Q. Some traditional narrow mined scholars are against interfaith dialogues. Some are not. What is the correct ruling?

A. We appreciate your question; however, we dislike the name calling. Please try to refrain from phrases such as ‘narrow minded,’ etc, when sending us your queries. If you lack knowledge as to why people make given choices, then let us help you a little regarding the diversity of thought that exists between faithful Muslims.

Religious scholars are not against interfaith dialogue. The Quran encourages positive dialogue between faiths. This can be seen throughout the Quran. Just to give you one example, Allah The Greatest states:

???? ??????????? ??????????? ??????????? ?????? ????????? ????????? ????????? ???????????? ?????? ???????? ?????? ??????? ????? ???????? ????? ????????? ????? ????????? ????????? ??????? ??????????? ???? ????? ????????? ????? ??????????? ?????????? ?????????? ???????? ????????????

Say: “O People of the Book! Come to common terms between us and you: That we worship none but Allah; that we associate no partners with him; that we erect not, from among ourselves, Lords and patrons other than Allah.” If then they turn away, then say: “Bear witness that we (at least) are Muslims.

3:64

True religious scholars are against the selling of one’s religious values and religious beliefs to appease people of differing faiths. This, however, should not be confused with religious scholars not wanting healthy dialogue sessions with members of differing faiths.  You are also welcome to view a prior post regarding interfaith dialogue for added clarification as to how interfaith dialogue can help clarify misconceptions, while facilitating mutual understanding between various groups of people and beliefs.

Allah certainly knows best.