Egypt: Islamic cleric detained after asserting that ancient Egyptian relics conflict with Islamic teachings

Image: Jihad Watch

Egyptian Salafi preacher Mustafa al-Adawy has ignited a wave of controversy following his remarks about the newly inaugurated Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo. During the museum’s much-anticipated opening, al-Adawy called upon Muslims to refrain from glorifying or taking pride in ancient Egyptian civilization, warning that such admiration could lead to fitna—a spiritual and moral temptation that distracts believers from the path of Islam.

In a sermon that quickly circulated across social media platforms, al-Adawy expressed apprehension that Egyptians might become enchanted by the grandeur of the past, particularly by the monumental statues of Pharaohs, the golden idols, and the mummified remains showcased in the museum. “I fear that Egyptians will be captivated by the statue of Ramses and the idols, statues, and treasures of the Pharaohs, along with the methods of mummification housed in the museum,” he said.

He urged visitors to approach these exhibits not with pride or reverence, but with a spirit of reflection and humility, drawing upon the Quranic injunction: “Say, ‘Travel through the land and observe how the end of the criminals was.’” To al-Adawy, the ruins of ancient Egypt should serve as a moral reminder of the downfall of those who defied divine guidance, rather than as symbols of national glory.

Going further, al-Adawy condemned Pharaoh as a “cursed tyrant who claimed divinity,” emphasizing that it is every Muslim’s duty to reject both his arrogance and false claims of godhood. He declared, “We bear witness to Allah that we renounce him, his followers, and his corrupt, tainted beliefs.”

The preacher concluded by calling upon Muslims to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum with the intention of drawing spiritual lessons, not to romanticize or celebrate a civilization that, according to Islamic belief, was destroyed for its hubris and disobedience to God. His comments have since sparked a national debate over the tension between religious doctrine and cultural heritage, reflecting the ongoing struggle in Egypt between faith-based conservatism and historical pride.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)