Peaceful coexistence ...
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Abdeljalil Ben Salem, the former president of Tunisia’s Ez-Zitouna University, highlighted that any division within the Islamic world based on the Qur’an is unacceptable and detrimental to the realization of Islamic civilization.
He said there are encouraging signs of convergence among Islamic nations, such as the recent détente in political relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Ben Salem insisted that political leaders must come together now more than ever, recognizing that strong unity is vital for success.
Ahmad Qashlan, a distinguished professor of jurisprudence at Syria’s Bilad Al Sham University, regarded the gathering of Shia and Sunni scholars as a major step toward achieving Islamic unity. In his view, it is essential to foster mutual respect between various Islamic sects while being mindful of the rights of others. Qashlan’s emphasis on inclusivity and tolerance resonated well with the conference participants, who were eager to explore ways to promote greater understanding and cooperation among Muslims worldwide.
Women’s role
should be increased
In her speech, Zhaleh Heidari Moqaddam, a prominent Iranian lecturer, shed light on the exalted position of women in Islam. She lamented that over time, women’s role in society has been marginalized, but she expressed hope that events such as this conference would lead to a positive change.
Moqaddam also suggested that educational programs be designed with the goal of training more female scholars, so that women can assume roles as jurists, politicians, economists, and other fields. She encouraged Muslim women to expand their jurisprudential thinking and intellectual capabilities.
Abdul Rahman Mohammadpour, a lecturer of religious sciences, cautioned that unless thinkers, artists, and academics accurately depict the true nature of Islam, some people might present themselves as representatives of the faith and, in its name, inflict harm upon fellow Muslims.
Dialogue best way to achieve convergence
In an interview with Iran Daily, Mostafa Zolfaqar-Talab, the chair of the Peaceful Coexistence conference, elucidated on the event’s objectives. He highlighted the aim of deepening the notion of convergence and unity among Islamic nations, while also emphasizing the pivotal role of women in Islamic societies.
According to Zolfaqar-Talab, women possess the potential to foster greater convergence among Islamic countries and promote the elevation of Islamic civilization.
He placed great emphasis on highlighting the religious commonalities shared by Muslims, recognizing that a focus on differences and distinctions would only hinder efforts toward achieving collective progress.
In his opinion, dialogue and interaction serve as the most effective means of attaining convergence within the Islamic world, as they are rooted in the rational principles espoused by the Prophet of Islam.
He further added that it is imperative to create opportunities for dialogue and interaction amongst Islamic elites, as well as between different nations, parties, and groups. One-sided perspectives or approaches to complex issues, he warned, can ultimately lead to greater divergence and
disharmony.