World Council of Mosques
Introduction
The World Council of Mosques (WCM) is an international body analogous to the Christian World Council of Churches. Established in 1975, it operates as a subdivision of the Muslim World League (Rābiṭat al-ʿĀlam al-Islāmī - رابطة العالم الإسلامي).
Historical Background
The World Council of Mosques was founded with the purpose of uniting Muslim communities globally through coordinated missionary activities. It has played a pivotal role in supporting and guiding the establishment of jurisprudential standards across different Islamic traditions.
Objectives and Functions
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Coordination of Missionary Activities: The WCM works to harmonize and enhance missionary efforts worldwide, ensuring that they are consistent and effective.
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Establishment of Islamic Law Standards: It supports the creation of jurisprudence councils responsible for developing and enforcing internationally recognized standards of Sharia (Islamic Law) across different countries.
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Academic and Jurisprudential Support: One of its notable contributions was its involvement in the founding of the Islamic Fiqh Academy in Saudi Arabia in 1976. This institution seeks to address contemporary issues through the lens of Islamic jurisprudence.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic Translation: مجلس المساجد العالمي (Majlis al-Masājid al-‘Ālamī)
- Turkish Translation: Dünya Mescitler Konseyi
Recommended Books for Further Study
- The Muslim World League: Global Conservation of the Ummah by Dr. James F. Fraser.
- Understanding the Islamic Fiqh Academy: Contemporary Applications of Sharia by Dr. Abdullah Saeed.
- Global Islam: A Historical and Theological Overview of Major Bodies and Movements by Karen Armstrong.
Takeaways
- Founded in 1975, the World Council of Mosques is essential in the unification and coordination of missionary efforts within the Islamic community.
- The organization also plays an instrumental role in the establishment and conformity of Islamic legal standards internationally.
- The WCM’s contribution is critical in the continued academic and jurisprudential exploration of contemporary issues within an Islamic framework.
Conclusion
The World Council of Mosques serves as an essential body within the global Muslim community. By coordinating missionary activities and establishing universal Islamic jurisprudence standards, it facilitates greater unity and coherence among Muslims worldwide. Its ongoing contributions to both practical and academic realms ensure that Islamic teachings remain relevant and adaptive to modern challenges.
