However, my first intense engagement with the Jewish community was towards the end of 2004, after the passing of Pope John II. I was invited by CBS television to an interview, where I met Rabbi Marc Schneier. Initially, our relationship was formal, but over time, we developed a close friendship.
Rabbi Schneier and I shared a common goal: to promote understanding and peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Jews.
We organized several interfaith events, including a high-level meeting that brought together Muslim and Jewish leaders in the US. We also organized meetings that brought students from various colleges and universities in New York City together.
One of the most significant outcomes of our dialogue and friendship is the book we co-authored, which discusses issues that unite and divide Muslims and Jews.
The foreword was written by Former US President Bill Clinton, and the book has been translated into six languages, including Arabic, French, Hebrew, and Indonesian.
Interfaith Dialogue and Violence in Gaza
However, the recent escalation of violence in Gaza has made it challenging to continue our interfaith efforts. The killing of thousands of innocent civilians, including children and women, has left me feeling uneasy and questioning the purpose of our interfaith dialogue.
With the ongoing violence in Gaza, I have come to realize that the issue that needs to be addressed is not just about Palestine and Israel, understanding and harmony.
But what more essential is about upholding universal justice and our common humanity. As a Muslim, I cannot remain silent in the face of oppression and injustices.
Conclusion
Interfaith dialogue is crucial in promoting understanding and peaceful coexistence between people of different faiths. However, it is equally important to acknowledge the challenges and complexities that arise from conflicts like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As I reflect on my experiences in interfaith dialogue, I am reminded that true dialogue requires honest empathy, understanding, and harmony. What is more essential is working together towards a common goal to promote and defend justice and our common humanity.
Manhattan, January 18, 2025
*Imam/Director of Jamaica Muslim Center / President of Nusantara Foundation