In
democratic theory, freedom of religion includes freedom to profess, practice,
and propagate the beliefs that are closely held by a person and worship in a
place of worship with security, regardless of what others think about his
beliefs, or faith. Yet, in actually existing conditions in our societies, often
majoritarian groups try to control and limit the freedoms of worship available
to minority religious groups, often attacking the places of worship of such
minority groups. Indeed, in an era of identity politics, inter-religious
tensions as well as intra-religious sectarian strife within communities, places
of worship of different religious communities bear the 'markings' of the times.
Against this backdrop, in his Friday Sermon of 28 June 2024~21 Dhul-Hijjah 1445 AH, Imam- Jamaat Ul Sahih Al Islam International Hazrat Muhyiuddin Al Khalifatullah Munir Ahmad Azim (aba) of Mauritius reflects profoundly on Islamic teachings on the sanctity of places of worship. Hazrat Saheb (aba) gives an exposition, and underscores the need for all Muslims to understand, respect and adhere to correct teachings of Islam when it comes to our approach towards the places of worship of other communities as well as fellow groups within the Muslim community.