UK Grants First Ever Official Coat of Arms Featuring Masjid-E-Nabavi
Islamabad: Prominent scholars and intellectuals on Thursday welcomed the decision of the United Kingdom College of Arms for granting the first-ever official “Coat of Arms” featuring the Green Dome of the mosque of the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) in Madina.
The Arms have been granted to Lord Aamer Sarfraz, a British-Pakistani Member of the House of Lords.
The British government has set an example of religious tolerance at the official level, which will strengthen religious tolerance in the world, renowned scholar and Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), Dr Qibla Ayaz said.
The decision is an indication that the United Kingdom considers Muslims living in the country to be its integral part and Islam a well-established religion in British society. Dr Ayaz said that the role of Lord Aamer Sarfraz in ushering religious tolerance and religion and culture closer in the UK would remain a historical development for time to come.
In this regard, the Ulema community of Pakistan congratulates Lord Aamer Sarfraz, he said. He added the step showed that British society has respect for other religions.
Chairman of Interfaith Harmony and Peace Committee, Syed Izhar Shah Bukhari, said that this step of the British government would give a boost to religious and cultural tolerance in the world. It shows that British society and culture openly recognize other religions and cultures. Besides, it is a welcome decision for the Pakistani expatriates living in the United Kingdom, he said.
The shield featuring the Green Dome has two heraldic supporters - a Lion representing the UK, and a Snow Leopard representing Pakistan. The Coat of Arms also features a Coronet of a Baron. The Crest at the top of the Arms has the Himalayan Mountains, a nod to Islamabad, where Lord Sarfraz grew up.
Finally, at the top, is a Crescent, the symbol of Islam. The Coat of Arms was designed by the Garter Principal King of Arms, the Senior King of Arms of England. The College of Arms was established by a Royal Charter in 1484 and is part of the Royal Household.
Commenting on the grant, Lord Sarfraz said, “It is a great honor to have the Mosque of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) featured prominently on a Coat of Arms. I would like to thank the Garter and the College of Arms for their excellent work," he commented.
