University of Tokyo Hosts the 18th Symposium on the Prophet Muhammad

 Last week, the Japanese capital Tokyo hosted the 18th edition of the “Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)” symposium, held at Yayoi Hall at the University of Tokyo. The event was attended by nearly 300 Japanese participants from across the country, including presidents of Japanese Islamic associations, several Japanese Muslim imams, and individuals interested in Islamic affairs in Japan.

The Key Speakers and Central Theme

The symposium featured lectures by Dr. Yasir Qadhi, a Pakistani American Islamic scholar well-known across Muslim communities in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, as well as Sheikh Saeed Sato, Director of the Islamic Cultural Outreach Center at Shizuoka Mosque and Vice President of the Japan Islamic Association.

This year’s conference focused on the ideal conduct of Muslims residing in Japan and examined the character and wisdom of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in light of the exclusionary policies currently affecting Muslims in Japan.

The symposium began with a recitation of the Qur’an, followed by a session led by Sheikh Saeed Sato, whose paper was titled: “How Muslims Residing in Japan Should Conduct Themselves—Through the Blessings and Wisdom of the Prophet in Facing Modern Exclusionary Movements.”

 Challenges Facing Muslims in Japan

Attendees discussed the challenges facing the Muslim community in Japan, including restrictions on foreign Muslims and limitations on their religious activities—developments that are relatively new in a society historically known for its tolerance, kindness, and acceptance of others. All agreed that these are temporary circumstances that will, God willing, soon pass.

  Recommendations of Sheikh Sato

In his address, Sheikh Saeed Sato reviewed the current situation of Muslims in Japanese society, highlighting recent developments aimed at restricting Muslim residents and criticizing their religious practices. He urged Muslims to respond with wisdom and patience, to emulate the Prophet (PBUH), and to let his noble character and wisdom guide them through this difficult period toward a secure future for Islam in Japan.

  Dr. Yasir Qadhi  

In the second session, Dr. Yasir Qadhi presented a paper titled: “Navigating Contemporary Challenges Through the Prophetic Biography.” He examined the trials facing Muslim communities in both East and West, emphasizing the need for wisdom, awareness, and lessons drawn from the Prophet’s life in confronting such challenges.

Dr. Qadhi noted that Japan’s current climate mirrors similar experiences in Western societies, and encouraged Japanese Muslims to learn from their counterparts abroad. He stressed that this is a transitional phase that will likely pass.

He emphasized the importance of showcasing Islam’s ethical values in interactions with non-Muslim Japanese citizens—particularly the principles of truth, justice, brotherhood, and good neighborliness—as a means to reduce tensions and foster understanding.

Rising Hostility

Commenting on the broader context, Dr. Sayyid Shararah, an Arab academic residing in Japan, stated that hostile voices targeting Muslims have only emerged in recent months, and their motivations remain unclear. He described the current wave of xenophobia and racism—whether based on color, ethnicity, or religion—as a new phenomenon in Japanese society.

He added that these voices tend to exaggerate isolated incidents, especially those involving asylum seekers who violate residency conditions. Nevertheless, he affirmed that there remains constructive space for engagement—not just for resistance, but for strengthening society against such divisive rhetoric, which he believes does not reflect the broader Japanese public.

What Advice Did Dr. Shararah Offer?

Dr. Shararah concluded with advice to Muslims in Japan:
“Universal compassion is an act of worship, not just human empathy. Values like honesty, trustworthiness, and good neighborliness are rewarded by God and positively shape how Japanese society views Muslims. For Muslims, the path is clearer and the motivation stronger. We must fulfill our duties to ourselves, our families, and the society we live in, as commanded by our Lord and exemplified by our Prophet (PBUH).”

On the sidelines of the symposium, a halal food exhibition was held, where guests sampled and praised a variety of Islamic dishes. Another exhibition showcased Islamic culture, promoting Islamic values and etiquette while encouraging dialogue with Japanese societal norms.

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