Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects: A Call for Unity and Solidarity
KUALA LUMPUR, March 8 (Bernama) — Leading Islamic scholars and senior muftis from over 90 countries have gathered in Makkah for the second edition of the international conference "Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects", which aims to foster Islamic unity and coordinate responses to common challenges.
The Conference
Held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the conference, themed "Towards an Effective Islamic Coalition", commenced on Thursday in Makkah Al-Mukarramah. Organised by the Muslim World League (MWL), the conference aims to develop practical programmes for fostering unity among Islamic sects.
Keynote Speeches
In his speech, the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Sheikh, said the challenges facing the Islamic world should serve as a catalyst for unity, fostering solidarity rather than fuel division through accusations, projections, and polarisation. He emphasized that in addressing these challenges, the Ummah should prioritize strengthening relationships, building trust, and reinforcing the bonds of brotherhood.
Fostering Dialogue and Unity
Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Hussain Ibrahim Taha called upon everyone to be courageous enough to set aside differences, strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, and work towards a unified vision that restores the ummah’s glory and regains its leading role among nations. He underscored that unity is both a religious duty and a historical responsibility.
Conclusion and Recommendations
MWL Secretary-General and Chairman of the Organisation of Muslim Scholars, Dr Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, called for greater unity and mutual respect among Islamic sects, emphasizing that diversity is a divine principle that has shaped the Muslim nation for centuries. He cautioned that the negative effects of sectarian debates have not only resulted in tragedies but have also extended their harmful impact, undermining Islam and Muslims, leaving painful truths recorded in the dark pages of history.
The Way Forward
The conference continued on Friday with four additional sessions, covering topics such as "Elements of the Islamic Coalition", "Fields of Joint Work Between Islamic Sects According to the Document of Building Bridges Between Schools of Thought and Sects", "Issues of the Ummah and Coordination of Stances", and "The Islamic-Islamic Dialogue".
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the "Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects" conference?
A: The conference aims to foster Islamic unity and coordinate responses to common challenges among Islamic sects.
Q: Who are the key speakers at the conference?
A: The conference features key speakers from the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Sheikh, OIC Secretary-General Hussain Ibrahim Taha, and MWL Secretary-General and Chairman of the Organisation of Muslim Scholars, Dr Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa.
Q: What are the main topics discussed at the conference?
A: The conference covers topics such as "Elements of the Islamic Coalition", "Fields of Joint Work Between Islamic Sects According to the Document of Building Bridges Between Schools of Thought and Sects", "Issues of the Ummah and Coordination of Stances", and "The Islamic-Islamic Dialogue".
Q: What is the significance of the conference?
A: The conference is significant in promoting Islamic unity and solidarity in the face of common challenges, and in fostering dialogue and cooperation among Islamic sects.