INTERFAITH harmony and tolerance are not abstract ideals; they are practical necessities for peaceful coexistence in an increasingly interconnected world.

At a time when societies are becoming more diverse due to globalization, migration, and digital connectivity, differences of faith are more visible than ever before. These differences can either enrich human civilization or, if mishandled, become sources of mistrust, polarization, and conflict. Intolerance in the name of religion has fueled wars and social divisions, while harmony has enabled civilizations to flourish. At its core, interfaith harmony means mutual respect among followers of different religions, recognition of shared human values, and the willingness to coexist peacefully despite theological differences. Tolerance does not require abandoning one’s beliefs; rather, it demands acceptance of others’ right to believe differently. As the American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr once observed, “Tolerance is the virtue that depends on peace.” Without tolerance, peace becomes fragile and temporary.

Most major religions share common moral foundations. Compassion, justice, honesty, and respect for human dignity are central to Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other faith traditions. Jesus Christ’s teaching, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” echoes the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) saying that “None of you truly believes until he........

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