Textbooks in Saudi Arabia have undergone significant revisions, reflecting a shift in the approach to education concerning governance and societal harmony. These changes underscore an effort by the Saudi leadership, particularly King Salman bin Abdulaziz and his son, Mohammed bin Salman, to promote stability and combat extremism. The curriculum now emphasizes obedience to authority while condemning extremist groups like Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, framing Islamist extremism as a major threat to the fabric of national stability.
Revisions in Educational Materials
A notable alteration in the curriculum can be seen in the adjustments made to language and themes. For instance, an 11th-grade Arabic language exercise has removed the statement, “The Muslims will never give up Jerusalem,” a phrase that could perpetuate conflict-oriented mindset among students. This revision is part of a broader effort to reform educational content and encourage a more peaceful worldview among young learners.
Moreover, teachings surrounding jihad and armed conflict are shifting away from glorifying violence. The curriculum now places a strong focus on state authority and civilian protection rather than depicting conflict in a heroic light. This change marks a significant transition in how students interpret texts and principles related to war and peace.
Ethics in Warfare
An important aspect of this transformation is evident in the Islamic Studies textbooks targeted at 9th graders. These texts explicitly state the prohibition of harming noncombatants during armed conflict, a departure from previous editions that permitted exceptions under certain conditions. This guideline aims to instill a sense of moral responsibility in students, stressing the importance of humanitarian considerations even in times of war.
Additionally, textbooks are now being designed to showcase positive models of interfaith relations. For example, they highlight the kindness of the Prophet Muhammad towards non-Muslims and emphasize his peace agreements with Jews and Christians, promoting a message of coexistence that is crucial for fostering mutual respect and understanding among different faiths.
Promoting Tolerance
Further contributing to this narrative of acceptance, a 7th-grade textbook has eliminated derogatory references to adherents of other religions, such as calling Jews, Christians, and Zoroastrians “maimed animals.” Such changes indicate a conscious effort to cultivate tolerance and respect for diversity among the youth, thereby preparing them for a more interconnected world.
Marcus Sheff, CEO of IMPACT-se, has remarked on the positive shift in the Saudi curriculum, noting that it has never been more inclusive or peace-oriented. The trajectory towards a more positive portrayal of religious minorities and the promotion of coexistence is not merely an academic shift; it reflects a commitment to fostering greater understanding and stability in a region often marked by conflict.
As these educational reforms continue to unfold, they hold the promise of contributing to a more peaceful society, where respect for varying beliefs is encouraged and extremist ideologies are challenged. A generation that values tolerance and understanding is likely to play a critical role in shaping a more prosperous and harmonious future for the region.