Mufti of the Republic: Preserving the components of Egyptian national identity is based on coexistence, tolerance, centrism, and moderation
Dr. Nazir Muhammad Ayyad, Mufti of the Republic, Head of the General Secretariat of Fatwa Boards and Fatwa Bodies in the World, emphasized that national identity represents a set of ideological, linguistic, conceptual, moral, cultural, racial and historical characteristics and components, in addition to the customs, traditions and behaviors that give the homeland its distinctive character among nations and make it an expression of its culture, religion and civilization, explaining that a homeland that loses its identity is no longer a true homeland but rather becomes a mere territory inhabited by individuals without principles or beliefs. Or cultural elements that distinguish them; Which leaves them without affiliation, loyalty or identity.
He pointed out that belonging to the homeland, sincerity in serving it, and dedication to defending it represents the authentic root of national identity and the backbone of societal existence, and that a person who does not belong to his homeland loses his identity and becomes easily attracted by extremist groups and foreign agendas, which threatens the security and stability of his homeland.
The Mufti of the Republic stressed that contemporary challenges impose the necessity of speaking out. Continuing awareness of national identity to ensure society’s awareness of itself and what distinguishes it from others, and awareness of its role in confronting the dangers that surround it; In order to preserve its internal security and national stability.
This came during his speech at the eleventh international conference of the Faculty of Education for Boys at Al-Azhar University under the title “Generation Alpha and Education… Creating the Future and Leading Change”.
The Mufti referred to the components that form national identity and contribute to its consolidation in the conscience of individuals and societies. This identity is embodied in four main elements, first and foremost is the homeland as the geographical area in which the meanings of belonging are formed and the loss of which results in the absence of identity itself, then religion, which represents a basic pillar of national motivation and defense of the stability of the state and enhances the values of loyalty and belonging, followed by the language element as the vessel that preserves heritage, expresses cultural specificity and supports the unity of national ties. The shared national history also constitutes a unifying factor among the people of the nation through the challenges they faced and the positions they joined together in defense of. Their land and identity, and together, these elements emerge as an integrated system that represents the essence of national security, the maintenance of which requires continuous awareness and awareness of its vital value in protecting the stability of the state and its future.
The Mufti pointed out the major challenges that faced the national identity, and that continue to impose their presence in the current scene; These are the false concepts through which some have promoted the separation of national affiliation from religious teachings by claiming that loyalty to the homeland is a deviation from the constants, or that doctrinal ties are not consistent with national affiliation, while the texts and prophetic biographies confirm that love of the homeland is an authentic value called for by the Sharia and considered it part of the soundness of human nature, which was evident in the positions of the Prophet, peace and blessings of God be upon him, and his longing for Mecca and his prayers for the city’s blessing and the consolidation of belonging.
It also highlights the challenge of Westernization, which seeks to impose the Western model as a standard for thought, behavior, dress, and culture, and the attempt to strip the Arab Muslim person of his religion, values, language, and Arabism, in addition to the societal alienation that makes the individual cut off from his environment, influenced by external systems at the expense of his religion and homeland, which may be wrongly marketed under the slogans of modernity and progress, in addition to the challenge of fanaticism and extremism that rejects the modern state and dedicates violence and the exclusion of others, and serves external agendas aimed at weakening nations and destabilizing their cohesion. Then comes the challenge of globalization, with its attempts to erase cultural particularities and dissolve the cultural heritage in favor of one global pattern devoid of identity. Parallel to this is the challenge of the directed media, which works to cast doubt on national achievements and create confusion by spreading rumors to achieve goals that affect social stability.
Cultural challenges also present another quality, represented by cultural penetration, which aims to control awareness and reformulate history and reality in distorted ways to weaken the value structure of society. The danger increases with the challenge of atheism and non-religious thought, which denies the divine existence and makes man a slave to his desires at the expense of belonging and national interest, and spreads patterns of vices and moral depravity that threaten the structure of identity, especially among young people in light of digital openness. Which makes facing these challenges a necessity to protect identity and preserve the unity and stability of society.
The Mufti of the Republic directed the necessity of preserving the components of the unique Egyptian national identity, which is based on coexistence and tolerance between all religions in one nation, and centrism and moderation in understanding Islam, as God Almighty endowed it with Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and its ancient scientific corridors.
Stressing the importance of not being drawn into the malicious rumors that spread It aims to stir up strife and unrest, emphasizing the necessity of verifying before speaking or publishing and adhering to moderation and moderation. The warning against rumors is stated in the Almighty’s saying: {And when there comes to them a matter of security or fear, they announce it, even if they refer it to the Messenger and to Those in authority among them know it, those of them who extract it from among them. And had it not been for the grace of God upon you and His mercy, you would have followed Satan except for a few. [النساء: 83]And the Prophet, peace and blessings of God be upon him, said: “It is enough of a lie for a man to narrate everything he hears.” The divine guidance also came: “O you who have believed, if a sinner comes to you with news, investigate, lest you attack a people out of ignorance.” Then you will wake up regretting what you have done.} [الحجرات: 6]
The Mufti of the Republic drew attention to the fact that it is necessary to take a clear path in guiding our youth, by alerting them to digital awareness and critical thinking, so that they know how to distinguish between useful and harmful, and how to verify the authenticity of information before believing it or sharing it, while constantly striving to consolidate their value and cultural identity so that it becomes an internal reference for them that directs their digital actions and ensures their intellectual balance. And behavioral.
The vital role of education and institutions in enabling this conscious openness is highlighted here. Families encourage open dialogue with children and guide them to distinguish between what benefits them and what harms them. Schools add tolerance and digital awareness skills to the curricula and instill in them the ability to think critically and analytically, while religious institutions provide purposeful digital content that shows young people how they can be open to others without compromising. In his identity and values; So that this generation becomes aware of its responsibilities and is qualified to interact positively with a changing world.
Therefore, protecting the cultural self represents a shared responsibility between the family, school, religious institutions, and civil society, as these institutions constitute the basic pillar that guarantees the upbringing of a balanced generation, aware of its values, committed to its originality, and capable of facing the challenges of the era and contributing to a balanced and creative society.
As stated above In the words of the Prophet, peace and blessings of God be upon him: “Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock.” The responsibility that falls on us towards our children is measured by the values, cultural affiliation, and identity awareness we leave for them, especially since this generation is growing up in light of accelerating digital globalization that requires solid foundations and conscious guidance, to be able to learn about the world and benefit from other cultures without losing sight of its originality and principles. Therefore, efforts Common to all institutions is necessary to provide an integrated environment, in which the cultural self becomes a fortress that protects the individual from being drawn into digital content that is foreign to his identity, or behaviors that reduce his connection to authentic values, and guarantees him the ability to make conscious and responsible decisions that reflect his cultural and educational awareness.
The Mufti appealed to the necessity of confronting this atheistic thought with what suits him, of confronting thought with thought, pointing to the prominent role played by the Center. "Peace" For studies of extremism, in this regard, and the application of “Fatwa Pro” Those affiliated with the Egyptian Fatwa House, as they contribute to providing scientific and digital responses in a systematic and effective manner, explaining the role of the Dialogue Unit affiliated with the Egyptian Fatwa House, which works to hammer out argument with argument and proof with proof, pointing out the importance of benefiting from modern technologies in confronting extremist thought, which is not limited to scientific texts and articles only, but also includes cartoon films, animations, and complex dialogue, so that the response becomes diverse, comprehensive, and appropriate to different people. Generations.
His Eminence stated that religious institutions are not limited to one method of work, but rather are intertwined with every means and keep pace with all changes in reality, adding that the Islamic religion contains within it much that can be offered to confront intellectual challenges, and that what these institutions have provided so far is a sincere effort, with a promise to continue giving and working sincerely to enhance religious and cultural awareness in society.
In conclusion In his speech, His Eminence the Mufti directed a set of important commandments to the youth, calling on them to obey God Almighty and stay away from what angers Him, and to adhere to moral values and adherence to the laws of the message, citing the youth of the cave who entered into faith and believed the prophecy, and adhered to the laws of religion and were not deceived by force or desires. God Almighty praised them in His saying: {We fall short. It is upon you that he informed them of the truth. Indeed, they were young men who believed in their Lord, and We increased them in guidance.} [الكهف: 13]Pointing out that their firm determination in faith increased their guidance, insight, and steadfastness, stressing that God Almighty admires young people who grow up to worship God and follow His commands. It was reported on the authority of Uqba bin Aamir that the Prophet, peace and blessings of God be upon him, said: “God is amazed at a young man who has no maturity.”
Stressing that God has prepared for the youth who remain steadfast on the straight path something that cannot be imagined by the mind, citing the words of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: “Seven whom God will shade under His shade, on the Day when there will be no shade.” His shadow: the just Imam, and a young man who grew up in the worship of his Lord…».
Explaining that commitment to moderate values and steadfastness in principles constitutes the basis for personal and social success and guarantees youth their active role in serving their country and society with awareness and consistency, stressing that investing in youth is an investment in the future, as every word planted in their minds, every value instilled in their hearts, and every skill developed in them builds… A cohesive society capable of facing the challenges of the times, thriving with creativity and innovation, high in values and morals, and continuing in an authentic civilization that embraces science and knowledge, and celebrates humanity and virtue.
Stressing that empowering youth and instilling awareness and values in them represents the cornerstone of any real renaissance, and ensures that society continues on its path towards progress and sustainable prosperity.
This, and this has been achieved. The conference witnessed A large number of scholars, thinkers, education professors, and college deans attended, including His Eminence Prof. Dr. Muhammad Al-Duwaini, Vice President of Al-Azhar, Professor Dr. Salama Daoud, President of Al-Azhar University, Professor Dr. Mahmoud Siddiq, Vice President of Postgraduate Studies and Research, Professor Dr. Sayed Bakri, Vice President of the University for Education and Student Affairs, Dr. Muhammad Abd al-Rahim al-Bayoumi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Dr. Alaa Ashmawi, Head of the Quality Assurance Authority, Dr. Nahla al-Saidi, Advisor to the Sheikh of Al-Azhar for Expatriate Affairs, Professor Dr. Shawqi Allam, former Mufti of the Republic, Dr. Jamal Farghal al-Hawari, Dean of the College, and a group of Al-Azhar University professors and students.
In a gesture of appreciation and gratitude, Dr. Jamal Farghal al-Hawari, Dean of the Faculty, presented Education, the college’s shield for His Eminence the Mufti, praising his distinguished career and his scientific and intellectual efforts in serving religious thought and promoting moderation and moderation, stressing that this honor reflects deep gratitude for the concrete efforts made by His Eminence in spreading religious awareness and national values, and consolidating the concepts of tolerance and coexistence among all members of society, in a way that reflects the vision of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and the mission of the College of Education in supporting knowledge and conscious intellectual leadership.
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