Why it matters:
The Prophet’s governance model and his interactions with Christians, Jews, and other religious groups in early Islamic society remain central to interfaith dialogue efforts. Scholars argue that reviving this ethical and legal framework is essential for strengthening peaceful coexistence today.
The big picture:
The event takes place amid renewed global discussions on interreligious tolerance. The Prophet’s approach—grounded in clear religious boundaries, ethical conduct, respect for covenants, and recognition of others’ identities—was presented as a foundational model for contemporary interfaith engagement.
What they’re saying:
Ahmad Mobaleghi, Member of the Council for Religious Policy, highlighted Qur’anic verses illustrating the Prophet’s governance with Ahl al-Kitab.
He emphasized “clear religious boundaries alongside meaningful interaction”, which preserved both Muslim identity and the identity of followers of other faiths.
Mobaleghi stressed the Prophet’s expansive human ethics as a “fundamental and irreplaceable” element of his engagement with others.
He underscored the Prophet’s commitment to covenants and contractual systems, noting his firm stance against covenant violation.
Louis Saliba a Lebanese Christian writer and researcher participating virtually, examined the Prophet’s interactions with the Christians of Najran, emphasizing his respect for them in both worship and social contexts.
Abdolsalam Emami, Advisor to the Minister of Culture on Sunni Affairs, discussed the Prophet’s conduct with the Jews of Medina, highlighting his qualities of exemplary moral character, vast mercy, reform-oriented forgiveness, and patient compassion.
Amani Mahmoud Ibrahim, Professor at Al-Azhar University, analyzed the Prophet’s response to the Jewish tribes’ treaty violations, arguing that these were not isolated incidents but parts of a connected plot targeting the emerging Islamic state and threatening civic peace in Medina.
Key points:
- The conference was held both in-person and virtually at the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization in Tehran.
- Scholars from three countries, Iran, Lebanon, and Egypt, presented their research.
- The conference focused on the Prophet’s real-life governance practices, not merely theoretical discussions.
- Speakers emphasized ethics, respect for identity, covenant loyalty, and conflict management based on justice.
- The legacy of Prophet Mohammad’s interfaith conduct was framed as a blueprint for today’s interreligious dialogue.
Zoom in: Opening remarks
Bani Ali, head of the Department of Sects and Religions Dialogue, welcomed participants and stressed that the Prophet’s practical model should serve as the “best foundation for interaction with followers of other religions today.”
Zoom out:
Interfaith engagement has become a strategic priority for many religious and academic institutions in the region, as conflicts and ideological polarization make dialogue increasingly essential.
Go deeper:
Speakers encouraged developing new research areas and practical initiatives to enhance cooperation among religions, particularly through comparative studies of early Islamic governance, treaty law, ethical leadership, and intercommunal coexistence.
Hossein Vaez - ahmad shirzadian
