Al-Mustaqbal University hosts a scientific symposium on verses on fasting from a contemporary perspective.
In the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, the Department of Qur'anic Sciences at the College of Education at AL-MUSTAQBAL University organized a scientific symposium entitled "Verses on Fasting: A New Reading." Presented by Dr. Saeed Murad Al-Kraiti, the symposium highlighted new concepts in understanding this religious obligation. The symposium addressed the interpretation of some Qur'anic terms in Surat Al-Baqarah, such as the meaning of "witness," which was interpreted as meaning making a decision and will, not merely reaching puberty, and "they can bear it" as meaning the ability to fast, not the inability to do so.
The symposium's topics:
1. Rereading the verses on fasting.
A new analysis of the concepts of "witness" and "they can bear it" in light of the Qur'anic context.
2. The choice between fasting and expiation.
Highlighting the ease of Sharia and the spirit of choice in worship.
Emphasizing that choice is not merely a license, but rather a call to compete in goodness.
3. The stations of lovers in servitude.
Classifying worship into three levels:
Worship of merchants (worship seeking reward).
Worship of slaves (worship for fear of punishment).
Worship of free people (worship out of love for God and by choice).
Emphasizing that Islam promotes freedom of choice in worship.
The symposium in the context of sustainability goals
This symposium aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education. It contributes to promoting critical thinking and rereading religious texts with a profound modern understanding, supporting the dissemination of sustainable knowledge based on scientific research and reflection. It also promotes the values of tolerance and moderation, which are also linked to Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), by disseminating a balanced and enlightened understanding of religious teachings.
The symposium concluded with a fruitful interaction between the university professors and religious scholars. The discussions enriched the vision of the obligation of fasting, combining religious depth with contemporary thought. The session emphasized the importance of rereading Quranic texts according to the objectives of Sharia and its tolerant spirit, enhancing the role of science and education in building sustainable religious awareness. This scientific initiative comes within the framework of AL-MUSTAQBAL University's commitment to disseminating renewable knowledge and supporting sound intellectual endeavors, contributing to achieving sustainable development goals, particularly in the field of quality education and promoting the values of moderation and balance.
AL-MUSTAQBAL University ranks first among private universities.