The Muslim Council of Elders organized a seminar titled ‘Principles of Understanding and Comprehension from Thought and Language’ in the Al-Oudaya Hall at the International Publishing and Book Fair in Rabat. The seminar was presented by Dr. Nazir Ayad, Secretary-General of the Islamic Research Academy at Al-Azhar.
Dr. Samir Boudinar, the Executive Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace and Research, opened the seminar by referring to the book "Understanding and Comprehension from Thought and Language" by His Eminence Dr. Mustapha Benhamza, member of the Muslim Council of Elders, President of the Ulema Council of Oujda, and President of the Regional Scientific Council in the Oriental Region.
For his part, Dr. Nazir Ayad addressed important issues related to the reality of Muslims and the proper understanding of Islam, as well as attempts to achieve communication and understanding in the Muslim world. He explained that there are many challenges of the modern era that affect the proper understanding of Islam, such as rapid changes in society, multiple ideologies, and conflicting theories. He emphasized that in light of these challenges, the search for understanding and comprehension becomes an inevitable necessity and a religious duty.
Dr. Ayad highlighted the importance of language in achieving proper understanding, pointing that the misuse of language can hinder communication and lead to misunderstandings. He called for the preservation of the Arabic language, which is the language of the Quran, and its development to align with modern advancements. He emphasized the issue of ijtihad (independent reasoning) in Islam, stating that it is the essence of religion, and proper interpretation of Sharia requires familiarity with the Arabic language and its arts. He called for the necessity of flexibility that interacts with the nature of Sharia and the changes of the era.
The Secretary-General of the Islamic Research Academy emphasized that Almighty Allah has bestowed in religion what enables Muslims to achieve righteousness in this world and the hereafter. He pointed out that selective readings have led to a misunderstanding of religious texts and that language goes beyond the role of expression to become a complex structure of analyses, words, and expressions, necessitating familiarity with all these aspects to overcome their misuse, while avoiding the dominance of emotion and readings based on personal inclinations, which do not align with the nature of understanding.
In conclusion, Dr. Nazir Ayad praised the scientific and research efforts of His Eminence Dr. Mustapha Benhamza, stating that proper understanding can only be achieved by adhering to the principles, with the necessity of distinguishing between the absolute and the limited in this regard. He explained that diversity is a universal reality that allows for exploration, development, and adaptation of life.
The seminar witnessed a significant attendance by visitors of the International Publishing and Book Fair who were eager to listen to the seminar and participate through various questions and diverse interventions. The event concluded with a book signing ceremony.
The Muslim Council of Elders' stand at the International Publishing and Book Fair in Rabat is set to host several seminars and activities aimed at rectifying misconceptions, promoting dialogue and tolerance, and building bridges of communication and coexistence. These efforts align with the Council's message, under the Chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, which aims to enhance peace in Muslim and non-Muslim societies.
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