GAZA – Sheikh Mishary bin Rashid Alafasy, a globally recognized Qari (Quran reciter) and imam from Kuwait, completed intensive Quranic studies at the College of the Holy Qur’an at the Islamic University of Madinah in Saudi Arabia. His journey involved memorizing the entire Quran in two years, from 1992 to 1994, followed by advanced studies in Quranic recitation. Appreciated by many, his recitations reflect his dedication and mastery.

Alafasy frequently leads Tarawih prayers during Ramadan at Kuwait’s Grand Mosque and frequently enough travels to the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries for similar engagements. His recitations are broadcast and enjoyed by millions worldwide. However, beyond his religious role, Alafasy has waded into political discussions, generating controversy.

Sheikh Mishary: A Profile

Mishary bin Rashid Alafasy’s influence extends far beyond Kuwait. His recitations are readily available online, and many Muslims worldwide use them for memorization and reflection. His voice is synonymous with the holy month of Ramadan for many.However, his political opinions have sometimes overshadowed his religious contributions. For instance,his remarks about Hamas and the Egyptian government have drawn criticism and support alike.

His comments, particularly those made in 2015, ignited discussions about the role of religious figures in politics and the complexities of Middle eastern geopolitical dynamics. Understanding the context of these statements requires familiarity with the political tensions within the region and the diverse opinions held by individuals and groups.

Criticism of Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood

Sheikh Mishary Alafasy’s criticism of Hamas, particularly for its support of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, sparked intense reactions. following his criticism, members of the Muslim Brotherhood responded sharply on social media.

According to reports from Al Arabiya, Mohamed Al-Awady, allegedly a member of the Muslim Brotherhood, posted inflammatory tweets that seemed to incite physical attacks against Alafasy.This incident underscores the charged atmosphere surrounding discussions about political allegiances in the region.

Alafasy responded to the criticism with his own statements: “Because the Muslim Brotherhood failed … and they all denied their loyalty to him.” He further accused Al-Awady of hiding his affiliation with the muslim brotherhood and instigating conflict behind the scenes.”Mohamed Al-Awady hid behind his retweet as he was afraid of confrontation, just like he was afraid to admit that he was a member of the Muslim Brotherhood,” Afasy stated.

Alafasy elaborated on his experiences with Al-Awady during the Egyptian political unrest, saying, “During the events in Egypt, he (Awady) used to call me and said: We beg you to stop this war … then I realize that he is the person who runs the war behind the scenes using the provocative letters revealed.”

He further expressed his views on the Muslim brotherhood, stating, “Thank God who has revealed the traitors of the Muslim Brotherhood, as they are just stupid and naive optimists who only know about good and not evil. Though, we ask God to destroy the oppressors, and oust us as a nation with the book of God.”

This series of exchanges highlights the deep divisions within the Middle East and the passionate opinions held by individuals on different sides of the political spectrum. For American readers, this is akin to the intensely polarized political climate seen during presidential elections, where opinions on policy and leadership can lead to heated debates.

Support for Abdel Fattah El-Sisi

alafasy sparked additional controversy in 2015 during a telephone interview with the Egyptian satellite channel CBC. During the interview, he appeared to voice support for Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his 2013 military coup. This endorsement ignited debates about the role of religious figures in endorsing political leaders.

Alafasy stated, “Such a situation requires a strong leader, which is heard and obeyed by the people, as has been determined by the scholars. And if you do not listen or obey, violence will be used against you.” This statement was interpreted by many as a justification for authoritarian rule, causing further division.

For U.S. readers, this situation might draw parallels to instances where religious leaders endorse political candidates, which often leads to discussions about the separation of church and state. However, the Middle Eastern context involves different legal and cultural norms that influence the intersection of religion and politics.

Recent Developments and Implications

The views expressed by alafasy continue to be a topic of discussion in the Middle East, particularly as political dynamics evolve. His comments reflect a broader debate within the region about the role of religion in politics and the legitimacy of different political factions. Understanding these viewpoints is crucial for comprehending the complexities of the region.

The rise and fall of the Muslim Brotherhood, the ongoing conflicts in Syria and other countries, and the shifting alliances between nations all contribute to a volatile political landscape. Religious leaders like Alafasy frequently enough find themselves at the center of these debates, with their opinions carrying notable weight among their followers.

The implications of these views are far-reaching, influencing public opinion and potentially affecting political outcomes. The situation underscores the need for critical analysis and contextual understanding when assessing the statements made by religious figures on political matters.