The other under Islam and how to deal with it

Abstract

The Other constitutes an important part that cannot be ignored of our lives, whether it is an individual, a party, a religion, a sect, a denomination, a people, or a nation. We interact with it as individuals, as peoples, or as nations: We intertwine with them, get influenced by them, and influence them. It is impossible to eliminate it or separate from it except through a caesarean operation where one party dies, and perhaps both parties die together.

There is a mutual relationship between the self and the Other. If we want to understand ourselves and our identity, we need to familiarize ourselves with the Other who is different from us in order to know what distinguishes us from them.

Diversity is one of Allah’s laws in the universe, and it will continue until the Day of Resurrection in accordance with the will of the Creator (Glory be to Him). This diversity leads to mutual recognition, integration, harmony, and cooperation, in order to manifest the image of life as intended by the Creator of life (Glory be to Him).

Making acquaintance of someone different is inherently rooted in the Quran and forms the foundation for human relationships across people who are racially, religiously, culturally, and civilizationally different. Making such acquaintance is a necessity, not a luxury, driven by our shared origin and common humanity. Furthermore, it is a means to surpass superficial differences and achieve a collective understanding, as it promotes integration and cooperation and transcends hostility and conflict.

The relationship between Islam and the Other has evolved since the beginning of the Islamic call, depending on the response of the Other to that call, whether peaceful or confrontational. The Holy Quran affirms this in many Quranic verses.