Intra-Islamic Dialogue from Sharia Perspective in Seminar at Baghdad Book Fair

The Muslim Council of Elders' pavilion at the 25th edition of the Baghdad International Book Fair organized a seminar titled "Intra-Islamic Dialogue in Light of the Objectives of Sharia." The seminar was presented by Professor Saadi Al-Jumaili, Professor of Usul al-Fiqh and former Dean of the College of Sharia at the Iraqi University, Baghdad, and Dr. Mohamed Jamal, researcher at the Heritage Revival Office at Al-Azhar. The discussion focused on enhancing intra-Islamic dialogue between various sects and schools of thought from a Sharia perspective, aiming to serve the public interest, prevent harm, and preserve religion, life, intellect, honor, and wealth, while highlighting the commonalities that unite Muslims for the benefit of the Ummah.

Professor Saadi Al-Jumaili expressed his appreciation for the call made by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, to promote intra-Islamic dialogue. He emphasized that this call seeks to strengthen the Islamic cause, unify the ranks of the Ummah, and reaffirm that religious fraternity is the foundation of human fraternity. This call also reflects a sincere vision for Muslim unity and a progressive approach to fostering dialogue between various Islamic sects and schools of thought. Al-Jumaili noted that this call is both timely and essential, particularly given the major challenges currently facing the Islamic world.

The Professor of Usul al-Fiqh and former Dean of the College of Sharia at the Iraqi University explained that intra-Islamic dialogue must be rooted in the objectives of Islamic Sharia, which form the foundation of unity within the Ummah. He highlighted that the most important objectives are justice and equality, as these are the pillars of any successful and meaningful dialogue. Unity within the Ummah cannot be achieved unless every individual feels they are treated with fairness and equality. He also pointed out that freedom, in belief, opinion, and expression, is a primary objective of Islamic Sharia. Islam guarantees these freedoms not only to its followers but also to adherents of other religions—so how much more so should they apply within the Ummah itself.

Professor Saadi Al-Jumaili also called on all Muslims to earnestly work toward uniting their ranks, adhering to the objectives of Islamic Sharia that bind them, and abandoning the sectarian divisions that have weakened the Ummah. He emphasized the need to achieve the goals set by Sharia to ensure the Ummah’s continuity and prosperity. He affirmed that Islamic unity is not merely a dream, but a realistic goal that can be achieved through sincerity and collective effort to create a better future for the Islamic nation and its current and future generations.