Within the framework of the “I International Forum of Islamic Civilization: Path of Peace, Tolerance, and Enlightenment,” held at the Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Sheikh Salih bin Abdullah bin Humayd, Grand Imam of the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, delivered a lecture.
At the beginning of his speech, he expressed his gratitude to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, for his attention to establishing the Center for Islamic Civilization, organizing the international forum, preserving Islamic and cultural heritage, and developing science and enlightenment.
“What I have seen and heard here has filled me with great satisfaction. The processes taking place in Uzbekistan today manifest the spirit of a true Renaissance,” said Sheikh Salih bin Abdullah bin Humayd.
He emphasized that the comprehensive reforms being implemented in the country are a practical expression of the Third Renaissance idea and serve to ensure the development of science, culture, and spirituality.
In his lecture, the Grand Imam of Makkah noted that Islamic civilization is manifested not only through historical monuments or ancient manuscripts, but as a way of life that harmonizes faith with knowledge, law with ethics, and freedom with responsibility.
According to him, Islamic civilization is formed on the basis of Tawhid (monotheism) and embodies universal values such as human dignity, justice, equality, and responsibility. This civilization is based not on the superiority of race, nation, or culture, but on the equality and mutual respect of all people.
During the lecture, the contributions of commentators (mufassirs), hadith scholars (muhaddiths), jurists (faqihs), engineers, astronomers, linguists, and historians to the development of Islamic civilization were specially acknowledged. It was noted that they considered the development of knowledge, the establishment of justice, and service to human interests as the primary goals of their work.
Sheikh Salih bin Abdullah bin Humayd cited justice, tolerance, and respect for human rights as the fundamental principles of Islamic civilization. He emphasized that Islam has created a just environment for the peaceful coexistence of representatives of different religions and cultures and has established humanitarian ideas as priority values.
The lecture specifically noted that the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) is the highest example of forgiveness, compassion, justice, and trustworthiness.
The Grand Imam of Makkah emphasized that in today's conditions of rapid development of science and technology, Muslim societies need moderation, wisdom, and evidence-based approaches more than ever. In his view, Islamic civilization supports beneficial progress and accepts science and innovations that serve human interests.
At the end of his speech, Sheikh Salih bin Abdullah bin Humayd stressed that educating the younger generation to be people with firm faith, high morality, and modern knowledge is one of the most important tasks of today. He also noted that the true progress of civilization is ensured by educated people, just leaders, trustworthy entrepreneurs, dedicated teachers, and honest labor, and wished the forum participants and the people of Uzbekistan peace, blessings, and success in their noble endeavors.
