Religious Tolerance

in Oman, where the free choice and exercise of religion is guaranteed in the Basic Law of the state. There are Christian churches of different denominations, as well as temples for Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs. Missionary activities and proselytizing are proscribed for all religious communities, including the Islamic. Of crucial importance for success in modern development -- besides intelligent planning -- is the religious identity of Omanis, the majority of whom subscribe to Ibadhiyah, or Ibadhism. The Ibadhi philosophy is based on principles of religious tolerance and avoidance of conflict. According to Ibadhism, Islamic principles must al-ways be considered in relation to cultural norms and historical context. Only then can Islam retain its original spirit and remain timely. This Islamic school of thought is largely unknown, not only in the west but also in the Islamic world. In their intentionally modest way, the Ibadhis are the purists of orthodox Islam, but they are also very progressive in their willingness to adapt interpretations of the Quran to the requirements of here and now. Responsible for the various religious communities in the country is the Ministry of Religious Endowments and Religious Affairs. The head of this ministry, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salimi, has a clear vision of the world and his personal mission:

“We have three population groups on earth: the first, consisting of Christians, Jews and Muslims, who believe in one God and a holy book; the second, atheists, who have lost all confidence in religion; and the third group, representing a variety of religious and spiritual ideas. We endeavor to maintain a constructive and genuine dialogue with scholars and representatives of all these groups. The aim of exchange is to reflect on the foundations of our thinking, a common morality and a common sense of justice. For only when we are aware of these similarities and these form a basis for our actions, while accepting cultural differences, will we and our children enjoy a peaceful future.”