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Abstract
The present study aims to overview the teachings of Islam about the concept of religious diversity and pluralism. The study proceeds from a brief description of the notion of religious pluralism and its importance in contemporary world. Then the place of other faiths in Islam, the Islamic concept of Prophet-hood and its link with the chain of Prophets are discussed. The theological basis of the relationship of Islam with other religions, particularly with Christianity and Judaism, are analyzed in the third part of the study. Following this, the discussions by Muslim scholars on the validity of previous revelations for the Muslims are explored. The next part discusses the status of non-Muslim individuals in Islamic states. This discussion aims to clarify some misconceptions regarding the status of the non-Muslim citizens in Muslim countries and elaborates how this status was extended to other people apart from the Christians and the Jews. A discussion on the Islamic point of view regarding the freedom of faith and its significance in interfaith relations constitutes the last part of the study. Suggestions regarding the importance of religious diversity in the Islamic faith and its utilization in the post-9/11 world setting are presented in the conclusion.
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Introduction
Comparative study of religions, especially Judaism and Christianity has attracted the attention of Muslim scholars since early days of Islam. Generally, it has been observed by the Muslims that these two religions have much in common with Islam. These two religions were most visible on the religious map of Arabia besides pre-Islamic polytheism at the advent of Islam. Furthermore, under the Prophet's leadership, Muslims' attitude to 'others' was characterized in general by mutual goodwill, friendship, and a strong preference for reconciliation, peace and amity. By the time the Prophet (peace be on him) established himself in Madnah, freedom to practice one's own faith, pursuit of social justice, equality, brotherhood and the preservation of human dignity had become paradigmatic. Historically, it has paved the way for maintaining balance and harmony among the followers of different faiths.
The Islamic practice embodies the all embracing spirit of religious pluralism on the basis of its religious teachings. This spirit of religious pluralism has successfully met the challenges of the past centuries and remains equally valid...