Existence is Meaning Enough?
The Madrid Interfaith Conference convened by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia and the World Muslim League ended today. The final declaration of the three day event called for the United Nations to play a role, saying they hope to follow up “recommendations in enhancing dialogue among the followers of religions, civilizations and cultures through conducting a special U.N. session on dialogue.”
From the sound of the article in the International Herald Tribune, the real accomplishment of the meeting was that it happened at all.
“There have been interfaith conferences before but never by the king of Saudi Arabia,” said Rosen, who is head of inter-religious relations at the American Jewish Committee and former chief rabbi of Ireland.
“It’s never had the World Muslim League before. It represents the conservative heartland of the most rigid Islamic world view. This is an incredible advancement,” he told The Associated Press…
Dr. William Baker, president of the U.S. group Christians and Muslims for Peace, concurred that the real significance of the meeting was that “it originated in the heart of Islam.”
Yes, it is a marvelous accomplishment this meeting even happened at all. After reading the International Herald Tribune article, the major step I see the world needs to take is to free itself from cynicism.
We always feel there is an ulterior motive – whether it be political, personal, or some other egoic reason – when people take actions that have as their main thrust a benevolent and compassionate component. Regardless of King Abdullah’s reasons for hosting this conference, the consequences of the event have a very real impact on opening up meaningful dialog on this vital topic.
Each of us need to let our guard down and be unconcerned why people choose to do what they do. If we assume the best from others, they would assume the best from us.
Isn’t this what the Golden Rule is all about?
Bravo, King Abudulla – Perhaps you should be considered to be a part of this TED prize team??
Here’s to World Peace Through Understanding,
Carol
While I agree this is an encouraging sign, I would ask for Ms. Armstrong’s response to the messages in both “Because They Hate” by Brigitte Gabriel, and “Now They Call Me Infidel,” by Nonie Darwish. The two women, one from a Lebanese Christian background and one from an Egyptian Muslim background, paint a very grim picture indeed of the Islamic extremist movement and its activities toward world domination. How can we, by practicing peace and compassion, ever hope to stem the flood of hate fostered in too much of the Muslim world?