Interfaith Dialogue in Islam

Quranic Foundation

Interfaith dialogue has a strong foundation in the Quran. Allah says: 'O People of the Book, come to a word that is common between us and you: that we worship none but Allah, that we associate nothing with Him, and that none of us takes others as lords besides Allah' (3:64). The Quran instructs Muslims to engage with people of other faiths respectfully: 'And do not argue with the People of the Book except in a way that is best' (29:46). These verses establish dialogue and finding common ground as a religious duty, not merely a diplomatic courtesy.

The Prophet's Example

The Prophet Muhammad engaged with people of all faiths throughout his life. The Constitution of Madinah established a multi-religious community with guaranteed rights for all. He received the Christian delegation from Najran in his mosque and allowed them to pray there according to their own rites. He maintained relationships with Jewish scholars and allies. His letters to the rulers of Byzantine, Persia, Egypt, and Abyssinia were models of respectful invitation. When the Abyssinian Christian king Negus (al-Najashi) died, the Prophet prayed the funeral prayer for him, demonstrating respect that transcended religious boundaries.

Historical Tradition

Islamic civilization has a long history of interfaith engagement. Under Muslim rule, Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians generally practiced their religions freely, maintained their courts and institutions, and participated in intellectual life. The translation movement in Baghdad brought Muslim, Christian, and Jewish scholars together. In Al-Andalus, the convivencia (coexistence) produced remarkable cultural achievements. Scholars like Ibn Hazm wrote detailed comparative studies of world religions. Al-Biruni studied Hinduism with academic rigor and respect. This tradition was not without tensions and failures, but it established a baseline of coexistence that was exceptional for its era.

Principles and Boundaries

Islamic interfaith dialogue operates within clear principles. It must be based on knowledge, respect, and genuine interest in understanding the other. It must not compromise core Islamic beliefs, particularly tawhid (the oneness of Allah). It should seek common ground on shared values: justice, compassion, family, truthfulness, and service to humanity. It should address misconceptions on all sides honestly. It should lead to practical cooperation on issues of mutual concern: poverty, environmental protection, religious freedom, and peace. Muslims engaged in dialogue should be knowledgeable about both their own tradition and the traditions of their interlocutors, embodying the Quranic injunction to 'invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction' (16:125).