Prominent Islamic scholar and Director of Markaz, Sheikh Habeebullah Adam El-Ilory, has openly challenged long-held religious beliefs that he says no longer reflect the realities of modern Islamic societies, calling for a more progressive and informed interpretation of Islamic teachings.
In a recent sermon, Sheikh Ilory criticised the rigid views held by some clerics who declared modern conveniences and female participation in public life as haram (forbidden).
He referenced the controversial claim that using satellite dishes could prevent Muslims from entering paradise; a view he described as lacking proper understanding.
“Anybody who uses a satellite dish and hangs it on the roof of his house and dies will not enter paradise because he/she committed haram,” he said, repeating the position of some conservative scholars, before questioning its validity and the mindset behind it.
Sheikh Ilory also revisited the criticism he received in 2010 for supporting women’s involvement in politics, a position that was deemed controversial at the time.
“When I said it earlier in 2010 that women can be involved in politics, people criticised me.
“Not long after my statements in 2010, Saudi Arabia allowed women to vote and participate in politics,” he recalled.
He pointed to recent developments in Saudi Arabia, including the training of women in the military and changes in dress codes, as evidence of evolving Islamic norms.
“Presently they’re training women in the military in Saudi Arabia and they now wear trousers,” he said.
The scholar took aim at clerics who still cling to outdated doctrines, accusing them of misrepresenting Islamic texts
“One Alfa who criticised this evolvement was quoting a part of the scripture I believe he has no understanding of,” he said.