Majd, Ahmad Kamal Abu al-

Majd, Ahmad Kamal Abu al-

Definition

Majd, Ahmad Kamal Abu al- (b. 1930) is an Egyptian Islamic intellectual, writer, professor of law, and a former minister. He calls for a moderate, rational Islamic reform that aligns with the prerequisites of modern society. Majd believes in public and individual freedoms as essential for a lasting revival and advocates for gradual implementation of Islamic legislation, with a strong emphasis on dialogue with intellectuals from various non-Islamic currents.

Etymology

• Ahmad Kamal Abu al-Majd: أحمد كمال أبو المجد in Arabic.
• The name “Majd” derives its roots from Arabic, meaning “glory” or “honor.”

Principles and Advocacy

Majd’s body of work and thought pivot around key elements:

1. Moderate Islamic Reform: He envisions a form of Islamic reform that is practical, rooted in contemporary contexts while being faithful to fundamental Islamic principles.
2. Freedoms: Public and individual freedoms are crucial for the regeneration and vigor of Islamic societies.
3. Gradualism: The implementation of Islamic legislation should be gradual to ensure that societal changes are manageable and constructive.
4. Dialogue and Engagement: Promoting healthy discourse with non-Islamic intellectual traditions is essential for a holistic intellectual environment.
5. Shura (Consultation): Islamic governance should be grounded in the principles of shura, reflecting broad-based consultation.
6. Accountability: Rigorous accountability of rulers is imperative, ensuring they are answerable to the populace.
7. Ramification of Ahl al-Dhimmah: Advocates reconsidering the status of ahl al-dhimmah (people of the covenant), promoting full equality between Muslims and non-Muslims.

Recognition and Influence

Throughout his career as a professor of law and minister, Ahmad Kamal Abu al-Majd has gained recognition for his column Tehran Calligraph and scholarly work. His efforts contribute notably to contemporary debates on Islamic jurisprudence and the compatibility of Islam with modern values.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. Islam: Past, Present and Future by Hans Küng.
2. The Restatement of History of Islam and Muslims by Sayyid Saeed Akhtar Rizvi.
3. Islamic Theology and Philosophy by Michael E. Marmura.

Takeaways

• Principled Reform: Ahmad Kamal Abu al-Majd embodies a nuanced approach to Islamic reform, championing principles that harmonize with societal advancements.
• Importance of Dialogue: Playing a crucial role in advocating bridging the gap between Islamic and non-Islamic traditions through dialogue.
• Revisiting Medieval Constructs: His call for revisiting the principles related to non-Muslims in Islamic society underscores a progressive and inclusive interpretation of Islam.

Conclusion

Understanding Ahmad Kamal Abu al-Majd’s thoughts provides pivotal insights into reconciling Islamic principles with modern exigencies. His life’s work exemplifies the potential for thoughtful, inclusive, and transformative Islamic scholarship, critical for the sustained pluralistic integrity of Muslim societies.