Dr. Ibrhaim Negm, the Advisor to the Grand Mufti of Egypt, stated that Dar al-Iftaa shares the worries of the Egyptian people and its fatwas translate societal reality. He said that the coming period will witness a progress in developing efficient procedures and scholarly standards to confront unqualified and non-specialist individuals whose fatwas foment chaos in Muslim societies. During an open meeting with the foreign students at the AUC, Negm emphasized that the only way out of this predicament is through observing the conditions set by Islamic law for muftis, the most important of which is acquiring legal knowledge.

“An understanding of reality—political, economic, or social—is one of the most important factors on which a fatwa is based,” he said. He added that a fatwa is not only a matter of knowledge but a vocation and craft that requires education, training, and discipline.

In response to a question on the spread of extremism, Negm said that religious extremism is rooted in economic, social and cultural factors. “Scientific studies prove that comprehensive development is the real key for eliminating extremist ideologies,” he said, adding that affording job opportunities and life necessities enable societies to control extremism.

Negm stressed that media plays a significant role in informing the people of societal problems, and their causes and solutions. He added that an accurate explanation of religion will produce good conduct and that it is important not to forget the principal role of schools, universities, mosques and churches in educating the people on values and giving them an enlightened understanding of religion.

He further added that although law must be implemented strictly, it is necessary to treat the accused humanely, preserve his rights, and give him a fair and speedy trial.

At the end of the meeting, Negm said, “We must support the efforts of security personnel in confronting any violations of law especially during this critical period.”