The Grand Imam Urges Adhering to the Islamic Reference and to Refrain from the Legacies that Contradict the Teachings of Islam
Prof. Ahmad at-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam of al-Azhar received Mrs. Sinta Nuriyah Abdul Rahman, wife of the former Indonesian president and Prof. Nauryzbai Kazhy Taganuly, the Grand Mufti of Kazakhstan and the Chairman of the Spiritual Board of Muslims of Kazakhstan, beside a number of guests attending the conference of the Ministry of Endowments. The visit took place this Sunday at al-Azhar Sheikhdom and witnessed the presence of Dr. Osama al-Azhari, the Egyptian Minister of Endowments.
During the meeting, His Eminence the Grand Imam of al-Azhar stated that communities that exclude women, despite being one of their pillars, is like a one-legged person. He underlined that women are one of the main and powerful elements in societies that their abilities and energies must be invested in all fields. His Eminence highlighted that the Islamic communities which made use of women’s efforts and creativities, such as Malaysia and Indonesia, have witnessed a quantum leap in several fields. As such, Muslim women have become very present in creating civilization and presenting inspiring female role models.
Further, His Eminence explained that excluding and marginalizing women contradict the Islamic Shari’a that honored women and provided them with full rights, due to their significant role in building the society and the nation’s future. The Grand Imam stressed the urge to eradicate the traditions that belittle the status of women and diminish their rights. At-Tayyeb demanded as well to adhere to the righteous Islamic reference and to refrain from the legacies that may go against the Islamic teachings.
On their part, the delegation affirmed that al-Azhar Institution is their supreme reference, stressing their trust in its methodology and that they take no Fatwas except from al-Azhar ash-Sharif. They added that they have translated al-Azhar curricula to teach them to the Muslims in their countries, and that is due to the fact that al-Azhar is the most moderate Islamic reference and the fundamental guarantee to foster peace in societies. The delegation stressed that any Fatwas, issued by al-Azhar, concerning women’s issues, are very welcomed in their countries. The delegation concluded their visit by expressing their appreciation and gratitude for His Eminence the Grand Imam of al-Azhar for receiving their students and providing them with the proper environment to receive al-Azhar education.
