Manama, Feb. 20 (BNA): Participants in the fourth session of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference – One Nation, One Shared Destiny, titled “Intra-Islamic Dialogue and Citizenship Issues”, emphasised the need for collective efforts to address contemporary challenges, build on shared values, and preserve societies from division and fragmentation.
The session was chaired by Ayatollah Dr. Seyed Mostafa Mohaghegh Damad, Head of the Islamic Studies Department at the Academy of Sciences of Iran and Co-President of Religions for Peace.
Dr. Nazir Mohamed Ayyad, Grand Mufti of Egypt and Secretary-General of the Islamic Research Academy underscored that citizenship is not a foreign concept conflicting with Islam but rather a call for justice, mutual understanding, and social harmony. He referenced the Constitution of Medina, which recognised diverse identities and ensured the coexistence of different communities within a unified state.
He proposed several initiatives to address challenges arising from sectarian rhetoric and declining social trust.
Dr. Ayyad called for the establishment of an independent global association to unify efforts to bring institutions closer together, enhance understanding and citizenship, and ensure their independence. He also noted the importance of enhancing joint humanitarian work between Islamic sects in relief and combating poverty and ignorance, to consolidate unity and belonging.
Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments in the UAE, emphasised that dialogue is essential for cohesive societies and national stability. He highlighted the importance of leveraging platforms like the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference to foster meaningful discourse, emphasising that dialogue is about understanding rather than persuasion.
He noted that dialogue strengthens positive citizenship and serves as a pillar of strong nations. He highlighted the UAE’s model in promoting dialogue, diversity, and shared values through structured initiatives, policies, and legislation, ensuring inclusive and constructive engagement.
Dr. Sayyed Jawad Mohammed Taqi Al Khoei, Secretary General of the Al Khoei Institute in Najaf and UNESCO Chair for the Development of Interreligious Dialogue Studies at the University of Kufa, said that Islam is founded on two fundamental principles, which are the unity of faith and the unity of word.
He noted that these principles should serve as a framework for bridging sectarian divides and fostering a shared sense of belonging. He called for a respectful dialogue that upholds human dignity, reinforcing the roles of Hwaza of Al Najaf Al Ashraf (Al Najaf seminary) and Al Azhar Al Sharif in strengthening Islamic unity.
He also recalled the visit of the late Sayyed Abdul Majid Al Khoei to the Kingdom of Bahrain over 20 years ago, where he was warmly received by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The visit was part of the preparations for the 2003 Islamic Sect Dialogue Conference, which was organised in partnership with the Imam Al Khoei Foundation to promote unity and tolerance within the Islamic nation.
On his part, Seyed Mohammad Ali Abtahi, Former Vice President of Iran for Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and Chairman of the Institute for Interreligious Dialogue, addressed the need to analyse the roots of problems and solutions to dialogue between Islamic sects.
He noted that cultural diversity has expanded due to globalization, migration, and the digital revolution, making societies increasingly interconnected.
Seyed Abtahi also cautioned that despite these advancements, extremist narratives have distorted the perception of Islam, leading to a rise in Islamophobia.
He argued that traditional religious discourse has often overlooked contemporary issues, resulting in a disconnect between religious scholars and younger generations. He highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation between religious institutions and academic bodies to establish a common framework for religious dialogue and coordination.
Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif Daryan, Grand Mufti of Lebanon, emphasised that Islam is a religion of tolerance, justice, and moderation. He described dialogue as a core principle of Islam and a universal language for fostering mutual respect and understanding.
He noted that meaningful dialogue requires recognising differing perspectives, as it is essential for building a society rooted in true citizenship, active participation, tolerance, justice, and freedom.
Sheikh Dr. Daryan also highlighted the necessity of establishing structured mechanisms for interfaith and inter-sects engagement, grounded in wisdom, constructive discourse, and mutual respect. He stressed that a correct understanding of dialogue and the freedom of expression reflects self-respect and respect for others.
Talgat Safich Tadzhuddin, Grand Mufti of Russia and Chairman of the Central Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Russia called for expanding and deepening intra-Islamic dialogue by drawing inspiration from the principles outlined in the Constitution of Medina. He noted that under the patronage of HM King Hamad, Bahrain has become a key platform for global Islamic initiatives aimed at strengthening unity in the Islamic nation.
Ali bin Al Sayed Abdulrahman Al Hashemi, Advisor for Religious and Judicial Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Presidential Affairs, noted that the conference serves as an important platform for strengthening understanding between different Islamic sects and perspectives.
He underscored that effective dialogue requires openness, wisdom, and ethical conduct, as history has demonstrated that engaging in meaningful discussions is crucial for addressing challenges.
Al Hashemi also highlighted the importance of dialogue as a recurring theme in the Quran, noting that it provides diverse approaches to engaging with people of different beliefs. He underscored the need to prioritise dialogue within the Islamic nation itself to build stronger unity.
Dr. Omar Bakhit Mohamed Adam, Sudan’s Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, commended the role of scholars in addressing the challenges facing the Islamic nation.
He emphasised that issues of dialogue and citizenship require innovative solutions rather than repeated discussions.
He noted that dialogue serves as a bridge for national stability, inclusivity, and understanding across various Islamic schools of thought, enriching Islamic civilisation and benefiting Muslim nations and their people.
– Source: Bahrain News Agency
