Accepting differences

 BOOKSHELF

Islamabad

A very thought provoking booklet, with much needed subject matter titled, ‘Accepting Differences,’ with the sub-title ‘Uncovering a culture of Diversity’ by Dr Amineh Ahmed Hoti should be in every schools reading list, if it cannot be included in the curriculum. Dedicated ‘to the bright future of the students of Pakistan and those who experienced or lost their lives to violent extremism,’ the booklet emphasizes that ‘Pakistan is a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic society and we need to understand and appreciate its rich landscape of diversity, which is our strength – it makes up the rich and beautiful mosaic of the social fabric of Pakistani life.’

The book is divided into four parts. The first part explores the ethnic and geographical diversity past and present of the country – beginning with the Indus Valley Civilisation and a brief synopsis of its history, followed by accounts of the cultural heritage of each of the provinces including the areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Paragraphs on the different faiths and traditions found in the country follow and underline that discrimination on the basis of faith is abhorred in Islam, as Islam exalts the dignity of life.

The second part titled ‘Islamic Perspectives’ speaks of pluralism in Islam; Muslim sects; Women and Islam; Guiding Principles of Islam. Quotes from the Holy Quran have been used throughout this part to stress the teachings of Islam on the subject matter being spoken of, with tolerance and humanity being the guiding principles throughout.

The third part is titled, ‘Valuing Diversity and Finding Common Ground,’ with chapters on the ‘Importance of Living in Harmony with the Other;’ ‘Discover Change;’ ‘Stereotype, Prejudice and Discrimination;’ and ‘Become a Peacemaker.’ It includes a chart with advice on ‘Building Blocks for Dialogue’ and lists role models like Sir Syed Ahmad Khan; Rai Bahadur Sir Ganga Ram; Quaid-i-Azam, Mohammed Ali Jinnah; Allama Mohammed Iqbal and a few from present times like Abdul Sattar Edhi and ‘You.’

Part four of the book is titled, ‘Understanding the Other,’ in which scholars of various faiths have given an insight of their religion so as to let students have a better understanding of them and their traditions.  It concludes with a poem titled, ‘The Way Forward’ and the hope it will inspire many others to think, write and produce works that will lead to a love of learning (ilm); mutual respect (adab) and deeper understanding of humanity (insaniyat). 

Suggestions have been given at the end of each chapter on questions to ask and important matters to discuss after reading the text. All in all a book that will add to the knowledge of students – and others who may like to read the book – and hopefully instill a desire to follow its sensible  teachings in letter and spirit.