AN ANALYTICAL REVIEW: RELIGIOUS PLURALISM, HARMONY AND FREEDOM IN THE LIGHT OF THE TEACHINGS OF THE QURAN AND THE BIBLE

Abstract

This paper consists of a research-based analysis regarding religious pluralism and interfaith harmony in the context of the teachings of the Quran and the Bible. In this regard, a questionnaire was prepared through which the opinions of religious scholars and researchers were obtained. The main purpose of this research is to find out what religious individuals think about religious pluralism and what obstacles exist in the way of interfaith harmony. The paper discusses doctrinal differences and historical factors that have influenced the religious relations between Christianity and Islam. The research clarifies that the different interpretations of the sacred texts have, on one hand, promoted religious harmony, and on the other hand, also given rise to religious conflicts. In the light of selected verses from the Quran and the Bible, such strategies have been mentioned which, if adopted, can promote mutual understanding and perception between Muslim and Christian communities. Observing the Quranic verses related to Christianity in their correct context reveals that the Quran has not declared Christianity as a religion of disbelief or polytheism; rather, it has presented it as the religion closest to Islam. Although the Quran has indeed criticized or negated some beliefs and doctrines of Christianity, this criticism is addressed to certain groups or specific individuals of the Christian faith. However, when Christianity is mentioned as a whole religion, the Quran has always referred to them with the title of ―Ahl-e-Kitab‖ (People of the Book).