Statement on the Speech Delivered by his Majesty King Abdullah II at the European Union
Although innocent, Islam is facing an unjust campaign aimed at distorting its true image and tying it with extremism and terrorism under the pretext of the practices of some who pretend to be followers of Islam. His Majesty`s speech at the European Parliament reflected the true Islam, its message of tolerance, values, sublime meanings and noble intentions. We, the Iftaa` Department, appreciate His Majesty's speech and its vital role in conveying the correct message of Islam to the whole world. Having said that, we affirm the following points:
Islam is a universal religion and Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) was sent to all of humankind. Allah the Almighty says {What means}: "We have not sent thee but as a universal (Messenger) to men, giving them glad tidings, and warning them (against sin), but most men understand not." {Saba`, 28}. It is the duty of every Muslim to convey this universal message in its true luminous shape to different peoples while taking into consideration the fact that difference between people is both realistic and natural. This is why Allah said {What means}: "If thy Lord had so willed, He could have made mankind one people: but they will not cease to dispute. Except those on whom thy Lord hath bestowed His Mercy: and for this did He create them: and the Word of thy Lord shall be fulfilled: "I will fill Hell with jinns and men all together." {Hud, 118-119}. This means that Allah created mankind to have mercy on them or that they differ. A Muslim should respect the will of Allah in His creation. Consequently, this divine honoring encompasses all people regardless of their faith. He the Almighty says {what means}: "We have honoured the sons of Adam" {A-Isra`, 70}. Islam honors and respects people as human beings regardless of race, color or religion. Allah created the difference between the people so that they get to know each other and exchange experiences to populate the world and be successors on the earth. Allah says {What means}: "O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise (each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of God is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And God has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things)." {Al-Hujurat, 13}.
Second: Islam calls for holding dialogue with the followers of different faiths and agreeing on common terms to achieve harmony. Allah says {What means}: " Say: "O People of the Book! come to common terms as between us and you: That we worship none but God; that we associate no partners with him; that we erect not, from among ourselves, Lords and patrons other than God." If then they turn back, say ye: "Bear witness that we (at least) are Muslims (bowing to God’s Will)." {Al-Emran, 64}.
Third: The moral aspect has a high status in the life of the Muslim at times of war and peace in the sense that he/she wouldn`t compromise the principles and constants emanating from believing in Allah the Message of His Prophet (PBUH). Allah says {What means}: "We sent thee not, but as a Mercy for all creatures." {Al-Anbiya`, 107}. In addition, Anas reported God's Messenger as saying, “Go in God’s name, trusting in God, and adhering to the religion of God’s Messenger. Do not kill a decrepit old man, or a young infant, or a woman; do not be dishonest about booty, but collect your spoils, do right and act well, for God loves those who do well.” {Transmitted by Bukhari}.
Fourth: We affirm the right of the people of Palestine to their land and their independent state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital as well as the right of Muslims in Al-Aqsa Mosque. In light of Sharia, it is the duty of all Muslims, be they peoples, leaders, governments and thinkers, to protect Al-Aqsa Mosque against the dangers and violations it faces.
We affirm that the custodianship of the Al-Aqsa Mosque is the right of Muslims represented by the Hashemite leadership whose custody of sanctities has been derived by virtue of its historical legacy, and the custodianship agreement signed with the Palestinian Authority. In addition, it isn`t allowed to waive this custodianship over sanctities whatsoever.
We pray that Allah keeps this country safe and spare it trials and tribulations, revealed and concealed. And All praise be to the Lord of the Worlds.
The General Iftaa` Department