Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Muslim Council of Elders affirmed that preserving homelands, maintaining their security and stability, and preserving the unity of their societies are among the major objectives of Islamic law.
It also emphasized that loyalty to one’s homeland and respect for its sovereignty
and institutions constitute a religious and moral obligation.
This obligation must not be violated, nor should any external loyalties be given precedence over it.
Rejection of political sectarianism
In a statement commenting on the announcement by several Arab states, most recently the Kingdom of Bahrain,
of the discovery of cells and organizations linked to foreign entities,
the Council clarified that exploiting sectarian and religious affiliations to serve foreign political agendas
or transnational organizations represents a dangerous deviation from the objectives and values of Islamic law,
which are based on preserving security, stability, and coexistence among members of the same society.
The statement pointed out that Islam has established the relationship
between individuals and their homeland and society on firm foundations.
These foundations are based on fulfilling covenants, maintaining security, and protecting lives and property.
Furthermore, it emphasized the absolute prohibition of treason, corruption, and inciting sedition.
It cited several Quranic verses and Prophetic traditions that affirm the rejection of anything
that threatens the security of societies or seeks to spread chaos and division.
A call to confront hate speech
The Council called for avoiding being swayed by ideologically driven voices
and platforms that aim to sow discord and division within Arab and Muslim societies.
It also emphasized the importance of strengthening societal awareness and consolidating the concept of
the nation-state in the face of attempts to attract loyalties outside the framework of the state and its legitimate institutions.
Furthermore, it stressed that confronting political sectarianism and hate speech is a shared religious and national responsibility.
This responsibility requires concerted official and societal efforts to promote citizenship, coexistence, and national unity.
The Muslim Council of Elders reiterated the importance of working diligently to protect the security of homelands and the stability of peoples.
It considered the stability of the Gulf and Arab states to be a fundamental pillar for the stability of the entire region.
This comes amidst the current security and political challenges facing the region.
