Engage in Dialogue, Not Confrontation — Islam Spread from East to West through the Prophet’s (PBUH) Polite Manner of Speaking
The absence of a culture of respecting differences of opinion is leading the Ummah toward division upon division, says Chairman Supreme Council
Dr. Hassan Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Minhaj-ul-Quran International, stated that disrespecting others' opinions is one of the primary causes of unrest and intolerance. He emphasized that the lack of a culture of respectful disagreement is causing the Muslim Ummah to become increasingly divided.
He urged people to engage in dialogue rather than confrontation or debate, highlighting that Islam spread from the East to the West through the Holy Prophet’s (PBUH) polite tone, exemplary character, and respect for differing opinions. Because of the Prophet’s (PBUH) noble conduct, enemies became allies of Allah and defenders of Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) considered healthy disagreement a mercy for the Ummah, Dr. Qadri said. However, today, due to a disconnect from the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH), we have turned differences of opinion into enmity.
Dr. Hassan Mohi-ud-Din Qadri warned that the failure to uphold the etiquette of disagreement has allowed stubborn and ignorant behaviors — reminiscent of Abu Jahl and Abu Lahab — to take root in our society. The Prophet (PBUH) fought against these negative tendencies and taught the Ummah to adopt good character.
The Chairman Supreme Council stressed that scholars, Qur'anic commentators, Qur’an reciters, and those involved in the noble mission of preaching must embody the qualities of respectful disagreement, moderation, tolerance, and acceptance. He added that differences of opinion are a natural part of human life, and when handled with respect and politeness, they lead to mutual honor and dignity.
He said that reacting impulsively without attentively listening to the other party is an animalistic trait that breeds conflict and division, he said. He concluded by urging that in matters of religion, culture, politics, society, and economy, people should prioritize dialogue over confrontation.
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