Inter-Faith Dialogue in Pakistan: An Analysis of Historical Tradition and Contemporary Challenges

Abstract

The idea of inter-faith dialogue has attained a great importance in the backdrop of political, religious, social and economic circumstances of Pakistan. The international events which have happened in the last few years have compelled the religious heads to seek some new ways, tools and methods promoting inter-faith dialogue. The terrorist-attacks of September 11, 2001 in America and the latest terrorist activities in France, England, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan and Pakistan have shaken the whole world. In these circumstances, it is the need of the hour for the followers of all the religions to adopt the policy of fore-bearance, tolerance, patience and dialogue.⁽¹⁾ Pakistan is not only a multi-religious state but also neighbour to some very important countries like China, India, Iran, Afghanistan and Russia. In this particular socio-economic, religious and geographical scenario, it is the need of the hour to treat the followers of all religions equally. The mutual humanitarian socio-religious relations among the followers of all the faiths and religions must be strong without any discrimination of colour, caste and creed. Instead of highlighting religious differences, we should promote a culture of dialogue to bridge the gap among different religious sects, groups and communities. This is the only way through which we can establish peace, justice, equality and love for humanity. The true basis of mutually respectful relations among different nations is a proper and true dialogue. The nature, quality and quantity of this relationship depend upon the mutual dialogue.⁽²⁾ The question of “dialogue” due to its ideological and psychological nature has remained very vital for the people of all the circles and especially for those who are related to the fields of education, research, thought and religion. They raise different questions like what is dialogue? Why should we adopt it? And what should be its nature, limitations and methodologies?