Religious scholars and community leaders at a book launch in Islamabad called for a united national effort against extremism, terrorism, sectarian violence and intolerance, praising Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri’s scholarly work as a guiding intellectual resource. Five new volumes by Dr Qadri on Quranic exegesis, principles of tafsir, Hadith and Seerah were unveiled at the event, which organizers said should steer Pakistan’s religious and social discourse toward the message of Rahmat-ul-lil-Alameen (Mercy to the Worlds).
The ceremony, hosted by Nizam-ul-Madaris Pakistan at the Pak-China Friendship Centre, showcased the newly published books as timely contributions to Islamic scholarship. Speakers emphasized that Dr Qadri’s writings expose extremist ideologies and offer a framework for countering the intellectual roots of terrorism and sectarianism.
Khurshid Nadeem, Chairman of the Rehmat-ul-lil-Alameen Authority, highlighted the role of women in religious scholarship and credited Dr Qadri with setting a practical example by empowering women to pursue religious learning alongside men. He praised Dr Qadri’s combination of knowledge, wisdom, eloquence and leadership as ensuring the longevity of his contributions.
Dr Hassan Mohiuddin Qadri said the books address vital contemporary issues and strengthen calls for unity and harmony amid intellectual discord. Canadian scholar Sheikh Ahmad Badran described the publications as offering practical solutions to current challenges facing Islam, and noted Pakistanis’ strong devotion to the Prophet, hospitality and love of knowledge.
Minhaj-ul-Quran Secretary General Khurram Nawaz Gandapur observed that the Pak-China Friendship Centre has become a symbol of interfaith harmony, sectarian reconciliation and knowledge-based dialogue. Justice Dr Syed Muhammad Anwar of the Federal Shariat Court commended the works as models of rigorous research, saying they demonstrate that “the fountains of knowledge have not dried up.”
Former International Islamic University vice president Dr Sajid-ur-Rehman argued that Dr Qadri’s intellectual output has influenced both Eastern and Western academic circles and reflects the legacy of early Islamic scholarship, making him deserving of the honorific “Shaykh-ul-Islam.” Maj Gen (R) Syed Azhar Abbas, representing the Directorate General of Religious Education, noted Dr Qadri’s vocal stance against terrorism and extremism at critical moments.
Specialists speaking on specific fields praised the breadth of the scholarship. Dr Abu Bakar, chairman of Islamic Banking and Finance at IIUI, said Dr Qadri has articulated a comprehensive and practical concept of Islamic banking. Pir Syed Ali Raza Bukhari of Basahan Sharif, AJK, described the publications as a revolutionary blend of scholarly discourse and spiritual practice that resonates with young people.
Other attendees underscored the wider social and international impact of Dr Qadri’s work. Abdullah Gul, chairman of Tehreek-e-Naujawanan Pakistan, cited acknowledgments from foreign diplomats about the positive effect of these works on Muslim communities abroad. Islamabad Bar President Muhammad Naeem Ali Gujar highlighted Minhaj-ul-Quran’s initiative in the UK to provide free funeral services as a significant humanitarian contribution. Dr Aftab of the Islamic University said the books meet international academic standards, reflect moderation and tolerance, and present a strong voice against takfirism.
The event included remarks from additional speakers such as Pir Syed Ajmal Shah, Dr Habib-ur-Rehman Asim and Dr Mohsin Zia Qazi, and concluded with a prayer led by Sahibzada Ali Junaid ul Haq Gilani of Golra Sharif.
