Lahore, Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr. Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri, the founder of Minhaj-ul-Quran International, addressed a large gathering at the Itikaf City, emphasizing the harm unqualified religious scholars are causing to society. He highlighted the issue of individuals with half-baked religious knowledge proclaiming themselves as scholars and issuing unfounded religious decrees, leading to social anarchy. During his speech, Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri called on the youth and students of religion to seek a true understanding of their faith that aligns with both the historical context and the demands of the modern world.
According to Minhaj-Ul-Quran International, Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri, in his address to thousands of participants in Lahore, stressed the importance of education and experience in religious scholarship. He warned against the trend of individuals without formal religious education claiming religious authority, which misleads the youth and distorts the image of religion. Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri urged the community to question the credentials of anyone claiming religious expertise and to adhere to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.
Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri also drew parallels between the fields of religion and medicine to illustrate the absurdity of unqualified individuals attempting to interpret religious matters without proper education. He lamented the prevalence of such individuals in religious discourse and emphasized the need for competent religious guidance in today’s technically and scientifically advanced society.
The event also recognized the contributions of notable figures and members of Minhaj-ul-Quran International, with special invitations and acknowledgments extended to them. Among the attendees were former Advocate General Punjab Ahmad Owais, lawyer Azhar Siddique Advocate, and British social leader Adeel Chaudhry, highlighting the diverse support for Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri’s message.
Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri’s speech at the City of Spiritual Retreat—a place designed for both education and spiritual growth—underscored his commitment to protecting the faith and safety of believers from the intellectual and moral challenges of the modern era.