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EGYPTIAN MUFTI SLAMS TELE-PREACHERS
(AKI) - The grand mufti of Egypt, Ali Gomaa, has lashed out at the so called tele-preachers who are growing in presence and popularity on Arabic satellite channels, with programmes in which they issue fatwa (religious edicts) and discuss religious issues. "They are not specialists" thundered Gomaa during another TV programme 'Beit Beitak', "and often issue fatwa that are in total conflict with those of the 'Dar al Ifta', which is the only body recognised (to do this)." The Dar al-Ifta is an officially recognised institution which is Egypt's supreme body for issuing religious edicts. These characters are not authorised by anyone and often do not have sufficient understanding or competence to speak out on delicate issues like those they frequently discuss, adding to general confusion. What is more they consider themselves stars of the screen and will not accept criticism he added.Gomaa repeated that the Dar al-Ifta is the only body authorised to issue fatwa and the only one recognised by the research council of the university of al-Azhar, considered the highest seat of Sunni learning. Regarding the recent fatwa issued by one of the Islamic televangelists which said it was wrong for Muslims to use banks which also issue loans with interest, Gomaa commented. The Dar al Ifta has been studying this argument for thirty years and after this have approved such operations as legitimate, on the basis of the Sharia (Islamic law). Muslim televsion preachers are a relatively recent phenomenon but some of them have achieved unprecedented popularity across the Arab world. In particular Amr Khaled whose programme 'Treasures (of Islam) is aired on satellite television Iqraa, and seen from Cairo to Dubai to the Arabic communities in Europe. It has a strong following especially among the middle classes and among younger women, thanks also to the distinguished appearance and sober western dress jacket and tie which contrasts with the more religious conservative attire of traditional Muslim preachers. Posted by: Fred 2007-03-02 |
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