Tenth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

Religious tolerance implies the mutual abode of people of diverse religions while ensuring peaceful coexistence. Historically, people of South Asia have belonged to various diverse religious identities and cultures. Despite this fact, the region carries a rich history of interfaith harmony and social cohesion for centuries. The study of socio-political administration of this region reflects that the moral values and justice by and large sustained by rulers surely had a trickle-down effect on the subjects of their empire. However, it is also noted that Sufism in South Asia played an integral and dynamic role in promoting principles of peace, love and interfaith harmony. Sufi Shrines educated and transformed the lives of individuals through offering them places to stay and food irrespective of their faith. This study is based on the analysis of historical evidences through comparison of Muslim rule in the past and contemporary social and political developments. The paper also explores how prominent Sufis of the South Asia, such as, Khawaja Muʿīn al-Dīn Chishtī, Alī al-Hujwīrī Dātā Ganj Bakhsh, Sultan-ul-Arifeen Sultan Bahoo, etc. played a pivotal role in the reformation of their respective societies. Moreover, the research focuses upon the understanding of linkage between socio-economic justice and practical implications of Sufism. Using a qualitative analytical approach, it discusses how Sufi thought is applicable in contemporary case-studies where peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance is unseen.