“Essential to the creation of a higher order of human relationships is the acceptance of pluralism. Within the Muslim world, for example, thoughtful and heartfelt differences exist in regard to the interpretation of the faith. Nothing is gained by imposing one interpretation upon people disposed to another. Indeed, the effect of such coercion is a denial of the principles of the faith….Human genius is found in its variety, which is a work of Allah.”
Mawlana Shah Karim Aga Khan IV
Khorog, Tajikistan, May 24, 1995
Published in The Ismaili, May 1995 issue
“Pluralism implies a readiness to listen to many voices – whether we agree with them or not – and a readiness to embrace a rich diversity of cultures.”
Mawlana Shah KArim
Opening Ceremony of the IPI World Congress and 54th General Assembly
Nairobi, Kenya, May 22, 2005
Speech
“Instead of shouting at one another, we must listen to one another — and learn from one another. As we do, one of our first lessons might well center on those powerful but often neglected chapters in history when Islamic and European cultures interacted cooperatively — constructively and creatively — to help realize some of civilization’s peak achievements.”
Mawlana Shah Karim
Tutzing Evangelical Academy Upon Receiving the “Tolerance” Award, Germany
May 20, 2006
Speech
“Differences must be resolved within the ethic of our faith, through dialogue, through compassion, through tolerance, through generosity, through forgiveness.”
Mawlana Shah KArim
Ishkashim, Tajikistan, May 23, 1995
Published in The Ismaili, May 1995 issue
Compiled by Nimira Dewji
Ismailimail 