Al-Azhar Scholar: The Prophet Remains a Model for All Times
Addressing the IQNA-organized international webinar titled “15 Centuries of Following the Messenger of Light and Mercy” on Tuesday, Al-Qawi urged Muslims to revisit the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet’s example at a time he described as one of trials for the Islamic nation. He said the commemoration comes while the Muslim world suffers “wounds and pains” without sufficient support or relief.
Raising a pointed question, he asked: “If today the Prophet of Islam were among us, what would we say? What would we tell him if he asked us what we have done to support religion and to serve the oppressed?”
Al-Qawi described the Prophet Muhammad as a complete model for all times and places. “God placed in the Prophet everything an ummah needs—he was a devout servant of God, a wise politician, a unique leader in governance, and a commander in jihad,” he said, quoting the Quran verse: “Indeed, in the Messenger of God you have an excellent example…” (Quran 33:21).
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He criticized a reduction of the Prophet’s legacy to superficial aspects of appearance and ritual. “Many present the Prophet only as an ascetic and confine his image to outward practices such as dress or customs. They ignore his role in establishing governance, justice, and unity,” he said.
Al-Qawi also lamented divisions within the Muslim community and the role of some rulers and clerics, whom he accused of betrayal and misuse of religion. He warned against confining the Prophet’s message to ceremonial observance, stressing instead the need to implement his example in governance, social justice, and collective solidarity.
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Citing Quranic verses calling for unity, he urged Muslims to “hold firmly to the rope of God” and reject discord. He added that the Prophet’s model should inspire believers to strengthen their communities and resist oppression.
He concluded by praying for Muslims to live by the Prophet’s guidance in all aspects of life. “We are honored to defend his message, but this cannot be achieved unless we follow his deeds and words beyond the surface, and put them into action,” he said.
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