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Al Etihad
15-06-2025
- Politics
- Al Etihad
The role of Muslim scholars in combating extremism
16 June 2025 00:30 By Imam Mohammad Tawhidi* In an era marked by rapid change and global challenges, the spectre of violent extremism continues to threaten peace and stability in many the roots of extremism are complex, encompassing political, social, and economic factors, its most dangerous manifestations often misuse religious language to justify this context, Muslim scholars play a vital and irreplaceable role in countering extremist ideologies and guiding communities toward the true, peaceful teachings of the various actors promoting extremism, few have done more to damage the image of Islam and poison young minds than the Muslim Brotherhood. While they present themselves as defenders of Islamic values, their agenda is rooted in politicised religion, manipulation, and a long record of justifying violence under the guise of this struggle for the soul of Islam, Muslim scholars stand as the most important defenders of authentic, peaceful Islamic Muslim scholars are custodians of Islamic knowledge and tradition. Their authority is rooted in a deep understanding of the Qur'an, the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and centuries of scholarly extremist groups such as the Muslim Brotherhood attempt to justify violence with selective readings of scripture, it is the scholars who are best equipped to refute these the past two decades, leading scholars from around the world have issued clear and detailed religious rulings (fatwas) condemning terrorism and revolutionary theological refutation, Muslim scholars are deeply involved in education, which is a critical front in the battle against shaping curricula in religious schools and universities, scholars ensure that students receive a balanced and contextual understanding of Islamic teachings. This educational role is especially important for young people, who may be vulnerable to simplistic or radical interpretations of mosques, community centres, and through media, scholars engage directly with youth and families. They address contemporary issues, answer questions, and provide guidance that is relevant to the challenges of modern life. Their efforts build resilience in communities, making them less susceptible to extremist recruitment. Promoting Tolerance and Interfaith Dialogue Islam, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), recognises the diversity of humanity and calls for respect and kindness toward all people, regardless of faith or background. Muslim scholars have been at the forefront of interfaith dialogue, participating in conferences and initiatives that bring together religious leaders from different traditions. These efforts are not only about countering extremism but also about building bridges of understanding and the United Arab Emirates, for example, the establishment of the Ministry of Tolerance and the hosting of the historic Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi are examples of how religious leadership can encourage a culture of scholars in the UAE and elsewhere contribute to these efforts by emphasising Islam's message of compassion and mutual of the most important contributions of Muslim scholars is their ability to contextualise religious texts. Extremist groups often rely on literal or decontextualised readings of scripture to support their agendas. Scholars, with their knowledge of historical context and jurisprudence, provide nuanced interpretations that reflect the broader ethical teachings of Islam. Community Engagement and Social ResponsibilityMuslim scholars also play a vital role in community engagement and social responsibility. They are often the first point of contact for individuals or families concerned about radicalisation. Through counselling, outreach programmes and partnerships with civil society, scholars help address the social and psychological factors that can lead to extremism. In the UAE and other countries, scholars collaborate with government and non-governmental organisations to support initiatives that promote social cohesion and prevent radicalisation. Their involvement ensures that efforts to combat extremism are grounded in authentic religious values and enjoy the trust of the fight against extremism is not solely a matter of security or policy; it is also a battle for hearts and minds. Muslim scholars, with their deep knowledge, moral authority and commitment to peace, are essential allies in this refuting extremist ideologies, educating the next generation, promoting tolerance, and engaging with their communities, they uphold the true spirit of Islam and help build a safer, more harmonious societies continue to confront the challenges of extremism, the wisdom and leadership of legitimate Muslim scholars will remain indispensable, lighting the way toward a future defined by peace, compassion and mutual respect. *The writer is a Parliamentary Advisor and research partner with TRENDS Research & Advisory
Korea Herald
24-03-2025
- Politics
- Korea Herald
UAE promotes interfaith dialogue in Korea
The UAE Embassy in Seoul hosted an interfaith dialogue on Wednesday, coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan. The event celebrated the tradition of iftar while underlining the UAE's core value of tolerance. In his remarks at the event, UAE Ambassador to Korea, Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi, underscored his nation's commitment to tolerance and coexistence. He underscored the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE's Founding Father, in promoting these values globally. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who served as the UAE's first president from the country's formation on Dec. 2, 1971, was known for his deep religious faith, generosity and vision for a more connected world. The ambassador noted that Al Nahyan's legacy continues under Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has positioned tolerance as a fundamental pillar of the UAE's national identity. In a press release shared with The Korea Herald on Thursday, the embassy reaffirmed its commitment to advancing dialogue and cooperation among diverse communities to build a more peaceful and tolerant world. Al Nuaimi highlighted the UAE's commitment to tolerance, citing the example of creating the Ministry of Tolerance and the declaration of 2019 as the "Year of Tolerance." 'Our goal has been to highlight the UAE as a capital for tolerance and a bridge of communication between different cultures,' he said, noting the opening of the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi in 2023 as a milestone. The complex on Saadiyat Island consists of a mosque, a church and a synagogue, reflecting the deep-rooted value of peaceful coexistence within Emirati culture and its application in daily life. UAE has established Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence in 2016 to implement the National Tolerance Program, endorsed by the Federal Cabinet. The ministry promotes tolerance, pluralism and peaceful coexistence through local and global engagement. Meanwhile, Al Nuami also underlined UAE-Korea ties built on mutual respect and shared aspirations for peace and prosperity. The UAE and South Korea established diplomatic ties in 1980, upgrading to a Special Strategic Partnership in 2018, the first in the Middle East. Ten Korean presidents have visited the UAE, with the last four making multiple trips. UAE leaders, including President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, have also visited Korea, most recently in 2024. Since 2011, Korea's Akh Unit has been deployed in the UAE, underpinning military cooperation. The UAE president has called Korea a 'brother country' due to their close ties. Now-suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol's first-ever state visit to the UAE in January 2023 furthered bilateral cooperation in nuclear power, energy, investment, defense, space, smart farming and health care. Recognizing the top-down decision-making structure of Middle Eastern countries, Korea seeks to enhance high-level exchanges, with the UAE playing a key role in its National Security Strategy, and seeks to expand collaboration beyond traditional sectors like energy and infrastructure to nuclear power, hydrogen, space, public health and smart farming. The UAE hosts the largest Korean community in the Middle East and Africa, engaged in diverse occupations and academic fields. South Korea also views the UAE as a brother country. Al Nuami cited Ramadan as a reminder that our differences can be bridges rather than barriers, with our collective strength lying in our unity. sanjaykumar@
Khaleej Times
13-03-2025
- Politics
- Khaleej Times
UAE a symbol of tolerance, compassion and mutual respect
In a world that seems increasingly divided along lines of faith, culture and ideology, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands as a beacon of hope, exemplifying how diversity can be celebrated rather than feared. As someone who has spent over four decades in the UAE, I have witnessed firsthand how this young and dynamic nation has cultivated an atmosphere of tolerance, coexistence and acceptance. The UAE's commitment to promoting harmony among its diverse population of over 200 nationalities sets a remarkable example for the region and the world. One of the most striking features of the UAE is its leadership's dedication to nurturing interfaith dialogue and providing platforms for religious communities to thrive. The UAE is home to not only a Muslim majority but also a significant number of Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jews. In the country's cultural melting pot, people of all faiths have found a sense of belonging and respect, something that is increasingly rare in other parts of the world. The most iconic symbol of this commitment to interfaith respect is the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara in Dubai, the largest Sikh temple in the region. Built on land graciously provided by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, this temple serves as a place not only for Sikh worship but also for community service. The Gurudwara's Langar (free community kitchen) embodies the Sikh principles of equality, sharing and selfless service. It is open to everyone, regardless of background, ethnicity or religion. On any given day, people from all walks of life gather to share a meal, strengthening the bond of unity in diversity. What makes this development even more profound is the UAE government's unwavering support for such initiatives. Under the leadership of the UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the country has gone beyond symbolic gestures. A key example of this is the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, a groundbreaking initiative that houses a mosque, church and synagogue in the same complex, further reflecting the UAE's commitment to peaceful coexistence and interfaith dialogue. This project is a testament to the UAE's desire to foster understanding and unity among people of different religions, highlighting the nation's progressive approach to peacebuilding. Moreover, the UAE's Ministry of Tolerance, headed by Sheikh Nahayan bin Mubarak Al Nahayan, serves as a reminder that tolerance is not just an abstract concept but a key value enshrined in the country's social fabric. The UAE's strategic focus on tolerance is further exemplified by the National Programme for Tolerance, which promotes mutual understanding and respect across communities and cultures. In many ways, the UAE's commitment to tolerance mirrors the teachings of the country's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. His leadership philosophy, rooted in compassion and understanding, continues to inspire the nation. Sheikh Zayed believed that true strength lies in embracing differences and fostering inclusivity. His famous words, 'Tolerance is a duty. If God, the Greatest, the Almighty Creator, is forgiving, we human beings are all brothers,' echo through the corridors of history as a reminder of the values that have shaped the UAE into the progressive, welcoming society it is today. The UAE's history of religious tolerance dates back centuries. Archaeological findings on Sir Bani Yas Island, which revealed the region's oldest Christian church, attest to the long-standing tradition of coexistence between different religious groups in the area. The UAE, despite being a relatively young nation, has always been a crossroads of cultures, religions and ideas. Its commitment to moderation, reflected in the practice of wasatiyyah (the Middle Path in Islam), has made it a safe haven for people of all beliefs. Today, the UAE continues to exemplify how religious and cultural diversity can be an asset rather than a liability. With the growing number of foreign expatriates and an increasing number of houses of worship — 40 churches, a Synagogue, two Hindu temples, a Sikh Gurudwara, and a Buddhist monastery — across the country, the UAE has become a model of peaceful coexistence. The UAE's embrace of diversity has not only attracted businesses and global talent but has also made it a preferred destination for those seeking a life free from religious persecution. What sets the UAE apart is not just its acceptance of diversity but the proactive steps it has taken to promote it. The government has introduced programmes that encourage tolerance and coexistence through education, cultural exchanges and interfaith dialogue. The UAE's hosting of the Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies, which seeks to foster peace and cooperation within the Muslim world, is just one example of the country's commitment to making the world a better place for all people, regardless of their faith. The UAE's success in building a harmonious, inclusive society should serve as an inspiration to other nations. In a world where divisions often seem insurmountable, the UAE shows that it is possible to build a nation where respect for diversity is not just a political slogan but a lived reality. The path to peace and prosperity lies in understanding and embracing differences, and the UAE has set a powerful example for the world to follow. As the UAE continues to grow and evolve, it remains a symbol of what can be achieved when people come together in the spirit of tolerance, compassion and mutual respect. The values of unity, coexistence and acceptance that are woven into the fabric of UAE society are not just the foundation for the country's success — they are the building blocks for a brighter, more peaceful future for the entire world.
