Hazara Islamicus (Jun 2017)
Impact of Interfaith Dialogue on Pakistani Society
Abstract
The previous century is historically counted as most remarkable period for the promotion of interfaith dialogue and other interreligious activities among the followers of different faiths. Numerous interreligious activities were introduced to bring closer the followers of defriends religions. Many Christian as well as Muslim organizations are actively involved in these activities. New interfaith dialogue movement was launched by Vatican City with many Christian institutes in second half of 20th century. In this context we cannot ignore role of the Christian Study Centers situated across the globe, which are providing considerable services in the field of interfaith dialogue. One of them is Christian Study Centre Rawalpindi (CSC), Pakistan. The CSC is considered as the representative of this modem interfaith dialogue movement in Pakistan. Keeping in view, it has long journey in the course of interfaith dialogue, peace and harmony since its commencement in 1968. It is also noticed; this activity of dialogue is influencing the Muslim and Christian communities of Pakistan both positively and negatively in the fields of politics, social and religious matters. We observe, in one hand, the positive impacts of these dialogical activities are an excellent contribution to improve mutual understanding, tolerance and respect towards minorities, to protect their rights, to support interfaith and social harmony, promotion of peaceful co-existence, while, on the other hand, it shows some negative impact as well. These may include unification of religions, promotion of secularism, struggle against Islamic laws, and Islamic identity of Pakistan and spread of missionary activities. It is also observed; Muslim scholars say warm welcome to positive contribution of this dialogue but show their strong reservations for negative side of such dialogue. This study explores the positive as well as negative impact of modem interfaith dialogue movement on Muslim community of Pakistan at social, religious and political level.
