Sabbath on the Red Sea

Today we had the privilege of visiting Al-Azhar Al-Shariff, the largest and most prestigious Islamic academic institution in the world. Our hosts graciously welcomed us and Islamic scholar, Prof. Dr. Nazir Mohamed Ayyad spoke with us about the work and mission of Al-Azhar Al-Shariff. He spoke particularly about the research arm of the institution, Al-Azhar Islamic Research Academy (AIRA). Dr. Ayyad spoke about AIRA’s particular concern with women’s issues and peaceful co-existence between Christians and Muslims in Egypt and around the world. One of AIRA’s main goals is to correct misconceptions about the Islamic faith which often come from terrorist groups. Dr. Ayyad spoke about the ways these groups, operating with their own agendas, misrepresent Islamic beliefs, particularly regarding violence and the treatment of women. The Quran encourages faithful Muslims to be at peace with others (even those of differing religions) and fight only when necessary for self- defense. Dr. Ayyad spoke about Islam as an open religion, which recognizes all people, male and female, of all races and cultures, as created by Almighty God.

UPSem students asked Dr. Ayyad how we, as future religious leaders, can support AIRA’s goals of promoting peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians and correcting misconceptions about the Islamic faith. He reminded us to gather our ideas about Islam from authentic sources, and not to promote images of the Islamic faith that are based on the actions of a few people. He told us that Islam treats people of other religions with the same respect as Muslims. We are grateful for the hospitality of our hosts and the opportunity for productive dialogue.

After leaving Al-Azhar Al-Shariff, we traveled by bus from Cairo to Ras Sidr in the Sinai Peninsula. En route we crossed under the Suez Canal by tunnel. Ras Sidr is on the Red Sea and we arrived in time to enjoy the beach for an hour or two before dinner. It was a wonderful experience of sabbath after a hectic week of travel and learning.

–Melissa White 
M.Div / M.A.C.E. 2024