Makkah, March 21, 2024, In a landmark event convened in the holy city of Makkah, senior scholars and muftis representing diverse Islamic sects joined forces to tackle the pressing issue of sectarianism. The culmination of their efforts was the issuance of the "Building Bridges between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects" Charter, following a global conference organized by the Muslim World League (MWL).
Gathering over two days during the auspicious period of 7-8 Ramadan 1445 AH, this conference drew participants from across the globe. The assembled scholars and muftis underscored the imperative of surmounting the tragic repercussions of sectarianism, which often lead astray from the true essence of Islam's teachings. Notably, the conference enjoyed the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
This latest charter builds upon the foundation laid by the "Makkah Declaration Charter," signed by scholars and muftis on May 29, 2019. It reflects a collective sense of pride in the Islamic faith, anchored in the unwavering belief in Allah Almighty and the prophethood of Mohammad.
Central to the charter is a fervent call for Muslim unity, emphasizing the necessity of recognizing the ummah as one cohesive entity. Participants acknowledged the diversity within their ranks but stressed the paramount importance of prioritizing the fundamental principles of Islam, which serve to organize their collective existence, safeguard their rights, and uphold their dignity.
Embracing a spirit of tolerance and inclusivity, the charter advocates for respectful dialogue and the avoidance of divisive practices such as labeling and exclusion. Participants cautioned against the perils of defamation, projecting negative stereotypes, and the grave consequences of deviation from the true path of Islam.
A key focus of the charter is the promotion of moderation and the dissemination of authentic Islamic teachings, which extol virtues of compassion, nobility, and tolerance. It emphasizes the need to navigate differences conscientiously, safeguarding the unity of the ummah while upholding the core tenets of faith encapsulated in the Shahadah.
Furthermore, the charter underscores the vital role of education in nurturing future generations and fostering a sense of communal harmony. It advocates for gender-inclusive education aligned with Islamic principles, promoting knowledge acquisition as a universal pursuit devoid of gender bias.
With an eye toward the future, the charter calls for the establishment of an annual conference to reaffirm its principles and goals, alongside the formation of a coordinating committee to oversee its implementation. Participants pledge their commitment to upholding the charter within their respective communities, guided by applicable laws and international norms.
In a gesture of appreciation, conference attendees extend gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia for their unwavering support in unifying the Islamic world and fostering solidarity. They recognize Saudi Arabia's esteemed role as the birthplace of Islam and the custodian of its sacred sites, expressing hope for continued success in endeavors aligned with divine will.
