Prominent Religious Leaders and Scholars Embrace “Islamic Intellectual Diversity Encyclopedia”

Islamic scholars and thinkers from various Islamic sects and schools of thought have endorsed the “Encyclopedia of Islamic Intellectual Harmony” and approved the strategic and executive plan outlined in the “Building Bridges between Islamic Sects” document. This decision was made at the conclusion of the second edition of the international conference “Building Bridges between Islamic Sects,” held on March 6-7, 2025, in Mecca under the auspices of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The conference saw wide participation from representatives of Islamic sects and schools from over 90 countries.

During the conference, high-ranking scholars read out the final statement, which was released on Saturday morning. Notable figures present included the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League and President of the Muslim Scholars’ Council, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa; a member of the Supreme Council of Leadership Experts in the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Sheikh Ahmed Muballighi; Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid, the Imam and preacher of the Grand Mosque; Sheikh Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, the Secretary General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy, Dr. Mustafa Qattan, and others.

The participants inaugurated the “Encyclopedia of Islamic Intellectual Harmony,” a comprehensive work spanning about 1,800 pages that serves as a roadmap for fostering relations between Islamic sects based on common Islamic principles. The encyclopedia was lauded for its exceptional content and objectives, representing a significant addition to the Islamic library.

In the final statement, the conference attendees reaffirmed their commitment to unity among Muslims and the promotion of solidarity. They announced the adoption of the strategic and executive plan outlined in the document “Building Bridges between Islamic Sects.” The conference also decided to rename the “Coordinating Committee” in the document to the “Coordination Council between Islamic Sects” and to formalize the council’s structure and leadership. The council will work towards implementing the document’s provisions in Muslim societies and supervise the programs and initiatives derived from it.

Additionally, the participants expressed their unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s rights, calling for recognition of their legitimate rights and the establishment of an independent state with its capital in Jerusalem. They also announced the creation of an annual award to honor individuals and institutions contributing to the objectives of the document “Building Bridges between Islamic Sects.”

The conference attendees emphasized the importance of respecting Islamic diversity and handling differences within the framework of Islamic principles, discouraging sectarianism and conflict. They warned against the negative impact of divisive media narratives that incite discord, emphasizing the need for unity and mutual respect.

In conclusion, the participants commended the efforts of the Muslim World League in reshaping inter-sectarian relations based on solid Islamic principles. They underscored the importance of translating their ambitious document into practical initiatives for a more integrated and cohesive Islamic community. The conference highlighted the need for continued collaboration and strategic partnerships to strengthen Islamic unity and solidarity.

The participants expressed gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support of Islam and Muslims, acknowledging the Kingdom’s leading role in uniting Muslims and fostering solidarity within the Islamic community.