Scholars discuss religion's role in fostering peace

IPS moot brings together voices from six major faiths

ISLAMABAD:

Scholars and religious leaders from six major faiths convened in Islamabad to explore how religion can serve as a unifying force for global peace, harmony, and justice. Organised by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), the event, titled "The Role of Religions in Fostering Peace, Harmony, and Justice," brought together voices from Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Judaism to promote interfaith dialogue and address misconceptions.

The seminar, chaired by Justice Dr Qibla Ayaz, a member of the Shariat Appellate Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, featured speakers including Rev Fr Prof Sarfraz Simon, diocesan director of the Catholic Church; Dr Neelima Shukla-Bhatt of Wellesley College, USA; Dr Kalyan Singh Kalyan of GC University, Lahore; Dr Samantha Ilangakoon of the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka; Dr Ophira Gamliel of the University of Glasgow; and Dr Hafiz Waqas Khan of Riphah International University, Islamabad.

A panel discussion followed, chaired by Dr Khalid Masud, member judge of the Shariat Appellate Bench, and Dr Zahid Parvez, rector of the Markfield Institute of Higher Education in the UK. Speakers underscored the adaptability of religious teachings across cultures and contexts, emphasising their inherent focus on inclusivity, justice, and peace.

Justice Qibla Ayaz noted that while inclusiveness is central to all faiths, the media often highlights adverse incidents, overlooking religion's positive contributions to society. He called for collective responsibility among religious leaders, policymakers, and followers to bridge divides and amplify messages of unity.

Dr Hafiz Waqas highlighted Islam's commitment to peace, equality, and reconciliation, noting that the word "Islam" itself signifies peace.

He pointed to the Qur'an and Sunnah as foundations for moral leadership and harmony. Rev Prof Simon reflected on Christianity's ethos of peace, emphasising that harmonious relationships and trust in God are crucial for fostering a culture of peace.

Dr Neelima discussed Hinduism's pluralistic tradition, rooted in the Rig Vedic principle of "welcoming noble ideas from all directions."