Islamic scholars counter extremism through religious education

KABUL -- In a growing global effort to reclaim Islamic teachings from extremist groups, Muslim scholars are mounting an intellectual resistance through religious education, social media and community outreach.

Religious scholars who spoke to Salaam Times said they are challenging the violent narratives that extremist groups like the "Islamic State of Iraq and Syria" (ISIS) and al-Qaeda and their affiliates use to recruit young followers.

"We, the scholars, have a duty to defend the sanctity of religion, not just with words, but through informed and documented enlightenment," Kabul-based Sunni scholar Mawlawi Abdul Hafiz Haqyar told Salaam Times.

"If we remain silent, we leave the field open for extremists to distort the image of religion and entrap unaware youth," he said.

When extremist groups distort Qur'anic verses to justify killing, scholars must prove these interpretations are false and dangerous, Haqyar said.

"When Islam is used as a tool to legitimize violence, it presents a harsh and inaccurate image of the faith to the world" as well as fueling Islamophobia, said counterterrorism analyst Mohammad Fawad Seddiqi told Salaam Times.

"It also contributes to instability and conflict in the region," he said.

If the Muslim community remains silent in the face of this deviation, its religious identity and unity "could gradually collapse," he warned.

Supporting moderate scholars

The work of religious scholars has proven vital in rural areas where terrorist groups maintain stronger influence, according to Sheikh Ibrahim Osmani, a former Islamic studies professor at Kabul University now based in Islamabad.

"We must use a deep and accurate understanding of religious texts to show that even in times of war, Islam limits violence and does not permit the killing of civilians or innocent Muslims," Osmani told Salaam Times.

Despite facing threats and assassination attempts in regions like West Africa, scholars continue their intellectual fight against extremism, though they require greater support from governments and international organizations, he said.

"Religious scholars in Africa must work together to both strengthen youth education and build a united front against the wave of extremism," he said.

In an environment where groups like al-Qaeda attempt to portray Islam as violent and inhumane, the role of moderate religious scholars is increasingly critical, said Tehran-based Shia scholar Mawlawi Mohammad Tariq Khadem.

"Using the language of religion, logic, and wisdom, scholars have managed to save a significant portion of society from terrorist propaganda, but these efforts need to be expanded," he said.

This necessitates the creation of safe spaces for moderate scholars, he said.

"Fighting extremism cannot be done with weapons alone," Khadem added. "People must have the correct interpretation of sacred texts. That important responsibility lies with religious scholars, who must carry it out with courage."