hong Kong during the early Aden (Yemen), Java, Sumatra, Malacca, Ma- 19th century getting proper accommodation laya (now Malaysia), Sarawak, South-Sea was a big problem they encountered. Moro Borneo, Brunei, Port Said (Egypt), Turkey Kai (streets of the people of the Moros) in and Zanzibar (Tanzania). an area known as Lower Lascar Row in the With Hong Kong’s trade firmed up more Central area was the locality they somehow and more Muslims landed here from India managed to stay. The Muslims organized (principally Punjabis) filling most of the post themselves into a Jamat (organization) for as Hong Kong Police Constables, Marine social and welfare development of the com- 40 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l
munity and used to meet often at Lower manages the present 5 mosques and 2 Mus-
Lascar Row. As Muslims managed to grow lim Cemeteries, besides madrasas and mak-
in business hundreds of the Muslims and tabs attached to these mosques. The BOT is
their families vacated their shops and resi- also the authority to make all arrangements
dences for elsewhere in Hong Kong, their for funerals and burials of deceased Mus-
shops were taken over by Chinese traders lims; to employ Imams, Quran Teachers,
selling Curios, Souvenirs, Old Scrolls and Cemetery and Office Staff; to announce the
Relics and these streets of Lower Lascar dates and days of Muslim festivals, e.g. be-
Row are now better known to many tourists ginning of Ramadan and Eids; to buy air-
as the ‘Cat Street.’ time on Radio and conduct suhoor and if-
Also, during their stint in Kowloon Penin- taar program during Ramadan; to carry out
sula the Muslim garrison was one of the first halal inspections and issue halal certificates
groups to make arrangements for prayers in Hong Kong and some parts of China; to
for the Muslims. On their request a tem- undertake dawah work for the Muslims and
porary site was allotted within the Whit- Non-Muslims and carryout any other activi-
field Army Barracks between Austin Road ties in the general interests of the Hong Kong
and Nathan Road, especially for Friday and Muslims and propagation of Islam. The pre-
Eid prayers. The first Mosque in the Kow- mier organization is also engaged in enhanc-
loon Peninsula was built in 1896. The grand ing better understanding among different
Moorish type Mosque was built entirely by religious leaders and conducting interfaith
the Muslim garrisons with assistance from meetings and visiting and educating Mus-
their respective commanders. lims held in the prisons.
Though Muslims are found all over the The Islamic Union of Hong Kong is an-
Island State their main concentration is in other prominent organization whose prima-
and around a Masjid; for e.g. near Kowloon ry purpose for coming to Hong Kong was
Masjid in Tsim Sha Tsui, Masjid Ammar in to enter into trade and commerce with
Wan Chai and Cha Wan Masjid in Cape Col- China. Because of their enthusiastic spirit,
linson. they finally settled in Hong Kong to pursue
their trading activities. With a member-
Active Organizations ship roll of over 700 Muslims of differ-
Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Com- ent nationalities such as Indians, Pakistanis,
munity Fund, the coordinating body for Chinese, Malays and British, the activities
all Islamic affairs in Hong Kong, is a well of Islamic Union include: to improve the
respected apex organization. Popularly general welfare of Muslims in Hong Kong;
called among Hong Kong Muslims as to promote and foster the practice of Islamic
‘The Board of Trustees (BOT)’, it is rec- principles; to spread, expound and propa-
ognized by the government of Hong Kong gate the truth of Islamic knowledge; to es-
as the main body representing the interests tablish and maintain homes and hostels for
of the Muslim Community in Hong Kong. Muslims in need; to establish and operate
The powerful 7-member Board, serves as a schools, colleges, hospitals, clinics, homes
federation of four founding and oldest Mus- for the aged and any other charitable and
lim Organizations of Hong Kong. The BOT educational institute which the Union shall
lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 41You can also read
