The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Lahore International Book Fair hosted its fourth cultural seminar, titled ‘Review of the Book: On Al-Azhar Approach.’ Authored by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, the book was the focal point of discussions led by Dr. Hassan Shakeel Al-Azhari and Dr. Shafaqat Ali Al-Baghdadi Al-Azhari. These discussions emphasized Al-Azhar’s crucial role and approach in promoting moderation and balance.
Dr. Hassan Shakeel Al-Azhari inaugurated the seminar by expressing gratitude to the Muslim Council of Elders for giving the fair’s attendees insight into the Al-Azhar approach, which emphasizes moderation and balance. He highlighted that Al-Azhar has consistently adhered to this path since its inception, standing as a pillar of enlightened learning and thought. It merges religious disciplines with contemporary sciences and fosters critical thinking, scholarly rigor, and the evolution of Islamic thought to adapt to face challenges while maintaining fundamental religious principles.
Dr. Shafaqat Ali Al-Baghdadi Al-Azhari commended the significant role that His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb plays in reinforcing the Al-Azhar approach, which is dedicated to teaching a diverse range of schools of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence). He noted that Al-Azhar does not enforce a singular viewpoint but strives to present a spectrum of jurisprudential perspectives, enabling its students to appreciate the diversity within Islamic heritage. This is achieved through its role as a hub for tens of thousands of students from over one hundred countries worldwide, equipping them to disseminate accurate knowledge and carry the message of moderation back to their homelands.
Al-Baghdadi also pointed out that Al-Azhar, established over a thousand years ago, continues to stand strong because of its commitment to a balanced and moderate approach. He emphasized that moderation is both a hallmark and a key to its enduring presence, remarking that Al-Azhar has always been, and will continue to be, a beacon of knowledge and wisdom. Throughout the centuries, it has successfully faced various challenges and evolutions, remaining a crucial reference point for Muslims globally.
It is worth noting that the Muslim Council of Elders hosted a special pavilion at the Lahore International Book Fair in February, showcasing a curated selection of books, intellectual publications, and initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of peace and coexistence. This participation underscores the council’s leadership in unifying Islamic efforts and facilitating dialogue among Muslims from diverse intellectual and sectarian backgrounds.