Obey rulers to ensure stability, says Grand Mufti

[bamalli]

Obey rulers to ensure stability, says Grand Mufti

MADINAH: Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh on Tuesday emphasized the
need to obey rulers, saying it would strengthen unity and stability and
ensure protection for people's honor and properties.

Delivering a lecture at the girls' section of Taibah University in Madinah,
he said: "Islam has honored women and respected her as mother, daughter and
sister, and gave her rights."

He continued: "Islam also protected her honor as she is not allowed to
travel alone and mix with men. She is also given the right to own her wealth
and prevented men from causing any harm to her."

The mufti spoke against anti-government protests. "Obeying rulers brings it
fruits in terms of unity of people and positions, frightening the enemy," he
said, and urged Muslims to abide by the Qur'an and Sunnah.

He cautioned Saudis against following the examples of other societies,
adding that it would create disturbances, discord and dissension in the
country.

He said demonstrations and protests would not bring any good, rather it
would cause destruction to properties and violation of honor. "Islam has
nothing to do with such activities," he added.

The mufti advised girl students to fear God in their public and private
affairs, perform prayers regularly and learn the Qur'an. He praised the
university for holding such lecture programs to enlighten its students.

Sheikh Saleh Al-Fowzan, a member of the Council of Senior Islamic Scholars,
also gave a lecture "On the stand of Muslims toward sedition and terrorism."
He urged the girls students to learn more about Islam and its teachings in
the light of the Qur'an and Sunnah.

Dr. Jawaher Makhdoum, Dr. Adari Al-Baeejan, and Dr. Reem Al-Harbi,
undersecretary for the deanship for student affairs, also spoke during the
seminar highlighting the security and peace that prevail in the Kingdom.