ABU DHABI // Efforts must be stepped up to fight extremism, stop false ideologies from spreading and promote the message that Islam is a peaceful religion.
That is according to religious figures and scholars who attended the "Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies" forum in the capital last week.
The aim of the gathering was to enlighten people about the true Islamic values based on tolerance and observance of human rights, said Talib Al Shehhi, director of preaching at the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments in Abu Dhabi.
He said the forum revealed the true meaning of Islam – a religion that promotes peace.
“[The forum] illustrates the vision of the UAE that calls for peace and this is a country of peace, ever since it was founded by the late Sheikh Zayed. This [forum] will unify the activities of the scholars who serve the correct Islamic thoughts,” he said.
“It is crucial to find a mechanism that prevents false and invalid ideologies from spreading.”
He said the forum was especially necessary for the youth, to inform them about misconceptions that they might have.
“It is time to instil the correct principles in educational institutions and curriculums, with family guidance,” Mr Al Shehhi said. “It is necessary to direct the efforts in the whole world to fight extremist ideas.”
Dr Ahmed Al Haddad, Grand Mufti and Director of Iftaa Department at the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai, who spoke about fatwas, said the results of the forum would be beneficial.
“In the long run, it spreads the true Islamic culture in regards to a peaceful society that has disappeared due to the compulsive control of the Islamic ideology that is confined to one idea and does not accept another,” he said.
The aims of the forum were many, Dr Al Haddad said, because it would help to spread the awareness of a culture of peace in all people, Muslims and non-Muslims.
“It will make non-Muslims realise that our religion is one of peace and harmony. Islam is based on the principles of love, compassion and delivering good to others,” he said.
Dr Al Haddad said the aim of the forum was to educate people on the true meaning of jihad – religious duty in a general sense.
My message to the youth is to follow scholars who are conscious of God and implement the true teachings of Islam, he said.
“What we witness these days – turmoil and corruption – is the result of a lack of internalising the true meaning of Islam and following people who follow their own desire and wrong ideologies.”
The forum was held under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and took place on Saadiyat last week.
aalkhoori@thenational.ae