International Scholars’ Conference: A Source of Pride, Participation in the international scholars’ conference marked a significant achievement. The rise of nations is tied to the guidance of the Quran and Sunnah, while deviance results from the International Conference. Dr. Abdul Latif al-Kindi’s address emphasized these aspects.
Makkah Mukarramah, August 14, 2023: On August 13, 2023, corresponding to 26 Muharram 1445, the official proceedings of the two-day International Scholars’ Conference commenced at the courtyard of the Holy Kaaba in Makkah Mukarramah. This conference was organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and was attended by around 150 distinguished figures from the Islamic world, including renowned scholars, preachers, and muftis.
In the opening session, Dr. Awad Sabti Al-Anzi, the Secretary of the Ministry, extended a warm welcome to the guests and initiated the conference with a recitation of the Quran. He provided insights into the objectives of the conference and highlighted the significance of knowledge dissemination, guidance, and the recitation of the Holy Quran. The recitation was followed by Abdul Majid al-Baqmi, a Saudi student who secured the third position in the previous year’s Quranic competition.
Subsequently, Mufti Jumhooriyat Jazakhstan, Sheikh Nurizbay Haj, while underscoring the need for such conferences, emphasized their relevance in tackling contemporary challenges faced by the Muslim community, such as distancing from ignorance and returning to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah for remedies like shunning deviation.
A documentary was then presented showcasing the achievements of the Islamic Ministry till now. Dr. Muhammad Matar Salem Al-Kaabi, the head of the Islamic Affairs and Endowments Council of the United Arab Emirates, shared his remarks. Following this, the words of significance were delivered by the General Secretary of the Islamic Cooperation Council, Syed Hussain Taha.
The session was followed by an address from Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs of Saudi Arabia. He eloquently presented the objectives of the conference, emphasizing the need for Muslims to revert to the foundational sources of their faith, the Quran and Sunnah. He highlighted that many challenges faced by Muslims today are a result of straying from these original sources and stressed that if Muslims return to the way of the pious predecessors, they can regain their lost status and even overcome various challenges and conflicts. He appreciated the participation of esteemed scholars and praised the efforts of the government of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, in facilitating such conferences.
The subsequent session was chaired by Mufti Madinah Munawwarah, Dr. Saleh bin Saad Al-Suhaimi, who shed light on the necessity and importance of adhering to the methodology of the Salaf as-Salihin (righteous predecessors). Many respected scholars discussed various aspects related to the unity of religious institutions and their role in the Muslim community.
In the following session, Dr. Jibril bin Muhammad Al-Basili, the busy member of the Senior Scholars’ Council, led a comprehensive discussion with several scholars on the reality of religious institutions and their associated expectations, aiming to establish a realistic framework.
The third session, under the guidance of Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, was led by Dr. Muhammad bin Khalid Al-Badah. The session revolved around leading a life according to the teachings of Islam and its application in various facets of life for Muslims worldwide.
Finally, the concluding session was chaired by Dr. Awad Sabti Al-Anzi, who is also the Secretary of the Islamic Ministry. He underscored the necessity of adhering to the Quran and Sunnah as the primary solution for contemporary challenges. Several prominent figures shared their perspectives, including Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Luoh, Dr. Ishaq Kando, and Dr. Sireen, leaving a considerable impact.
This conference witnessed the participation of scholars and personalities from diverse regions, including Kashmir and Delhi, represented by Arshad Madani, Maliha, and Asad Azami from Jamia Salafiya. Notable figures like Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais and Sheikh Ali Al-Hudhaifi, along with other distinguished Islamic scholars and leaders, contributed to this conference’s success, illuminating the path towards a brighter future for the Muslim community. Dr. Ahmad Muhammad Luoh, Dr. Ismail Kando, and Dr. Sireen from Africa also contributed significantly, enriching the conference with their insights.
The day concluded with extensive discussions on various dimensions of the conference’s themes. May Allah bless this conference with success and guide the Muslim community to adhere to the path of the righteous predecessors, ensuring dignity and respect.
