By M Rashid Tabassum,
In today’s era, the ratio of anxiety, hatred, and depression is being increased in various societies. The global crisis is badly affecting the world religiously, socially, politically and economically. In the same circumstances, the need for dialogue among different religions and cultures is being felt seriously. Each religion has some traditions which provide values in human society. These values lead society toward improvement.
The world has become now a global village. With modern communication resources, the information of any incident spread all over the world in minutes. Some incidents badly affect the nations and society. These incidents also cause the creation of positive or negative impressions. So the importance of interfaith dialogue has been increased.
In past, numbers of attempts were made to create harmony among different communities and nations. Unfortunately, these attempts failed due to non-practical approach. Islam is the religion which has a realistic philosophy to make dialogue among religions. Islamic teachings are to promote endurance, tolerance, patience, respect, and love in society. Differences are also necessary to understand to create a peaceful society.
In reality, differences among religions cannot be ended. Islam gives us principles which are helpful in minimizing these differences. Islam emphasizes concord among people instead of religions. As Allah says in Quran: Say (O Muhammad ): “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allah. (Surah Ale Imran – 64)
So, we should ignore differences and unite on common values. Examples of common values are education, ethics, social services, science and technology, the formation of a peaceful society, personal freedom. The promotion of common values is necessary to form a peaceful Pakistan.
Furthermore, we should follow the good examples set by the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) signed a treaty “Charter of Madina (also Called Meesaq e Madina)” with Jews and Christians, after migration to Madina. The basis of the treaty was on peace, security and mutual respect. As well as, the fundamental principle of Islamic teachings are self-respect and patience. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) tried to create harmony among different religions. Islam permits people of other religions, to live according to their customs and traditions. Islam got success in its initial phase due to its just principles. Later on, Muslim rulers followed the Islamic principles.
Writing more, Hafiz Hammad Ahmad has formed ‘Council for Interfaith Harmony’ to revive the same thinking and values. Council’s purpose is to promote interfaith harmony and motto is “Respect, Just and Peace”. Council arranged a seminar entitled “Role of religions in social responsibilities” a few days ago. Council also arranged a seminar entitled “Respect, Just and Peace”.
Concluding more, the followers of different sects and religions should promote patience, love, peace, and security to eliminate terrorism at regional or international level. As well as, dialogue between different religions and nations should be continued. It is the only way to make Pakistan a peaceful state.