RIYADH, 15 November — Crown Prince Abdullah, deputy premier and commander of the National Guard, yesterday received the country’s top Islamic scholars, including the grand mufti, and stated that Saudi Arabia will not compromise on matters related to religion and nation.
“I would like to assure you that there will not be any bargain or change in policy in matters related to religion and nation,” the crown prince told the scholars. He added that Riyadh will deal with international events carefully and judiciously, without adopting hasty decisions.
Prince Abdullah said he convened the meeting, which was also attended by Prince Sultan, second deputy premier and minister of defense and aviation, to brief the scholars on the contacts he had with US President George W. Bush and hear their views on current issues. He also urged the scholars to confront the anti-Islam smear campaign by highlighting Islamic teachings.
“Brothers, you know we are going through difficult days. You should be cautious and gently advise your brothers. Now you are a target for those against Islam,” said the crown prince.
He said Islamic scholars should be careful and responsible when they make statements.
“It is your duty to weigh each word before saying it, because you are responsible before God and the Muslim nation. We are currently in a situation which requires wisdom and awareness, because you are the example for your Muslim brothers.”
He continued: “I call on you to be God-fearing and not to be emotional or provoked by others. Now we must be cautious in every word we say,” he explained.
“I hope you appreciate your responsibility before God, your people and officials, so we do not land in an embarrassing situation... We are a moderate nation and there should be no exaggeration in religion,” he said in emphatic note.
In his concluding remark, the crown prince said Islam will remain strong whatever may happen in the world.
“Muslims will be strong as Allah will protect us from the evils perpetrated by those who pretend to be Muslims. I believe that they are not right. May Allah guide them to the right path,” he said.
Those who attended the reception included Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz ibn Abdullah Al-Sheikh, who is also president of the Council of Senior Islamic Scholars, Sheikh Saleh ibn Muhammad Al-Laheedan, chairman of the Supreme Judiciary Council, Justice Minister Abdullah Al-Sheikh, and Islamic Affairs Minister Saleh Al-Sheikh.
The meeting was also attended by the deputy chief and members of the court of grievances, the chief and deputy chief of the board of investigation and public prosecution, the deputy chairman of the Commission for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, members of the Council of Senior Islamic Scholars and members of the Supreme Judiciary Council and high-ranking officials.
