- The 26th chapter of the Qur’ān, ash-Shu‘arā’ (The Poets), discusses the role of poets in society, and their commentary on current events of their time, including injustice and evil rulers
- Since 1948, Palestinians have faced displacement and denial of their identity.
- The 1917 Balfour Declaration by the British favored a Jewish homeland in Palestine, marginalizing the Arab majority as "existing non-Jewish communities."
- This had far reaching implications that we are seeing even today, with the conflict in the Middle East
- Despite this, around 140 countries now recognize a Palestinian state, with recent recognitions from Spain, Norway, and Ireland.
- There is optimism for broader international support, including potential shifts in U.S. policy regarding Palestinian UN membership.
- The Shi‘i community has survived various historical challenges as well, including persecution by different regimes.
- Notable recognition: Shaykh Maḥmūd Shaltūt of Al-Azhar University issued a 1959 fatwa accepting the Shi‘a Ja‘fari madhahb as a legitimate Islamic school of thought.
- Current mufti of Egypt, Shaykh Dr. Aḥmad aṭ-Ṭayyib, supports the legitimacy of the Shi‘a school and dismisses myths about differences in the Qur’an.
- They are also displaying acceptance of marriages into Shi'a families, and reject fatwas from other countries declaring Shias as heretics.
- The struggle for recognition and rights, both for Palestinians and the Shi‘i community, reflects a broader themes of justice and resilience in the face of oppression.

Friday Juma Khutba
May 31st, 2024

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Jaffari Community Centre (JCC Live)