Toward Christian-Muslim dialogue and peace-building activities in Northern Nigeria: theological reflection

BL Religion;BR Christianity

Umaru, Thaddeus Byimui ; Jeanrond, Werner

University:University of Glasgow

Department:School of Critical Studies

关键词: Inter-religious conflict, violence, dialogue encounter, peace-building, religion, religious and peace education.;   

Others  :  http://theses.gla.ac.uk/4249/1/2013UmaruPhd.pdf

来源: University of Glasgow

【 摘 要 】

The aim of this dissertation is to examine critically the incessant inter-religious conflicts inNorthern Nigeria, to identify the real causes of such conflicts and to suggest theologicaland practical ways to sustain peace building endeavours. Conflicts as an inevitable part ofhuman existence can be triggered and exacerbated by numerous factors. Religion as apowerful impulse in human existence has been used to fuel conflict in Northern Nigeria.Radical religious strife, quest for more converts, colonisation, ethnicity, and perceivedpolitical domination have strengthened stereotypical views of the self and the other.Religion is closely intertwined with culture and thus central in the understanding andestablishment of peace in society; continue to play paradoxical role in the locality. Religioncan be a cause of conflict and a way of conflict resolution. In Nigeria religion has failed toestablish the peace which it has claimed to promote, because deep historical feuds havefound expression in religion, and religion is thus at the core of the strife as experienced incontemporary Northern Nigeria.The theology of the Second Vatican Council, in which the Roman Catholic Churchreflects on its self-understanding as a community and its role in the world, provides a firstmodel for the encounter between Christianity and other religions in mutual understanding.This thesis considers the theological potential of this interreligious encounter (or dialogue)between Islamic and Christian traditions in general and the possibilities and difficulties ofdialogue between Muslims and Christians in Northern Nigeria in particular.Moreover, this study delves into the need for engagement between theology andpolitics in addressing issues of conflict. It explores the theology of interreligious dialogueas a means for a promising peace-building process in Northern Nigeria. Religion as asignificant part of the problem is equally essential in proffering solutions. However, takenon their own terms, neither religion nor politics have comprehensive answers. Hence, anypeace building project in Northern Nigeria must be multi-faceted. It could be, modelled ona theological approach for encounter and dialogue which examines common grounds forcollaboration within the two faith traditions, in an attempt to consider and strengthenpeace-building endeavours within the region.