Global Consensus Against ISIS: An Analysis of Muslim Clerics' Fatwas

The Islamic State (ISIS) has been a subject of global condemnation, with a significant number of Muslim scholars and clerics issuing fatwas (religious edicts) against the organization. This article explores the extent of this opposition, focusing on the Indian scenario and the global response to these fatwas.

1000 Indian Muslim Leaders Issue Fatwa Against ISIS

According to recent reports, over a thousand Indian Muslim leaders and scholars have joined hands to issue a fatwa against ISIS. This move is a reflection of the deep concern and dissatisfaction among moderate Muslims regarding the actions of the extremist group. The declaration expresses strong opposition to the religious vision and activities of ISIS, describing them as "un-Islamic and inhuman."

The Muslim scholar and jurist, Manzar Hasan Khan Ashrafi Misbahi, drafted the fatwa. Various Muslim groups and prominent leaders from different regions of India have signed on, endorsing the strong stance against ISIS. The declaration is a collective effort to protect the image of moderate Islam and to denounce the violent actions of the organization.

Facilitating this campaign, some groups like Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen (KNM) have initiated a robust social media campaign. After several reports of Keralites being detained in the UAE for propagating ISIS ideas, the KNM has taken strong measures. They are producing and sharing videos of speeches delivered by their scholars on contentious issues. These videos aim to counter extremist propaganda and warn young Muslims about the dangers of ISIS ideology.

Indian Muslim Leaders' Fatwa: A Historical Context

This fatwa is one of many issued by Indian Muslim leaders since the rise of ISIS. It signifies the growing trend of Muslim clerics from various sects coming together to assert their opposition to the organization. The Muslim Supreme Council of Canada, for instance, has also played a significant role in this regard.

Canadian Muslim Clerics Issue Fatwa Condemning ISIS

On March 11, 2015, Syed Soharwardy, the founder of the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada, along with 37 other Muslim leaders from various Islamic sects, gathered in Calgary to issue a fatwa. This fatwa unequivocally condemned followers of ISIS as non-Muslims due to their actions. The leaders specifically cited practices such as capturing opponents and beheading them, killing Muslims who disagree with ISIS actions, destroying mosques, and burning enemy soldiers alive as violations of Islamic law.

The fatwa serves as a powerful statement against the violence and extreme ideology propagated by ISIS. It underlines the importance of adhering to the true teachings of Islam and the dangers of extremism.

Global Reactions and Support

The fatwa issued by Indian Muslim leaders and Canadian Muslim scholars has received significant global support and recognition. The United States, in particular, has welcomed the issuance of the fatwa as a positive step towards combating extremism.

Conclusion

The opposition to ISIS has garnered a broad and deep support among Muslim scholars, both in India and across the globe. Fatwas condemning the organization are a clear indication of the ongoing efforts by Muslim leaders to uphold the true values of Islam and to combat the spread of extremist ideologies.

While the actions of ISIS continue to raise concerns, these fatwas serve as a reminder of the strong and diverse voices of moderation within the Muslim community.