Relations between Sufism and Al-Azhar with Wahhabism in Egypt (Case Study: Abdul Halim Mahmood's Approach)

The developing of Wahhabism in Islamic domains, especially in Egypt, has been one of the most important concerns of Al-Azhar scholars since the past. The Sheikh of al-Azhar has been following different approaches to counteracting Wahhabism based on time constraints. Meanwhile, the role of Abdul Halim Mahmoud is very significant. In contrast to Wahhabism, his approach was positive so focused on strengthening the Sufism as a rival of the Salafism. Abdul Halim Mahmoud tried to restrain Wahhabism through promoting Sufism by showing the great Sufis as a model in a All-understandable and attractive format. In addition, the publication of Sufi teachings in various ways, especially in the era known as Imam Akbar al-Azhar, Played an important role in expanding and deepening the spiritual, moral and flexible culture of Sufism and minimizing the impact of Wahhabism, its harsh approach, and its takfiri culture. The facts that caused the attraction of the people to the culture and customs of Sufism, such as pilgrimage, recourse and celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the Guardians of God, Awliya, which was the opposite of Wahhabism, increased so the culture of society which secured it from the danger of Wahhabism.