Dr. Hassan El-Shafei Addresses Theology Renewal at the Muslim Council of Elders’ Stand at the Cairo International Book Fair
The Muslim Council of Elders’ stand at the Cairo International Book Fair held its ninth cultural seminar, entitled “Theology and the Question of Renewal.” This session featured Prof. Dr. Hassan El-Shafei, a member of the Senior Scholars Authority at Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, a member of the Muslim Council of Elders, and the Chairman of the Union of Arab Scientific Language Academies. The seminar was moderated by Dr. Mohammed Meshal, a lecturer in creed and philosophy at Al-Azhar University.
At the start of the seminar, Dr El-Shafei explained that the Islamic creed encompasses three pillars: Tawhid (the monotheism of Allah Almighty), belief in His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his teachings, and faith in the afterlife. He emphasized the distinction between the creed itself and the science of creed or theology, noting that for the general Muslim populace, having correct belief and proper worship are sufficient. However, theology, which involves the methodologies for proving doctrinal knowledge, is considered Fard Kifaya (a collective duty or obligation) that rests upon specialized scholars.
The member of the Muslim Council of Elders highlighted that renewal does not apply to the creed itself, as the creed does not evolve. Instead, renewal lies in the science of creed or theology, focusing on the methodologies rather than the beliefs, because the methods of proof can vary from one era to another.
The Chairman of the Union of Arab Scientific Language Academies clarified that the science of creed, or theology, is the discipline that explains and substantiates the creed, refutes the opposition, clarifies their errors, and responds to those who deny prophecy. He noted that the early generations, who were well-grounded in knowledge, saw the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions. As time passed and circumstances changed, leading to the emergence of numerous doubts and misconceptions, it became necessary to discuss these issues, demonstrate their flaws, and affirm the truth brought by religion. Thus, figures like Abu al-Hasan al-Ash’ari in Baghdad, Abu Mansur al-Maturidi in Transoxiana, and Abu Ja’far al-Tahawi in Egypt emerged. They utilized rational evidence to establish doctrinal truths and counteract skeptics and deniers, thereby supporting the creed of the Companions with proofs derived from reason, tradition, and knowledge.
The member of Al-Azhar’s Senior Scholars Authority highlighted the consensus among Muslims that reason and revelation do not contradict each other; what is reached through reason aligns with what is verified by the texts. He emphasized that those involved in renewing theological studies must adhere faithfully to the principles of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) and return to the Quran, the fundamental source of all knowledge.
Sheikh El-Shafei stressed the importance of intra-Islamic dialogue, noting that although Islamic sects may differ on various issues, with some being right and others wrong, they are all still Muslims and remain part of the Ummah’s body. He warned against declaring other Muslims as non-believers or morally corrupt, referencing the stance of Imam Al-Ash’ari. As Imam Al-Ash’ari neared the end of his life, he summoned one of his companions and said: “Bear witness that I do not label anyone of the people of Qibla (Muslims) as a disbeliever, for all worship one God, and their differences are merely in their naming and associations.”
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.