Through Force or Faith? — Page 102
?— A Reply to Pope Benedict XVI 102 path that Islamic teachings are what they are perceived to be. I thought that the Pope was a responsible person and a scholar and that he had some knowledge about Islam too but, by making this statement, he has exposed his utter ignorance. He should have tried to promote peace in the world by pursuing the teachings of the Messiah whose succes- sorship he claims. He [ Jesus] has taught kind treatment even of the enemies. On one hand, by imputing errone- ous things to the Holy Prophet s as and Quran, Muslims have been provoked and, as a reaction, those who cannot control their emotions, will act out in a way that will give them an opportunity to do further propaganda against Muslims. On the other hand, the followers of the Pope and those who live in the West who already believe Islam to be an extremist religion, will further increase in their hatred of Muslims. (Friday Sermon of Khalifatul Masih V aba delivered September 15, 2006 www. alislam. org) Rules for Interfaith Dialogues Commenting on the reaction to his lecture, the Pope stated that his objective was to promote interfaith dialogue. We have already discussed how incorrect his statement and his approach were. Here it is worth discussing as to what ought to be the rules for inter- faith dialogue. What approach should be taken that would not offend the sensibilities of any religion and would allow interfaith