Centre for Islamic Ethics Promises a New Era in Arab World: HH Sheikha Moza

Doha, January 15 (QNA) - Chairperson for Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser said the Research Centre for Islamic Legislation and Ethics, launched here Sunday, promises a new era and hope in the Arab world. In her address to the gathering of prominent religion scholars, academia, thinkers and Qatar Foundation officials, HH Sheikha Moza said, "Today we have completed this structure by establishing the Research Centre for Islamic Legislation and Ethics (CILE). All this is due to the major changes taking place in the Arab world. This promises a new era in the Arab region, an era which was not anticipated by even the most prominent analysts." The RCILE is an institution focused on stimulating Islamic legislation and applied ethics. It is founded with a vision to reform and renew based on the fundamental principles of the Holy Qu'ran and Sunna as well as the higher goals of Islam. Talking about the role of this institution, HH Sheikha Moza said, "With all the transformations going on in the new millennium it was necessary to create an institutional center that is eligible and capable to accept moderate Islamic concepts and to introduce Muslims as men and women with a new approach who can speak and clarify misunderstandings while building clear concepts of Islam." Speaking on the impact of Arab Spring witnessed in the Middle East since early last years, HH Sheikha Moza said, "These changes have created or led to a new concept of Islam in addition to the concepts of freedom and liberty. This has compelled many people to revise their perspectives on these human concepts that are not limited to any region or religion. Among all these changes, it is our collective responsibility to revive our Islamic ethics in the contemporary milieu. "The message of this centre should be knowledge based, built on authentic principles one which is equipped with new tools to respond to the requirements of building a person who realizes his role in catalyzing change. This is the responsibility of the faculty which has knowledge, based on scientific research, scholars and staff who are aware of the changes and the trends in the Islamic and the Arab world." Pinning faith on the new centre, HH Sheikha Moza said, "I'm looking forward to an outstanding body of work that can exceed all expectations by integrating, interacting and co-operating with key people from all fields like science, medicine and environment. This new approach requires courage, creativity and innovation. This is the message for all Muslims to use their talent and capacity for the betterment of all." Earlier, CILE Deputy Director Dr. Jasser Auda, who welcomed assembly and lauded HH Sheikha Moza for her prominent role in furthering education, research and social development, introduced the vision and mission of the centre. CILE Director Professor Tariq Ramadan, introduced as Martin Luther of the Muslim world, in his address delved on the Prophet's teachings (Hadith), the topics of reformation, application of Islamic law in modern secular society. "Reform has more than one meaning to scholars," said, Ramadan. "When they talk of reforms, they talk of adapting. Scholars talk about the need, based on fear and a defensive mindset of defending Islamic values. "Reform is all about being faithful and loyal. Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him) was sent to teach and impart knowledge and wisdom. He talked about reformation of the soul - moving to justice from injustice. We need justice, good governance and peace for all people that is why we must go back to Islamic values." Regarding CILE's mission, Ramadan said, "It is a centre dealing with Islamic legislation, deep understanding of the ethics and the shared values of the global community and changing the world in the light of our Islamic principles." One of the most prominent Muslim theologians, The International Union of Muslim Scholars' President Sheikh Yusuf Al Qaradawi also addressed the assembly at the launch event. "Islam is a message of ethics," said Dr Al Qaradawi. "This is partnership with one God. People should always apply the principle of justice globally among the servants of God." He urged the gathering to "help others in good as well as bad times. Wherever you are, you must apply the doctrine of your faith" and warned that envy, avarice, hypocrisy would only lead mankind to doom. In conclusion he wished CILE success in its mission of producing, applying, recommending and disseminating Islamic ethical thought and behaviour. (QNA)