KARACHI:
In these chaotic times when Islamophobia is on the rise, the leaders of the Muslim Ummah need to forge a plan for the revival of universal brotherhood among all the followers of Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Islam in its truest sense is the religion of peace and prosperity, and only by propagating its true meaning, the rising tide of Islamophobia can be quelled. Moreover, the followers of the Holy Books have so much in common that it is possible to envision the emergence of universal brotherhood among them. One only needs to focus on the similarities and strengthen unity rather than highlighting the differences and water enmity.
In the world of today where the live-streaming of a genocide has not made us united, the time to act is now. Furthermore, a well-orchestrated campaign to malign Islam and target Muslims is getting roots. This in turn leads to violent attacks on Muslims both verbally and physically. The two billion followers of Islam are being vilified by the western media under the influence of the so-called clash of civilisations. What truly matters is to show the entire world the true meaning of Islam and its vitality in establishing peace and stability among all the world inhabitants. In this regard, the Muslim world needs to send well-versed and enlightened religious scholars who may act as revolutionaries all across the globe. The governments of 57-member OIC can take part in the collective effort to actualise such vision. Specialised departments and research centres can be established in this regard. The culture of debates and discussions aimed at solving the major problems faced by the world should be revived among the religious leaders of all the faiths. Such discussions can take the shape of conferences which can be live-streamed to ensure the access to universal audiences.
Every religion speaks about human rights, peace and justice. If the collective will and wit can be channeled for the larger benefit of the humanity, the world would certainly become a better place to live.
Saman Khawar Aftab
Lahore
