Islamic Foundation: Definition and Meaning§
The Islamic Foundation was established in 1973 in the United Kingdom to foster research and exploration into how Islam can be implemented in the modern world. Its founding objective was to project a coherent image of Islam in Britain and across Europe, aiming to fulfill the educational requirements of Muslims, particularly youth.
Etymology and Background§
- Etymology: The word “Foundation” (Arabic: مؤسسة, Mu’assasah) is derived from the Arabic root “أسس” (asas) meaning “to establish or found.”
- Background: Initiated by concerned Muslim scholars and leaders, the Islamic Foundation was instituted to bridge the gap between Islamic teachings and modern societal needs.
Historical Facts and Dates§
- Founded: 1973
- Location: United Kingdom
- Initial Focus: Establishing mosques and community centers.
- Notable Achievements:
- Establishment of 20 mosques and community centers early on.
- Pioneered cooperative relations with higher educational institutions focusing on multicultural education and Islamic economics.
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
The foundation exhibits certain cultural nuances, aiming to preserve Islamic traditions while adapting to the more secular, westernized societal settings. Understanding and respecting such cultural interactions facilitate better integration and learning opportunities for Muslim communities.
Synonyms§
- Islamic Research Center
- Islam Educational Institution
- Muslim Study Foundation
Related Terms§
- Multicultural Education: Educational approaches promoting diverse cultural inclusion.
- Islamic Economics: The study integrating Islamic principles with economic theory.
Exciting Facts§
🔍 The Foundation’s publishing house has produced seminal works in the fields of Islamic economics and interfaith dialogue, which have been widely used in academia.
Quotations§
“A civilization flourishes when people plant trees under whose shade they will never sit.” – Ancient Proverb
This reflects the Islamic Foundation’s mission to sow seeds of knowledge for future generations.
Suggested Literature and Other Sources§
- “Islam and the Economic Challenge” by M. Umer Chapra.
- “Crossing the Threshold: Understanding Religious and Cultural Acceptance” edited by J. Gordon Melton.
Inspirative Farewell§
May your endeavors in the pursuit of knowledge and interfaith harmony be as effective and enlightening as the pioneering efforts of the Islamic Foundation. 🌟
