Sharia Department Lecturer Delivers Workshop on the International Day for Preventing Violent Extremism at the College of Engineering
Within the framework of joint efforts among the colleges of University of Samarra to enhance the scientific and cultural competencies of students and faculty members, and to encourage interdisciplinary activities and collaborative projects, Dr. Hisham Hamid Ali, a lecturer from the Department of Sharia at the College of Islamic Sciences, delivered a scientific workshop at the College of Engineering entitled “The International Day for Preventing Violent Extremism Leading to Terrorism.”
Dr. Hamid defined extremism as exceeding the bounds of moderation in thought, behavior, and belief, describing it as a deviation from the (moderation) intended by God for humanity. He cited the Qur’anic verse: “Thus We have made you a justly balanced nation so that you may be witnesses over mankind and the Messenger a witness over you.” He clarified that moderation is not merely a midpoint between two extremes, but rather true balance that rejects both excess and negligence. He further noted that the Holy Qur’an denounced extremism long before it became a subject of condemnation by international institutions and human rights organizations.
The workshop also addressed what was described as Western extremism, examining how Western powers have, at various historical stages, exercised forms of domination over the Muslim world and redefined the concept of extremism in ways that serve their interests. Among the manifestations discussed were the marginalization of the luminous historical legacy of the nation and its replacement with alternative narratives that portray Western actors as “saviors,” while practicing political and cultural hegemony.
Moreover, the lecture highlighted that extremism is not merely an intellectual deviation, but a comprehensive form of corruption that threatens individuals, society, and the economy. Reference was made to the Qur’anic verse: “And when he turns away, he strives throughout the land to cause corruption therein and destroy crops and progeny; and Allah does not like corruption.” Extremism, it was emphasized, fosters division, undermines values, weakens productivity, and spreads fear and instability within societies.
