The Limits and Scope of Religious Pluralism in Present Era: A Critical Study in the Light of Islamic Teachings

Abstract

Religious pluralism has emerged as a significant feature of contemporary societies characterized by the coexistence of diverse religious beliefs, traditions, and worldviews. While pluralism may promote peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and social harmony, it also raises important questions concerning the limits of religious diversity and the boundaries of religious truth. This study critically examines the scope and limits of religious pluralism in the present era in the light of Islamic teachings. It explores the concepts of religion (dīn) and religious pluralism, with particular attention to their conceptual and theological foundations in the Qurʾān and Sunnah. Islam recognizes the existence of religious diversity and emphasizes justice, peaceful coexistence, freedom from coercion in matters of faith, and respectful engagement with people of other religions. At the same time, Islamic teachings affirm the uniqueness and normative truth of Islam and do not necessarily endorse the theological claim that all religions are equally true or equally salvific. The study therefore distinguishes between social and ethical pluralism, which can be accommodated within Islamic principles of justice, coexistence, and human dignity, and theological pluralism, which may conflict with fundamental Islamic doctrines concerning tawḥīd, prophethood, revelation, and the finality of Islam. Through a critical analysis of relevant Qurʾānic verses, Prophetic traditions, and classical and contemporary Islamic scholarship, the research seeks to establish an Islamic framework for understanding religious diversity in the modern world. It argues that Islam provides a balanced approach that neither advocates religious coercion nor accepts an unrestricted relativization of religious truth. The study concludes that Islamic teachings support peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and mutual respect while maintaining clear theological boundaries regarding Islamic belief and religious truth.