In the Second Episode of the TV Program One Nation, His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Haddad Affirms: Dialogue Is the Only Path to Uniting the Muslim Ummah
His Eminence Dr. Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al Haddad, Member of the Muslim Council of Elders, Member of the UAE Fatwa Council, Senior Mufti and Director of the Fatwa Department in Dubai, affirmed that Islam is a religion that encourages dialogue and engagement, both with those who agree and those who disagree. Dialogue is the only means to understanding others, which is why it has been a fundamental pillar of Islamic preaching. Allah Almighty commanded His Prophet (PBUH): “Invite all to the way of your Lord with wisdom and kind advice, and debate with them in the best manner.” (The Quran, 16:125)
Argumentation here refers to dialogue, which the Prophet (PBUH) practiced throughout his mission—whether with his own people or with those he invited to the path of Allah. Allah Almighty recounts his words: “Say, ‘O Prophet,’ “O People of the Book! Let us come to common terms: that we will worship none but Allah, associate none with Him, nor take one another as lords instead of Allah.” But if they turn away, then say, “Bear witness that we have submitted ‘to Allah alone’.” (The Quran, 3:64)
Dr. Al Haddad, a member of the Muslim Council of Elders, added that just as the Prophet (PBUH) addressed the People of the Book with such wisdom, so too did all the prophets (peace be upon them). Every prophet engaged his people in gracious dialogue to guide them toward the truth revealed by Allah and to lead them to the straight path.
He explained that if this approach was used with those outside our faith, then it is even more necessary—and should be even more refined—when engaging in intra-Islamic dialogue among different sects and groups that share the declaration of faith, the pillars of Islam, the Qiblah, and the core tenets of faith. This is because Allah has willed for all Muslims to be one united nation, following a single, upright path. This is their defining spiritual identity, as Allah states: “Indeed, this religion of yours is only one, and I am your Lord, so worship Me alone.” (The Quran, 21:92) And also: “Indeed, this, your religion, is one religion, and I am your Lord, so fear Me.” (The Quran, 23:52) By repeating this message in two verses of the Quran, Allah emphasizes that unity is a foundational principle of faith, essential for true worship and righteousness.
His Eminence called for concerted efforts to advance dialogue that eliminates psychological barriers among Muslim communities and fosters mutual reassurance. This, he explained, is the core mission of the Muslim Council of Elders since its establishment, particularly emphasized in its most recent conference, titled “One Nation, One Shared Destiny.” Such a theme unites Muslims under a common cause. He further stressed the importance of translating dialogue into tangible reality, particularly given the severe challenges facing the Muslim Ummah today—challenges that are unprecedented in their collective scope, affecting every Islamic school of thought and community. In this context, he reminded of Allah’s divine command: “And hold firmly together to the rope of Allah and do not be divided. Remember Allah’s favour upon you when you were enemies, then He united your hearts, so you—by His grace—became brothers. And you were at the brink of a fiery pit and He saved you from it. This is how Allah makes His revelations clear to you, so that you may be rightly guided.” (The Quran, 3:103)
Dr. Al Haddad expressed his gratitude and appreciation to His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, for his blessed efforts and tireless dedication to uniting the Muslim Ummah. He also extended his thanks to the General Secretariat of the Muslim Council of Elders for its ongoing efforts in organizing initiatives aimed at fostering unity and promoting peace across the world. He concluded by praying to Allah Almighty to unite the hearts of Muslims upon truth and guidance and to always keep them on the straight path.