16 of 20

No

Write now Article Tools

Modern fatwas are not fueling Islamic extremism. It is lamentable that one should even debate extremism in regard to fatwas; for they should provide guidance. However, it is the people that look to the ulema in guiding them. Because of this it can be easy to confuse fatwas as sources of extremism. These edicts and proclamations have great influence on the umma. Though, they are edicts proclaimed by men for the umma; their nature is not responsible for the fueling of extremism.

It cannot be denied that fatwas have been inherently violent at some points in history. However, they must not be confused with the sources or grievances that spawn Islamic extremism. The fuel can be found behind the fatwas and in the execution of their purposes.

That is to say, corrupted fatwas are a product of corrupt men attempting to usurp Islam; fatwas are not the root of extremism. It is the mentality of legitimizing them that is. There are real grievances that gain legitimacy through the proclamation of a fatwa. A cleric has biases in regard to ideologies and current affairs. This is part of their human nature. They have much power; because they are listened to. The control and power exerted by clerics is being used as a means to legitimize violence by way of fatwas. Yet, the real motives for mobilizing extremism are more profound.

The constant ravaging of the Middle Eastern resources and its people is evident. It is that isolation and exploitation that is the root of the current wave of extremism. By being maintained on the global periphery, many believe that there is no way out of these exigent circumstances... poverty, hunger, and the perpetual cycle of grief and war. The real tragedy is the perpetual subjugation and disenfranchisement of the Middle East in the global arena. It is that disengagement which is causing the desperation that fuels extremism. This desperation is expressed in many forms- extremism is one of them.

The fatwas are not fueling extremism. They are, however, providing legitimacy to action spawned by desperation. It is the grievances that should be addressed in order to halt this ever growing usurpation of Islam. Fatwas should not be blamed, when it is the human hand that carries its purpose.

Learn more about this author, Sayyid Khaled.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Are modern Muslim fatwas (religious orders issued by leaders of Islam) fueling Islamic extremism? ?
We want to hear your view. Write now!