Interfaith dialogue: its need, importance and merits in the contemporary world

Abstract

World is the birthplace of many faiths and has accommodated and nourished multiple religions. It has provided a common roof to major religions for their sustenance and growth. The intricate mosaic of diverse faiths, beliefs, traditions and languages in many countries is indeed amazing.Today, when the world has attained a great technological progress and scientific achievements, it is disconcerting to say that the people are making disputes in the name of religion. Thousands of people are killed, nations have been divided, and even the holy centres of worship have been demolished in the name of religion. Communitarianism feelings are increasing day by day in the hearts of the followers of different religions. In this era of confusion and distressed life, where we grow more afraid than the previous day, hour, minute or second, afraid of our neighbours, our folks, our society, to other’s beliefs and even to our own selves. What is the solution to protect the humanity from this appalling condition? The only solution would be interfaith dialogue which is mandatory if not dynamic for everyone to have the understanding of different religions or belief systems. In this article I would start with a brief introduction about interfaith dialogue, and then discuss in detail the need, importance and merits of interfaith dialogue in the contemporary world. This would give an understanding of the dialogue between Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs and would benefit in removing prejudices and misunderstandings about each other faith. It would also help to realize common objectives such as the establishment of justice and world peace, the protection of families from disintegration, the protection of human rights and the promotion of moral values.