The Speaker of the Shura Council praises the leadership's support for the Council of Senior Scholars in its 98th session
His Excellency the Speaker of the Shura Council and member of the Council of Senior Scholars, Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Sheikh, affirmed the esteemed position of the Council of Senior Scholars in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, noting the generous patronage and keen interest shown by the wise leadership – may God support them – towards this venerable religious institution. This came after His Excellency's participation in the proceedings of the Council's ninety-eighth session, which was held to discuss a number of emerging issues and topics on its agenda.
Dr. Al-Sheikh praised the great efforts exerted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince in supporting Islamic scholarship and enhancing the role of scholars. He noted that this support is not surprising from a leadership that has made the Book of God and the Sunnah of His Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) the constitution and guiding principles for the life of the state and society. He explained that the attention given to the Council of Senior Scholars reflects the rulers' keenness to solidify the Islamic identity of the Kingdom and ensure that regulations and decisions are based on sound Islamic principles.
In discussing the importance of this event, the periodic meetings of the Council of Senior Scholars underscore the pivotal role this body has played since its inception in formulating religious rulings (fatwas) and guiding society towards a moderate and balanced approach. The Council is the highest religious authority in the Kingdom, comprising a select group of jurists and scholars deeply versed in Islamic jurisprudence, thus lending its decisions and pronouncements significant scholarly weight and credibility both locally and within the wider Muslim world.
The 98th session is of particular importance given the rapid changes the world is witnessing, as the body addresses contemporary issues and challenges using a sound scientific methodology that considers the objectives of Islamic law and meets the needs of a changing reality. This approach directly contributes to bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, and offers Sharia-compliant solutions to modern challenges, thereby strengthening societal stability and protecting its intellectual and doctrinal foundations.
His Excellency the Speaker of the Shura Council concluded his statement by emphasizing that the weighty responsibilities undertaken by the Council reflect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's leading role in serving Islam and Muslims worldwide. As the Qibla of Muslims and the birthplace of revelation, the Kingdom bears the responsibility of disseminating the values of tolerance and moderation, and the Council of Senior Scholars is one of the most important instruments for fulfilling this noble mission, contributing to the preservation of fundamental principles and combating extremist and alien ideologies.
