Guardians of the creed

The main subject of this book is Sunni scholars (men of knowledge) in the Middle East in modern times, those who received their formal religious education and obtained their academic degrees from well-known religious schools and colleges, and also those who were known for wearing the cloak and turban. From an intellectual perspective, these scholars did not form a cohesive intellectual group but embraced diverse ideological trends ranging from strict conservatism to some degree of liberalism. Most of these scholars were closely linked to the state in terms of positions, salaries, and scientific institutions, working as teachers, preachers, judges, and administrators within the official religious establishment. Conversely, some of them did not belong to a scientific institution and adopted a more activist stance, with more severe positions, often clashing with "scholars" of authority and political powers over religious, social, and political issues. The presence of Sunni scholars in the moral, political, and social issues on the agenda of dialogue in the Arab world’s Islamic countries in the late twentieth century played a significant role in renewing interest in their status in modern times. The book before us reflects this interest and provides a comprehensive historical and contemporary picture of this matter, with a focus on the Middle East region within its urban and semi-tribal context.