The Grand Mufti of the Kingdom, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars and President of the General Authority for Scientific Research and Ifta, Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Fawzan bin Abdullah Al-Fawzan , noted the great support given by the Saudi leadership to the Ifta apparatus and its Sharia institutions, stressing that this support embodies the state’s interest in enhancing the status of Sharia science and consolidating the approach of moderation and centrism.
Al-Fawzan explained that the Council of Senior Scholars and the Permanent Committee for Fatwas undertake a noble task in raising awareness in society and enlightening people about the rulings of their religion, in compliance with the Almighty’s saying: “So ask the people of knowledge if you do not know .” He pointed out that the continuation of this role reflects the leadership’s keenness to preserve the religious authority in the Kingdom and support scientific institutions to carry out their legitimate responsibilities.
A solid scientific legacy and appreciation for the efforts of the deceased
The Grand Mufti praised the great efforts made by Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Sheikh – may God have mercy on him – during his time as Grand Mufti of the Kingdom and Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, explaining that his career was characterized by firm knowledge, moderation in presentation and sincerity in performing the duty, which left a scientific and institutional impact that will remain present in the Saudi fatwa movement.
Al-Fawzan added that the leadership’s support for the Fatwa Authority at various stages enabled this authority to perform its religious mission efficiently and competently, and contributed to strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position as a reliable religious reference for the Islamic world, based on an authentic approach that combines authenticity and disciplined interpretation.
Renewing confidence and strengthening the legal system
For his part, the Secretary-General of the Council of Senior Scholars, Sheikh Dr. Fahd bin Saad Al-Majed, his thanks and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and the Crown Prince, Prime Minister, Prince Mohammed bin Salman , on the occasion of the issuance of the Royal Order appointing him as Secretary-General of the Permanent Committee for Fatwas, and General Supervisor of the Office of the Grand Mufti of the Kingdom, in addition to general supervision of administrative and financial affairs at the General Presidency for Scientific Research and Ifta.
Al-Majed affirmed that the General Presidency will continue its work in developing the system of fatwas and Sharia research, and harnessing all its capabilities to enable the Council of Senior Scholars and the Permanent Committee for Fatwas to perform their religious and national role to the fullest extent, in accordance with the directives of the wise leadership and its efforts in supporting scientific and religious institutions.
Issuing religious edicts in the Kingdom: A religious and national pillar
The General Presidency for Scholarly Research and Ifta' in Saudi Arabia is one of the oldest religious institutions in the Islamic world. It is responsible for issuing rulings on contemporary issues and supporting government agencies in preparing studies and research related to Islamic law. Since its establishment, this body has enjoyed continuous support from the leadership, stemming from its mission to promote moderation and disseminate sound religious understanding.
Observers affirm that the continued support directed by the leadership to the institutions of fatwa and scientific research reflects the Kingdom’s keenness to consolidate the moderate religious authority and ensure that the fatwa remains a tool for guidance and intellectual balance, which enhances intellectual security and serves societal stability within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030 , which places human beings and knowledge at the heart of sustainable development.
