HOW TO LIVE IN A MULTIFAITH SOCIETY
In a multi-religious society, people have to live with religious differences. Such differences are found not only in religions but in all aspects of life. Differences are an essential part of nature. They are a part of God’s Creation Plan itself. This means we humans have no option other than to live with differences in religion or any other sphere of life.
To deal with this issue in the best possible manner, we need a formula for difference management rather than a formula for eliminating differences.
I have studied almost all major religions and have found that every religion, including Islam, provides the art of difference management. Every religion tells us how to live in a multi-religious society with peace and harmony. We find this formula, for instance, in the famous words of Jesus Christ: “Love your enemies.” (Luke, 6:27). To love one’s enemies means managing the problem of enmity by the power of love.
A similar principle is given in the Quran: “Good and evil deeds are not equal. Repel evil with what is better; then you will see that one who was once your enemy has become your dearest friend.” (41:34)
There is nothing mysterious about this teaching. It is a well-known Law of Nature. It means that everyone is our potential friend. We have only to turn this potential into actuality.
This principle was beautifully represented by many Sufis in South Asia and elsewhere. For example, a Sufi poet has described this principle: “We do not know the stories of kings and generals. We know only the stories of love and compassion.”
For centuries, Sufis devoted themselves to spreading the universal message of love and compassion. Due to the peaceful efforts of the Sufis and other saints, the spirit of love and compassion became so deeply embedded in our society that it became part and parcel of our value system.
A multi-religious or multicultural society is not evil. Rather, it is a blessing. Trying to eliminate differences destroys the very fabric of our interests. Thus, we have no option other than to adjust to differences. Living in a multi-religious society requires making necessary adjustments to get along well with others, with people who are different from oneself in one or more ways.
Peace and harmony in a multi-religious society are not simply an issue of governance. They also require the active involvement of non-governmental actors, organisations, and individuals. There is a big role here for voluntary organisations, which can play a role in educating people in this regard and helping them develop the spirit of patience and tolerance.
One can relate many success stories in this regard. To cite just one example, a few years ago, there was tension between two groups in a certain town, likely leading to violence. At this critical juncture, a medical doctor known to the people of the area reached the spot. He met the leaders, and he succeeded in pacifying them. Then, he advised them that instead of throwing stones, they should present flowers to the rival group. They accepted his advice. They purchased some flowers from the market. When the crucial time came, they appeared holding flowers in their hands. They presented these flowers to the leaders of the rival group, saying,
“Welcome to you!”
This gesture worked. The tension was defused, and the whole matter was settled within minutes!
