Peaceful Interfaith Dialogue

learning becomes the aim of dialogue, then participants of inter-religious dialogue can grow as spiritual beings and become better human beings—which is surely a goal shared by various religions. Inter-religious dialogue, in this way, can be used as a platform for uniting peace-loving, spiritual people across the globe from different religious backgrounds to work for the common good, celebrate our common humanity, and foster mutual understanding in a globalized world. 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.