Quran Calls for A World Free from Violence
Addressing a forum on "Interpretative Role of Sacred Texts in Establishing of a World Free from Violence” on Tuesday, Ayatollah Mohammad Ali Taskhiri cited examples of how the Quran stresses the importance of peace, compassion and mercy and said any interpretation of the Quranic verses that fosters violence is opposed to the Quran.
The forum is part of interfaith dialogue between the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization’s (ICRO) Center for Interreligious Dialogue (CID) and the World Council of Churches (WCC).
Ayatollah Taskhiri the Quran puts special emphasis on mercy and compassion.
It calls for an atmosphere based on moral and human relations and rejects an atmosphere based on violence, he said.
The senior cleric rejected any interpretation of the Muslim Holy Book that provokes violence.
He added that interpreting the Quran requires special qualifications, talents and understanding and it is not possible for everyone to interpret the verses of the Holy Book.
Jean-Claude Basset, a member of the World Council of Churches, was also among the speakers at the forum.
He said every text, including holy texts, should be interpreted within its cultural and historical context.
