Religion, though neglected in political circles plays a significant role in the eliciting conflicts and bringing peace in the world.
Powerful countries have been continually undermining the role of religion in bringing a lasting peace in the world especially in issues related to terrorism and stability of governments because they perceive that religions are prime root of conflicts. Such perceptions emanate from the fact that wars in Nigeria, Sudan, Somalia, Palestine, Israel, Iraq and Afghanistan have religious dimensions and orientations. “ All of these cases demonstrate that while religion is an important factor in conflict, often marking identity differences, motivating conflict, and justifying violence, religion is not usually the sole or primary cause of conflict” (Smock 3). Religion integrates into political, economic and social spheres that are determinants of the nature and extent conflicts, thus perceived as sole cause of conflict.
It is remarkable that during the summit in Cologne, Pope urged the Muslim leaders to intensify the war shunning terrorism. This was to reduce the incidences, which endangered the lives of innocent individuals. There is a need to inculcate optimism, as well as hope amidst all people instead of panic and pessimism. This is factual since it encourages peaceful coexistence, as well as calling all the leaders to take action against terrorism interrelated attacks. According to Pope, he was echoing his own reflections as a spiritual leader, and did not have any political attachment. Although Muslims commit most terrorist attacks, Pope’s speech did not touch on Islam. This was a show of respect, as well as setting a harmonious path for solving the problem.
Most opinionated leaders have been at the forefront in blaming Muslim leaders for the recurring terrorist activities across the globe. It is imperative to declare that the Muslim leaders who were in the meeting responded positively to curtail the act. Not only does terrorism occur in Christian world, but it also prevalent in Islamic communities. This shows that it is a problem that he whole world share, and thus requires a synergistic effort from every fragment of the population.
This is why Pope who is a faith leader urges the Islamic leaders to take action to reduce terrorism. “ Interfaith dialogue is a necessity at every level: international, regional, and local; working groups on different levels should be established with emphasis on issues such as education, peace building and the promotion of solidarity and understanding among different communities and cultures” (Smock & Huda 3). This quote is significant since it supports the reading; furthermore, it suggests means of curbing terrorism.
Ending terrorism is possible through dialogue amid concerned parties. It is notable that another solution to this vice is through comprehending each other’s religion and culture. This move will reduce hostility, as well as clearing blame amongst people, while amplifying cordial coexistence. Confirmation from the Turkish Islam Union, that studying religion and customs is critical in the reduction of terrorism incidences. This shows that the leader was positive towards Pope’s utterances.
This shows the importance of the article since it relates with the reading, as well as depicting out the theme of the topic. “ Islam, as a religion of peace, rejects terror and promotes peace and harmony. We urge Muslim organizations and institutions to exercise their Islamic duty to correct and dispel misinterpretations of our faith” (Smock & Huda 2). This quote is significant since it shows willingness of all Muslim leaders in curtailing ungodly deeds like the killing of innocent citizens. In conclusion, both Christian and Islam leaders have devised several means of controlling terrorism.
The late developments, especially interfaith movement against bombing activities have played critical role in shunning terrorism. It is noteworthy that the article concerning Pope’s call on Muslim leaders to join the fight against terrorism is relevant to the reading.
Work Cited
Smock, David, & Huda, Qamar-ul. Islamic Peacemaking since 9- 11.
New York, NY: United states Institute of peace. 2009. Web. 15th March 2011.