پاکستان میں مسلکی و فرقہ وارانہ شدت پسندی کے اسباب اور اسلامی تعلیمات کی روشنی میں اس کا حل: تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Causes of Sectarian and Religious Extremism in Pakistan and Its Solution in the Light of Islamic Teachings: An Analytical Study

Abstract

Sectarian and religious extremism has emerged as a significant challenge for Pakistani society, undermining not only national unity but also distorting the peaceful image of Islam worldwide. Historically, Islamic scholarship has been marked by diversity of opinion among jurists, scholars, and theologians, yet this diversity coexisted with mutual respect and harmony. The politicization of sectarian differences, misuse of religious sentiments for personal and political gain, and irresponsible use of media have turned minor jurisprudential disagreements into deep-rooted hostility and violence. This study analyzes the underlying causes of sectarian extremism in Pakistan and explores Islamic teachings as practical solutions. The Qur’ān guides believers to refer disputes back to Allah and His Messenger, promoting dialogue and understanding over conflict. The Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ emphasized the importance of adhering firmly to the Qur’ān and Sunnah to remain rightly guided. The research highlights that focusing on shared fundamental beliefs, discouraging takfīr (excommunicating fellow Muslims), fostering inter-sect dialogue, and promoting tolerance through education can help bridge divides. By re-embracing the spirit of compassion, scholarly disagreement as intellectual richness rather than division, and prioritizing unity, Pakistani society can counter extremism. Ultimately, the paper argues that real change requires both state-level initiatives and grassroots awareness to build sustainable religious harmony based on the inclusive vision of Islam.