Al-Azhar Grand Imam holds an intellectual discussion with the presidents of interfaith dialogue councils in Germany and Switzerland
Today, at Al-Azhar Headquarter, Grand Imam Prof. Ahmad At-Tayyeb received the delegation of the presidents of the Islamic-Christian interfaith dialogue councils in Germany and Switzerland to hold an intellectual discussion on the most important developments related to the promotion of a culture of dialogue, peaceful coexistence and integration in societies.
The Grand Imam said, "The dialogue groups bear special significance because of their ability to connect people and build bridges of coexistence and dialogue between the followers of different religions and the peoples of diverse cultures. There is no solution to the contemporary human crisis except by reviving the teachings of religions in people's hearts and dealings, and promoting a culture of dialogue between people. This inevitably requires the sincere efforts of scholars and peace seekers".
He also added that the Human Fraternity Document (HFD), that he has signed with Pope Francis of the Vatican, does not indicate the religion of those who created it, because it has been designed to serve the interests of all humanity at large. He noted that the HFD took from Al-Azhar and the Vatican a whole year to formulate it, stressing the need for Religious scholars and men of peace to meet to confront the problems facing the world, notably extremism, racism, homosexuality and hatred of the other.
On their part, members of the delegation expressed their happiness to meet the Grand Imam, especially after what they saw in his overseas visits to Europe, which gave birth to a keen desire to meet him and listen to his moderate thoughts.
The discussions of this meeting focused on religious freedom. In response, the Grand Imam said that the Qur’an affirms that “there is no compulsion in religion”, and that Allah’s will in the universe is that people be created different. Allah says to His Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him), "You are not in any way a dominator over them". He also says, "In no way is there any duty for the Messenger except the proclamation [of the Message]".
The members of the delegation expressed their admiration of the efforts and conferences organized by Al-Azhar, the most recent of which being "Al-Azhar International Conference for Renewal in Islamic Thought". They said that they had observed this conference closely because of its importance in supporting the relations between Muslims and Christians, and that Al-Azhar always sends moderate messages to the world, making peace possible when people are committed to the correct teachings of religions.