To understand why the BBSI exists, it is worthwhile to take an aims-led view. Ultimately, the aim of the BBSI is to enable the Muslim community in this country to fulfil their primary purpose: the holistic worship of God, through fidelity to the exalted guidance of the Seal of the Prophets, Muhammad (SAW).
This holistic worship entails two primary objectives:
- The performance of worship and adoration of God.
- Ethical conduct towards (and service of) His creation.
- And one facilitating objective: The removal of internal and external barriers that hinder these goals.
The training of scholars and imams (as defined previously) needs to be focused on delivering these objectives, as well as identifying what these barriers may be in individuals, groups, and societies. They should then work collaboratively with these groups and revise their guidance to help mitigate them.
This, in turn, requires the training of scholars and imams not merely in the classical subjects of theology, law, and scriptural hermeneutics but also in counselling, youth development, relationship support, and other relevant disciplines.
It is the vision of the BBSI to provide ongoing support, guidance, and development to create and sustain such theological leadership for the benefit of the Muslim community. This, in turn, aims to facilitate the growth and development of the Muslim community as a whole, enabling their positive contribution to the wider British community.