Sheik-ul-Islam calls not to distort essence of Islam

/By AzerNews/

By Aynur Karimova

Chairman of the Caucasian Muslims Office Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade has expressed concern over the distortion of the essence of Islam.

Speaking at the 8th International Scientific-Practical Conference on Islamic ideals and values in the context of education of the 21st century in Ufa, Russia on October 23, Pashazade said today, Muslims are being introduced to the world as extremists, fundamentalists.

"We strongly condemn the Islamic State and similar terrorist organizations, as well as all the other forces that are trying to turn Islam into a tool for the realization of their goals," he noted. "I have definitely to say that the Islamic State is a structure established by the enemies of Islam with an aim of crushing the Muslim world from inside, destroying the historical heritage of the Middle East and Islamic culture.

Today, in some European countries, we are witnessing the inhumane treatment of migrants who were forced to leave their homeland as a result of gross interference in the internal affairs of their countries."

The CMO Chairman also expressed confidence that extremism, radicalism can be countered only by joint efforts of states, political figures, and religious organizations.

Azerbaijan, a predominantly Muslim country enjoys ancient traditions of tolerance and an environment of mutual trust and respect among various religious confessions exists in the country.

Muslims, Christians and Jews continue to live in peace, security and dignity in Azerbaijan, and this can be a great example and model for the rest of the world.

Tolerance in Azerbaijan is more than just a word, it is a way of life. A model to follow, Azerbaijan has successfully managed to marry tradition and modernity, while promoting the nation's religious diversity.

If the modernization of Azerbaijan has been the main point of focus over the years, the government has been careful to reinforce the country's inherent moral values – tolerance and solidarity – to use as a foundation for a modern and fair society.

The government keeps tolerance as a constant focal point. Thanks to the wise policy pursued by the government, today, friendly ties exist among representatives of different religions and faiths in Azerbaijan.