Here is the English abstract of Seyyed Mahdi Qoreyshi (Ph. D.; Muslem Clergy; Representative of Supreme Leader in West Azerbaijan Province; Imam of Friday Prayer  in Urmia; Faculty Member, Department of Law and Islamic Jurisprudence, Urmia University, Iran) presentation at the 3^nd pre-con meeting of the conference “Imam Reza (PBUH) and Interreligious Dialogue" which was held in Urmia University, Iran on  October 28, 2023.

Imam Reza and Theological Strategies in the Unity of Religions and Denominations

In the Holy Quran and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt, there is a significant emphasis on the unity of religions and sects. The Quran, with its broad perspective, addresses all people and reminds them that there is no criterion for superiority other than piety. In essence, the strategy of the Holy Quran for the unity of divine religions revolves around the concept of monotheism, referred to as the "Kalimah al-Siwāʾ (Common Word)". Likewise, in the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt, one can witness their concern for this matter. From Nahj al-Balagha, which identifies division as the cause of stripping the garment of dignity and honor from the wicked nations, to other hadiths, all encompass this meaning. This research delves into the special role played by Imam Reza in this context. Not only was he a promoter of the culture of unity during his lifetime, but even after his martyrdom, his holy shrine has become a focal point for the unity of various Islamic denominations. Historically, numerous reports from prominent Sunni scholars such as Ibn Khuzayma and Ibn Hibban, who visited the sacred shrine of Imam Reza with love and devotion, can be cited in this regard. Furthermore, the honor shown by Sunni Muslims in the present era reaffirms this meaning.

Translator: Mahdi Qasemi