World Council of Mosques: Comprehensive Definition and Background
Definition and Meaning
The World Council of Mosques (WCM) acts as the Islamic counterpart to the Christian World Council of Churches. It is an international body dedicated to coordinating and supporting Muslim missionary activities on a global scale. Founded in 1975 under the auspices of the Muslim World League, the WCM plays a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining internationally accepted standards of Islamic law. One notable achievement was its support for the opening of the Islamic Fiqh Academy in Saudi Arabia in 1976.
Etymology and Historical Background
Etymology
The term “World Council of Mosques” combines “World” (indicating the global scope), “Council” (a deliberative body for decision-making), and “Mosques” (places of worship in Islam). Its name reflects its primary mission of globally linking and supporting mosques in their roles as centers of worship and education.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1975: The World Council of Mosques was founded as a sub-organization of the Muslim World League.
- 1976: The Islamic Fiqh Academy was inaugurated with the council’s support, serving as a guardian and developer of Sharia standards internationally.
Cultural Significance and Impact
Contributions to Islamic Law
WCM’s role in supporting the establishment of the Islamic Fiqh Academy has had a profound impact on the field of Islamic jurisprudence. The academy works towards unifying and standardizing Sharia laws applied by Muslim communities worldwide.
Global Missionary Activities
The World Council of Mosques also coordinates missionary activities aiming to further the understanding of Islam, support the establishment of mosques, and promote cultural exchange and dialogue among different communities.
Related Terms and Synonyms
- Muslim World League: The parent organization of WCM, focusing on spreading Islamic teaching and philanthropy.
- Islamic Fiqh Academy: An institution supported by WCM for the scholarly elaboration of Islamic jurisprudence.
- Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith.
- Dawah: The proselytizing or preaching of Islam.
Exciting Facts
- The WCM encompasses mosques from countries all over the world, aiming to represent the voice and needs of Muslims globally.
- It helps in establishing common prayer times and Islamic calendar across different countries.
Quotations
“Indeed, the establishment of such bodies as the World Council of Mosques provides a resounding testament to the unity and global outreach of the Islamic faith.”
—Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
For Further Study and Inspiration
Suggested Literature
- “The Muslim World League: Pioneering Global Islamic Outreach” by Ahmed Saeed
- “Islamic Jurisprudence and Its Modernization” by Dr. Khaled Abou El Fadl
- “Global Muslim Networks: Transnational Communal Ties” by Miriam Cooke
Farewell Thought
Reflecting on the mission of the World Council of Mosques inspires us to consider how unity and collaboration can help maintain and spread rich cultural and religious values across borders.
