Challenges of Intra-Islamic Dialogue Discussed in a Seminar Organized at the Muslim Council of Elders' Pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair

President of the Council of Iraqi Scholars: The priority of intra-Islamic dialogue should be to strengthen and solidify commonalities

President of Dar Al-Ilm for Imam Al-Khoei: We have a deep strategic relationship with the Muslim Council of Elders and together we strive to build a network of shared relations

Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research: There is an urgent need to resume intra-Islamic dialogue, especially in light of the challenges facing Muslims

The Muslim Council of Elders' pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair organized a seminar titled "Intra-Islamic Dialogue and Shared Challenges" which was presented by Sheikh Dr. Mahmoud Abdulaziz Al-Ani, President of the Council of Iraqi Scholars, and His Eminence Dr. Jawad Al-Khoei, President of Dar Al-Ilm for Imam Al-Khoei, with Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research, moderating the discussion. The event was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Hassan Nazim, former Iraqi Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities and spokesperson for the Iraqi government, along with other Iraqi officials, scholars and intellectuals.

Dr. Samir Boudinar emphasized that the Muslim Council of Elders' pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair aimed to organize a series of seminars centered on intra-Islamic dialogue, exploring intellectual, doctrinal, social, and cultural aspects. He stressed the urgent need to revive intra-Islamic dialogue within Arab and Islamic societies, particularly given the significant challenges Muslims face globally in scientific, civilizational, moral, and identity-related matters, as well as in securing a prosperous future for the Ummah’s children and future generations. This dialogue, he noted, is essential for the Ummah to reclaim its historical and civilizational legacy.

Dr. Boudinar added that intra-Islamic dialogue must be grounded in sound principles to achieve its intended goals. He highlighted the importance of having trusted religious and scholarly authorities lead this dialogue, as their words serve as a guide for building a better future for Islamic societies and their people. He also referenced the historic call made by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, during the Bahrain Dialogue Forum in 2022, where he urged Muslims to transcend past divisions and come together at the dialogue table to heal rifts and achieve unity, which he described as the essence of their identity as members of the Islamic Ummah.

Sheikh Dr. Mahmoud Abdulaziz Al-Ani pointed out that dialogue is one of the unique gifts that Allah has given to humans, granting them the ability to use language as a primary tool for communication. However, this language can become a barrier when terms are not clearly defined, leading to misunderstandings and a breakdown in dialogue. He stressed the importance of agreeing on clear, common definitions of terms to ensure productive discussions and avoid misinterpretation or deviation from the topic.

The President of the Council of Iraqi Scholars also noted that the convictions and beliefs that shape an individual are another key element of dialogue. While religious dialogue is crucial, it should be approached carefully and with balance to avoid dominating intra-Islamic discussions. He explained that differences in interpreting religious texts should be addressed through common ground that fosters understanding and communication. He emphasized that the primary focus of intra-Islamic dialogue should be on finding ways for cooperation to achieve development and build Islamic societies.

His Eminence Dr. Jawad Al-Khoei highlighted that Dar Al-Ilm for Imam Al-Khoei has always been at the forefront of institutions supporting dialogue between sects, religions, and cultures. The institution has built strong partnerships with leading religious institutions, including Al-Azhar, which he described as a beacon of moderation and centrism. These partnerships, he noted, have resulted in several joint initiatives that promote constructive dialogue and mutual understanding. Dr. Al-Khoei also mentioned the deep strategic relationship between Dar Al-Ilm for Imam Al-Khoei and the Muslim Council of Elders, as they share common goals and work together to build a network of shared relationships.

Dr. Al-Khoei further emphasized that intra-Islamic dialogue plays a crucial role in combating extremism and unifying the Ummah in the face of challenges that threaten its existence. It helps preserve shared Islamic values across various sects and schools of Islamic thought and reinforces the connection to religious heritage. He underscored the urgent need for deep, inclusive discussions that result in unified stances, stemming from a collective sense of responsibility toward all Islamic countries and toward this religion. 

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating for the first time at the Baghdad International Book Fair, in line with its mission to promote peace, foster dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of coexistence among people of different races and beliefs. The pavilion, located in Baghdad Hall (Pavilion H2), showcases over 220 publications in five languages, including 24 new releases that address significant intellectual and cultural topics. Additionally, the pavilion is hosting a series of seminars and lectures featuring prominent thinkers, scholars, and academics to discuss ways to enhance dialogue and understanding among Islamic sects and to build bridges of communication, aiming for greater cooperation and unity among the various components of the Islamic nation.