Language
English
English
Degree
M.A.
Select type of work
CIS Program Old
CIS publications
No
CIS Thesis
Yes
Student Name
Ibrahim, Ezzat Roubi M.
Year of Graduation
2018
QF Thematic Areas
CIS Program
Abstract
| Al-Azhar's relation to the modern Egyptian state has been the object of many studies and controversies. This thesis contributes to this debate by focusing on the political roles of al-Azhar during the particularly turbulent times of the Egyptian uprisings (2011-2014). It provides a chronological account of the political debates and positions taking place within al-Azhar from the beginning of the demonstrations in 2011 until the May 2014 presidential elections using the weekly newspaper Ṣawt al-Azhar as a case study. As the most important religious institution in Egypt, al-Azhar occupies a unique place in the country's social and political life. Al-Azhar thus found itself implicated from the very beginning in the revolutionary movement that swept through Egypt. Ṣawt al-Azhar, portrayed as the largest weekly newspaper in the country by its editors, offers a detailed perspective on Al-Azhar's scholars and their positions during this time. As the official mouthpiece of Al-Azhar's leadership, the newspaper does not represent the diversity of voices found within the religious institution. Nevertheless, it provides a useful platform for studying the range of political roles adopted by al-Azhar under Ahmad al-Ṭayyib during this period. The thesis shows how these political roles were adapted and transformed following the overthrow of Mubarak, the transition under the Supreme Council of Armed Forces, the election of Muhammad Morsi, and the coup led by General al-Sisi. |