Al-Azhar Mosque & University: From Egypt’s Heart to the World Stage

Al-Azhar Al-Sharif: An institution over a thousand years old that shaped the history of Egypt and the Islamic world

Introduction

Al-Azhar is one of the oldest and most important religious and academic institutions in the world. It is not merely a mosque, but an intellectual beacon that has shaped the religious and cultural consciousness of Egypt and the Islamic world for over a thousand years. Since its founding in the 10th century CE, Al-Azhar has played a pivotal role in disseminating religious and linguistic knowledge, confronting extremism, and preserving moderate Islamic identity, becoming today a global authority on moderate Islamic thought.

Before the Birth of Al-Azhar: A Glimpse into History:

Long before the iconic Al-Azhar emerged as one of the world’s premier centers for Islamic learning, Egypt stood on the cusp of a transformative era. In 641 CE, following the Islamic conquest, the country embarked on a new chapter of its history. Over the span of more than three centuries, Egypt saw its administrative heart shift across three successive capitals: Al-Fustat, Al-‘Askar, and Al-Qata’i‘. Each city played its role in shaping the socio-political and cultural landscape of the region.

Then came the Fatimid period—a defining moment not only for Egypt but for the broader Islamic world. Unlike earlier rulers who primarily established their dominance through political and military might, the Fatimids envisioned something greater. Their ambition extended beyond governance; they sought to create a comprehensive religious and intellectual movement, central to which was the propagation of the Isma‘ili Shiite tradition.

When the Fatimids set about founding their new capital, they weren’t just constructing a city. They were laying the groundwork for an institution that would embody their vision—a hub for knowledge, culture, and religious thought. What they built would not only serve as the beating heart of their capital but also leave an enduring legacy for generations to come: Al-Azhar.

The Birth of Al-Azhar al-Sharif (970–972 CE)

Setting the Stage: A Historical Perspective:

By the latter half of the 10th century, the Fatimid state had emerged as a dominant force, harnessing its political and military prowess to extend its influence far and wide. Having already consolidated their control over regions in North Africa, such as Morocco and Tunisia, the Fatimids set their sights on Egypt. Why Egypt? Because it wasn’t just another territory—it held immense significance for several reasons:

• – It was the economic hub of the Islamic world.
• – Positioned strategically, it acted as a bridge connecting East and West.
• – It offered an ideal foundation for propagating the Isma‘ili Shiite school of thought.

With such an alluring strategic, economic, and religious significance, Egypt became central to the Fatimids’ vision of expansion and reform.

The Visionary Behind Al-Azhar

At the heart of this historic endeavor was the Fatimid caliph Al-Muʿizz li-Din Allah, who ruled from 953 to 975 CE. His reign marked a period of ambition and transformation, as he championed a political and religious project designed to reshape Fatimid authority in a unique way. His goals included:

• Founding a brand-new city to serve as the administrative and cultural capital of the Fatimid state, replacing the older city of Al-Fustat.
• Constructing an impressive central mosque that would go beyond its role as a house of worship to serve dual purposes:
• A space for amplifying the doctrines of the Fatimid madhhab.
• An intellectual hub for advancing Isma‘ili Shiite teachings.

This mosque would come to be known as Al-Azhar, destined not only to stand as an architectural marvel but also as a beacon of scholarship and an unparalleled center of learning for centuries to come.

Although Al-Muʿizz conceptualized this monumental project, he wasn’t present to oversee its beginning. During this time, his base of operations was in Al-Mahdia, located in what is modern-day Tunisia. Entrusting his most reliable and skilled military commander with the task, he ensured that his ambitious vision would take form even in his physical absence.

Through these careful preparations, Al-Azhar was destined to become not just a mosque but a historical symbol of religious authority and intellectual excellence—crafted in the heart of Egypt!

Jawhar al-Siqillī, a name that echoes through history as one of the most influential military and strategic masterminds of the Fatimid Caliphate.

Who was Jawhar al-Siqillī?

Hailing from Sicilian roots during its Byzantine period, Jawhar al-Siqillī stands out as a trailblazing military leader and a figure of extraordinary foresight. As Al-Muʿizz li-Din Allah’s most trusted confidant and loyal strategist, he played a pivotal role in expanding the Fatimid dynasty’s influence. Most notably, he led a near-bloodless expedition that resulted in the conquest of Egypt in 969, forever altering the course of history in the region.

Key accomplishments during his time in Egypt:

• Seamlessly orchestrated Egypt’s capture in 969, managing to avoid widespread destruction or heavy resistance along the way.
• Established Cairo, which became a beacon of civilization and served as the new Fatimid capital.
• Conceptualized and implemented an ambitious urban vision for the city.
• Oversaw the intricate construction of the iconic Al-Azhar Mosque, setting the foundation for it to become an epicenter of learning and Islamic thought.

The Birth of Fatimid Cairo

When Jawhar entered Egypt, he didn’t merely step into a new territory—he redefined its future. He bypassed Al-Fustat, then the established urban hub, and founded an entirely new city just to its north. This city would become Cairo, or “al-Qāhir,” which some sources say was named in reference to Mars (known in Arabic as “al-Qāhir”), signifying power and conquest.

Hallmarks of his visionary urban planning:

• – The city was enveloped by protective walls, a feature designed to evolve with its growth.
• – At its heart stood two magnificent palaces:
• – The Great Eastern Palace, reserved for the caliph.
• – The Western Palace, complementing its grandeur.
• – Between these palaces stretched an official square—a space that would later transform into the historic Al-Muʿizz Street.
• – Adjacent to the Eastern Palace rose the Al-Azhar Mosque—a masterpiece of religious and cultural importance envisioned not only as a place of worship but as part of a broader political and urban blueprint.

This carefully orchestrated layout illustrates that Al-Azhar wasn’t merely erected as a single structure but was interwoven into an elaborate network of strategic, political, and spiritual significance. It underscored the Fatimids’ comprehensive approach to city-building—melding governance, religion, and architecture into a seamless tapestry.

Jawhar al-Siqillī’s legacy shines brightly in the annals of history. Through meticulous planning and exceptional leadership, he transformed Egypt’s landscape and laid the groundwork for Cairo’s storied future as a global center of culture and knowledge.

The Al-Azhar Mosque: Construction and Origins

When was it built?

Construction began in 970 and was completed by 972. The entire process spanned just two years, a remarkably short timeframe for such an undertaking.

Who oversaw the construction?

The project was meticulously supervised by Jawhar al-Siqillī. Funding was provided by the Fatimid state treasury, with a labor force comprising workers and engineers from Egypt and North Africa.

The Origin of the Name “Al-Azhar”

Multiple historical interpretations exist regarding the mosque’s name. The most widely accepted links it to Fatima al-Zahra, as the Fatimids claimed descent from her. The name embodies profound religious and political significance, asserting both the legitimacy of Fatimid rule and their connection to the Prophet’s family (Ahl al-Bayt).

Al-Azhar during the Fatimid Era

Initially, Al-Azhar was not associated with Sunni Islam as it is today. It served as a hub for promoting the Isma‘ili Shiite tradition. Subjects taught at Al-Azhar included:

• – Isma‘ili jurisprudence (fiqh)
• – Philosophy
• – Kalām (speculative theology)
• – Linguistic sciences

When did it transition into a university?

During the reigns of Caliphs Al-ʿAziz bi-Llah and Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, organized teaching circles were established. This marked Al-Azhar’s transformation into the world’s oldest continuously operating university.

The Transformation and Heritage of Al-Azhar: A Journey Through Time

Al-Azhar’s Transition After the Fall of the Fatimids

When the Fatimid dynasty collapsed and Saladin al-Ayyubi rose to power in 1171, a significant transformation began within Al-Azhar. With Shiite teachings abolished, the mosque steadily evolved into a bastion of Sunni Islam. Over the centuries, it emerged as the preeminent religious authority within the Islamic world, shaping theological discourse and guiding scholars across generations.

Al-Azhar: A Testament to Cairo’s Historic and Religious Evolution

The foundation of Al-Azhar is intertwined with the rise of Cairo as a leading Islamic capital. It embodies a reflection of the political and doctrinal struggles that shaped Islamic history. What started as a modest preaching mosque under the Fatimids blossomed into the most influential Sunni religious institution. Beyond its spiritual significance, Al-Azhar holds another remarkable distinction—it stands as the world’s oldest continuously operating university, a living symbol of education’s enduring legacy.

Key Figures and Historical Milestones Behind Al-Azhar

• – Al-Muʿizz li-Din Allah: The Fatimid ruler whose vision forged Cairo’s Islamic identity.
  
• – Jawhar al-Siqillī: The gifted commander and planner who brought this vision to life.
  
• – 970–972 CE: The construction period during which the Al-Azhar Mosque took shape.

Initially established as a focal point for Shiite teachings, Al-Azhar was a cornerstone of Fatimid Cairo’s ambitious urban and religious design. Over time, it transcended its origins to become a global symbol of Sunni scholarship, cultural heritage, and intellectual pursuit.

From its foundational years to its modern relevance, Al-Azhar’s story is a profound narrative of resilience and adaptation one that continues to inspire millions around the globe.

Al-Azhar as a Shiite Institution during the Fatimid Period

Al-Azhar in the Fatimid Era served as a prominent hub for both religious and scientific pursuits, closely aligned with its Isma‘ili Shiite character. Established in 972 and remaining active under Fatimid rule until 1171, this institution played an essential role beyond a place of worship. It functioned simultaneously as a:

• – Grand mosque hosting official state ceremonies,
• – Academic center offering instruction across multiple fields,
• – Doctrinal school dedicated to training preachers and disseminating the Isma‘ili tradition (madhhab).

These aspects were deeply interwoven into the intellectual and political vision of the Fatimid state.

The Sciences Taught at Al-Azhar during the Fatimid Period

1. Isma‘ili Jurisprudence (Fiqh)

Isma‘ili jurisprudence formed the foundation of academic discourse at Al-Azhar, emphasizing:

• – Specific interpretations of the Qur’an,
• – Esoteric (bāṭinī) readings of texts,
• – Juridical teachings based on directives from infallible Fatimid imams.

Educational efforts in this area aimed to prepare judges, preachers, and officials to serve within the Fatimid administrative and religious system.

2. Philosophy

Philosophy was encouraged as a means to deepen understanding of both religion and existence, incorporating:

• – Greek philosophical works like those of Plato and Aristotle, largely accessed through Arabic translations,
• – Neoplatonism,
• – The relationship between reason and divine revelation.

This discipline aimed to intellectually reinforce the principles of Isma‘ili doctrine using rational methodologies.

3. Speculative Theology (Kalām)

Speculative theology (Kalām) equipped scholars to defend the Isma‘ili madhhab against competing intellectual traditions, such as Sunni jurisprudence, Muʿtazilite reasoning, and other Shiite ideologies. Key areas of focus included:

• – Advocating for the doctrine of the imamate,
• – Elaborating on the concept of infallibility of imams,
• – Exploring the interplay between apparent meanings (ẓāhir) and hidden depths (bāṭin) within religious texts.

This discipline relied heavily on structured debate and logical argumentation.

4. Linguistic Sciences

Linguistic studies encompassed grammar, morphology, rhetoric, and Arabic proficiency. Beyond mere linguistic applications, these skills served broader objectives such as:

• – Gaining a deeper understanding of the Qur’an and hadith,
• – Equipping preachers with eloquent and persuasive communication abilities,
• – Enhancing interpretative approaches to religious texts.

5. Arithmetic and Astronomy

Instruction in arithmetic and astronomy served practical purposes such as:

• – Accurate determination of prayer times and fasting schedules,
• – Calculation of lunar cycles and calendar systems,
• – Supporting the rituals and practices central to Isma‘ili traditions.

Al-Azhar’s comprehensive curriculum reflected its dual role as a center for intellectual advancement and as a cornerstone in promoting and preserving the identity of the Fatimid state.

The Prosperity of Al-Azhar During the Mamluk Era

Patronage of Scholars by the Mamluk Rulers

The Mamluks recognized that supporting scholars could both enhance their religious credentials and reinforce their power. Their contributions to Al-Azhar included:

• – Generous funding,
• – Establishment of waqf (permanent endowments) for sustained support,
• – Construction of new buildings to expand the institution’s capacity.

Securing Religious Legitimacy :

As former enslaved soldiers who rose to power during a turbulent time, the Mamluks relied on Al-Azhar to provide religious validation for their rule. By aligning themselves with Sunni fiqh, they positioned Al-Azhar as the foremost institution for Islamic legitimacy, earning recognition across the Muslim world.

A Hub for Global Students :

Al-Azhar became a magnet for aspiring scholars from various regions, including:

• Morocco

• The Levant (Bilad al-Sham),

• The Arabian Peninsula,

• Asia Minor.

This wide-reaching appeal elevated Al-Azhar’s status as a preeminent center of Islamic education and scholarship.

Architectural Evolution Under Mamluk Patronage

Significant Expansions

To accommodate the increasing number of students and scholars, the Mamluks expanded Al-Azhar by adding:

• – Small mosques,
• – Educational institutions (madrasas),
• – Arcades and rooms for student accommodation.

Specialized Arcades (Riwaqs / Madrasas)
The Mamluks introduced arcades tailored to students based on their regions and academic focus:

Arcade	Purpose	Notes
Riwaq al-Maghariba	For students from the Maghreb	Housing and study, support for Maliki fiqh
Riwaq al-Sham	For students from the Levant	Brought Levantine scholars and students, focus on hadith and tafsir
Riwaq al-Turuk	For Turkish students	Later hosted students from the Ottoman Empire, strengthened Hanafi fiqh

Establishment of Fiqh-Based Madrasas :
Dedicated schools were created within Al-Azhar for each of the Sunni jurisprudential schools:

• Shafi‘i,

• Maliki,

• Hanafi,

• Hanbali

Objective: To systematize comparative fiqh studies while ensuring students had a well-organized learning environment.

The Mamluk period marked a turning point in Al-Azhar’s history, cementing its role as a premier center for Sunni scholarship by harmonizing education, architecture, and inclusivity on a global scale.

The Evolution of Al-Azhar into a Global Academic Hub

Prior to the Mamluk period, Al-Azhar functioned through informal, loosely connected teaching circles that lacked structure. However, during the Mamluk rule, it transformed into a centralized and well-organized university system characterized by:

• The awarding of scientific diplomas (ijazah) in fields such as fiqh, hadith, and tafsir.

• The establishment of defined courses and specialized programs for each field.

• Widespread recognition across the Islamic world.

Academic Programs During the Mamluk Period

Program Focus:

– Comparative Fiqh: Delving into the four schools of jurisprudence while prioritizing solutions for legal disputes.

– Hadith: Collecting, authenticating, and critically analyzing prophetic traditions.

– Tafsir: Studying the Qur’an with linguistic and analytical methodologies.

– Grammar and Rhetoric: Equipping students with skills to interpret religious texts, master written expression, and refine eloquence.

– Astronomy and Mathematics: Engaging in celestial calculations, determining prayer times, and exploring their practical applications.

These disciplines were remarkably sophisticated for their era, paving the way for the classical framework of modern Islamic education.

Key Highlights of the Mamluk Era:

This period marked Al-Azhar’s golden age because of:

• Strategic political and financial backing from Mamluk rulers.
• The sultans’ reliance on religious legitimacy provided by Islamic scholarship.
• Grand architectural development and the addition of multiple arcades (riwaqs) to its infrastructure.
• A transition from a Shiite educational circle to a globally recognized Sunni university.
• Comprehensive academic programs that encompassed both religious and rational sciences.

In essence, Al-Azhar emerged as a pioneering model of Islamic higher education during the Mamluk period, distinguished by its scholarly excellence, systematic organization, and far-reaching influence.

Al-Azhar During the Ottoman Period:

Even amid the decline of the Ottoman state, Al-Azhar preserved its autonomy. Its shaykhs took on the role of mediators between the populace and the ruling authorities, emerging as key figures in shaping public opinion.

Political Influence:

Al-Azhar spearheaded popular protest movements, stood firmly against injustice and oppressive taxation, and actively contributed to the fight against corruption.

Al-Azhar and the Resistance to the French Occupation (1798)

Historical Context: The French Expedition to Egypt

In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte led a military campaign to Egypt with strategic objectives that included undermining British interests in the East, controlling the trade route to India, and using Egypt as a base for further colonial expansion. After defeating the Mamluks, the French forces entered Cairo but soon faced vigorous popular resistance. Central to this resistance was Al-Azhar.

Al-Azhar as a Center of Popular Resistance

Why was Al-Azhar pivotal?

As Egypt’s largest religious institution and home to its most influential scholars, Al-Azhar had a profound ability to shape public sentiment. Trusted and respected by the masses, its scholars naturally emerged as leaders of public opinion during the occupation.

The scholars of Al-Azhar actively resisted the French by organizing gatherings within the mosque. From these gatherings emerged fatwas that called for action against the occupiers, sermons urging jihad, and appeals for national defense. Al-Azhar also became a hub for mobilizing demonstrations and coordinating the uprising.

The Assault on Al-Azhar and the Violation of Its Sanctity

Napoleon initially attempted to win over Al-Azhar’s scholars by professing respect for Islam. He attended ceremonies, issued decrees in Arabic, and sought to present himself as a friend of Egypt. However, his approach shifted drastically after the First Cairo Revolt in 1798.

In response to this uprising, Napoleon ordered a violent crackdown on Al-Azhar. French troops stormed the mosque, opening fire within its walls and committing acts deemed deeply disrespectful. They entered with their shoes, weapons, and even horses, arrested numerous scholars and students, and executed some while others were exiled. This blatant desecration of Al-Azhar shocked Egyptians and further fueled their resistance.

Immediate Consequences of the Assault

The assault on Al-Azhar led to severe repercussions, including executions and exiles of its scholars and a temporary halt in its teaching activities. Napoleon’s attempt to subdue Al-Azhar through military force only escalated tensions, undermining his efforts to consolidate power.

Long-Term Historical Consequences

1. Al-Azhar as a Symbol of National Resistance

The violation of Al-Azhar’s sanctity turned it into a symbol of resistance, transcending its purely religious role. It solidified its place in the hearts of Egyptians as a defender of national identity against foreign oppression.

2. Redefining Al-Azhar’s Role

Over time, Al-Azhar expanded its influence beyond religious matters. It became a guardian of Egyptian identity, a unifying force for the nation, and an intermediary between ordinary citizens and political authority.

3. Laying Foundations for Political Involvement

Al-Azhar went on to play a critical role in subsequent political developments. It contributed to the removal of Ottoman governor Khurshid Pasha and supported Muhammad Ali’s rise to power in 1805, cementing its position as a key player in Egypt’s political landscape.

Al-Azhar’s resistance during the French campaign is remembered as one of its defining contributions to the nation’s struggle against foreign domination. This legacy endures as a source of inspiration in the broader fight for independence and self-determination.

Al-Azhar’s Evolution under Muhammad Ali and Beyond: A Journey Through History

Al-Azhar in the Era of Muhammad Ali (1805–1848)

During Muhammad Ali Pasha’s rule in Egypt, Al-Azhar stood as a cornerstone of religious, social, and political influence. This prestigious institution played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and even contributed to Muhammad Ali’s ascent to power. However, his relationship with Al-Azhar was far from straightforward.

On one hand, the ruler held deep respect for the institution’s religious authority and relied on its scholars to solidify his control over Egypt. On the other hand, he regarded its immense power and autonomy with caution. Uneasy about its independent political sway, Muhammad Ali sought to curb its influence.

To manage Al-Azhar’s role within the evolving state, Muhammad Ali implemented several administrative reforms. These included regulating endowment funds (waqfs), streamlining the organizational structure for scholars, and limiting religious authority in areas beyond their jurisdiction. While he stopped short of completely diminishing its independence, he did not empower Al-Azhar to become a hub for modern educational reform.

Instead, Muhammad Ali focused his energy on building non-religious institutions that would drive Egypt’s modernization and transition into the modern era. Schools such as the School of Medicine, the School of Engineering, and military academies were founded. These institutions marked the beginning of a clear divide between religious learning at Al-Azhar and secular education, which would shape Egypt’s educational landscape for decades to come.

Al-Azhar in Transition: 19th Century to Early 20th Century

Despite its historic prominence in religious matters, Al-Azhar faced mounting challenges during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It retained its dedication to religious sciences and traditional teaching methods but began to draw criticism for being stagnant. Concerns revolved around its heavy reliance on rote memorization, resistance to integrating modern scientific disciplines, and failure to adapt to the rapidly changing world.

These critiques spurred reform movements led by influential thinkers such as Shaykh Muhammad Abduh and Jamal al-Din al-Afghani. They envisioned an Al-Azhar that maintained its religious heritage but embraced modernization through updated curricula and the gradual inclusion of modern sciences. These calls for change signaled the beginning of an ongoing debate about preserving tradition while progressing with contemporary trends.

The 1961 Reform Law: Redefining Al-Azhar

The trajectory of Al-Azhar underwent its most significant transformation under President Gamal Abdel Nasser’s leadership with the promulgation of *Law No. 103 of 1961*. This historic legislation aimed to align Al-Azhar’s educational mission with modern societal demands while maintaining its role as a cultural and spiritual institution.

The reform introduced sweeping changes by redefining Al-Azhar as a modern university encompassing both religious and scientific faculties. It extended beyond its traditional focus on Islamic law (Sharia), theology, and Arabic language studies to include faculties dedicated to medicine, engineering, science, agriculture, commerce, education, media, pharmacy, and more. This expansion cemented Al-Azhar’s place within Egypt’s nation-building project as a comprehensive institution bridging religious values with modern disciplines.

Among the newly established faculties:

• The *Faculty of Medicine* aimed to produce doctors proficient in merging medical expertise with ethical values rooted in religion.
• The *Faculty of Engineering* trained skilled professionals ready to serve society using innovative solutions.
• The *Faculty of Science* introduced students to natural sciences grounded in modern methodologies.
• The *Faculty of Agriculture* sought to advance Egypt’s agricultural sector through scientific advancements.

The Impact of Modernization

The 1961 reforms brought about notable benefits but also sparked meaningful criticisms, giving rise to a dual narrative that persists today.

From one perspective, the changes established Al-Azhar as a progressive educational powerhouse capable of addressing contemporary challenges. Its global influence grew as it became known internationally for both spiritual and academic contributions. It played a critical role in shaping national identity by merging religion with progress.

However, not everyone viewed this modernization favorably. Critics contended that integrating new disciplines and expanding state oversight diminished Al-Azhar’s autonomy and diluted its core religious focus. For others, this closer alignment with the government raised questions about balancing institutional independence with national interests.

These debates remain relevant today as stakeholders grapple with how best to preserve Al-Azhar’s rich heritage while adapting to new social and scientific environments. How much modernization can be embraced without compromising tradition? And where should the boundaries lie between state involvement and institutional freedom? These are questions central to understanding Al-Azhar’s ongoing evolution.

The Global Influence of Al-Azhar al-Sharif

Al-Azhar as a Global Religious Beacon

Al-Azhar has transcended its roots as a local Egyptian institution to emerge as a key global reference for Islam. Over centuries, it has become a trusted source for:

• Issuing religious rulings (fatwas),
• Providing religious and educational guidance,
• Shaping contemporary Islamic thought and jurisprudence.

This recognized influence stems from its:

• Rich history spanning over a millennium,
• Continuity in scholarly traditions,
• Commitment to an approach rooted in moderation and balance.

Educating Scholars Across the World

Al-Azhar’s impact extends across continents, having nurtured generations of scholars and preachers from regions such as:

• Africa (Sudan, Nigeria, Chad, Senegal, and beyond),
• Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, etc.),
• Europe (the Balkans, France, Britain, and areas formerly under Russian rule).

These graduates have returned to their homelands to:

• Serve as imams and muftis in their communities,

• Establish educational institutions and Islamic universities,

• Promote and preserve Al-Azhar’s ethos of moderation and balance within their societies.

Outreach Through Educational and Religious Missions

Al-Azhar actively extends its reach by deploying:

• Official educational delegations,

• Well-trained imams and Islamic preachers,

• Instructors specializing in Arabic and Islamic studies.

The objectives of these missions include:

• Spreading awareness of a balanced interpretation of Islam,

• Addressing and dispelling religious misconceptions,

• Supporting both Muslim-majority societies and minority Muslim communities around the world.

These initiatives span various regions:

• Sub-Saharan Africa,

• Southeast Asia,

• Europe and the Americas.

Globally Respected Fatwas from Al-Azhar

• The Council of Senior Scholars,
• Dar al-Ifta’ of Egypt, which has strong ties to Al-Azhar.

What distinguishes Azharian fatwas is their:

• Reliance on comparative Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh),
• Consideration of contemporary realities and societal contexts,
• Adherence to the higher objectives of Islamic law (maqasid al-Sharia).

These fatwas address a range of modern concerns, including:

• Issues related to medicine, economics, and family dynamics,
• Challenges faced by Muslim minorities around the globe,
• Ongoing intellectual and theological discussions within Islam.

Al-Azhar Today:

The Oldest Continuously Operating University in the World

Founded in 972, Al-Azhar al-Sharif holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest university still in continuous operation. For over a thousand years, it has persevered through wars and foreign occupations, maintaining its tradition of uninterrupted education.

It symbolizes the fusion of:

• Traditional Islamic teachings
• Modern university frameworks

A Global Religious Authority:

Al-Azhar stands as a leading institution in Sunni jurisprudence (fiqh), with its fatwas influencing communities across:

• Africa
• Asia
• Europe
• The Americas

It addresses modern religious and societal issues with an approach rooted in balance and moderation.

An Institution Melding Tradition, Modernity, and Balance

Tradition

• Upholds classical curricula, including comparative fiqh, hadith, tafsir, grammar, and rhetoric.
• Protects the Egyptian and Islamic religious-cultural heritage.

Modernity

• Embraces scientific progress through disciplines like medicine, engineering, agriculture, and natural sciences.
• Bridges religious and modern sciences.
• Utilizes advanced technology for education and fatwa dissemination.

Moderation

• Acts as a leader in combating extremism and radical ideologies.
• Promotes the path of balance and reasoned interpretation of religious texts.
• Encourages interfaith and intercultural dialogue.

Today, Al-Azhar serves as a vital connection between over a thousand years of Islamic scholarship and contemporary global challenges, solidifying its role as a symbol of knowledge, moderation, and faith for the modern world.

Conclusion:

Al-Azhar al-Sharif is far more than a building or a university; it is the living memory of a nation. Over the centuries, it has endured profound religious and political transformations, internal conflicts, and foreign occupations, yet it has always preserved its scientific and ethical essence.
For over a thousand years, Al-Azhar has been both witness and actor in history, serving as a platform for moderate thought and shaping intellectual discourse across the Islamic world. It has educated generations of scholars and preachers, propagated the path of moderation, and helped sustain the cultural and religious continuity of Islamic civilization.

Even today, Al-Azhar remains the cornerstone of global Islamic consciousness, a symbol of knowledge, moderation, and dialogue, capable of bridging tradition and modernity, faith and reason, religious education and contemporary sciences.

In summary, Al-Azhar is not merely a heritage of the past, but a living pillar for the future of Islam and universal knowledge. It embodies the continuity of wisdom across centuries, offering guidance, learning, and balance to the modern world while remaining deeply rooted in its historic and spiritual foundations.

Related Topic : The Historic Citadel of Saladin: Mosques, Military Museums, and Panoramic Views

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