Ismail ibn Musa Menk - Importance and Methodology of Tolerance

About this lecture

In this lecture delivered at a tolerance convention in Dubai in 2019, Sheikh Ismail ibn Musa Menk explores the Islamic foundations of tolerance, drawing on Quranic verses, hadith, and the story of Cain and Abel to explain why peaceful coexistence with those who differ from us is a core requirement of faith. He emphasises that tolerance does not mean compromising one's beliefs, but rather recognising the equal right of all human beings to exist, to hold their convictions, and to be treated with dignity and respect. The lecture also addresses the dangers of religious extremism, the importance of interfaith dialogue, and practical virtues like smiling and greeting others as tools for building a more tolerant world.