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, emphasized the paramount importance of the support provided by the wise leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Council of Senior Scholars, praising its tremendous efforts in strengthening the role of Islamic scholarship and scholars. His Excellency's remarks came after his attendance at the Council's 98th session, which was chaired by His Eminence the Grand Mufti of the Kingdom and Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Fawzan Al Fawzan.
Historical background and established role
The Council of Senior Scholars was established in 1391 AH (1971 CE) by royal decree of King Faisal bin Abdulaziz – may God have mercy on him – to serve as the highest religious authority in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Council comprises a select group of senior scholars specializing in Islamic law, and its primary mission is to provide legal opinions on public matters referred to it by the ruler, issue fatwas on various issues, and contribute to guiding society in accordance with the principles of Islam. Since its inception, the Council has played a pivotal role in preserving the Islamic identity of the Kingdom and consolidating the principles of moderation and balance.
The importance and impact of leadership support
His Excellency Sheikh Al-Sheikh explained that the care and attention bestowed upon the Council of Senior Scholars by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may God protect them, reflects the leadership's commitment to upholding the principles upon which this blessed nation was founded, principles derived from the Book of God and the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him. This support is not limited to moral support, but extends to providing all the resources necessary for the Council to fulfill its mission to the fullest extent, thereby strengthening the stability and cohesion of society.
Local and regional impact
His Excellency pointed out that the Council's periodic meetings are an extension of its established scholarly and legal role, where emerging issues are studied according to a precise scientific methodology that takes into account the objectives of Islamic law and the changing realities. The weighty responsibilities undertaken by the Council make it a highly esteemed scholarly authority not only locally but also throughout the Islamic world. The Kingdom, with its Islamic holy sites, is considered a leader and pioneer in the Islamic world, and the decisions and fatwas of its Council of Senior Scholars receive widespread attention and follow-up, contributing to the preservation of Islamic principles and presenting an accurate image of Islam's tolerance and noble values.
