Name: B'nai B'rith International Programme October 20, 2015 — Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
Uploaded: 2015-01-01
Duration: 47 min 57 s
Channel: Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
Description: Read the full transcript of “B'nai B'rith International Programme October 20, 2015”, a lecture by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, with timestamps.

0:17 shalom and, uh, greetings to all our friends from, uh, Benai Organization, uh, New York. Uh, my name is Rajat Malhotra, and I'm a member of the Center for Peace and Spirituality. shalom and, uh, greetings to all our friends from, uh, Benai Organization, uh, New York. Uh, my name is Rajat Malhotra, and I'm a member of the Center for Peace and Spirituality.

0:27 And on behalf of our founder, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan, and the Center for Peace and Spirituality, I welcome o-all of you for today's interaction. Uh, I've been talking to, uh, David, uh, you know, several weeks, uh, you know, exchanging mails, and it seems that you have a very, uh, hectic schedule in And on behalf of our founder, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan, and the Center for Peace and Spirituality, I welcome o-all of you for today's interaction. Uh, I've been talking to, uh, David, uh, you know, several weeks, uh, you know, exchanging mails, and it seems that you have a very, uh, hectic schedule in

0:44 India. So we really hope that you have a wonderful stay in our country and you take back, uh, good memories and experiences, uh, back home. So, uh, what we're going to do today is that, uh, we will have the opening remarks by our founder, uh, you know, and after that we will have an interactive, uh, session. India. So we really hope that you have a wonderful stay in our country and you take back, uh, good memories and experiences, uh, back home. So, uh, what we're going to do today is that, uh, we will have the opening remarks by our founder, uh, you know, and after that we will have an interactive, uh, session.

1:02 So, uh, before we start, uh, I will just quickly introduce, uh, our founder and, uh, some of the activities of this center. Uh, So, uh, before we start, uh, I will just quickly introduce, uh, our founder and, uh, some of the activities of this center. Uh,

1:11 our founder was born in, uh, 1925, uh, in Azamgir, UP, in India. And like everyone has a dream, uh, he too had a dream. our founder was born in, uh, 1925, uh, in Azamgir, UP, in India. And like everyone has a dream, uh, he too had a dream.

1:21 The only difference is he always had a collective dream, a dream of a peaceful world and, uh, a peaceful mankind. And therefore, his entire life he had been working, uh, tirelessly, uh, to promote the culture of peace The only difference is he always had a collective dream, a dream of a peaceful world and, uh, a peaceful mankind. And therefore, his entire life he had been working, uh, tirelessly, uh, to promote the culture of peace

1:36 . All his writings, his engagements have been directed, uh, towards establishing, uh, peace. And, uh, he first, uh, wrote his book in 1955. . All his writings, his engagements have been directed, uh, towards establishing, uh, peace. And, uh, he first, uh, wrote his book in 1955.

1:48 Uh, it was called On the Threshold of New Era. And thereafter he went about writing more than 200 books. And, uh, he first set up the Islamic Center in New Delhi in 19 Uh, it was called On the Threshold of New Era. And thereafter he went about writing more than 200 books. And, uh, he first set up the Islamic Center in New Delhi in 19

2:00 70. And then in 1976, uh, his, uh, organization Mouthpiece, uh, which is called Al-Bisala Magazine, a monthly magazine, which till date continues and is one of the largest, uh, uh, Urdu circulated magazines in the Urdu world. 70. And then in 1976, uh, his, uh, organization Mouthpiece, uh, which is called Al-Bisala Magazine, a monthly magazine, which till date continues and is one of the largest, uh, uh, Urdu circulated magazines in the Urdu world.

2:16 And for, uh, the English-speaking world, there is a Spirit of Islam magazine, which is published from, uh, uh, our Bangalore, uh, chapter. And for, uh, the English-speaking world, there is a Spirit of Islam magazine, which is published from, uh, uh, our Bangalore, uh, chapter.

2:25 And, uh, in, uh, in about, uh, nine—uh, 2001 he set up, uh, the Center for Peace and Spirituality. So as the name suggests, uh, Center for Peace and Spirituality, the main aim or the objective of, uh, CPS International, as we call it, is, uh, basically to re-engineer the minds of people, uh, to promote the culture of, uh, peace. And, uh, in, uh, in about, uh, nine—uh, 2001 he set up, uh, the Center for Peace and Spirituality. So as the name suggests, uh, Center for Peace and Spirituality, the main aim or the objective of, uh, CPS International, as we call it, is, uh, basically to re-engineer the minds of people, uh, to promote the culture of, uh, peace.

2:49 Uh, like our founder always says that, uh, there is a UN victim which says that violence begins from mind, Uh, like our founder always says that, uh, there is a UN victim which says that violence begins from mind,

2:55 so peace also begins from mind. So he always says that, uh, there is no such thing as a friend or an enemy. so peace also begins from mind. So he always says that, uh, there is no such thing as a friend or an enemy.

3:03 He says that everybody is a friend. Either one category is a friend or the other category is a potential friend. So you have to make the potential, uh, actual. He says that everybody is a friend. Either one category is a friend or the other category is a potential friend. So you have to make the potential, uh, actual.

3:15 So that's, uh, that's exactly, you know, what, uh, CPS has been doing, uh, building bridges, interacting with different organizations, meeting people, uh, changing the hearts and minds of people. So that's, uh, that's exactly, you know, what, uh, CPS has been doing, uh, building bridges, interacting with different organizations, meeting people, uh, changing the hearts and minds of people.

3:27 You would be happy to know that, uh, many people who have been engaged in violence, uh, people with jihadi mentality, they have given up, uh, you know, the arms and ammunition, and they've taken to the field of education. You would be happy to know that, uh, many people who have been engaged in violence, uh, people with jihadi mentality, they have given up, uh, you know, the arms and ammunition, and they've taken to the field of education.

3:39 And, uh, this work has been recognized not only nationally but also internationally. And, uh, this work has been recognized not only nationally but also internationally.

3:44 And Maulana has been, uh, given several, uh, national and international awards, like the Demogoros Peace International Award, which was given, uh, uh, to him along with Vladimir Putin of Russia and Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Princess of Yugoslav And Maulana has been, uh, given several, uh, national and international awards, like the Demogoros Peace International Award, which was given, uh, uh, to him along with Vladimir Putin of Russia and Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Princess of Yugoslav

3:58 ia. And, uh, several other awards, like the National Citizen Award given by Mother Teresa, the Rajiv Gandhi Samadhi Award, the Communal Harmony Award, and, uh, two recently awards, one which he got in Abu Dhabi, Sayyidna Imam Al-Hasan Ibn Ali Award, uh, for fostering peace. ia. And, uh, several other awards, like the National Citizen Award given by Mother Teresa, the Rajiv Gandhi Samadhi Award, the Communal Harmony Award, and, uh, two recently awards, one which he got in Abu Dhabi, Sayyidna Imam Al-Hasan Ibn Ali Award, uh, for fostering peace.

4:16 And more recently, last month, uh, in Chicago, uh, which was given at ISNA, uh, for his lifetime achievement of peace work. And more recently, last month, uh, in Chicago, uh, which was given at ISNA, uh, for his lifetime achievement of peace work.

4:25 Uh, his recent book, uh, The Age of Peace, uh, was launched, uh, last month, uh, in the United States Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C. Uh, his recent book, uh, The Age of Peace, uh, was launched, uh, last month, uh, in the United States Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C.

4:35 And, uh, this is basically the culmination of his entire lifetime work because he feels that, uh, peace is not just a theory. And, uh, this is basically the culmination of his entire lifetime work because he feels that, uh, peace is not just a theory.

4:44 Peace is very much practically achieved Peace is very much practically achieved

4:49 . And, uh, he's been, you know, the lone voice, I would say, who's always been saying that if you really want peace, don't make it conditional. . And, uh, he's been, you know, the lone voice, I would say, who's always been saying that if you really want peace, don't make it conditional.

4:59 Most of the time, the unrest that we see around the world, people say that we will give peace but give us justice. He says that this is not a workable formula. Most of the time, the unrest that we see around the world, people say that we will give peace but give us justice. He says that this is not a workable formula.

5:09 He says that, uh, peace has to be on a unilateral basis. You can't say that give justice and then I will give He says that, uh, peace has to be on a unilateral basis. You can't say that give justice and then I will give

5:18 peace. Because according to him, peace basically opens the door of opportunities. And once you wear those opportunities, you are able to progress. peace. Because according to him, peace basically opens the door of opportunities. And once you wear those opportunities, you are able to progress.

5:28 So, uh, uh, saying that, uh, justice is a precondition has never worked and will never work. And maybe, you know, in the interaction you could ask him to elaborate on that. So, uh, uh, saying that, uh, justice is a precondition has never worked and will never work. And maybe, you know, in the interaction you could ask him to elaborate on that.

5:38 So, uh, he's also been, uh, uh, you know, since he's traveled across the world, he's visited, uh, Israel a few times. So, uh, he's also been, uh, uh, you know, since he's traveled across the world, he's visited, uh, Israel a few times.

5:46 And, uh, uh, he was, uh, last few years back invited by Paris Center of Peace. And in a private meeting with President Paris there, he also gave his, uh, document on how to establish peace in the Holy Land. And, uh, uh, he was, uh, last few years back invited by Paris Center of Peace. And in a private meeting with President Paris there, he also gave his, uh, document on how to establish peace in the Holy Land.

6:00 And, uh, thereafter, CPS has had several interactions in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Dr. Sane Hussain Khan, Maulana's son, has participated in many Jerusalem book fairs. And, uh, thereafter, CPS has had several interactions in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Dr. Sane Hussain Khan, Maulana's son, has participated in many Jerusalem book fairs.

6:12 I've been, uh, with, uh, Dr. Sane Hussain Khan and our founder, and we've had a wonderful experience, uh, interacting with, uh, people out there. So, uh, you know, without taking much time, I would now request our founder, uh, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan, to say a few words and then we would, uh, open the session. I've been, uh, with, uh, Dr. Sane Hussain Khan and our founder, and we've had a wonderful experience, uh, interacting with, uh, people out there. So, uh, you know, without taking much time, I would now request our founder, uh, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan, to say a few words and then we would, uh, open the session.

6:29 Uh, thank you, uh, once again for coming here. It's really a pleasure to host all of you here at CPS Hall. Welcome to all of you. Uh, thank you, uh, once again for coming here. It's really a pleasure to host all of you here at CPS Hall. Welcome to all of you.

6:38 bismillah rahman rahim بسم اللہ الرحمن الرحیم

6:43 wasallallahu ala nabiyyil karim وصلی اللہ علی النبی الکریم

6:48 oktober 20, 2015 اکتوبر 20، 2015

6:57 Welcome to the guests from Benai International on the Indian soil. Welcome to the guests from Benai International on the Indian soil.

7:11 It is the land of spirituality and peace. It is the land of spirituality and peace.

7:20 So welcome to you all on this land of peace. So welcome to you all on this land of peace.

7:29 Now you know that there is a very special relationship between Muslims and Jews. Now you know that there is a very special relationship between Muslims and Jews.

7:42 Both are Both are

7:46 Ahl-e-Kitab, that is, religious brothers. Ahl-e-Kitab, that is, religious brothers.

7:55 Both believe in Prophet Abraham, who was the father of all the prophets. Both believe in Prophet Abraham, who was the father of all the prophets.

8:07 Prophet of Islam, Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wasallam used to give a very special position to all the Semitic religions. Prophet of Islam, Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم used to give a very special position to all the Semitic religions.

8:26 You know, there are three Semitic religions. In terms of seriality, Judaism is the first. You know, there are three Semitic religions. In terms of seriality, Judaism is the first.

8:38 Then second is Christianity. And the third is Islam. Then second is Christianity. And the third is Islam.

8:49 Prophet always Prophet always

8:55 in the Quran and also in the Hadith, there are so many references that refer to the special position of these three religions. in the Quran and also in the Hadith, there are so many references that refer to the special position of these three religions.

9:08 For example, you know, Prophet of Islam was born in Makkah. And he received the first revelation from God in 610 A.D. For example, you know, Prophet of Islam was born in Makkah. And he received the first revelation from God in 610 A.D.

9:25 The first person he met was a Christian, Varka bin Nawfal. The first person he met was a Christian, Varka bin Nawfal.

9:33 He shared with his experiences with this Christian scholar. Then there was no Jew in Makkah. He shared with his experiences with this Christian scholar. Then there was no Jew in Makkah.

9:49 But there was a large Jewish community in Madinah. But there was a large Jewish community in Madinah.

9:54 So after three years, he migrated from Makkah to Madinah. And there were three tribes of three Jewish tribes. So after three years, he migrated from Makkah to Madinah. And there were three tribes of three Jewish tribes.

10:08 So he gave a very special position to these Jews. So he gave a very special position to these Jews.

10:16 For example, he For example, he

10:22 made their Qibla as his Qibla. Qibla means Qibla is very important in Islam. made their Qibla as his Qibla. Qibla means Qibla is very important in Islam.

10:32 So he offered his prayer directing through the Jewish Qibla, So he offered his prayer directing through the Jewish Qibla,

10:41 that is, that is,

10:45 Qubbat as-Sakhra, or Dome of the Rock. It was very Qubbat as-Sakhra, or Dome of the Rock. It was very

10:57 strange that Prophet of Islam was strange that Prophet of Islam was

11:02 the founder of Islam. But he, up to 16 months, observed his namaz the founder of Islam. But he, up to 16 months, observed his prayer

11:13 by adopting the Jewish Qibla. by adopting the Jewish Qibla.

11:18 Then Prophet of Islam issued a declaration that is referred in the history as Sahifatul Madinah. Then Prophet of Islam issued a declaration that is referred in the history as Sahifatul Madinah.

11:33 Sahifatul Madinah means Madinah Declaration. Sahifatul Madinah means Madinah Declaration.

11:38 In this declaration, there was a class, lil-yahoodi deenukum wa lil-muslimeena doonukum For Jews, their religion; for Jewish communities, their religion; In this declaration, there was a class, لِلْیَهُودِ دِّينُهُمْ وَلِلْمُسْلِمِينَ دُونُهُمْ For Jews, their religion; for Jewish communities, their religion;

11:56 and for Muslim communities, their religion. and for Muslim communities, their religion.

12:00 One day, Prophet was sitting at a place in Madinah. One day, Prophet was sitting at a place in Madinah.

12:10 He saw a funeral procession passing through a street. He saw a funeral procession passing through a street.

12:19 On seeing that funeral, he stood up in respec On seeing that funeral, he stood up in respec

12:27 t. One of his companions said, "O Prophet, it was the funeral of a Jew, not a Muslim." Prophet said, "Alaihi al-sat nafsa" , was he not a human being? t. One of his companions said, "O Prophet, it was the funeral of a Jew, not a Muslim." Prophet said, "علیہ الست نفسا" , was he not a human being?

12:44 Here you can see that Prophet established a community between himself and that Jew. This is very important. Here you can see that Prophet established a community between himself and that Jew. This is very important.

12:58 So at every occasion, Prophet gave a very special position to Jews as well as to Christians. So at every occasion, Prophet gave a very special position to Jews as well as to Christians.

13:13 Now Now

13:17 in Madinah, there were three Jewish tribes. in Madinah, there were three Jewish tribes.

13:21 So one day, there was a difference between a Muslim and a Jew. Jews said that Moses was superior to all the prophets. So one day, there was a difference between a Muslim and a Jew. Jews said that Moses was superior to all the prophets.

13:39 Muslims said, "No, Muhammad was the superior prophet, Muslims said, "No, Muhammad was the superior prophet,

13:46 superior superior

13:50 to all the prophets." So there was a to all the prophets." So there was a

13:57 heated exchange between the two. heated exchange between the two.

14:03 And there was a quarrel. Then both Jews and Muslims visited the Prophet and narrated this story. And there was a quarrel. Then both Jews and Muslims visited the Prophet and narrated this story.

14:16 Prophet said, "Don't say like things. Don't make me superior. Prophet said, "Don't say like things. Don't make me superior.

14:26 Because in the day of judgment, when all the human, all the mankind will gather at the Maidan Hashr, Because in the day of judgment, when all the human, all the mankind will gather at the Maidan Hashr,

14:45 so all when they see the glory of God Almighty, they will fall and become conscious, unconscious. so all when they see the glory of God Almighty, they will fall and become conscious, unconscious.

15:01 They become unconscious, including prophets. So after some time, they return to conscious. They become unconscious, including prophets. So after some time, they return to conscious.

15:11 So Prophet said that, "I will So Prophet said that, "I will

15:20 go to the throne of God Almighty. I will proceed. I will proceed to the throne of God Almighty." go to the throne of God Almighty. I will proceed. I will proceed to the throne of God Almighty."

15:32 So when I reached over there, I saw that Moses, that Musa alaihis salam or Moses will be there before myself. So when I reached over there, I saw that Moses, that Musa alaihis salam or Moses will be there before myself.

15:51 So all these references tell that in Islam, that Islam gives a very special position to the Jewish community as well as the Christian community. So all these references tell that in Islam, that Islam gives a very special position to the Jewish community as well as the Christian community.

16:10 Just like because these three communities, Muslims and Jews and Christians, are three Semitic brothers. Just like because these three communities, Muslims and Jews and Christians, are three Semitic brothers.

16:22 First is the Jewish community. Second is the Christian community. And the third is the Muslim community. So there are so many similarities between the two communities First is the Jewish community. Second is the Christian community. And the third is the Muslim community. So there are so many similarities between the two communities

16:41 . I know that there are some differences between the two communities . I know that there are some differences between the two communities

16:51 in the land of Israel or Palestine. But in the land of Israel or Palestine. But

16:59 I think that we have I think that we have

17:05 a very good method to settle our differences. a very good method to settle our differences.

17:13 We are now in the days of the United Nations. The United Nations is a world body. The United Nations is a world body. We are now in the days of the United Nations. The United Nations is a world body. The United Nations is a world body.

17:25 So I think that the best is to best is that both communities must accept UNO as their arbiter or solace. So I think that the best is to best is that both communities must accept UNO as their arbiter or solace.

17:43 And both must accept the And both must accept the

17:51 judgment of the United Nations. This is the best way to settle the problem. judgment of the United Nations. This is the best way to settle the problem.

17:59 Now a few words about our mission. Our mission is the mission of peace and spirituality. We believe that peace and spirituality are two different faces of a single coin. Now a few words about our mission. Our mission is the mission of peace and spirituality. We believe that peace and spirituality are two different faces of a single coin.

18:20 Spirituality is the inner content of peace. And peace is an external expression of spirituality. Spirituality is the inner content of peace. And peace is an external expression of spirituality.

18:30 So this is our mission. We try to promote peace and spirituality throughout the world through literature, through seminars, through conferences, through modern communication. So this is our mission. We try to promote peace and spirituality throughout the world through literature, through seminars, through conferences, through modern communication.

18:47 This is our mission. This is our mission.

18:51 And also I believe that those Muslims who are engaged in violence in some places are not correct representatives of Islam. And also I believe that those Muslims who are engaged in violence in some places are not correct representatives of Islam.

19:06 Because Islam is a religion of peace, a religion of love, a religion of compassion. Because Islam is a religion of peace, a religion of love, a religion of compassion.

19:17 All the teachings of Islam, directly or indirectly, are related to peace and spirituality. So those Muslims who are engaged in violence, they are All the teachings of Islam, directly or indirectly, are related to peace and spirituality. So those Muslims who are engaged in violence, they are

19:38 not not

19:43 following the teachings of Islam. following the teachings of Islam.

19:49 So I would say that you must differentiate between So I would say that you must differentiate between

19:57 Muslims and Islam. You have to judge Muslims in the teachings of Islam and not vice versa. Muslims and Islam. You have to judge Muslims in the teachings of Islam and not vice versa.

20:10 We try to We try to

20:17 make Muslims aware of this fact. We make Muslims aware of this fact. We

20:26 always try to always try to

20:30 bring about reform in Muslims and make them peaceful. Because peace is the most important. bring about reform in Muslims and make them peaceful. Because peace is the most important.

20:42 There is a Hadith. Prophet of Islam has said, innallaha. Yawti ala rifqi ma la yawti ala dunuhu There is a Hadith. Prophet of Islam has said, إِنَّ اللَّهَ. يَوْطِي أَلَا الْرِفْقُ مَا لَا يَوْطِي أَلَا دُونُهُ

20:56 It means that God Almighty grants peace to what He does not grant to violence. It means that God Almighty grants peace to what He does not grant to violence.

21:07 This is Sunnatullah or Divine Law. So this world is made on the concept of peace. This is Sunnatullah or Divine Law. So this world is made on the concept of peace.

21:21 In this world, you can achieve your goal only through a peaceful method. If you adopt a violent method, then it will not work. In this world, you can achieve your goal only through a peaceful method. If you adopt a violent method, then it will not work.

21:35 So we always try to convince Muslims of this fact so that they may shun all kinds of violence So we always try to convince Muslims of this fact so that they may shun all kinds of violence

21:49 . So in short, this is our mission. And all the members of our team, all the members of our mission are trying their heart to establish this mission. . So in short, this is our mission. And all the members of our team, all the members of our mission are trying their heart to establish this mission.

22:14 And we try to spread our message all over the globe. And we try to spread our message all over the globe.

22:26 So thank you. And again, I would say that we welcome you on this land of peace. Thank you. So thank you. And again, I would say that we welcome you on this land of peace. Thank you.

22:47 You know, it's interesting to probably share with all of you that whenever he gives a talk, there are more than 1,000 uploaded on his website, and you could see they're certainly in English also. You know, it's interesting to probably share with all of you that whenever he gives a talk, there are more than 1,000 uploaded on his website, and you could see they're certainly in English also.

22:59 So whenever he goes and whenever he begins his talk, he begins his talk with a prayer that Moses made So whenever he goes and whenever he begins his talk, he begins his talk with a prayer that Moses made

23:06 to God. And it has a mention in the Qur'an in Chapter 20, and it goes like this: rabbish min li sadri wa yassir li amri wahallul 'uqdatan min lisani yafqahu qawli The translation of this prayer that Moses made is, to God. And it has a mention in the Qur'an in Chapter 20, and it goes like this: رَبِّشْ مِنَ لِي صَدْرِي وَيَسَرْ لِي أَمْرِي وَهَلُوْلْ عُقْدَةً مِنْ لَسَانِي يَفْقُوَ قَوْلِي The translation of this prayer that Moses made is,

23:25 "O God, expand my heart and ease my task, and remove the impediment of my speech so that I may be able to communicate the message that I want to conve "O God, expand my heart and ease my task, and remove the impediment of my speech so that I may be able to communicate the message that I want to conve

23:38 y." So Moses made this prayer to God before he was sent to Pharaoh to convey the word of God. And Mawlana instructed all the CPS members globally to, you know, do this prayer whenever we go and we talk. y." So Moses made this prayer to God before he was sent to Pharaoh to convey the word of God. And Mawlana instructed all the CPS members globally to, you know, do this prayer whenever we go and we talk.

23:53 And, you know, if you open his talks, you would find that, you know, he begins his lecture, you know, with this small prayer. So, you know, I would open the session now. And, you know, if you open his talks, you would find that, you know, he begins his lecture, you know, with this small prayer. So, you know, I would open the session now.

24:04 Devin, how would you want it to be? We could—yeah, Devin, how would you want it to be? We could—yeah,

24:08 please. You know, I would welcome Alan to please come here and share a few words. Well, thank you very much for—yeah, please. please. You know, I would welcome Alan to please come here and share a few words. Well, thank you very much for—yeah, please.

24:18 Thank you very much for meeting with us today. We represent Bnei Brev, which is in over 50 countries around the world, working for peace as well amongst all people. Thank you very much for meeting with us today. We represent Bnei Brev, which is in over 50 countries around the world, working for peace as well amongst all people.

24:34 The organization is 172 years old this year. The organization is 172 years old this year.

24:38 It is the oldest Jewish organization. 172 years. Mashallah, mashallah. It's been around a long time. It is the oldest Jewish organization. 172 years. Mashallah, mashallah. It's been around a long time.

24:46 We have people here today from, I think, five different countries that we are represented in, as well, obviously, most of them from the United States. We have people here today from, I think, five different countries that we are represented in, as well, obviously, most of them from the United States.

24:58 We thank you for meeting with We thank you for meeting with

24:59 us. We have had a meeting three months ago with Pope Francis in Rome, and we work towards peace amongst all peoples. us. We have had a meeting three months ago with Pope Francis in Rome, and we work towards peace amongst all peoples.

25:11 We think this is important. And so with that, perhaps I could ask you the first question. We think this is important. And so with that, perhaps I could ask you the first question.

25:19 Well, how do you see us working together to better develop the relationship between Muslims and Jews so that all that takes place throughout the world does not, as it is happening today, will not happen in the future? Well, how do you see us working together to better develop the relationship between Muslims and Jews so that all that takes place throughout the world does not, as it is happening today, will not happen in the future?

25:39 It is a good question. It is a good question.

25:44 And I think that the answer is very simple. And I think that the answer is very simple.

25:49 According to my study, Muslims are unaware, generally. According to my study, Muslims are unaware, generally.

25:58 They don't know the exact teaching of Islam. They don't know the exact teaching of Islam.

26:02 All the teachings of Islam are based on brotherhood, compassion, love. All the teachings of Islam are based on brotherhood, compassion, love.

26:11 And the Jewish community, as I said earlier, has a special position in the Islamic text. And the Jewish community, as I said earlier, has a special position in the Islamic text.

26:22 They are Ahle Kitab They are Ahle Kitab

26:25 . So I think that all those problems between the two communities are political and not religious. . So I think that all those problems between the two communities are political and not religious.

26:37 I will repeat that these problems are political. They are not religious. So we have to I will repeat that these problems are political. They are not religious. So we have to

26:50 make people aware of this fact. make people aware of this fact.

26:54 When these problems are political, it means that it is not Islamic. It is against the Islamic spirit. When these problems are political, it means that it is not Islamic. It is against the Islamic spirit.

27:04 So we are doing the same job So we are doing the same job

27:06 . We are presenting Islamic teachings before Muslims. And I can say that there are many, many Muslims who have returned back, who accepted our theory. . We are presenting Islamic teachings before Muslims. And I can say that there are many, many Muslims who have returned back, who accepted our theory.

27:20 And there are so many Muslims who have wanted hate and violence and the UN concept. And there are so many Muslims who have wanted hate and violence and the UN concept.

27:33 Is it true? Ye Is it true? Ye

27:36 ah. So just to add on to that, the CPS conducts several workshops. And there are many people, like I said in the introduction, who have given up arms and ammunition. ah. So just to add on to that, the CPS conducts several workshops. And there are many people, like I said in the introduction, who have given up arms and ammunition.

27:49 And, you know, in this hall, we've had several workshops from Kashmir, from different parts of, you know, the country. And, you know, in this hall, we've had several workshops from Kashmir, from different parts of, you know, the country.

27:57 And these are the people who were always living in hatred And these are the people who were always living in hatred

28:00 . So what Mawlana does is he says that you cannot threaten them with a bomb or gun because they are themselves ready to get killed. You can only change their mindset by giving them a counter ideology. . So what Mawlana does is he says that you cannot threaten them with a bomb or gun because they are themselves ready to get killed. You can only change their mindset by giving them a counter ideology.

28:12 They are living in an ideology of hatred. So he uses the scriptures, the Qur'an, and the sayings of the Prophet to address their They are living in an ideology of hatred. So he uses the scriptures, the Qur'an, and the sayings of the Prophet to address their

28:21 mind. For example, there is a saying of the Prophet that if you have an iota of hatred, God Almighty will not enter you in Paradise. mind. For example, there is a saying of the Prophet that if you have an iota of hatred, God Almighty will not enter you in Paradise.

28:31 So when he spoke about this to one of the religious leaders, and then he trained him over several weeks, he was completely changed. So when he spoke about this to one of the religious leaders, and then he trained him over several weeks, he was completely changed.

28:41 So he's now part of CPS, and he's one wing who's handling, you know, trying to propagate the So he's now part of CPS, and he's one wing who's handling, you know, trying to propagate the

28:48 theory. So, you know, it's a very slow and gradual process. It's not an overnight process, but it's happening. But we definitely need to, you know, come together and promote this kind of ideology to, you know, people so that they get theright perspective. theory. So, you know, it's a very slow and gradual process. It's not an overnight process, but it's happening. But we definitely need to, you know, come together and promote this kind of ideology to, you know, people so that they get theright perspective.

29:04 And that's exactly what, you know, he's he's doing it. Thank you. I I would like to introduce our Executive Vice President, Daniel Mary Ashton. And that's exactly what, you know, he's he's doing it. Thank you. I I would like to introduce our Executive Vice President, Daniel Mary Ashton.

29:15 I'm sure that he has a question or tw I'm sure that he has a question or tw

29:18 o. And I thank you very much for meeting with us this early in the morning. We have a very busy schedule while we are here in Delhi for three days, and we appreciate this meeting. o. And I thank you very much for meeting with us this early in the morning. We have a very busy schedule while we are here in Delhi for three days, and we appreciate this meeting.

29:32 So thank you. Likewise. I want to let Daniel step up. Thank you. Thank you. Whatever when you're comfortable. Well, thank you for receiving us. So thank you. Likewise. I want to let Daniel step up. Thank you. Thank you. Whatever when you're comfortable. Well, thank you for receiving us.

29:42 We're deeply appreciative. It's a very auspicious way to begin the day We're deeply appreciative. It's a very auspicious way to begin the day

29:49 . I'd like to make one comment and then tell you about one program that we have, which advances mutual respect. . I'd like to make one comment and then tell you about one program that we have, which advances mutual respect.

30:00 The comment I have is following up on what you've said about the issue between Israelis and Palestinians. The comment I have is following up on what you've said about the issue between Israelis and Palestinians.

30:10 We've seen already many, many years ago with the peace treaty between Israel and Egypt, the peace treaty between Israel and Jordan, We've seen already many, many years ago with the peace treaty between Israel and Egypt, the peace treaty between Israel and Jordan,

30:19 that peace is achievable in that very important part of the Middle East. But the key in those two successful ventures in making peace was the issue of mutual respect. that peace is achievable in that very important part of the Middle East. But the key in those two successful ventures in making peace was the issue of mutual respect.

30:40 And we feel that is what is needed in this particular aspect of the Arab-Israeli, what we used to call the Arab-Israeli issue. And we feel that is what is needed in this particular aspect of the Arab-Israeli, what we used to call the Arab-Israeli issue.

30:52 And it's important that Palestinians come to the table to negotiate. And it's important that Palestinians come to the table to negotiate.

31:01 There's a lot to talk about. There are many important issues. There's a lot to talk about. There are many important issues.

31:05 And if one can muster the belief in mutual respect, we believe the Israelis are willing and ready to have that kind of conversation. And if one can muster the belief in mutual respect, we believe the Israelis are willing and ready to have that kind of conversation.

31:17 But until you're at the table across from each other, it cannot work. The other point I wanted to make is now we're here in India, and I wanted to tell you about a program that promotes mutual respec But until you're at the table across from each other, it cannot work. The other point I wanted to make is now we're here in India, and I wanted to tell you about a program that promotes mutual respec

31:34 t. We call it the Diverse Minds Writing Challenge. And we have a competition for young people in high school to write books about diversity. t. We call it the Diverse Minds Writing Challenge. And we have a competition for young people in high school to write books about diversity.

31:48 You know, in the United States, we have people from other countries here, but in the United States, we have a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society, as you have here in India. You know, in the United States, we have people from other countries here, but in the United States, we have a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society, as you have here in India.

32:00 And this society is built on immigrants. And this society is built on immigrants.

32:04 Everyone who came, came from someplace else except for the Native Americans. So we want to promote, even after more than 200 years of American independence, we want to promote good relations amongst the diverse peoples. Everyone who came, came from someplace else except for the Native Americans. So we want to promote, even after more than 200 years of American independence, we want to promote good relations amongst the diverse peoples.

32:23 The Tata Foundation, which is, of course, an Indian company, has contributed, along with other companies, to promoting this project where young people write books for other young people. The Tata Foundation, which is, of course, an Indian company, has contributed, along with other companies, to promoting this project where young people write books for other young people.

32:37 We just came up through your library. And what struck me was all of the books that you have for young people. We just came up through your library. And what struck me was all of the books that you have for young people.

32:47 And we believe that this is where it begins, as you believe. And we believe that this is where it begins, as you believe.

32:53 And we need to promote mutual respect and mutual tolerance, or else we will continue to see the kind of chaos and violence now that is particularly not just confined to the Middle East but beyond, and which troubles us greatly. And we need to promote mutual respect and mutual tolerance, or else we will continue to see the kind of chaos and violence now that is particularly not just confined to the Middle East but beyond, and which troubles us greatly.

33:12 So again, we thank y So again, we thank y

33:14 ou. We appreciate your words, your insights into these issues, and your commitment, your lifelong commitment to promoting goodwill and to promoting good relations amongst all of the three great religions, which you said, and particularly between Muslims and Jews. ou. We appreciate your words, your insights into these issues, and your commitment, your lifelong commitment to promoting goodwill and to promoting good relations amongst all of the three great religions, which you said, and particularly between Muslims and Jews.

33:35 Fortunately, our mission is the same Fortunately, our mission is the same

33:41 as yours. as yours.

33:45 I would like to refer to one aspect of our mission, that there is a verse in the Qur'an that I would like to refer to one aspect of our mission, that there is a verse in the Qur'an that

34:02 Einstein is Einstein is

34:06 assigned land to Jewish people assigned land to Jewish people

34:10 . It's the same which is mentioned in the Bible in these words that it is Promised Land. In the Bible, it is Promised Land, and in the Qur'an, it is Assigned Land. . It's the same which is mentioned in the Bible in these words that it is Promised Land. In the Bible, it is Promised Land, and in the Qur'an, it is Assigned Land.

34:25 So I said to these Muslims and Arabs that the Jewish community is your neighbor. So I said to these Muslims and Arabs that the Jewish community is your neighbor.

34:34 Don't take them as your enemy or rivals. Don't take them as your enemy or rivals.

34:38 So you two both will—I mean, you have to live in this Holy Land as two neighbors. So you two both will—I mean, you have to live in this Holy Land as two neighbors.

34:57 There is no rivalry, no enmity. So this is our mission. It is very similar to your mission. There is no rivalry, no enmity. So this is our mission. It is very similar to your mission.

35:07 And I think that, I mean, although it is very difficult to mend the people's mindset, but I can say that our mission is steadily—there is steady progress. And I think that, I mean, although it is very difficult to mend the people's mindset, but I can say that our mission is steadily—there is steady progress.

35:22 We are successful to change people's mind. We are successful to change people's mind. We are successful to change people's mind. We are successful to change people's mind.

35:32 And recently, we have published a book, Age of Peace And recently, we have published a book, Age of Peace

35:36 . In this book, you can see that the same is our mission. And we can say that we are successful in this mission. . In this book, you can see that the same is our mission. And we can say that we are successful in this mission.

35:48 You know, just to add on one more thing, because you spoke about mutual respect, he always tells everyone that—in fact, he's often asked this question. You know, just to add on one more thing, because you spoke about mutual respect, he always tells everyone that—in fact, he's often asked this question.

35:59 Like you said, there are people from different ethnicities. Just like India, there are divers Like you said, there are people from different ethnicities. Just like India, there are divers

36:04 ity. So people always ask him, the media people and, you know, the academicians, that how can one live peacefully in a multi-religious society? ity. So people always ask him, the media people and, you know, the academicians, that how can one live peacefully in a multi-religious society?

36:13 So he says that, you know, one of the formulas given in the Qur'an, in the verse, "Laqum dinukum waliya din." The literal meaning is, "Unto you, your religion, and unto me, mine." So he said God Almighty is giving a wonderful formula here, saying that follow one and respect all. So he says that, you know, one of the formulas given in the Qur'an, in the verse, "Laqum dinukum waliya din." The literal meaning is, "Unto you, your religion, and unto me, mine." So he said God Almighty is giving a wonderful formula here, saying that follow one and respect all.

36:34 You follow what you're practicing, but respect all the other religions. And this is exactly, you know, what he tells, you know, everyone. You follow what you're practicing, but respect all the other religions. And this is exactly, you know, what he tells, you know, everyone.

36:42 And, you know, the recent book, The Age of Peace, we've got that copy for all of you. So, you know, I would urge all of you to definitely go through that because he's given a workable theory as to how practical peace is, you know, very much possible and how we could live together, mutually appreciating and learning from one another. And, you know, the recent book, The Age of Peace, we've got that copy for all of you. So, you know, I would urge all of you to definitely go through that because he's given a workable theory as to how practical peace is, you know, very much possible and how we could live together, mutually appreciating and learning from one another.

37:05 Thank you. Yes, David. Well, first, thank you again for the hospitality and the reception, particularly this early in the morning. Thank you. Yes, David. Well, first, thank you again for the hospitality and the reception, particularly this early in the morning.

37:15 We know that there's so much that pulls for your time and attention. So we're very grateful. We know that there's so much that pulls for your time and attention. So we're very grateful.

37:23 Mawlana spoke quite a bit, helpfully, about the relationship between the monotheistic religions, particularly Judaism and Islam, the people of the book in the context of Islamic thought Mawlana spoke quite a bit, helpfully, about the relationship between the monotheistic religions, particularly Judaism and Islam, the people of the book in the context of Islamic thought

37:38 . And for those of us who come from Western societies, from the United States and others that are less familiar with the diversity of faiths and philosophies that you have certainly here in India, I don't think there's any country in the world that can compete with India in its diversity of religious and philosophical systems. . And for those of us who come from Western societies, from the United States and others that are less familiar with the diversity of faiths and philosophies that you have certainly here in India, I don't think there's any country in the world that can compete with India in its diversity of religious and philosophical systems.

38:03 I wonder if Mawlana could speak a little bit more specifically I wonder if Mawlana could speak a little bit more specifically

38:07 to his approach and to to his approach and to

38:12 strategies toward relations, constructive and positive relations between a monotheistic faith like Islam and religious communities that, in strategies toward relations, constructive and positive relations between a monotheistic faith like Islam and religious communities that, in

38:26 the traditional sense, in the narrow sense, might not be understood the traditional sense, in the narrow sense, might not be understood

38:31 by themselves or by those of us on the outside as monothe by themselves or by those of us on the outside as monothe

38:37 istic. For me, as a Jew, I find that challenging. For Judaism, as for Islam, the oneness of God is central. istic. For me, as a Jew, I find that challenging. For Judaism, as for Islam, the oneness of God is central.

38:48 It's central, essentially, to everything. And so to be in societies where that isn't necessarily prevalent or isn't understood and presented in the same way can be a new experience and a challenging It's central, essentially, to everything. And so to be in societies where that isn't necessarily prevalent or isn't understood and presented in the same way can be a new experience and a challenging

39:04 one. So I wonder if Mawlana can speak to his approach, particularly here in India. According to our experience, India is the best one. So I wonder if Mawlana can speak to his approach, particularly here in India. According to our experience, India is the best

39:22 country for our mission because we believe in monotheism. country for our mission because we believe in monotheism.

39:34 And fortunately, Hindus also believe in a similar belief. And fortunately, Hindus also believe in a similar belief.

39:43 They They

39:44 believe in our similar belief. Our belief is monotheism. They believe in Maoism. believe in our similar belief. Our belief is monotheism. They believe in Maoism.

39:54 Maoism. And our belief is based on monotheistic concept. Their belief is based on monistic concept. Maoism. And our belief is based on monotheistic concept. Their belief is based on monistic concept.

40:06 They're very—both are very simil They're very—both are very simil

40:09 ar. So in India, we never find any difficulty to promote our mission. All those differences are political ar. So in India, we never find any difficulty to promote our mission. All those differences are political

40:22 . I will—I'm certain that all those so-called differences between Hindus and Muslims in India are political. . I will—I'm certain that all those so-called differences between Hindus and Muslims in India are political.

40:33 They are not religious because both the communities believe in a similar idea. Moreover, as you know, Swami Vivekananda visited Chicago in 1893 They are not religious because both the communities believe in a similar idea. Moreover, as you know, Swami Vivekananda visited Chicago in 1893

40:50 . In the Chicago conference, he declared, and all the Hindus appreciate this declaration, that all the religions are true, including Islam. . In the Chicago conference, he declared, and all the Hindus appreciate this declaration, that all the religions are true, including Islam.

41:07 So where is the difference So where is the difference

41:09 ? In India, Sufi people ? In India, Sufi people

41:16 came from Iran and other foreign countries, and Hindus welcomed the Sufis. came from Iran and other foreign countries, and Hindus welcomed the Sufis.

41:28 So in India, there is no religious probl So in India, there is no religious probl

41:35 em. All those problems are political problems. And we try to—people to know this difference. em. All those problems are political problems. And we try to—people to know this difference.

41:48 And I can say that we are also successful in this mission And I can say that we are also successful in this mission

41:54 . There are so many people in India who have . There are so many people in India who have

42:01 discovered this fact, and now they are living as a very good neighbor. discovered this fact, and now they are living as a very good neighbor.

42:10 So I think that we want to establish this atmosphere also in Palestine. So I think that we want to establish this atmosphere also in Palestine.

42:20 Arab and Jew both can live as good neighbors if they discover that all those differences are political in nature, not religious. Arab and Jew both can live as good neighbors if they discover that all those differences are political in nature, not religious.

42:32 So is the case of both. In India, if there is any problem, there is not religious. So is the case of both. In India, if there is any problem, there is not religious.

42:42 It is political in nature. So is the case of Palestine. It is political in nature. So is the case of Palestine.

42:46 If there is any problem in Palestine, they are political and not religious. Actually, David, one of the most important things is that he emphasizes on engagement and a lot of engagement and dialogue because most of the misunderstanding arises when there is no dialogue. If there is any problem in Palestine, they are political and not religious. Actually, David, one of the most important things is that he emphasizes on engagement and a lot of engagement and dialogue because most of the misunderstanding arises when there is no dialogue.

43:07 You know, people live in their own ghetto mentality. So he's been writing very regularly in newspapers, in the leading newspapers. You know, people live in their own ghetto mentality. So he's been writing very regularly in newspapers, in the leading newspapers.

43:14 There are workshops that we organize, and then he participates extensively in other religions' platforms, and there is an exchange of ideas. There are workshops that we organize, and then he participates extensively in other religions' platforms, and there is an exchange of ideas.

43:23 So the important thing is that you respect, you know, the other person's belief and while conveying your message. And in the process, everybody gains because there is an intellectual transformation. So the important thing is that you respect, you know, the other person's belief and while conveying your message. And in the process, everybody gains because there is an intellectual transformation.

43:34 So I think that's how, you know, it is happening. There are, of course, stray incidents, but those are in minority. So I think that's how, you know, it is happening. There are, of course, stray incidents, but those are in minority.

43:41 Largely, the Indian people are very peaceful people, and they appreciate. But the key is, of course, the dialogue through which you can communicate. Largely, the Indian people are very peaceful people, and they appreciate. But the key is, of course, the dialogue through which you can communicate.

43:50 So that's very important. Greetings to all of you. For the last few months, I've been working on a book which is actually the collection of the essays of Mawlana Wahiduddin Khan. So that's very important. Greetings to all of you. For the last few months, I've been working on a book which is actually the collection of the essays of Mawlana Wahiduddin Khan.

44:07 And it is being published by HarperCollins. And it is being published by HarperCollins.

44:11 So it will come out in the first week of November, Inshallah. The idea behind the book was for the young minds like me, how the transformation took place with me. So it will come out in the first week of November, Inshallah. The idea behind the book was for the young minds like me, how the transformation took place with me.

44:26 So a few years back, when I started coming to the mission and I started reading Mawlana's literature and started hearing his lectures, the first thing which struck me the most was to differentiate between Islam and Muslims. So a few years back, when I started coming to the mission and I started reading Mawlana's literature and started hearing his lectures, the first thing which struck me the most was to differentiate between Islam and Muslims.

44:44 The first thing which he said to me. And that is very important for all of us, to differentiate between the true source of the religion and the followers bec The first thing which he said to me. And that is very important for all of us, to differentiate between the true source of the religion and the followers bec

44:55 ause only then we will be able to understand what lies in the religion. And like what he said today about the Prophet, the incident which he narrated in which, Prophet, he stood up when he saw a funeral of a Jew passing by and he said, "Isn't he a human being?" ause only then we will be able to understand what lies in the religion. And like what he said today about the Prophet, the incident which he narrated in which, Prophet, he stood up when he saw a funeral of a Jew passing by and he said, "Isn't he a human being?

45:17 " So things like these, it's very important for young people like me to understand the importance of peace and the importance of, uh, human survival as peace. " So things like these, it's very important for young people like me to understand the importance of peace and the importance of, uh, human survival as peace.

45:31 We all need it very desperately. And, uh, the starting point is, of course, uh, the young generation who are going to carry it forward We all need it very desperately. And, uh, the starting point is, of course, uh, the young generation who are going to carry it forward

45:42 . And the work, uh, which has been done, it has, uh, the work, uh, of the book, it has really helped me, uh, in my transformation. . And the work, uh, which has been done, it has, uh, the work, uh, of the book, it has really helped me, uh, in my transformation.

45:52 And I sincerely hope that the book, once it is out, it will change thousands of young minds like me and make them understand the importance of peace in the religion. And I sincerely hope that the book, once it is out, it will change thousands of young minds like me and make them understand the importance of peace in the religion.

46:06 That's why the title of the book which was chosen was The True Face of Islam That's why the title of the book which was chosen was The True Face of Islam

46:11 . So the true face of Islam is peace, not the violence which has been perpetrated by many self, many people with Western interests. . So the true face of Islam is peace, not the violence which has been perpetrated by many self, many people with Western interests.

46:23 They need it for their survival, for the survival of their organizations and their agendas. They need it for their survival, for the survival of their organizations and their agendas.

46:29 And I sincerely hope that this book is going to make a big difference in the young minds, And I sincerely hope that this book is going to make a big difference in the young minds,

46:42 Muslims as well as Christians and Jews and everyone, and for them to understand that religion is the guideline and not a way to fight for political survival. Muslims as well as Christians and Jews and everyone, and for them to understand that religion is the guideline and not a way to fight for political survival.

47:00 Thank you. We hope that the book which is coming out in November will be widely and carefully read, not only by Muslims, but by everyone who is interested in promoting the kind of good relations that you have devoted your life to. Thank you. We hope that the book which is coming out in November will be widely and carefully read, not only by Muslims, but by everyone who is interested in promoting the kind of good relations that you have devoted your life to.

47:25 This is a very important visit for us, a visit to India, but especially this visit here this morning. We thank you for your interest in receiving us. This is a very important visit for us, a visit to India, but especially this visit here this morning. We thank you for your interest in receiving us.

47:38 We wish you only the best going forward We wish you only the best going forward

47:43 . And we hope also going forward that through our Director for Interreligious Affairs, David Michaels, that we can continue to maintain a relationship between our two institutions. . And we hope also going forward that through our Director for Interreligious Affairs, David Michaels, that we can continue to maintain a relationship between our two institutions.

47:56 So again, thank you very much for your hospitality. Thank you. So again, thank you very much for your hospitality. Thank you.