MCE Participates in Conference “Maturidism – Doctrine of Tolerance, Moderation, Enlightenment” in Samarkand

Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, took part in the international conference titled “Maturidism – A Doctrine of Tolerance, Moderation, and Enlightenment,” held in the city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan. 

The event brought together a distinguished group of scholars and religious leaders from around the world. It aimed to explore the intellectual legacy of Imam Al-Maturidi and his followers, while highlighting the contemporary relevance of Maturidi principles.

Speaking during the opening session, Abdelsalam emphasized that adherence to the School of Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah—which represents the mainstream of the Muslim Ummah, including Ash‘aris, Maturidis, and scholars of hadith from the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi‘i, and Hanbali schools, along with the imams of spiritual refinement and discipline, and the enduring legacy of their great scholars throughout the ages—is the key to confronting extremist and takfiri rhetoric. 

This school of thought does not excommunicate anyone among the People of Qiblah, nor does it expel Muslims from the fold of Islam on the basis of sin, error, or doubt. Rather, it establishes the principles of moderation, balance, and coexistence—both within the Muslim community and with all of humanity.

The Secretary-General noted that in a world facing growing challenges, it is essential to recognize the noble attributes of the Maturidi tradition and the broader heritage of Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah. 

These enduring schools prevailed not because they favored reason over revelation, or vice versa, but because they upheld the balanced path of the Prophet’s Companions—one rooted in sound belief, intellectual clarity, and harmony between scripture and reasoned reflection. This rich legacy must be continually revisited with insight, and studied comprehensively using both inherited knowledge and modern methodologies to serve Muslims—and indeed all people.