Egyptian Islamic scholar Khaled El Gendy, a member of Egypt’s Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, warned that Islamophobia has become one of the most serious challenges facing Islamic outreach today. He said the phenomenon is driven by coordinated efforts aimed at portraying Islam and Muslims in a negative light.
Islamophobia Is a Modern Challenge
Speaking during his television program La’allahom Yafqahoon on DMC TV, El Gendy stated that Islamophobia is not a spontaneous social phenomenon but rather the result of organized campaigns that seek to associate Islam with violence and terrorism while presenting Muslims as enemies of civilization and humanitarian values.
He stressed that addressing these misconceptions requires a proper understanding of Islamic history and the historical context of controversial issues.
Claims of Organized Campaigns
Efforts to Distort the Image of Islam
El Gendy argued that groups affiliated with Orientalist and missionary schools, along with other organizations, have promoted misleading narratives about Islam for years.
According to him, these campaigns have contributed to spreading inaccurate perceptions among some young people, especially in the absence of sufficient cultural and educational awareness.
Defending the Companions of the Prophet
Historical Context Matters
El Gendy rejected what he described as attempts by some writers and self-described modernists to portray the Prophet Muhammad’s companions as violent figures motivated solely by conquest and wealth.
He emphasized that historical events should be understood within the context of their own era rather than judged exclusively by modern standards.
Islam’s Position on Slavery
Islam Did Not Create Slavery
Addressing one of the most frequently discussed historical issues, El Gendy explained that slavery existed across civilizations long before the advent of Islam.
He stated that Islam introduced a gradual approach aimed at reducing slavery by limiting its sources and encouraging emancipation through various religious teachings.
Protecting Human Dignity
El Gendy added that Islam established ethical rules governing the treatment of enslaved people, emphasizing kindness, fair treatment, proper food and clothing, and prohibiting abusive behavior.
He also noted that Prophet Muhammad encouraged the use of respectful language when referring to enslaved individuals, replacing degrading expressions with more dignified terms.
Promoting Awareness to Counter Islamophobia
El Gendy concluded that combating Islamophobia requires education, dialogue, and presenting Islam's teachings accurately. He emphasized the importance of understanding Islamic history in its proper context to address misconceptions and promote informed discussions.
What is Islamophobia?
Islamophobia refers to prejudice, fear, or discrimination directed toward Islam or Muslims.
What did Khaled El Gendy say about Islamophobia?
He described it as one of the greatest challenges facing Islam today and said it is fueled by organized campaigns that spread misconceptions about Islam.
What was his view on slavery in Islam?
He said Islam did not introduce slavery but instead implemented gradual measures to reduce it while promoting the humane treatment and emancipation of enslaved people.
Why did he defend the Prophet’s companions?
He argued that historical events should be evaluated within their historical context and rejected portrayals that, in his view, distort the role of the companions.
How can Islamophobia be addressed?
According to El Gendy, it can be addressed through education, historical understanding, and presenting accurate information about Islam and its teachings.
