SELF-SACRIFICE AND SOCIAL SOLIDARITY IN ISLAMIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY

Just as emphasizing on diversity without consideration of commonality results in fragmentation and chaos, so too neglecting of constructive aspects of diversity paves the way for dictatorship and totalitarianism. I intend to show how it is possible to deal with divisive difference (contrary to decisive difference) in Islamic practical theology. I think one of practical potentials in Islamic theology to deal with conflict-ridden diversity and to create social solidarity is the remembrance of self-sacrifice for the sake of inclusive human dignity. Remembrance of self-sacrifice such as this, constitutes the theological basis of solidarity, resistance and righteousness. Such memory of suffering, has a powerful potential not only to create solidarity within religious communities, but also to forge connections among different religions.