ISLAM AS A CATALYST FOR SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF TOLERANCE, JUSTICE, AND INTERFAITH DIALOGUE

Abstract

Islam is not religion; it is a complete way of life, which respects the mutual rights and justice in all human interactions. Islam believes in dialogue between religions, grounded in reason and evidence, open to effective understanding and unity instead of conf… One of the greatest Islamic teachings is the principle of tolerance. Specifically, that you show respect and kindness to those who, unlike you, do not believe by faith. The life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ offers clear manifestations of compassion, an ethical conduct, mercy and justice towards the Muslims and non-Muslims. So much of Islam’s social relevance today is how it promotes shared human values across religions. The teaching of the Prophet ﷺ has always been to bring communities together based on their common ethical foundation, and to divide is never a wise thing to do. This is true, for instance, in the Constitution of Medina when peace and respect for one another, based on all faith background, were the things prioritised. Moreover, because Islam gives us solutions for contemporary themes like poverty, injustice, ignorance, the ethical standards set in the Qur’an and Hadith are our guide to encouraging the resolution of such social affairs. To its followers, Islam also becomes a final revelation to humanity; and it strives them to spread this message of peace, justice and reconciliation on the whole globe. It is more of a mission of active social reform based on ethical behaviour, education and compassionate leadership, over and above intellectual engagement. Muslim societies should lead the way in global peace and cooperation by 1st embracing these principles towards a just, fair and harmonious world for all of mankind.