It has emerged that different religions can contribute more towards the fight against terrorism, building and strengthening national unity if they embrace the correct interpretation of the religious teachings .
These were the sentiments of members of the Conference of Religious Leaders on terrorism, who noted that one of the factors contributing to acts of terrorism is the wrong interpretation of the verses of the sacred books.
Rt. Rev. Renatus Nkwande, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese Bunda Speaking during the gathering of different religious leaders in the country, explained that various religious leaders have to focus on providing instruction and correct interpretation of Scripture in order to build awareness among believers rather than forcing them to understand the extent of their personal views.
“There are strange teachings given by some religious leaders to believe that does not contribute to the growth of spirituality. We as religious leaders should emphasize and teach what is found in Scriptures. Let us not rather let our way of life and our action inspire others to live godly lives,” explained Bishop Nkwande.
Speaking at the same function Dar-es-Salaam General Sheikh Dar Alhad Mussa Salum said that life without peace is worthless. He explained that one of the reasons why cases of terrorism are rampant is the perversion of the pure teachings of Islam, noting that Islam is a religion of peace and not terrorism.
He explained that life is a gift from God, and the preservation of life is one of the intentions of the Islamic Religion.
“The life of one man is equal to the life of all people. Human life is very valuable and man is commanded to respect and value all human life including their own. Therefore terrorism is unacceptable in Islam, and is often brought about by various reasons including political, administrative, injustice and impunity, poverty and despair, as well as the fabrication of proper teaching of Islam,” he said.
He added that difference in religion is God’s plan, but human dignity and respect of the individual must be protected by all.
Meanwhile the government has called upon religious leaders to exercise their mandate of peacekeeping in the society and to strengthen the National unity.
Speaking at the same forum, Interior Minister Mr. Mwigulu Nchemba asked religious leaders to continue supporting the government in fighting crime because religious leaders are important in the community and their presence facilitates the work undertaken by the Ministry of Interior in particular in maintaining peace and security. He urged them to continue praying for the National.
By Pascal Mwanache TEC