Interfaith Dialogue and the Middle East Conflict: Imam Shamsi Ali Calls for Justice and Understanding

 

Repelita Manhattan - Imam Shamsi Ali, Director of Jamaica Muslim Center and President of Nusantara Foundation, emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue in promoting peace amidst the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Having delivered the monthly Friday sermon at the United Nations headquarters in New York since 1998, Imam Shamsi often addresses pressing global issues, including the challenges facing humanity today.

He highlighted that despite advancements in education and modern civilization, humanity continues to face critical challenges threatening its very existence. One of the solutions he underscores is the importance of interfaith dialogue. Islam, he noted, has long emphasized the need for understanding between different faiths, with the Quranic verse in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 13, urging humanity to "know one another."

Imam Shamsi shared his experience upon moving to the United States, where he realized that interfaith dialogue is not only crucial among Muslims of different backgrounds but also with people of other faiths. His goal has been to build bridges of understanding, particularly as Muslims are a minority in the U.S.

However, one of the significant challenges in interfaith dialogue has been the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has created deep divides between Muslims and Jews, making it difficult to foster meaningful relationships. Imam Shamsi recalled his first interaction with the Jewish community in 2001, shortly after the 9/11 attacks. This encounter, alongside many others, helped form lasting relationships with Jewish leaders, including Rabbi Marc Schneier, with whom he co-authored a book focused on uniting and dividing issues between Muslims and Jews.

Yet, the escalating violence in Gaza has created challenges for continued interfaith efforts. "The killing of thousands of innocent civilians, including children and women, has left me uneasy and questioning the purpose of our interfaith dialogue," Imam Shamsi said. He stressed that the core issue goes beyond Palestine and Israel; it is about upholding universal justice and our shared humanity. As a Muslim, he cannot remain silent in the face of oppression and injustice.

Imam Shamsi concluded by reiterating that while interfaith dialogue is crucial for fostering understanding and peaceful coexistence, it is equally important to acknowledge the challenges posed by conflicts like the Israeli-Palestinian dispute. He called on people of all faiths to work together toward a common goal of justice and the protection of our collective humanity.(*)

Editor: 91224 R-ID Elok

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