Quran Paving Ground for Dialogue
Rasul Rasulipour, a lecturer at Kharazmi University, made the remarks in a local seminar. Below is an excerpt of his speech.
The topic that I have chosen is Quran’s invitation to dialogue. “Say: 'People of the Book, let us come to a common word between us and you that we will worship none except Allah, that we will associate none with Him, and that none of us take others for lords besides Allah.” (Surah Al-Imran, verse 64)
Religious texts seem to be imperative in nature and not suitable for dialogue at the first glance, however, I want to challenge this view and say that sacred texts do not possess all conditions of dialogue but foundations of dialogue can be found in them.
Quranic verses that promote dialogue
There are several instances of using the expression “yas’alunak” which means “They ask you [Prophet]”. These questions and Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) answers to them demonstrate a set of practices that sacred texts teach us.
On the other hand, take into account those verses that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) introduces himself as a man who is not aware of all things such as verse 9 of Surah Al-Ahqaf which reads “Say: 'I am not an innovation among the Messengers; nor know what will be done with me or you. I follow only what is revealed to me; I am only a clear warner.”
Or verse 6 of Surah Fussilat that reads “Say (Prophet Muhammad): 'I am only a human like you, to whom it is revealed that your God is One God. Therefore be straight with Him and ask Him to forgive you. Woe to the idolaters.”
These verses prepare the ground for dialogue with the Prophet (PBUH) as people see that despite his rich experience in relation to God, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also considers himself to be ignorant about his destiny.
It is evident that focusing on the imperativeness of the texts will lead to highlighting teachings that refer to the superiority and legitimacy of that religion. However, God says “Believers and People of the Book, wishes alone can never provide you with salvation. Whoever commits evil will be punished accordingly and no one besides God will be his guardian or helper.” (Surah An-Nisa, verse 123) Therefore, according to the Quran, what bears importance is our actions, not our religion.
The possibility of engaging in dialogue with sacred texts one can also refer to verses 24 and 25 of Surah Saba: “Say, "Who provides you with sustenance from the heavens and the earth?" Say, "It is God. Only one group among us has the true guidance. The others must certainly be in plain error". Say, "You will not be questioned about our sins nor shall we about your deeds".” It is interesting that the last verse points to “sins” for themselves and “deeds” for the other group.
Reporting by Mohammad Ali Haqshenas
