The Muslim Council of Elders’ stand at the Cairo International Book Fair held its fourteenth cultural seminar, titled “Al-Ash’ari and His Role in Advancing Community Peace.” The event featured Prof. Dr. Mohamed Yousry Jaafar, Professor of Creed and Philosophy at Al-Azhar University and member of the Al-Azhar Al-Ash’ari Center. Dr. Mohamed Mashal, also a professor at Al-Azhar and the scientific coordinator for the Al-Ash’ari Center, moderated the discussion.
At the start of the seminar, Dr. Jaafar highlighted that Imam Al-Ash’ari never label anyone of the people of Qibla (Muslims) as a disbeliever. He referenced his seminal work, “Maqalat al-Islamiyyin wa Ikhtilaf al-Musallin” (“The Discourses of the Islamists and the Disagreement of the Worshippers”), which promotes tolerance and peace. Dr. Jaafar emphasized the importance of promoting both community and global peace, urging followers of the Ash’ari and Maturidi schools, along with respected Hanbali scholars, to show that Islam inherently advocates peace, security, and safety. He argued that these principles are essential for ensuring tranquility and stability among people.
The professor of Creed at Al-Azhar University further explained that Imam Al-Ash’ari developed a methodology that harmoniously balances Aqal (Reason) and Naqal (Revelation). This approach has been followed by his successors up to the present day and has significantly contributed to creating a balanced thought process that benefits people and maintains peace. He emphasized that Islam is a global religion, and it is imperative for Muslims as a community to continually refine and enhance their outreach and dialogue.
The Muslim Council of Elders is participating with a special stand at the 56th Cairo International Book Fair, running from January 23 to February 5, 2025. The stand features a wide array of the Council’s distinguished publications, in addition to hosting a series of seminars, activities, and events focused on promoting the values of kindness, love, peace, and communal coexistence among all people.
The Muslim Council of Elders’ stand at the Cairo International Book Fair is located next to the Al-Azhar Al-Sharif’s stand, in Heritage Hall (Hall No. 4), at the Egypt International Exhibition Center in the Fifth Settlement.