Islamic Foundation
The Islamic Foundation is an educational institution founded in 1973 with the primary objectives of encouraging research into the implementation of Islam in the contemporary world, projecting a positive image of Islam in Britain and Europe, and addressing the educational needs of Muslims, particularly the youth.
Objectives and Activities
The foundation actively engages in work with young people, producing research particularly in the domains of economics, Christian-Muslim relations, Muslim communities in Central Asia, and the role and perception of Islam in modern society. In its early years, the Foundation was instrumental in establishing twenty mosques and community centers, significantly contributing to the infrastructure supporting Muslim life in Britain.
Role and Scope
Registered as an educational institution in Britain, the Islamic Foundation has the distinction of being the first Muslim organization in the country to establish cooperative relationships with institutions of higher education. These partnerships have been notably impactful in promoting multicultural education and enhancing understanding and development of Islamic economics.
Shift in Focus During the 1980s
In the 1980s, the Foundation’s focus shifted towards more extensive publishing efforts. It began to produce a range of books and periodicals concentrated on various Islamic subjects. These publications cater to both scholarly and lay audiences, spreading Islamic knowledge and fostering intellectual dialogue.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology:
- “Islam” comes from the Arabic root “S-L-M,” which means peace and submission.
- “Foundation” in this context implies a basis or groundwork for the educational and communal activities it supports.
- Arabic: المَؤَسَّسَةُ الإسلاميَّة (Al-Muʾassasaẗ al-Islāmiyyaẗ)
- Turkish: İslami Vakıf
Recommended Further Reading
For more in-depth knowledge about the Islamic Foundation and its contributions, the following books offer valuable insights:
- “Islamic Economics: Theory and Practice” by M. Umer Chapra
- “Islam and the Secular State” by Abdullahi Ahmed An-Na’im
- “The Future of Muslim Civilization” by Ziauddin Sardar
- “Christian-Muslim Relations: A Bibliographical History” series edited by David Thomas, et al.
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Islamic Foundation has played a crucial role in shaping the understanding and practice of Islam among Muslim communities in Britain and beyond. From establishing educational and community infrastructure to pioneering scholarly publications, it continues to influence modern discussions on Islam within a multi-cultural and multi-faith context.
Its evolution illustrates the dynamic nature of Muslim engagement in the West, embodying efforts toward coexistence, mutual respect, and intellectual and spiritual growth. The Foundation stands as a testament to the adaptive and forward-looking spirit of Islamic thought and practice in contemporary society.
