The role of religion in fostering peaceful relationships between Christians and Muslims in Egypt
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Date
2024-06
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University of New Brunswick
Abstract
While religion is often seen as a source of conflict and tension between Egyptian Muslims and Christians, the teachings of Islam and Christianity have historically and in the present been sources of mutual tolerance and coexistence. Political speeches, religious teachings, practices, rituals and ceremonies, social gatherings, and institutions all play a role in demonstrating religious influence on peaceful relations.
My research shows that the teachings of Islam and Christianity can promote peace. It also focuses on how the teachings on peace, which are foundational to both Muslims and Christians worldwide, have also influenced the relationship between Christians (Catholics, Orthodox, Evangelical, and Protestant) and Muslims (Sunnis) in Egypt in the period c. 1950–2019. Further, it investigates the influence of those teachings on politics, socio-cultural behaviour, and religious education in Egypt by examining political speeches, religious practices, and institutions that encouraged tolerance and cooperation during the study period c. 1950-2019. It will be concluded that, conflicts notwithstanding, the teachings of Islam and Christianity have played an overall positive role in promoting peace between Christians and Muslims in Egypt.