In Islam, Allah created humankind with diversity — in ethnicity, culture, and language — as He has declared in numerous verses of the Quran. This diversity is not only something to be accepted, but is also an important foundation for building justice in society.
In an article by Ajarn Ali Suearsamih, “Multiculturalism Based on Islamic Principles,” the role of the Quran in building a body of knowledge on multiculturalism is discussed: “The Quran is the word of Allah, which declares that humankind originates from Adam and Hawa (Eve), the first of the human race, who spread across the earth and became diverse ethnic groups — and the diversity of human ethnicities is the wellspring of multiculturalism.”
The Veil of Ignorance: A Philosophy of Justice
Accepting diversity in Islam is also consistent with the philosophical concept known as the “Veil of Ignorance,” proposed by the Western philosopher John Rawls. Rawls proposed this concept in his book A Theory of Justice, which simulates a situation in which people must make decisions about justice without knowing what position they themselves will hold in society. This concept proposes that if everyone had to decide on rules and policies without any knowledge of their own social status — such as ethnicity, gender, or economic standing — they would create a system that is fair and excludes no one from basic rights.
When this concept is linked to Islam, accepting the diversity that Allah has created is an act that reflects a form of justice, in which everyone can live together without being excluded or divided. This acceptance and respect for difference thus leads to treating one another equally and to building a just society, which is what Allah has commanded in the Quran.
The Charter of Makkah and Multiculturalism
The Charter of Makkah is a document declared at an international Islamic conference held in the city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, organized by the Muslim World League on March 17-19, 2024 (2567 B.E.). The main purpose of this conference was to build a bridge of relations between the various schools within Islam, with more than 300 scholars and religious leaders from around the world in attendance. The Charter of Makkah consists of 28 articles, with key content emphasizing the building of unity and respect for diversity of belief and practice within Islam. For example, Article 8 addresses the acceptance of diverse schools of thought and differing opinions within Islam as something ordained by Allah that must be managed with wisdom and care. These provisions reflect the importance of accepting multiculturalism in Muslim society, which is a gateway to justice and peace within the community according to Islamic principles, and demonstrate the urgent relevance of this issue for Muslim society today.
The Elements of the Bridge That Connects
The article by Ajarn Ali Suearsamih explains the elements necessary for learning about and accepting this diversity as follows:
- Knowledge (Ma’rifah): Knowledge of the diversity of multiculturalism, which results from the diversity of ethnicities and the development of human society
- Acceptance (Al-I’tiraf): Accepting the diversity and differences of cultural groups within ethnicities that differ both physically and mentally
- Customs and Traditions (Al-‘Urf): The customs and traditions of each cultural group, which have developed in terms of society, economy, politics, and way of life
- Getting to Know One Another (At-Ta’aruf): The process of positive and constructive interaction, as well as peaceful dialogue
The Perspective of the Institute of Wasatiyyah for Peace and Development, Office of the Chularajmontri
The Institute of Wasatiyyah for Peace and Development, Office of the Chularajmontri, focuses on studying and promoting the principle of “Wasatiyyah” in Islam, which holds that living together in a multicultural society is of great importance. This principle of Wasatiyyah emphasizes balance, justice, and the acceptance of cultural and religious diversity, which are key to building a peaceful and harmonious society. The institute was established with the objective of strengthening a correct understanding of Islam and promoting the practice of religious principles in a way that can be applied within diverse societies. In addition, the institute plays an important role in spreading the concept of Wasatiyyah to community leaders and the general public, so that everyone can live together peacefully and respect one another in a society full of diversity.
Additional Quranic Verses
In Surah Al-Ma’idah, it is also mentioned that human beings were created with diversity as a test from God:
“For each of you We have appointed a law and a way. And if Allah had willed, He could have made you one community, but [He willed otherwise] that He might test you in what He has given you. So compete with one another in good deeds. To Allah is your return, all of you, and He will inform you of that in which you used to differ.” (Al-Ma’idah: 48)
Furthermore, another verse of the Quran also mentions the diversity of languages and skin colors as one of God’s signs, demonstrating His might and wisdom:
“And of His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the diversity of your languages and colors.” (Ar-Rum: 22)
Conclusion
God’s directive for Muslims to accept multiculturalism is not only a religious command, but also a path leading to true justice in society. When we accept differences and respect the dignity of every human being, we build a society filled with understanding, respect, and justice — which is what Allah has commanded in the Quran — and open the door to mutual understanding. In the end, this justice and mutual understanding will ultimately help strengthen the relationship between humanity and Allah.
References:
- Ali Suearsamih, “Multiculturalism Based on Islamic Principles”
- John Rawls, A Theory of Justice
- Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdullah Numsuk, “The 28 Articles of the Charter of Makkah,” an article from Muslim Bangkok Journal, Issue 75
- Ismael Kateh, “Wasatiyyah in Islam and Coexistence within a Multicultural Society, in Belief and Thought”
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