Orientalism and Westernism (Occidentalism): Prejudices and Interreligious Dialogue

Interfaith dialogue is considered one of the important topics between Islam and other religions from very ancient times. We find that there are many Qur’anic verses and prophetic hadiths that emphasize the principle of dialogue with others, taking into account religious constants and matters related to belief. Therefore, we see that what the Islamic clerics are doing is an attempt to dialogue with the followers of other religions regarding the common human value, while avoiding everything that brings about differences, especially in matters of religious belief. There are many obstacles present to religious dialogue, but we find that major religious institutions in the world, especially Al-Azhar in Egypt and the Vatican Church, have taken important steps to support the process of dialogue between religions. Dialogue with the other does not necessarily require convincing the other, but what is required is finding common ground between the two parties to support peaceful coexistence and communication between people of different religions. It cannot be said that religious dialogue is easy target, but it is a very complex dialogue that requires different treatment, understanding the other’s culture, and not trying to impose a certain opinion or play a guardianship role. But what is required is a constructive dialogue based on equality, with the necessity of taking into account the religious and cultural identity of each party.